Chicco Kidfit Chicco Kidfit Zip
This is my comparison review of the Chicco Kidfit vs Kidfit Zip Booster Seats.
The Chicco Kidfit and Kidfit Zip seats are both 2-in-1 belt-positioning booster seats that are designed to be used by kids who have outgrown their harness seats.
Both seats are very similar, but there are some differences for you to consider prior to making a purchasing decision. It is important to note that these differences are in relation to comfort and convenience features rather than safety features.
They both come with good safety features and so your decision will be based upon whether or not you consider the extra comfort and convenience features on the Kidfit Zip seat are worth the extra $30 or so.
So, what are the similarities and differences between the Chicco Kidfit and Kidfit Zip seats?
Chicco Kidfit vs Kidfit Zip – Similarities
1. Child Height & Weight Limits
Both seats have the same child height and weight limits.
HighBack Mode: 30 – 100 lbs
Backless Mode: 40 – 110 lbs
Both Modes: Child height of between 38 and 57 inches.
When used in the backless mode, your child’s ears must also be below the top of the vehicle seat.
Please don’t use any belt-positioning booster seat in the backless mode for a child as small as 40 lbs. Backless booster seats offer much less protection than high-backed versions and small kids tend to slip out of the correct position on long journeys, especially if they fall asleep. Instead, use the seat in highback mode for as long as your child remains within the upper limits.
2. LATCH Installation
Both seats come with Chicco’s very easy to use SuperCinch LATCH installation mechanism, which you can see explained in the videos below.
In short, it is a “one-pull” LATCH tightener system, which works by multiplying the forces that you exert onto the strap. This means that it takes very little effort on your part to get a proper tight installation.
3. Backrest & Headrest Adjustment
Unlike many other belt-positioning booster seats, the backrest and headrest on both versions of the Kidfit adjust together.
On other seats, the headrest adjusts but the backrest remains in a static position. This can cause some fitting problems as your child grows.
With the Kidfit seats, however, the headrest and backrest adjust upwards as a single unit to ensure that it is easier to get a proper fit at all times.
There are 10 different positions to choose from.
4. Side-Impact Protection
Both seats enjoy the benefit of Chicco’s DuoZone Side-Impact Protection system, which is explained in the videos below.
5. Other Features
Other shared features include:
- 2 removable & foldable cup holders
- Shoulder and Lap Belt guides
Chicco Kidfit vs Kidfit Zip – Differences
If you just considered the addition the word “zip” in the model name between the Kidfit and Kidfit Zip booster seats, you might be forgiven for mistakenly believing that the “zip and wash” feature was the only difference between them.
In fact, there are 3 significant functional differences between the Chicco Kidfit and Chicco Kidfit Zip booster seats.
They are …
1. Zip & Wash
The Kidfit Zip seat comes with the “Zip & Wash” features.
This means that the seat pads can simply be zipped off and removed prior to being machine washed, which is a great time-saving convenience feature for busy parents.
In addition, this feature means that you can change the seat pad color in the future if you need to use the seat with a different child or because you simply want to try out a different fabric option.
2. ErgoBoost Foam Padding
Although both seats come with ErgoBoost foam padding, the Kidfit Zip model comes with an extra layer (triple vs double).
This provides a little extra comfort and support for your child.
3. Kid Console
In addition to the 2 removable cup holders, the Kidfit Zip also has a handy Kid Console.
This can be used to store snacks or small toys during car journeys, and the Kid Console can be positioned on either side of the seat.
Chicco Kidfit vs Kidfit Zip – Videos
Here are some video reviews of the Chicco Kidfit and Kidfit Zip booster seats …
Chicco Kidfit vs Kidfit Zip – Color Options
Here are my favorite fabric color options for these seats.
Chicco Kidfit
Chicco Kidfit Zip
Chicco Kidfit vs Kidfit Zip – My Verdict
As I have already mentioned, there is no difference between the safety features on these seats.
The differences are related solely to child comfort and parental convenience.
You will have to decided whether or not those additional comfort and convenience features are worth the extra money. Personally, as a busy parent of 4 kids, I would definitely pay the extra $30 or so for the Kidfit Zip model just to get the “Zip & Wash” feature.
Check Best Price of the Kidfit
Read User Reviews of the Kidfit
Check Best Price of the Kidfit Zip
Read User Reviews of the Kidfit Zip
Find Chicco Kidfit Seats in Canada
Safety Information
After purchasing any child car seat, you should always read the User Manual thoroughly before using it. It is also advisable to visit your local Fire Department or NHTSA Child Car Seat Inspection Centre to ensure that the seat is definitely suitable for your child’s specific requirements and that you have installed it correctly. These services are usually provided free of charge.
You can find your nearest NHTSA Centre here.
Get in Touch
If you have any comments to share or questions to ask about my comparison review of the Chicco Kidfit vs Kidfit Zip Booster Seats, please leave a comment in the box below.
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