If I had to describe myself, I’d say I’m a Type-B personality (definitely not Type-A – that’s best left to hubby!). But, when it comes to my children’s safety, I definitely take on some Type-A characteristics.

Ever since Baby #1, I’ve been somewhat obsessed with car safety. All I could think of was that this little, tiny body was going to be cocooned in a car seat that could potentially save her life one day. That’s a big deal. So, I started doing some research on car seats and realized that the process of choosing, installing and using a car seat properly is much more involved than people think…or, at least, than I thought!

One of the best resources I’ve found so far is www.car-seat.org. I have mentioned this in a previous post, but I can’t stress enough how important it is to have professional car seat technicians advising you on your install (or doing it). The forums also offer fantastic opportunities to ask questions about the right seat for you (car model, car seat configurations, etc.). After learning about car seat safety, I don’t just follow the government’s minimum guidelines – I do my research to see what the best options are. Because, really, what are “minimum” guidelines, anyway? I know why they’re in place, but to be honest, they are the “rules” for the lowest common denominator, the bare minimum to ensure a child’s safety. In turn, when I buy seats for my kids, they’re what I consider the best. And, yes, that means the price tag is higher than many other seats, but this is one case where I don’t feel it’s fab to be frugal!

So, when PTPA gave me the opportunity to evaluate the new Diono RadianRXT seat, I jumped for joy…seriously! I had been considering what the next seat for Baby #2 would be, since he was using his sister’s old convertible seat, which still had two years on it. (It’s very important when buying a seat to note its expiry date. Find out more about car seat expiry dates here.) And, while I realize it’s not possible – or financially prudent – to go out and buy a new seat every year or two, I was so happy to know my little guy would be getting a new, top-of-the-line seat that has some of the highest crash-test ratings in the industry.

The RadianRXT, with its 10-year life, could be the only seat you ever need to buy, comfortably seating rear-facing children from 5-45 lbs, forward-facing children from 22-65 lbs in 5-point harness, then converting to a booster for children up to 120 lbs*. I like that my child can stay harnessed up to 65 lbs. in this seat. This is so important, as crash tests have shown that harnessed children are safer.

When I first took the seat out of the box, I instantly understood one of the reasons why they’re so highly rated – the seat was heavy! It’s due to the steel-alloy frame and the high quality of the parts used to manufacture it. With the RadianRXT, no detail is overlooked. From the reinforced sidewalls to the adjustable head support and their patented SafeStop^® energy absorbing harness, this seat has it all. It’s not only beautiful in its construction, but has a myriad of accessories that have also been included in their crash tests (very important to ensure the efficacy of your seat) – like an angle adjuster (for use rear-facing and only with older babies that have good head control), which slides under the seat to make it more upright and allow the passenger in front more leg room. I purchased one (only $13!) and can tell you that it really works.

I couldn’t be happier with the Diono RadianRXT. I know this seat is the safest place for my little guy and would wholeheartedly recommend it to other parents looking for a great seat. And, since this product has just been awarded the PTPA Seal of Approval, you can rest assured that other parents feel the same!