Road Test: Parent-approved car seats

CYBEX Cloud Q, $450
Rear-facing: birth to 35 pounds
“The Cloud Q is possibly nicer than my actual vehicle! It’s not only beautiful, but it’s also incredibly safe, thanks to a load leg and telescopic side-impact protection. The neatest part: It can fully recline to transition into a carrycot outside of the car.”

Chicco KeyFit 30 Zip Air, $240
Rear-facing: 4-30 pounds
“The Zip Air’s breathable mesh fabric keeps my tot cool as a cucumber, so she can sit back, relax and enjoy the ride. On chilly days, the zip-around boot is a nice perk.”

Baby Jogger City Go, $230
Rear-facing: 4-35 pounds
“The first thing I noticed about the City Go was the material. It feels comfy but also easy to clean should spills or accidents happen en route. The large canopy is UV50+, a definite plus for keeping tots made in the shade.”

Evenflo Platinum SafeMax All-in-One, $299
Rear-facing: 5-40 pounds / Forward-facing: 22-65 pounds / Booster: 40-120 pounds
“You’ll be hard-pressed to find a seat as versatile as the SafeMax All-in-One! It’s deep and wide with extra padding on the sides for protection. Our toddler and our little guy are equally happy when we buckle them in.”

BOB B-Safe 35 by Britax, $230
Rear-facing: 4-35 pounds
“I love the contours and sturdy shell of the B-Safe 35. It’s narrower than other models I’ve used, and that slim silhouette keeps our baby upright and snug, which she prefers. It also means less split-up in the car, which I prefer.”

Graco Extend2Fit, $200
Rear-facing: 4-50 pounds Forward-facing: 22-65 pounds
“Mamas, your search for the perfect transitional car seat is over! The standout feature of the Extend2Fit? Your child can now stay safely and comfortably rear-facing up to 50 pounds, and a three-position extension panel provide 5 additional inches of legroom.”