Britax Highpoint
- Weight Limit (lb): 40-120 (Booster)
- Height Limit: 63” (Booster)
- Age Limit: 4-8 Years or older
If the term ‘ultra-performance booster’ was in the dictionary, it’d probably be inked there next to a picture of the Britax Highpoint. After all, this thing can hit up to a flabbergasting 120 pounds the weight limit and 63 inches of the height limit. With the exclusive-designed SafeGuard crip, height-adjustable 10 headrest positions, two dishwasher-safe removable cup holders, soft and stylish knit fabrics, and advanced LATCH connectors, the Highpoint encapsulates all the innovation and imagination of the Britax brand – with a few surprises thrown in. Gather round, then, as we run you through the top 15 things you need to know about one of the impressive booster seats that the Britax lines have put out.
*Price may change due to e-commerce platform and brand sales promotion.
Britax Highpoint Review - Impressive Ultra-performance Booster Seat
Pros & Cons
The good and the bad
What is it best for
Who we recommend it for
Value for Money
Is it worth the price tag?
Design
Dimensions, weight, color, etc
Safety Rating
Crash tests, FMVSS213, SIP
Performance
Weight/height limits, airplane, etc
Installation
Install with LATCH or seat belt
Alternatives
Other car seats to consider
1. Pros and Cons
Pros
- 120 pounds high weight limit
- 63 inches unbeatable height limit
- 3-layer side-impact protection
- 10-position for headrest adjustment
- SecureGuard for added safety
- Built-in cup holders provide convenience for
- Easy to install with the quick-push LATCH system
- Machine washable fabrics for easy cleaning
Cons
- Very expensive
- Relatively heavy and bulky
- The deep shell and high headrest block the window view for you kid
- Small cup holders may not fit larger water bottles or cups
2. Who Is It Best For?
Will the Britax Highpoint Be a Good Fit For Your Child and Family?
Unlike some of its fellow Britax car seats – such as the One4Life – the Highpoint isn’t an all-purpose car seat but tailored more specifically to kids at least 40 pounds. It’s a booster seat, destined to suit big, heavy, and tall kids up to 120 pounds and 63 inches.
That said, it works as the last car seat you can use for your kids before they are ready to stop using a car seat. Better than that, the Britax Highpoint is suitable for any kids of any size, no matter if they are heavier or taller than their peers, thanks to the 120 lbs/ 63″ size limit, which is higher than the weight and height requirements on booster seat included in the car seat laws of most US states – 57″ or 8 years old.
I should also note here that – in case the price tag didn’t already tip you off – the Highpoint is no entry-level car seat for infants and toddlers, and it’s not suited to travel families (it requires a lap/shoulder belt for installation). The only family that should be thinking about investing in the Highpoint is the loyal fans that stick to the brand and would like to pay the price near to $200, which would cover an all-in-one car seat like the Safety 1st Grow and Go car seat.
3. Value for Money
Is the price tag worth it?
At $199.99, the Britax Highpoint doesn’t come cheap – but is it a good value for money?
I think so, yes – but I also think it depends heavily on what you’re looking for in a booster seat. The Highpoint is versatile, features a high size limit, and – unlike all the alternatives in its ultra-performance booster seat class – comes fitted with two removable cup holders.
The Highpoint also embodies the best of the Britax booster seat range. Its SafeGuard crip, imposing build, large and adjustable headrest, and quick-push LATCH system. all epitomize the essence of Britax. If you love your booster seats, are passionate about performance, and want to go ‘all in’ on a booster seat that’ll be safe and comfortable for your kids and easy to use, and convenient for you to maintain, this is it.
For those not tied to the Britax brand, however, you may want to consider other booster seats.
Take the Nuna Aace, for instance. Available for a higher cost, it offers more reclines and is superior to the Highpoint in several aspects of its build and design. Elsewhere on the market, the recent Diono Cambria 2 XL offers more space for big kids at a much more alluring price point ($129.99), while the Chicco KidFit – despite being a whopping $90 cheaper than Highpoint – is also a more portable booster.
Ultimately, the HighPoint is worth your money, but just remember – you’re paying a premium for the Britax brand.
See also
4. Design
Dimensions and Width
It’s obviously not a narrow car seat for its 21-inch width. The width of the seat may make it difficult to do three across in the backseat of some cars, particularly if other car seats or passengers are already occupying the space. Even worse, it may not fit well in small cars. It’s always recommended to measure the backseat of your car and check the dimensions of the car seat to ensure a proper fit.
In terms of size (with dimensions at 16″ (D) x 21″ (W) x 27.5″ (H)), the Britax Highpoint is relatively bulky compared to other narrow booster seats on the market.
Overall, while the Britax Highpoint is not the narrowest booster seat on the market, it is still relatively compact and should fit well in most cars, making it a good choice for families who need a booster seat that is both safe and practical.
See also
Portability
The Britax Highpoint booster seat weighs 12.75 pounds with the back support included, which is relatively lightweight compared to its main competitors, like the Nuna AACE. Like most booster seats on the market, the Highpoint is designed to be easily portable, with a built-in handle that allows for easy carrying and transport.
While the Britax Highpoint is not the smallest or most compact booster seat on the market, it is not excessively bulky either. Its dimensions and weight make it relatively easy to move between cars, even short moms can manage to carry and install it effortlessly.
After removing the back and turning it into a backless booster, the Highpoint is around 5 pounds, largely increasing its portability. However, you should always stick to the backrest mode for as long as possible. Check our post on booster seats and find out why it’s better to use a highback booster over a no-back booster.
In a word, the Britax Highpoint strikes a good balance between safety and portability, making it a practical choice for families who need a booster seat that is easy to use and transport.
See also
Cup Holder - Two
The Britax Highpoint comes equipped with two built-in cup holders. They’re not big, but good enough to securely hold cups and bottles of most standard sizes, including sippy cups, water bottles, and juice boxes.
The cup holders are located on either side of the booster seat and can be easily accessed by the child while they are seated. They are also removable and dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning, which is a nice feature for parents.
The cup holders on the Britax Highpoint booster seat are a decent size and can hold cups and bottles of varying sizes. However, some larger water bottles or tumblers may not fit comfortably in the cup holders. It’s always a good idea to test the cup holders with your child’s favorite cups or bottles before purchasing to ensure a good fit.
Color Options
The Britax Highpoint is available in several different colors. As of my knowledge cutoff in 2021, these colors include:
- Black Ombre
- Grey Ombre
- Purple Ombre
- Green Ombre
- Cool Flow Grey
- Cool Flow Teal
It’s worth noting that color preferences are subjective and can vary widely based on personal taste (both parents and kids) and individual preferences. While some parents may prefer more gender-specific colors, such as pink or purple for girls and blue for boys, others may prefer more neutral colors that can work for either gender.
In general, the Highpoint (black) and Asher color options are considered more gender-neutral and may work well for both boys and girls. Purple, Green, and Grey may be considered brighter and more feminine or masculine depending on individual preferences, but again, these color choices are not limited to a specific gender. Ultimately, the best color choice will depend on your personal preference and the style of your car’s interior.
Headrest - 10 Positions
The Britax Highpoint has 10 height-adjustable headrest positions to accommodate a growing child. That’s necessary for its long-term use until your kid reaches the top 120-pound weight limit or 63-inch height limit. The headrest height can be easily adjusted with one hand using the quick-adjust lever located on the back of the seat.
Having multiple headrest positions allows for a comfortable and secure fit for children of different heights. It also ensures that the seat belt is properly positioned across the child’s shoulder and chest, which is important for safety in crashes.
The headrest also has side-impact protection, which consists of energy-absorbing foam layers that help to protect the child’s head, neck, and torso in the crash.
To adjust the headrest, simply lift the lever located on the back of the seat and move the headrest up or down to the desired position. The headrest should be positioned so that the top of the child’s ears are below the top of the headrest and the seat belt is properly positioned across their shoulder and chest.
Reclines - No
Booster seats are typically designed to be used in a more upright position, as they rely on the vehicle’s seat belt to provide restraint for the child. So it’s acceptable that the Britax Highpoint does not have a recline feature. But this results in a down point that makes this booster seat beaten by its competitors – Nuna Aace has eight recline positions.
It’s important to ensure that the child is seated upright and the seat belt is properly positioned across their shoulder and chest for maximum safety.
The Highpoint does have a SecureGuard Belt-Positioning Clip, which helps to keep the lap portion of the seat belt in the correct position across the child’s hips and pelvis. This can help to prevent the seat belt from riding up onto the child’s stomach, which can be uncomfortable and potentially dangerous in a crash.
Padding
Priced at almost $200, you can expect the Britax Highpoint to be a high-end booster seat. The manufacturer really does its job.
The Highpoint booster seat features a variety of materials designed to provide comfort and support for the child. The seat cover is made of a soft and durable knit fabric, which is easy to remove and machine washable for easy cleaning. It also features plush foam padding throughout the seat and headrest areas, which provides a comfortable and supportive ride for the child.
The thickness of the padding is generally considered to be moderate – it’s thick enough to provide cushioning and support, but not so thick that it becomes bulky or uncomfortable for the child. The padding is designed to contour to the child’s body, which helps to reduce pressure points and prevent discomfort during long road trips.
5. Crash Tests and Safety Ratings
Is it safe to use Britax Highpoint?
The Britax Highpoint might be one of the safest booster seats. It is designed to meet or exceed all federal safety standards and has undergone rigorous crash testing to ensure its safety. It has passed multiple crash tests, including frontal impact tests and side-impact tests, to help keep children safe in the event of a crash.
The seat also has several safety features that help to provide added protection, including:
3-layer side-impact protection: The Highpoint features a deep foam-lined shell and side-impact protection with energy-absorbing foam that helps to protect children in the event of a crash.
SecureGuard clip: The SecureGuard clip helps to keep the lap belt in the proper position over the child’s hips and prevents submarining (sliding under the lap belt) during a crash.
Easy-adjust headrest: The headrest can be easily adjusted to provide a comfortable and secure fit for children of different heights.
Quick-push LATCH system: The Highpoint can be easily and securely installed using the LATCH system in most vehicles.
Ultimately, the Britax Highpoint is a safe and reliable booster seat that provides multiple layers of protection for children in the event of a crash. It has passed multiple crash tests and features several safety-enhancing features to help keep children safe and secure during car rides.
Side Impact Protection
The Britax Highpoint not only has side-impact protection (SIP), but it does even better, providing 3 layers of SIP for stronger protection. That is even one more layer than some high-end all-in-one car seats.
Here are the details of the three layers of side-impact protection:
External cushions: The first layer of protection consists of two energy-absorbing cushions on the exterior of the seat. These cushions are designed to help absorb and disperse crash forces away from the child.
Foam-lined shell: The second layer of protection is a foam-lined shell that provides additional energy absorption and helps to reduce the impact of a crash on the child’s head and body.
Energy-absorbing foam: The third layer of protection is a layer of energy-absorbing foam inside the seat. This foam helps to absorb crash forces and reduce the risk of injury to the child.
The combination of these three layers of side-impact protection helps to provide a high level of safety for children in the event of a side-impact crash.
SecureGuard Clip
The SecureGuard clip is a unique safety feature found on some Britax booster seats, including the Highpoint. The SecureGuard clip is designed to help prevent the child from sliding forward in the event of a crash, which can reduce the risk of abdominal injuries.
It is located on the center of the seat pad and works by positioning the vehicle’s lap belt across the child’s pelvic bones instead of their stomach. This helps to distribute crash forces across the stronger bones in the child’s hips and pelvis, rather than their abdomen, which can reduce the risk of injury.
To use the SecureGuard clip, you simply position the lap belt across the child’s lap and then slide the clip onto the lap belt, positioning it over the child’s thighs. The clip is easy to install and can be used with most vehicle lap belts.
Admittedly, the SecureGuard clip is an innovative safety feature that can help to increase the effectiveness of the booster seat during a crash, and provide parents with peace of mind that their child is safely secured.
Only several booster seats have a similar feature, like the UPPAbaby ALTA.
6. Performance
Weight and Height Limits -120 lbs/ 63"
The Britax Highpoint booster seat can be used as both a high-back booster and a backless booster. Here are the height and weight limits for each mode:
High-back booster mode
- Weight limit: 40-120 pounds
- Height limit: 38-63 inches
Backless booster mode
- Weight limit: 40-120 pounds
- Height limit: 43-63 inches
These weight and height limits are within the range of most booster seats on the market. However, what sets the Britax Highpoint apart is its ability to provide a secure fit for children weighing as little as 40 pounds.
This is achieved through the seat’s SecureGuard clip, which helps to keep the lap belt in the proper position over the child’s hips and prevent submarining.
You may find that the minimum height requirement for using the Highpoint in backless booster mode is 43 inches. Children who are below this height requirement should continue to use the seat in high-back booster mode to ensure that the seat belt fits them properly.
Booster seats are designed to be used by children who have outgrown a harnessed car seat but are not yet ready to use a seat belt alone. Children should continue to use a booster seat until they can pass the “5-step test” which includes the following criteria:
- The child can sit with their back against the vehicle seat back cushion and their legs bent over the edge of the seat cushion without slouching for the entire ride.
- The lap belt lies low and snug across the child’s hips, touching the top of the thighs.
- The shoulder belt crosses the center of the child’s shoulder and chest.
- The child’s feet can touch the floor or the vehicle’s footrest.
- The child can stay seated this way for the entire ride.
It’s important to follow the weight and height limits specified by the manufacturer for any booster seat to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the seat.
See also
Stage / Modes
Even designed to be just a booster seat, the Britax Highpoint lasts good years, providing a secure and comfortable option for children before they’re big enough to transition to using a seat belt alone.
It features a 2-in-1 design and can be used in two modes: with a backrest and no back. You can always choose one best suited to your kid’s needs and sizes.
As talked above, the height and weight limits or requirements for both modes are slightly different. You’d better follow the manufacturer’s instructions to use the Highpoint for optimal protection.
See also
Age Limit - 4 years or older
The Britax Highpoint is able to accommodate children who are at least 4 years old, which is the recommended minimum age requirement indicated by the manufacturer, quite in accordance with its minimum 40-pound weight requirement.
There is no upper age limit for the Highpoint, as the height and weight limits are the primary considerations for determining when a child is ready to transition to a booster seat. Considering its 120 lbs/ 63″ size limit, big kids at 8 years or older can still use the Highpoint before they’re ready to use the vehicle seat belt alone.
That means the Highpoint would be a good option no matter which states you’re living in or traveling to. According to the car seat laws in 50 US states, children 8 years or older or 57 inches or taller can stop using a car seat for protection.
However, it’s always a good idea to keep your children in an appropriate car seat or booster seat until they meet the height and weight requirements for using a seat belt alone. Additionally, it’s recommended that children continue to ride in the back seat of the vehicle until they are at least 13 years old.
Ultimately, the age at which a child is ready to use a booster seat will depend on their individual height, weight, and development. It’s important to follow the height and weight limits specified by the manufacturer for the Highpoint to ensure that the child is using the seat safely and effectively.
See also
Airplane
Is Britax Highpoint FAA approved for use on a plane?
Sadly, no. The Britax Highpoint booster seat is not FAA-approved for airplane use.
This is because booster seats require a lap and shoulder seat belt to be installed correctly and tightly, while airplane seats only have lap belts. Therefore, the Highpoint cannot be used as a booster seat on an airplane. Not do other booster seats, either.
However, the Highpoint can be taken on an airplane and used as a regular seat for the child on the destination. Always check local car seat laws on using a booster seat before taking it for travel.
Further Information
Lifespan
How long is Britax Highpoint booster seat good for
Like all car seats, the Britax Highpoint booster seat has an expiration date. The expiration date is an important safety consideration, as materials can degrade over time and affect the performance of the seat in the event of a crash.
The Highpoint booster seat has a 10-year lifespan from the date of manufacture – that’s the longest among booster seats. The expiration date is printed on a label located at the bottom of the seat.
After 10 years, the seat should no longer be used and should be disposed of properly. Also, if the seat is involved in a moderate or severe crash, it should also be replaced, even if it appears to be undamaged.
To ensure the safety and effectiveness of the Highpoint booster seat, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for use, installation, and maintenance, and to replace the seat after it has reached its expiration date or has been involved in a crash.
See also:
Further Information
Warranty
The Britax provides a one-year limited warranty for the Highpoint booster seat, starting from the date of purchase. The warranty covers defective materials or workmanship.
You’ll need to register and provide proof of purchase is required to claim the warranty.
7. Britax Highpoint Installation
Before starting to install the car seat, you may where to put it. The center of the back seat is probably the safest position to install a car seat.
If possible, install the car seat on that spot. If that seat is not applicable for a proper installation, for example lacking a shoulder belt, either seat on the side would be safe. You may choose any of them based on your family’s and kid’s needs.
Britax Highpoint LATCH Installation
1. Verify the booster seat is compatible with your vehicle. Refer to pages 28 – 29 for information about compatible seat belts and head restraints.
- a. Push the booster seat against the vehicle seat back and ensure that it is positioned correctly so the vehicle head restraint allows the backrest to lie flat against the vehicle seat back. Vehicle head restraint may need to be adjusted or removed. See page 28 for more information.
- b. Ensure that the base of the booster seat does not hang over the edge of the vehicle seat.
2. If the vehicle seat back is adjustable, ensure it is in the upright position before placing the booster seat on the vehicle seat (see page 12).
3. Push the lower connector release button and pull lower connector to fully extend the lower connector adjuster strap. Repeat on the opposite side to ensure that all slack has been released from the lower connector system.
4. Attach the lower connectors.
- a. Verify the lower anchor adjuster straps are not twisted.
- b. Using the lower anchor farthest from you for easiest positioning push the lower connectors onto their adjacent lower anchors as shown. NOTE: You may need to turn the back of the booster seat towards you for easier access to the lower anchors.
- c. A click confirms lower connectors are attached. Pull on lower connectors to confirm a secure attachment. IMPORTANT: If a click is not heard when connecting the lower connectors, the lower anchor adjuster strap may be twisted or there may be debris in the lower connector. Correct either situation before continuing with the positioning process.
5. Guide the booster seat into place while pulling the lower connector adjuster strap on either side of the booster seat to remove slack.
Securing Your Child
Use the Booster Seat with Backrest
Use only the vehicle’s lap and shoulder belt system when restraining the child in this booster seat.
1. Sit your child in the booster seat, ensuring that the child is sitting upright and that their back is against the backrest. Check the head restraint for proper height adjustment. The top of the head restraint should be above the child’s ears.
2. Pull the vehicle seat belt out and route the shoulder part of the vehicle seat belt through the shoulder belt guide.
3. Route the lap part of the vehicle seat belt under the left and right armrests and over both base belt guides. NOTE: The shoulder part of the vehicle seat belt should be routed under the armrest on the buckle side.
4. Verify the vehicle seat belt is not twisted and then fasten it across the child.
5. Route the lap part of the vehicle seat belt through the SecureGuard clip. NOTE: The lap part of the vehicle seat belt should rest low on the child’s upper thighs.
6. Remove slack from the vehicle seat belt. NOTE: Proper positioning is achieved when the shoulder belt lies across the center of the child’s chest and is positioned at or just above the child’s shoulder.
7. Review the Checklist to ensure all steps have been completed fully
Use the Britax Highpoint Booster Seat without Backrest
1. Ensure the booster seat is positioned in a location that has a vehicle head restraint and attach lower connectors as shown in Positioning the Booster Seat.
2. Seat your child in the booster seat.
3. Pull the vehicle seat belt out, then route the lap part of the vehicle seat belt under both armrests and over the left and right base belt guides. NOTE: The shoulder part of the vehicle seat belt should be routed under the armrest on the buckle side.
4. Verify that the vehicle seat belt is not twisted and then fasten it across the child. NOTE: The shoulder belt should lie across the center of the child’s chest, and be positioned at or above the child’s shoulder.
5. Route the lap part of the vehicle seat belt through the SecureGuard clip. NOTE: The lap part of the vehicle seat belt should rest low on the child’s upper thighs, routed through the SecureGuard clip and under the armrests.
6. Remove slack from the vehicle seat belt.
Checklist
- Vehicle seat belt is not twisted.
- Vehicle seat belt is securely positioned and fastened.
- Lap part of the vehicle belt is routed through the SecureGuard clip and under the armrests, and rests low on child’s upper thighs.
- Shoulder belt lies across the center of the child’s chest and is positioned at or above the child’s shoulder.
Britax Highpoint Car Seat Manual
You should always read the user manual before starting to install and use it for riding your child.
The Britax Highpoint booster seat manual is stored in a small storage slot at the bottom of the car seat. So it’s better for you to check the manual first before installing it onto a desired spot. But you can always find the online user manual on its official website, or download the PDF here.
8. Specification and Comparison
| Brand | |
| Brand | Britax |
| Type | |
| Suitable for | Big kids |
| Positions | Forward-facing |
| Design | |
| Portability (1-10) | 7. Lightweight but a bit bulky |
| Weight (pounds) | 12 |
| Weight limits (lb.) | 40-120 for booster |
| Height limit (inch) | 63″ for booster |
| Dimension | 16″ (D) x 21″ (W) x 27.5″ (H) |
| Cup holder | Two |
| Performance | |
| Age Range | 4-8 years or older |
| Stage | 3rd |
| Installation | LATCH and seat belt |
| Headrest Positions | 10 |
| Recline positions | 0 |
| Airplane | No |
| Lifespan | 10 Years |
| Extra Features | SecureGuard clip |
Britax Highpoint 2-Stage vs Skyline 2-Stage
| Car Seats Comparison | Britax Highpoint 2-Stage | Britax Skyline 2-Stage |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $199 | $109 |
| Weight limits (lb) | Highback: 40-120 / Backless: 48-120 | Highback: 40-120 / Backless: 48-120 |
| Height limits (in) | Highback: 44-63 / Backless: 46-63 | Highback: 44-63 / Backless: 46-63 |
| Layers of SIP | 3 | 2 |
| Headrest positions | 10 | 10 |
| LATCH system | ✓ | ✓ |
| Fixed armrest | ✓ | ✓ |
| Removable cover | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cup Holder | Two | Two |
| SecureGuard Clip | ✓ | - |
9. Alternatives
What other booster seats should you consider?
UPPAbaby ALTA
- Weight range (lb): 40-120 (Booster)
- Height limits: 63"(Booster)
- Stage: 3rd
- Lifespan: 10 years
- Suitable: 4 to 8 years or older
Why is it better than the Britax Highpoint?
- Slightly cheaper price ($179.99 vs $199.99)
Why is it worse than the Britax Highpoint?
- Lower weight and height limits (100 lbs/ 57" vs 120 lbs/ 63")
- Fewer headrest positions (7 vs 10)
- Fewer cup holder (1 vs 2)
Nuna Aace
- Weight range (lb): 40-110 (high-back): 50-120 (Backless)
- Height limits: 38-60"(Booster)
- Age requirements: 4+ yr (high-back); 5+ yr (backless)
- Stage: 3rd
- Lifespan: 10 years
- Suitable: 4 to 8 years or older
Why is it better than the Britax Highpoint?
- More recline positions
- Three-position depth adjustment
- Thicker padding for comfort
- RF-free materials
Why is it worse than the Britax Highpoint?
- More expensive ($249.95 vs $199.99)
- Fewer headrest position (9 vs 10)
- Lower height limit (60" vs 63")
- A bit heavier (15.6 lbs vs 12 lbs)
Diono Cambria 2 XL
- Weight range (lb): 40-120 (Booster)
- Height limits: 63” (Booster)
- Stage: 3rd
- Lifespan: 8 years
- Suitable: 4 to 8 years or older
Why is it better than the Britax Highpoint?
- Cheaper price ($129.99 vs $199.99)
- XL size for more space
- Extended warranty up to 36 months
Why is it worse than the Britax Highpoint?
- Fewer headrest positions (6 vs 10)
- Shorter lifespan (8 yrs vs 10 yrs)