Chicco KidFit
Face front
- Weight Limit (lb): 40-110 (Booster)
- Height Limit: 57” (Booster)
- Age Limit: 4-8 Years or older
Looking for the last-stage car seat without breaking the bank? Balancing an affordable price point with a sumptuous smorgasbord of features, the Chicco KidFit proves that more advanced booster seats don’t always have to burn a hole in your pocket. While the 110-pound top weight limit combined with the 10-position headrest adjustment and a lot of unique features on safety, comfort, and ease to use, the KidFit falls short when it comes to reclines and tight fit against similarly priced booster seats.
*Price may change due to e-commerce platform and brand sales promotion.
Chicco KidFit Review - A Reasonably Solid Performer
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
- 110 lbs/ 57" size limit
- DuoGuard protection
- ErgoBoost design for max comfort
- 10 positions headrest adjustment
- Two modes: high-back and backless
- Rigid LATCH connectors for easy installation
- Removable and machine-washable fabrics
Cons
- A bit pricey
- Limited color options
2. Who Is It Best For?
Will the Chicco KidFit Booster Be a Good Fit For Your Child and Family?
The Chicco KidFit’s weight and height limits, safety, comfort, and price position it in the mid-ground between entry-level and high-end booster seats.
The KidFit is the entry-level model for the KidFit series booster seats and has all the necessary basic features to deliver protection and comfort for kids and convenience for parents. It is a great way of getting your hands on some of the best features that Chicco booster seats have to offer but for less cash.
The 110 lbs/ 57″ size limit makes it good for big kids between 4 and 8 years old. Along with the available 10 positions for headrest adjustment, you’ll be able to find a proper fit for growing kids. It inherits Chicco’s ergonomic design and DuoGuard protection and a rigid LATCH system for easy installation.
With that in mind, the Chicco KidFit will suit parents looking for affordable booster seats as the last step for excellent protection while ensuring comfort – characterized by brands like Graco, Britax, and Diono – and learn more about what a whole new class of high-end booster seats can begin to the table.
See also
3. Value for Money
Is the price tag worth it?
The KidFit lays claim to plenty of features: including a 110-pound high weight limit, great protective features, 10-position for adjusting the headrest, 2 removable cup holders, easy to use and maintain, as well as an ergonomic design that delivers max comfort.
The feature-rich makeup of the KidFit is a key selling point – many of the features can’t be found on other booster seats. Through this lens, KidFit justifies every cent of its price tag.
When you start comparing the KidFit to the rest of the Chicco KidFit booster seat range, however (practically the KidFit Adapt Plus – $129.99 and KidFit Zip Plus – $139.99), things change – and, all of a sudden, the KidFit doesn’t look like such an amazing return on investment.
Spending an extra $20, for instance, buys you the KidFit Adapt Plus. It’s the same as the KidFit when it comes to most of the features that matter, but adds a patented 37.5® technology that enables the car seat to keep cool and warm adapting to temperature within the car seat. If you’re living in a hot or cold city, the KidFit Adapt Plus is a no-brainer.
Likewise – if easily removing the seat cover is a higher priority for you (this really saves time and energy) – then you’re better off opting for the zip-off design that the KidFit Zip Plus offers. Paying an additional $30 and sacrificing one cup holder – but gaining a rotatable storage compartment, an easy-to-remove seat cover, and one more layer of padding for better comfort? Also a no-brainer.
Ultimately, what I’m trying to say here is that yes – the Chicco KidFit is worth your money. However, this depends on what aspects of a booster seat are most important to you.
4. Design
Dimensions and Width
From its dimensions – 17″ (W) x 17″ (D) x 26″ (H), the Chicco KidFit is considered to have a compact design, which makes it easier to fit in small cars or if parents need to fit multiple car seats in the same row. It also has a narrow profile, which allows for more space in the vehicle for passengers or other items. The 17-inch width makes it as good as our best recommendations for the narrowest convertible car seats including the Diono Radian 3R (17″) and Graco SlimFit3 LX (16.75″).
The seat pad measures at 15″ in depth and 12″ in width, providing spacious room for big kids to sit comfortably in the KidFit car seat.
As KidFit allows adjusting the headrest in 10 different positions, the real height might vary depending on the headrest position. However, the manufacturer gives a top height of 29 inches if you move the headrest to the top position. That would fit well in most vehicles, including sedans, SUVs, and minivans.
However, it’s always recommended to check the car seat’s installation instructions and the vehicle owner’s manual to ensure the car seat is properly installed and secured in the vehicle.
See also
Portability
Weighing approximately 10 pounds, the Chicco KidFit is relatively lightweight compared to some other belt-positioning booster car seats in its category. That means parents can effortlessly move the car seat from one vehicle to another if they don’t plan to purchase multiple booster seats.
Removing the backrest and turning it into a backless booster absolutely reduce the total weight, the KidFit weighs around 6 pounds in this mode. If you want a travel car seat, there are some foldable car seats (including a few booster seats like Mifold) that are easy to carry and store.
See also
Cup Holder - Two
The Chicco KidFit has two built-in cup holders that are located on either side of the seat. The cup holders are designed to be easily accessible for children to use and can also be removed for cleaning or to make more room in the car.
In terms of design, the cup holders are integrated seamlessly into KidFit’s overall aesthetic, and they don’t add any extra bulk or awkwardness to the car seat’s appearance.
Among the KidFit product line, the KidFit, KidFit Adapt Plus, and KidFit ClearTex Plus have two cup holders – the manufacturer gives a new name CupFolder; the other two Chicco booster seats – KidFit Zip Plus and KidFit Zip Air Plus have one cup holder and a rotatable storage compartment that is larger to store your kid’s snacks, toys, and more.
Overall, the cup holders on the Chicco KidFit car seat are a convenient and practical feature for parents and kids alike.
Press the release button on the bottom of the Booster Seat to remove the cup holder. The Cup Holders can also be folded in to allow others to sit next to the Booster Seat. That’s why Chicco gives the cup holder the name ‘CupFolder’…
Color Options
Sadly, there is only one color available for the Chicco KidFit: Atmosphere.
It’s obviously gender-neutral, no matter whether you’re using it for boys or for girls, this is the only option.
This is the common case for most car seats, especially those all-in-one car seats that grow with your kid.
However, some parents may prefer certain colors or patterns based on their personal preferences or the color schemes in their vehicles. For example, the Atmosphere and Black colors are more neutral and may be preferred by parents who want a more subtle or understated look for their car seat. On the other hand, the Celeste, Manhattan, Jasper, and Orchid colors are more vibrant and colorful and may be preferred by parents who want a car seat with a bit more personality or flair.
Among the five models in this range, the KidFit ClearTex Plus has the most color options – Reef/Navy, Drift/Grey, Lilac/Purple, and Obsidian. If you want to find a color for toddler girls, look at the recommendations for pink car seats and purple car seats.
Headrest - 10 Positions
As a booster seat, supporting 10 different headrest positions is absolutely a pro for the Chicco KidFit. We all know that the headrest can be adjusted to accommodate a child’s growth and ensure a proper fit as they get taller. Furthermore, the headrest positions can be adjusted with one hand, making it easy to customize the fit of the car seat for a child of any size.
Having multiple headrest positions is important in a car seat because it allows parents to adjust the seat as their child grows, ensuring that the child is properly supported and protected at all times. The Chicco KidFit’s 10 different headrest positions make it easy to achieve a proper fit for children of different sizes and ages, making it a versatile and long-lasting car seat option.
Reclines - 2 Positions
The recline positions are fewer, only two, but better than none (looking at you Graco Tranzitions and Diono Cambria 2 XL).
The two different recline positions can be adjusted by pulling up on a lever located at the front of the car seat.
The recline feature can be particularly useful for younger children who may need more support for their head and neck. So they’re just available in high-back booster mode.
A more upright position may be uncomfortable for a young child, while a slightly reclined position can provide the necessary support for their developing neck muscles.
For older children who may be more comfortable sitting upright, the second, more upright recline position can be used. This position can help to ensure that the child is sitting in the correct position with their back against the back of the car seat, which is important for their safety in a crash.
Padding
The Chicco KidFit features a variety of different materials and padding designed to keep a child safe, comfortable, and secure during car rides. The seat itself is made from high-quality plastic, which is lightweight and durable, while the cover is made from a soft, breathable knit fabric that is easy to remove and wash.
It features contoured foam padding as well. The manufacturer boasts two layers of padding for max comfort. And if you prefer one more layer, check the KidFit Zip Plus
The padding is not too thick nor too thin, making it comfortable for children to sit in the car seat for long periods of time while not that bulky.
5. Crash Tests and Safety Rating
Is it safe to use the Chicco KidFit booster seat?
The Chicco KidFit is safe to use for protection and has passed various crash tests to ensure its safety. It has been tested to meet or exceed Federal Safety Standards for Child Restraint Systems in both highback and backless modes. The KidFit has also been tested for side-impact protection and has received the IIHS “Best Bet” rating for booster car seats.
In addition to meeting safety standards, the Chicco KidFit also has several safety features that help to ensure its effectiveness in the event of an accident. Let’s take a look:
DuoGuard side-impact protection: The KidFit has two layers of protection, including a rigid shell and EPS energy-absorbing foam, to help protect children from side-impact crashes.
Steel-reinforced frame: The car seat has a steel-reinforced frame that adds strength and durability to the overall design.
Easy-to-use seatbelt guides: The KidFit has color-coded seatbelt guides that help parents ensure that the car seat is installed correctly and securely.
Adjustable headrest and shoulder strap positions: The car seat has adjustable headrest and shoulder strap positions that allow it to grow with your child and provide a secure and comfortable fit at every stage.
Overall, the Chicco KidFit is designed to be safe and effective, and its various safety features help to ensure that it provides parents with peace of mind when transporting their children in the car.
Side Impact Protection
The side-impact protection is one of the key safety features in the Chicco KidFit and its premium siblings.
The KidFit’s side-impact protection is called “DuoGuard,” and it consists of two layers of protection on either side of the car seat. The first layer is a rigid shell that helps to distribute crash forces across the car seat, while the second layer is EPS energy-absorbing foam that helps to absorb and disperse the energy of an impact.
The DuoGuard side-impact protection on the KidFit is designed to help protect children from the most common type of car accident: side-impact collisions. These types of crashes can be particularly dangerous because they can cause a child’s head to move rapidly and violently, leading to serious injuries.
In addition to the DuoGuard protection, the KidFit car seat also has other safety features that help to enhance its overall effectiveness in the event of a crash. For example, the car seat has a steel-reinforced frame that adds strength and durability to the overall design, as well as color-coded seatbelt guides that help to ensure that the car seat is installed correctly and securely.
6. Performance
Weight and Height Limits
The Chicco KidFit can be used in two different modes and has different weight limits depending on whether it is being used in highback booster mode or backless booster mode, with the same height limit of 57 inches.
In highback booster mode, the height and weight limits are as follows:
Weight: 40-100 pounds
Height: 38-57 inches
Children who are within this weight and height range can use the KidFit in highback booster mode. In this mode, the car seat provides head and torso support for younger children who still need a bit more protection and positioning than a backless booster can provide. The highback booster mode also includes adjustable headrest and shoulder strap positions that allow the car seat to grow with your child as they get older and taller.
After transitioning it into the backless booster mode, the weight limit is as follows while the height limit remains the same as above:
Weight: 40-110 pounds
In this mode, the car seat provides a bit more freedom and flexibility for older children who are ready for a more mature booster seat. The backless booster mode also includes armrests and a contoured seat cushion that help to provide a comfortable and secure fit for children of various sizes. But it does not include the backrest for head and torso support. So it’s better to keep your kid in the high-back mode for as long as possible. The bigger your kid is, the more power they’ll have to control themselves in the car seat. Big kids around 7 years old can fit well in the backless mode until they’re ready to wear the vehicle seat belt for security.
Overall, the Chicco KidFit car seat is designed to accommodate children of different sizes and ages, and its adjustable features allow it to grow with your child as they develop and grow.
See also
Stage / Modes
The Chicco KidFit is a booster seat that can be used for the third stage according to the NHTSA’s definition. However, it supports two modes: no-back booster mode and highback booster mode.
Booster is the final stage of car seat use, and it is designed for children who have outgrown their forward-facing car seats. Children in a booster seat use the vehicle’s seat belt to secure themselves in the car, with the booster seat providing a lift to ensure that the seat belt fits properly across their lap and shoulder.
The KidFit car seat is designed to be used in booster mode for children weighing between 40 and 110 pounds and measuring between 38 and 57 inches tall.
Highback booster mode is a transitional stage that helps to bridge the gap between a forward-facing car seat and a backless booster seat. In highback booster mode, the car seat provides additional head and torso support for younger children who still need a bit more protection than a backless booster can provide. The KidFit car seat is designed to be used in highback booster mode for children weighing between 40 and 100 pounds and measuring between 38 and 57 inches tall.
Overall, the Chicco KidFit car seat is designed to be a versatile and adaptable car seat that can support children as they grow and develop. By providing both booster and highback booster modes, KidFit helps parents to keep their children safe and secure in the car at every stage of their car seat journey.
See also
Age Range - 4 Years or Older
The age limit for the KidFit is not explicitly stated, as it can vary depending on the size and weight of the child. However, the height and weight limits of the car seat can provide some guidance on the approximate age range for each stage of car seat use.
In highback booster mode, the KidFit is suitable for children weighing between 40 and 100 pounds and measuring between 38 and 57 inches tall. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the average weight of a 4-year-old child is around 40 pounds, while the average height is around 40 inches. This suggests that a child who is around 4 years old may be ready to transition to highback booster mode, depending on their individual size and weight.
In backless booster mode, the KidFit is designed to be used by children weighing between 40 and 110 pounds and measuring between 38 and 57 inches tall. According to the CDC, the average weight of a 6-year-old child is around 45 pounds, while the average height is around 45 inches. This suggests that a child who is around 6 years old may be ready to transition to backless booster mode, again depending on their individual size and weight.
It’s important to note that age is not the only factor to consider when determining if a child is ready for a particular stage of car seat use. Parents should also consider their child’s weight, height, and overall development when deciding which mode of the car seat to use.
Airplane
Is Chicco KidFit booster approved for use on a plane?
Sadly, no. The Chicco KidFit is a booster seat, which is usually not FAA-certified for airplane use. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has specific guidelines and regulations for car seats used on airplanes – like car seats with the internal harness, and the KidFit car seat does not meet these requirements.
Or kids at the age (of 4 years old) to use the KidFit booster can fit well on the plane without a car seat.
Even though the KidFit car seat is not FAA-approved for airplane use, parents may still choose to bring it along on a flight for use in a rental car or other ground transportation at their destination. If you want a travel car seat, the lightweight convertible car seats for toddlers might be a good choice.
Further Information
Lifespan
How long is Chicco KidFit booster seat good for
A Chicco KidFit gets expired after 8 years from the date of manufacture. The expiration date can typically be found on a sticker or label located on the bottom of the car seat, near the back. It’s important to check the expiration date of the car seat before using it, as using an expired car seat can compromise its safety and effectiveness.
The reason for the expiration date is that car seats are made with materials that can degrade over time, which can affect their ability to protect a child in the event of a crash. Additionally, safety standards and regulations can change over time, so an older car seat may not meet current safety requirements.
The expiration date applies to both new and used car seats, as the clock starts ticking from the date of manufacture, not the date of purchase or first use. Parents should also avoid using car seats that have been in a moderate to severe crash, as the car seat may have sustained damage that is not visible but can compromise its safety.
See also:
Further Information
Warranty
The Chicco offers a one-year limited warranty for the KidFit. The warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one year from the date of purchase.
If the car seat is found to have a defect covered under the warranty during the first year, Chicco will repair or replace the car seat at its discretion. The warranty does not cover damage caused by misuse or normal wear and tear.
It’s worth noting that the Chicco KidFit car seat is designed to last for several years, and can be used from toddlerhood through the booster seat stage.
However, the car seat does have an expiration date, which is typically around 7-10 years from the date of manufacture. It’s important to check the expiration date on the car seat and replace it once it has expired.
7. Chicco KidFit 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 but the booster seats are required to use the lap/shoulder belt system for installation, either seat on the side would be safe. You may choose any of them based on your family’s and kid’s needs.
Install Chicco KidFit in High-back Booster Mode
1. Place the Booster Seat on the vehicle seat, push the Booster Seat Backrest against the back of the vehicle seat.
2. Check that the head restraint of the vehicle seat does not interfere with the Headrest of the Booster Seat. If the vehicle head restraint pushes the Booster Seat Headrest forward, raise or remove the vehicle head restraint, if possible. If it is not possible to move the vehicle head restraint out of the way, use the Booster Seat in the Backless Mode.
3. If using the LATCH Connectors, release the LATCH Adjustment Strap, press in the button located on the front of the seat bottom and pull out both LATCH Connectors.
4. Locate the LATCH lower anchor bars in your vehicle. Attach both LATCH Connectors to the vehicle lower anchor bars.
5. Pull on the LATCH Adjustment Strap and push back on the seat bottom to snug up the Booster Seat to the vehicle seat back.
Install Chicco KidFit in Backless Booster Mode
1. The Shoulder Belt Clip is stored under the Booster Seat bottom. Remove the Shoulder Belt Clip and Strap stored underneath seat.
2. Place the Booster Seat onto the vehicle seat.
3. If using LATCH Connectors, release LATCH Adjustment Strap, press in the button located on the front of the seat bottom (A) and pull out on both LATCH Connectors (B).
3. Locate the LATCH lower anchor bars in your vehicle. Attach both LATCH Connectors to the vehicle lower anchor bars.
4. Pull on the LATCH Adjustment Strap and push back on the seat bottom to snug up the Booster Seat to the vehicle seat back.
Chicco KidFit Car Seat Manual
You should always read the user manual before starting to install and use it for riding your child.
The Chicco KidFit manual is stored in a small storage slot on the bottom of the car seat, but you can always find the online user manual on its official website, or download the PDF here.
8. Specification and Comparison
| Brand | |
| Brand | Chicco |
| Type | |
| Suitable for | Big kids |
| Positions | Forward-facing |
| Design | |
| Portability (1-10) | 8. Slim and lightweight |
| Weight (pounds) | 10 |
| Weight limits (lb.) | 40-110 for booster |
| Height limit (inch) | 57″ for booster |
| Dimension | 17 x 17 x 26-29″ WDH |
| Cup holder | Two |
| Performance | |
| Age Range | 4-8 years or older |
| Stage | 3rd |
| Installation | LATCH and seat belt |
| Headrest Positions | 10 |
| Recline positions | 2 |
| Airplane | No |
| Lifespan | 8 Years |
| Extra Features | – |
Chicco KidFit vs KidFit ClearTex Plus vs KidFit Adapt Plus vs KidFit Zip Plus vs Kid Zip Air Plus
| Car Seats Comparison | KidFit | KidFit ClearTex Plus | KidFit Adapt Plus | KidFit Zip Plus | KidFit Zip Air Plus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $109.99 | $109.99 | $129.99 | $139.99 | $159.99 |
| Weight limits (lb) | 40-110 | 40-110 | 40-110 | 40-110 | 40-110 |
| ErgoBooster Design | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Built-in carry handle | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Two CupFolder | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| LATCH system | SuperCinch | Quick-Release | Quick-Release | Quick-Release | Quick-Release |
| Headrest Positions | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 | 10 |
| ErgoBoost Padding | 2 layers | 2 layers | 2 layers | 3 layers | 2 layers |
| Zip-off design | - | - | - | ✓ | ✓ |
| Performance fabrics | - | ClearTex no-chemicals | Adapt: Natural Humidity Management | Zip & Wahs | Zip & Wash + 3D AirMesh |
*About the height limit for rear-facing: The top of the head must be 1” (2.5 cm) below the headrest adjustment lever.
9. Alternatives
What other booster seats should you consider?
Graco Tranzitions
- Weight range (lb): 22-65 (FF); 40-100 (Booster)
- Height limits: 49" (FF); 57” (Booster)
- Stage: 2nd, 3rd
- Lifespan: 7 years
- Suitable: 2-8 years or older
Why is it better than the Chicco KidFit?
- 3-in-1 design with a 5-point harness for extended use
- Lower weight requirement (22 lbs vs 40 lbs)
- Good fit for toddlers
Why is it worse than the Chicco KidFit?
- More expensive ($139.99 vs $109.99)
- Lower booster weight limit (100 lbs vs 110 lbs)
- Fewer headrest positions (8 vs 10)
- Fewer recline positions (0 vs 2)
- Shorter lifespan (7 vs 8)
Britax Highpoint
- 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 Chicco KidFit?
- Higher weight limit (120 lbs vs 110 lbs)
- Higher height limit (63" vs 57")
- Longer lifespan (9 vs 8)
- SecureGuad clip
- One more layer of SIP (3 vs 2)
Why is it worse than the Chicco KidFit?
- More expensive ($199.99 vs $109.99)