Britax Marathon Review

I poured over Consumer Reports, online parenting blogs and message boards, read the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration car seat data results and based on all of this information, chose the Britax Marathon as our child's convertible car seat. I have absolutely no regrets, despite the steep price tag. The seat goes up to 65 pounds and while my son might reach the height limit first, it will still last him much longer than the typical 40 pound seat limit. I was a little concerned about whether or not the seat would fit in my compact car (I drive a Volvo S40) but it works great. We have it in the middle back seat, rear-facing. If you're concerned about the size, many stores will let you test the demo seat in your car before buying. I love the amenities of this seat - including the belly pad and HUGS pads. I feel like my son is really cushioned and protected in case of an accident. I have the Tan Swirl design and it is very gender neutral and works great in our tan interior car. No marks on the leather seats either. The user's manual stores nicely underneath the chair pad and is connected by a little elastic rope so you won't lose it. It's a hefty seat, but we can still fit two average sized adults on either side of it in the back seat. Well worth it in my opinion and highly recommended.