Recaro Young Sport Review

We have four different car seats we've tried since our daughter exceeded 20 pounds:  Recaro Como, Recaro Signo, Britax Marathon Cowmooflage (this was our first one), and the Recaro Young Sport.  While the Britax pattern is fun, the harness is nowhere near as structured and heavy duty as those on the Recaro's.  Besides, who wouldn't want a convertible Italian car seat for their precious cargo?

Features I like:  the microfiber seat cover is great for your little one, and easy to clean if a pet gets on it (and it can be removed and washed); the harness has never twisted on me (where the belt actually spins inside the lower vertical buckle); it'll be the last seat I need to buy; incomparable head protection similar to racing seats; side and top tethers; built-in neck/face pads; excellent clearance everywhere (would you believe I can't install the Como and Signo in a 2007 Expedition because of clearance issues with the second row headrests?); looks cool (especially if you're a car junky like me... and, Dads out there, this is your chance to buy something cool that's also exceptionally safe).

Features that need some help:  the side tethers have a finite length to them, so if you place a car seat pad beneath the seat, you might lose 10 pounds sweating trying to get the crocodile clips to grab the tethers hidden between the back rest and seat cushion of your back seat!  I know I did.  I am not too proud to say that last summer I completely sweat through my clothes stretching the straps to grab on to the tether anchors.  It's also a little heavy, tipping the scales at 23 pounds (however, I'd trade a little weight for more safety any day). 

You probably don't want to travel with this car seat, but if you're looking for a one and done, install in your car, and remove it only when absolutely necessary, this seat is perfect.  You might spend a few more bucks, but it's well worth the craftsmanship.

If that's not enough:  my daughter LOVES being in this seat, and smiles wider when she's riding in the Young Sport than any of the others.  Priceless.