SecureSafe Shield

Happy with it! – I received this product to test for free and found that it is well constructed, and made of high quality materials, which is reassuring since it is designed to last children from 6 months all the way through to 8 years. The process of installing it took us a little longer than expected, but it was straightforward. We are used to ISOFIX installations, which isn't an option with this seat, so that's probably why it took us a bit longer to learn and install it. It's a shame it doesn't have ISOFIX, but I believe this is primarily due to the Australian safety standards. I haven't had to uninstall and reinstall at this stage, so I will add information about that to my review in future. Including cup holderson this seat was a fantastic idea from the manufacturer, and it was also smart of them to include one on each side. My 1 year old toddler can't comment on the comfort level verbally, but she seems to be happy it! To the touch, it is relatively soft and seems like it would be comfortable. Adjusting the headrest height is extremely easy, which I appreciate. The belt buckle takes a bit of force to release, which is good for preventing the child from releasing it themselves. The biggest downside to this chair is that it's strictly forward facing - given how much of a difference to safety rear facing makes, I would personally prefer to invest in a seat with rear facing, ideally extended rear facing. All in all, my toddler and I are both happy with this seat. If you want to forward face, I think this is a fantastic option to consider. If rear facing is of importance to you, then I'd consider an alternative.

Narrow longevity car seat – I was so excited to try out SecureSafe Shield car seat that goes right through from approximately 6 months to 8 years. My youngest aged 6 is very petite, she still fits her current 0-4 year seat, and is simply not mature enough to move to a booster car seat with a seat belt. On the few occasions I’ve tried her in one, she leans forwards, sideways, you name it. It’s not safe for her and is a huge distraction for me as a driver ensuring she’s sitting correctly. The idea of having her harnessed for as long as possible makes smart sense for a child like this.

On first impressions, I love the material, feels high end, soft, durable and breathable. The chair itself looks great. Has two cup holders which delighted my little girl. The head rest adjusts easily without the need to rethread the straps which is expected in a seat of this calibre.

I found it very straight forward to install as the instructions were very clear but I do have 3 kids and over the years I have gotten quite used to moving car seats between cars so I have the install down to a fine art.

However, I was very disappointed to see no isofix straps! Then I read somewhere that in Australia isofix is only on 0-4 year car seats. I wonder why considering seats like this, potentially, will be in your car for 8+ years. Having your seat belt crimped for that amount of time would no doubt lead to a permanent kink stretch in your seatbelt which I’m not ok with.

With the Securesafe Shield I feel you will need to purchase a seat belt clip to pull the chest part of the seat belt together with the sash as this prevents the strap pulling upright against the chair (see photos) so this was a bit of downer for me as it should come with all the pieces required to make attaching to the car as safe as possible.

I have a small car, and found the width of the seat was awesome. It did not impede on the middle seat at all. I also could fully extend the height of the seat without hitting the roof. I had a couple of inches to spare so that’s great. I did find the depth of the seat substantial at 50cm when not reclined. This then left not so much room for little dangling feet behind the front seat as the base of the SecureSafe Shield over hung the length the car’s seat. I’ve attached a photo for reference.

My child loves riding in this seat. She says it’s “super squishy comfy” and having those cup holders on both sides doesn’t restrict what side you place the seat on. But even so, it’s narrow and the cup holder does not reach the door when it’s out.

What I absolutely loved was my 6 year old could not undo the buckle!!! Hallelujah!!! The tightening strap release clip is also tucked quite high up under the seat and although a bit fiddly to find for release, it also makes it harder for little fingers to reach.

I removed the seat after a week of light use - school drop offs and pick ups - to see the impact on my car seat beneath. I was quite disappointed to see it left substantial indentations as the weight distribution of the base clearly sits on 3 points. I’ve never had a mark left with my current car seat and it’s been in my current car over a year. Fortunately after applying heat, it drew the foam and leather back up but perhaps SecureSafe Shield designers should look to better weight distribution on the base as this is a longevity car seat.

Overall, I do really like this seat. I think the pros far outweigh the cons especially if you have a Houdini child and want that peace of mind knowing they will remain strapped in and safe.