Graco Comfort Sport

Reviewers say the Graco ComfortSport (*Est. $ 90) is a decent convertible car seat at a good price.  But, while the seat is inexpensive, it's weight rating is only 30 pounds rear-facing and 40 pounds front-facing, meaning that children will outgrow it faster, requiring either a booster seat or a larger capacity convertible car seat.

Good enough crash testing performance

The ComfortSport receives the same crash test rating of very good as higher-priced seats.  It does not have side-impact protection, but it is lined with energy absorbing foam for impact management. The Graco ComfortSport was recalled in 2007 for harness issues, but no recalls have been reported since then.

Not the easiest seat to use

One respected review site lists ease of use as one of the ComfortSport's selling points, but  parents and other reviewers say that the height of the straps can be difficult to adjust. In fact, one product review source states that the straps "are next to impossible to adjust in the rear facing position." The harness tension does adjust from the front. The seat cover is removable, but washing on the delicate setting is recommended.

Includes a few extras

The ComfortSport is a less-expensive car seat, an important consideration for many families, but children may outgrow it sooner because of its lower weight ratings, thus negating any initial savings. It comes with impact absorbing foam for comfort and more padding than other seats in its price class. It has a clip on cup holder, and it includes an infant head support. I

Customer support satisfactory

The Graco name is ubiquitous in baby and child equipment. The ComfortSport carries a one year warranty with proof of purchase and has a usable lifespan of six years from date of manufacture. The manual can be easily downloaded from the website.

The bottom line

There are better inexpensive seats. While the ComfortSport is clearly a workable car seat for many families, there are better inexpensive car seats in the under $150 category. .Considering that this seat might have to be replaced sooner, it may be worth investing a little more money in a seat with higher weight ratings.