[typeamom]

I am looking at a few different carseat models, and one of them has the side impact protection and the others don't. Is it really safer? If it is so desirable, than why doesn't every carseat have it - it doesn't seem like it would be neccessarily more expensive to do it? Is it a relatively new feature - have some models not caught on yet? Or is it left as an optional feature because some parents/kids don't like the obstruction of the side impact protection?

Also, the salesperson told me you really should have it if the carseat isn't going to be installed in the middle position of the backseat - I don't follow the logic here. Isn't the side impact supposed to help absorb the brunt of the force from being hit on the side of the vehicle - isn't that function the same no matter what seat you are in? Please explain if you have any further information on this matter. We have a Honda Element where there are only 2 seats in the back, so the carseat HAS to go on one side. So if what the salesperson said is true, we will definately get the side impact protection if neccessary.

(We are deciding between a Britax marathon and boulevard and aren't necessarily that concerned about the price at this point).

thanks

	Britax - Click for more info Britax International has been producing reliable child safety products for over 30 years. Not only does Britax have decades of experience creating car seats and other children's safety equipment, Britax has a long standing reputation as an industry leader and innovator. Britax International is headquartered in the United Kingdom, but Britax car seats are designed and manufactured at facilities in Germany, Austria, and the United States. In the summer of 2002, Britax strengthened their commitment to creating the safest car seats with the opening of a brand new, state-of-the-art crash testing facility in North Carolina. Britax car seats have a reputation around the world for being some of the safest, most reliable, and best designed child safety seats ever made.

	Britax Marathon - Click for more info Increasing the time a child can safely stay in their convertible car seat is a big issue and Britax engineers have come through in a big way with the introduction of the Britax Marathon with LATCH. A LATCH Compatible Convertible Child Seat, the Britax Marathon can be used rear facing 5 to 33 pounds and forward facing from 20 to 65 pounds. Compare the numbers and you will see it is hard to find a seat with these weight limits that is safe and functional.

	Britax Boulevard - Click for more info It is all about the wings with the Britax Boulevard convertible car seat - head and torso safety wings help keep your child from harm in a side-impact crash. And this matters - side-impact crashes are the leading cause of death for 6 - 14 year-old children. Of course, the safety wings are only one of the many safety features that the Britax Boulevard offers: built-in lock-offs, 5-point harness with front adjuster, tangle-free webbing, a push button release LATCH system with Versa-Tether®, and a sculpted base, ensuring an easy installation with a secure fit.