Convertible car seats start rear-facing for infants and convert to forward-facing as your child grows. They stay in the car rather than being carried, making them more economical long-term. Our testing covers rear-facing and forward-facing crash performance, harness ease of use, and how well they fit in real vehicles.

Fit360 ClearTex
Top Pros
- 360-degree rotation for easy in/out
- PFAS-free ClearTex fabric
- Excellent side-impact protection
Buying Tips from Our Experts
- 1Choose a seat with the highest rear-facing weight limit possible
- 2Measure your vehicle's seat depth before buying
- 3Look for no-rethread harness adjustment
- 4Consider rotating seats if you have back problems
- 5Check that the seat fits your vehicle in both rear and forward-facing positions
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I switch from rear-facing to forward-facing?
Only when your child exceeds the maximum rear-facing weight or height limit. The AAP recommends rear-facing as long as possible.
Can I use a convertible seat from birth?
Yes, most convertible seats accommodate newborns from 4–5 lbs with the included infant insert.
