Evenflo Maestro Sport 2-in-1 Review

Crash Test

The Evenflo did not impress in our commissioned crash tests, with one of the lowest crash analysis scores in the group. While all the seats in this review meet the federal standard and are considered safe, we conducted our tests at a slightly faster speed and on a different sled that more closely mimics a modern car than the sled used in federal testing. We aimed to identify boosters that potentially offer an additional margin of safety compared to the average booster.

The Evenflo chest and HIC (head sensor) results were significantly higher than those of the competition.

Lower is better as it indicates fewer g-forces recorded in the crash test dummy sensors. The Envenflo results showed some of the highest sensor data for both sensors. Making it a seat with one of the worst analysis scores in our review.

Ease of Use

The Evenflo earned one of the lowest scores in the group for ease of use and was frustrating for users. While our kid tester was able to buckle herself in (a big deal), we didn't like the design of the shoulder belt positioner, which caused frequent slide-offs. The thinner width helped our child tester, but there is no color coding to help guide the belt, and younger users would probably benefit from more visual direction.

Because the headrest assembly area is not adjustable and sits stationary at a predetermined height, the shoulder belt can end up too close to the passenger's neck or too low for their height. The pathway for the lap belt is also positioned further back than most, and we worry that, overall, the booster may not be suitable for kids as they grow, given its lack of adjustability.

The seat is smaller and lightweight, making it easy enough to carry and maneuver in the car. The plastic edging and open back were somewhat annoying, and we kept bumping into the exposed parts, which wasn't enjoyable. The LATCH connectors are hook-style (not our favorite). The hooks are positioned close to the seat, and we didn't have trouble installing them. However, removing the hooks is more complicated than with other LATCH connector styles.

The Evenflo has dual cup holders integrated into the armrests. They detach a little more easily than some, and we suspect that little ones will fidget with them. The holders easily accommodated our kids' water bottles.

Weight and Size

The Evenflo is one of the lightest in the high-back group, weighing 9.7 lbs. There are definitely options without a back that weigh less, but this is a nice change from a full-back and lightweight combination.

However, it is somewhat wider than most at 18.7 inches. Maybe if it had been narrower, we could have fallen in love with the idea of narrow and light, but at this width, there isn't much to love here.

Comfort

The Evenflo has a lot going for it in terms of comfort, and we think most kids will enjoy the ride. The padding foam is similar to memory foam, and our kid tester was a huge fan. It feels good when you press on it, offering support without compressing too much. We do wish it were somewhat thicker, but it still stands out compared to competitors. The headrest and torso have similar padding to the central portion of the seat, but there is no padding around the armrests, which could be a bummer for some children.

We loved the soft fabric cover on this unit, and it feels incredibly soft against our faces. It feels like it might be somewhat cooling on hot days, sitting in the sun, and we think little ones will prefer it over many competitors. The headrest is a disappointment, as it is not well-wrapped, and the shape doesn't support the head well while napping. Perhaps the worst part, however, is that it is fixed to the seat and cannot be adjusted for height. This means it may be challenging to find a comfortable height sweet spot if your child is shorter or taller than the headrest placement; it seems like a misstep in an otherwise comfy booster.

Quality

The quality of the Evenflo is below average for the group. While the foam is nice, there isn't enough of it, and the cover might be soft, but it doesn't fit tightly to the shell, and it slides around a considerable amount.

Everything is made of thin, flimsy plastic with an exposed back and cup holders that kept popping off. We suspect that the cup holders will end up broken, lost, or used more often for fidgeting than for holding cups. The real saving grace is the padding, but it isn't enough to elevate the seat's quality.

Should You Buy the Evenflo Maestro Sport 2-in-1?

With one of the lowest overall scores in the group and below-average crash test data, the Evenflo is not a seat we'd recommend. While we appreciate the appeal of a lower price, it is challenging to find a compelling reason to choose the Evenflo over the competition in our tests. Given the lower ease of use, we suspect that parents and kids will be disappointed with the Evenflo.

What Other Booster Seat Should You Consider?

If budget is a driving factor in your potential booster pool, the Chicco KidFit Zip Air Plus 2-in-1 is one of our favorites overall and the booster we think most families will be happy with. It performed well in crash testing and offered impressive ease of use, comfort, and quality. As long as lightweight and compact for travel is not your goal, the Chicco is one to consider. The UPPAbaby Alta v2 has a similar overall score to the Chicco with a slightly better crash test analysis result, but it will cost more. Depending on your goals, it might be a better choice. If your goal is the best crash test analysis result and you have a bigger budget, the Nuna AACE is possibly your soul mate. This quality booster is comfortable, easy to use, and sports a top-rank overall.