Hiccapop UberBoost Inflatable Booster Review

Crash Test

The hiccapop did not impress during crash testing commissioned through MGA, the same facility used by NHTSA.

Our crash tests were conducted at a slightly faster pace than the federal standard, utilizing a more modern sled designed to simulate newer vehicles. The Hiccapop has passed federal safety guidelines and is therefore considered safe. Our tests are designed to identify boosters that are better than the average safety seat and potentially offer an additional margin of protection.

The Hiccapop had higher than average sensor results for the HIC sensor higher is worse in this test.   Credit: GearLab & MGA Research

The Hiccapop chest clip sensor data was better than the HIC sensor data, but it still couldn't keep up with the best in the group, the Nuna AACE.   Credit: GearLab & MGA Research

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We do not feel the Hiccapop is one of these seats. With HIC sensor data slightly worse than the average and chest clip sensor data showing more g-forces than most competitors, this seat did not stand out in this review. Lower g-forces are better in these tests.

The Hiccapop is easy to transport but doesn't “install” in any way that holds it in position.   Credit: Matt Lighthart

The test model was able to buckle herself in when using the Hiccapop.   Credit: Matt Lighthart

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Ease of Use

The Hiccapop is easy enough to use, but it pales compared to boosters that do more and offer additional features to make life easier.

While it is easy to inflate and slide the shoulder belt through the positioner, it shifts continuously during use, as there is nothing to hold it in place.

The shoulder belt positioner is a clip at the end of a longer strap that attaches to the cushion. It can slide and shift up and down the seatbelt, which can be frustrating for little ones, as it requires frequent adjustments to keep it in place comfortably.

It is lightweight and easy to transport, as well as easy to install, given the lack of any required installation. That said, we'd opt for a stationary and stable installation over a floating cushion, especially for younger kids who might be more prone to movement.

Weight and Size

The Hiccapop is appealing for its weight and size. It is an inflatable backless booster that weighs only 1.1 lb.

The Hiccapop is one of the lightest boosters in the group.   Credit: Matt Lighthart

While not as small as similar boosters, the Hiccapop is one of the most compact and travel-friendly choices in the review.   Credit: Matt Lighthart

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This makes it a contender for those seeking something lightweight to carry in a backpack or for travel. Given that at least one competitor is closer to 26 lbs, it is light indeed, but not the lightest.

The width of the Hiccapop is only 15 inches. This is smaller than most competitors but not as small as the other inflatable we tested. However, it is small enough to be easy to carry and to easily access the vehicle buckle.

Comfort

The Hiccapop didn't impress in terms of comfort either, earning one of the lowest scores for comfort in the group.

While our test model found it to be nice and squishy compared to those with a hard plastic bottom, it is uneven and shifts depending on how inflated the cushion is.

The Hiccapop is just a thinner fabric over a plastic inflatable cushion.   Credit: Matt Lighthart

The Hiccapop cover is designed to help it stay in place on the vehicle seat, but it doesn't do a great job.   Credit: Matt Lighthart

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The slippery fabric can make it difficult to stay centered, and the lack of a back or headrest means your child will fold over or to the side if they fall asleep, which increases the risk of not being properly positioned for the seat belt to function as intended.

Quality

The Hiccapop is not a high-quality option; even for the price, we weren't impressed. It earned one of the lowest-quality test results in the group. This option feels flimsy, and the materials do not feel all that durable.

There isn't much to the Hiccapop booster beyond the covered cushioned and strap positioner.   Credit: Matt Lighthart

The Hiccapop inflatable cushion reminded at least one tester of blow-up Barbie furniture of yore.   Credit: Matt Lighthart

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The padding largely relies on inflation, and we worry it could pop or fail under regular use. The fabric is thin and has a somewhat slippery feeling. Overall, there isn't much to this option, and we think it is doubtful that it can be passed down to other children if it even lasts for one.

Should You Buy the Hiccapop UberBoost Inflatable Booster?

The UberBoost is a compact and inflatable backless booster designed for ease of transportability. As busy parents ourselves, we get why these features would be desirable, and as your child grows, it might feel like you've reached the finish line of car safety needs. However, there is still a need to boost children up for the right seatbelt alignment, and there is reason to believe that high-backed boosters offer more protection over backless choices. Even if you are on the backless train due to travel or carpool goals, the Hiccapop did not perform as well as similarly designed products and cost more, making it one we do not recommend.

What Other Booster Seat Should You Consider?

The Bubblebum is an alternative inflatable booster that we prefer. This less expensive option was more comfortable for our kid testers, and it earned a higher crash test analysis result. The Bubblebum is smaller, lighter, and easier to use. We've used this option with our own kids on travel and think it fills a niche, even if it isn't our favorite for full-time use. If you aren't even sure how you got in the backless booster world and what you really need is a main booster seat that is budget-friendly, the Chicco KidFit Zip Air Plus 2-in-1 is a comfy, higher quality choice that is easy to use and has a higher crash test analysis than either inflatable choice.

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