UPPAbaby Alta v2 Review

Crash Test

We conducted our crash tests slightly faster than the required federal guidelines, and we utilized a more modern sled for the tests. Our goal was to identify seats that could potentially offer an additional margin of protection over other seats by achieving higher than the average test results.

The Alta v2's combined sensor data is among the best in the group, with a final analysis score above the average. While it did not score as high as the top option, it is close, and for the price, it is hard to beat.

The graph shows the Alta v2 HIC sensor data compared to the top-performing Nuna AACE.   Credit: GearLab & MGA Research

The Alta v2 chest clip g-force sensor data is below the average result for the group where lower is better, but it couldn't match that of the Nuna AACE.   Credit: GearLab & MGA Research

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The HIC sensor results for this seat were pretty low (lower is better), with about half of the seats recording higher g-forces in our tests. The chest clip sensor data was better, with results better than 2/3rds of the competition.

Ease of Use

The Alta v2 earned one of the highest ease-of-use scores in the group.

The Alta v2 features a rigid LATCH connection system that deploys from the back with a pull-release mechanism from the front.

The connectors are easy to use and snap in place without effort. There is no need for tightening or leveling adjustments, unlike other car seat types.

The shoulder belt positioner on the Alta v2 is located on the headrest and features a simple slide-in mechanism that secures the belt in place. This can help younger passengers manage the buckle themselves, so it doesn't need to be threaded each time it is used.

It also sports a lap belt positioner that is easy to use and ensures the belt stays where it needs to be and prevents slouching children from ending up with the belt across their belly.

The narrow width of the Alta v2 seat bottom allows the seat belt buckle to be accessible and easy to use for passengers in the seat. The back of the booster is somewhat rounded, helping it stick out from the vehicle seatback and increasing buckle openness. The shoulder belt slides easily and doesn't get caught or require effort.

The shape of the Alta v2 back curving around helps prevent interruption with the buckle.   Credit: Matt Lighthart

The Alta v2 comes with one cup holder, but you can purchase an additional holder from UPPAbaby.   Credit: Matt Lighthart

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Our test passenger did remark she felt that the armrest got in the way and preferred seats without armrests for this reason. We were able to fit our test water bottle into the cup holder, but it wasn't very stable, and you will likely need something narrower than the Thermos Foogo.

Weight and Size

If you plan to travel frequently or your child needs a booster for carpooling, weight and width can be important factors. If your booster will largely sit in one place and won't be carried very far for very long, this metric might feel less important.

The Alta v2 is somewhat heavy at 17.4 lbs in our tests. With at least one option weighing more than 26 lbs, it can feel rather light in comparison; however, given that some backless boosters weigh less than a pound, the difference is significant. Some of the competitors have the option to remove the back and use just the seat base for travel, but the UPPAbaby does not. You could supplement the Alta v2 with an inexpensive and small backless choice for occasional travel as well.

The Alta v2 is fairly narrow at 15.5 inches, and its rounded back takes up less space from side to side. If you need to fit more car seats or accommodate more people in a single row, the Alta v2 could be a potential contender that meets your needs.

Comfort

The Alta v2 has an above-average comfort rating. While it wasn't a wow contender during testing, it wasn't off-putting or hugely uncomfortable.

The padding is thin and super soft, with no support. We wish it were denser or more substantial, but we can accept the lack of padding for the price. Our model tester stated it felt like a rock with a blanket on it, and we can see why she would say that. However, in fairness, this is a design style favored by many boosters in this review. The fabric feels super soft, almost like a microfiber. It was the kid tester's favorite in the group.

The headrest has more space than most, but the padding is still thin, unlike some competitors who offer more padding and support in the head area.

The fabric matches the main body and feels good on the cheek. The headrest height is adjustable, but the side wings also move up and down with it, which means that any child with wide shoulders might outgrow the seat width-wise before they outgrow the height.

Quality

The Alta v2 has a higher-than-average quality score compared to other boosters. It is on par with how the original v1 Alta performed in the past.

The padding is on the soft side, which sounds good but fails to offer adequate support, resulting in a quick trip to the hard plastic underneath. The fabric is some of the softest in the bunch, but it seems like it would train easily, and kids are messy. The impact foam is EPP, which is our preference since it doesn't off-gas, and the shell feels clean and sturdy. The EPP foam is only in the headrest, which, in our opinion, feels like a design flaw.

Should You Buy the Alta v2?

If you are looking for a quality seat with better-than-average crash test analysis at a budget-friendly price, then the Alta v2 could be the right fit for your family. While it didn't score the highest in crash testing, it is one of the top-ranked and least expensive options among the top choices. It is also top for ease of use. We think most parents will appreciate getting a high-quality seat that is easy to use, potentially safer, and won't break the bank.

What Other Booster Seat Should You Consider?

If you want the absolute best in crash test analysis, then the Nuna AACE should be on your shortlist. This compelling booster is comfortable, easy to use, and offers a reasonable price that, although higher than average, is justified by its improved test performance. Alternatively, the Chicco KidFit Zip Air Plus 2-in-1 scored similarly to Alta v2 and has a very similar test result profile, but can save you even more money. With lounge-type leg support and significantly lighter weight, the Chicco could be the winner that splits the difference and offers the best value for some.

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