Chicco OneFit LX Review

Crash Test

The OneFit crash test results are slightly above the group's average, but neither sensor result is the lowest we've seen (lower is better). Our crash tests are somewhat faster than those outlined in the federal guidelines. We also use a sled that has a firmer cushion to better mimic modern vehicles. Our goal is to find seats that perform better than the average seat, since all have passed federal guidelines and are presumed safe.

The OneFit HIC sensor results compared to one of the best in the group.   Credit: GearLab & MGA Research

The chest clip sensor results from our crash testing of the OneFit, compared to those of one of the best performers.   Credit: GearLab & MGA Research

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The OneFit performed better than the average seat, with admirable sensor results from both the HIC sensor (head) and the g-clip (chest clip) sensors. These results indicate it could offer an additional margin of protection compared to the average competitor.

Ease of Install - LATCH

The LATCH installation is the easier method for the OneFit, but only slightly so. While easier than the average seat, there are more straightforward options if you have installation fears.

The OneFit has push-style LACH connectors with dual-sided bubble level indicators. There is no lock-off for the LATCH strap. The connectors are easy to use, and the Chicco has a “cinch” strap design with two pull points. This requires less effort, leverage, and strength than a single-sided pull design. Chicco offers an installation video for extra help. While there is a bit of a learning curve to use the “super cincher” method, it is worth the effort, and once you dial it in, the process is easy and creates a stable final product.

LATCH installation of the OneFit.   Credit: Matt Lighthart

OneFit's push-style connectors are easy to use.   Credit: Matt Lighthart

The LATCH straps on the OneFit are clearly marked to help with the tightening process.   Credit: Matt Lighthart

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Forward-facing is easier than rear-facing. We appreciated that you don't need to thread the LATCH strap, remove any fabric, or lift the headrest. Tightening is about the same as rear-facing, and the final result is stable enough, but it will depend on the vehicle's seat cushioning.

Ease of Install - Belt

Installing the OneFit with the vehicle belt instead of the LATCH connectors is also relatively easy and better than average. This is good, since almost everyone will be forced to use belt installation at some point due to weight limitations on LATCH connectors.

Rear-facing installation has a color-coded path with a bubble lever indicator on both sizes and a lock-off. It can be challenging to feed the strap under the seat cushion as the seat belt is pulling back because of the shoulder strap. It would be nice ot have a third hand to hold it. Those with bigger hands are going to have trouble getting one in on each side to make the belt transfer to pull it all the way through. The threading was the hardest part, as it goes pretty smoothly after that.

The OneFit lock-off is shorter than we typically prefer, but it still has enough leverage to get the job done without significant strength.   Credit: Matt Lighthart

The vehicle belt path for installation of the OneFit is somewhat hidden and not as clearly marked as competitors.   Credit: Matt Lighthart

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Tightening the belt was average, and we thought it was easier to pull it from the buckle side first, then pull it from the opposite side. The lock-off is easy to use. The final installation is pretty stable. While not rock solid, it passes the wiggle test and isn't concerning. When we gave it a good tug, the lock-off seemed to loosen, but it is hard to say what, if anything, this will affect. We recommend giving it regular checks to ensure it remains tight.

The OneFit's rear-facing installation threads under the seat and above the base, and large hands might have trouble getting the belt through the space because of the cover.   Credit: Matt Lighthart

Forward-facing installation of the OneFit with the vehicle belt includes threading the belt behind the back cover.   Credit: Matt Lighthart

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Forward-facing is also only average and has a lock-off. The headrest requires lifting to access the pathway and lock off, and this could be frustrating if you regularly switch cars because it means readjusting the harness when you are done. The thread pathway is big enough, but it is a little tight getting the lap and shoulder portions of the belt in the lock-off. The lever is smaller than some but there was enough leverage to get it closed without too much frustration.

Ease of Use

The OneFit is one of the easiest options in the group to use, with only a handful being more straightforward.

The OneFit buckle and chest clip are easy to use.   Credit: Matt Lighthart

The pull tab at the top of the headrest releases the locked position, allowing it to be adjusted up or down.   Credit: Matt Lighthart

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Harness

The buckle and chest clip on the OneFit are average. The buckle is stiff, but not prohibitive to use. There is a distinct audible click, reassuring you that the latch plates are securely in place. The chest clip sides slide together easily. Tightening the harness is a dream. It moves smoothly without overdoing it, allowing for a more fine-tuned final fit. Loosening is also a snap again, allowing for a more nuanced final harness fit or quick harness removal.

The tightening strap for the OneFit harness moves more smoothly than most competitors' straps, and it allows us to find the perfect fit more easily.   Credit: Matt Lighthart

Adjusting the shoulder strap height of the OneFit is easy with a pull tab release on the headrest assembly.   Credit: Matt Lighthart

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The shoulder trap height adjustment is a non-rethread design with 10 position options over an 11-inch range. The crotch strap has two positions, and combined with the shoulder positions, it means there is a good chance of finding a good fit for most kids. This crotch strap is somewhat unique, as it is not a rethread design; instead, it slides over the lock.

LATCH Storage

The LATCH connectors store separately on each side in a flip-open compartment/pocket, so there isn't a bunch of messing with the strap. The placement and use aren't intuitive, but it isn't difficult either. They are easy to access and don't shift around in the pockets.

Cover

It took us under 3 minutes to remove the cover. Despite no instructions or a how-to, we found it surprisingly easy and intuitive. There are only 3 loops to undo and a couple of snaps. Installing is equally easy and took under 6 minutes.

Comfort/Quality

The OneFit is more impressive than more expensive seats in terms of comfort and quality. It earned a higher-than-average performance result in our tests.

The OneFit fabric is okay with a feeling that is neither abrasive nor soft. The back and space behind the head have a slightly coarser fabric, while the seat fabric is softer to the touch. The padding is fluffy and airy without the density we see in memory foams or more supportive choices. There is an insert in the back that is somewhat denser and more supportive, but overall, the padding is cushy and compresses pretty easily.

The OneFit cup holder is removable for quick cleanup.   Credit: Matt Lighthart

The OneFit cup holder had room to spare with our Thermos kids' water bottle tucked inside.   Credit: Matt Lighthart

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The shell is above average, the labeling is well done, but in the rear-facing position, it isn't the cleanest-looking. It has dual cup holders that are wider at the top than bottom. We fit our Thermos kids' water bottle to the bottom, which means all but the wider sippy cups should work.

Overall, the materials feel durable and of higher quality than many competitors. Though we'd love to see something more comfortable, we don't think little ones will complain about discomfort.

Weight/Size

The Chicco is heavy and wide compared to most of the competition, with a below-average score for weight and size.

The Chicco is 19 inches wide, when the average is closer to 18. While not the widest in the group, several are narrower and better suited to a smaller back seat arrangement. It is also relatively long when installed rear-facing, which could be problematic for taller parents or smaller sedans.

The Chicco OneFit weighs 26.1 lbs, which is almost 10 lbs shy of the heaviest option, but is almost a pound over the average. Overall, given the bigger size, it wouldn't be our favorite for regular transfer to other cars or traveling.

Should You Buy the Chicco OneFit LX?

The OneFit is a higher-ranking seat with some interesting features we really liked. It is easy to use, has several special comfort features, and a better-than-average crash test analysis score. However, there are similar scoring seats with better crash test results that cost less. While we suspect most families will be happy with the Chicco, we also think saving money for a potential margin of safety over the average seat is worthwhile, and where we would put our attention.

What Other Convertible Car Seat Should You Consider?

The Graco 4Ever DLX, Graco SlimFit 3-in-1, and the Graco Extend2Fit 3 1 all earned better crash test sensor results in our tests than the Chicco and all, but the 4Ever is cheaper to boot. They are also easier to install using LATCH and are smaller and lighter than the Chicco. The 4Ever has the same price as the Chicco, but it has one of the highest crash analysis results in the group. It's hard to go wrong with any of them, and we think most families will be happier spending less and getting more.

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