UPPAbaby Mesa v3 Review

Crash Testing

The Mesa v3 did nothing to improve on the prior version's crash test results. Unfortunately, the sensors in its crash test recorded some of the highest G-forces in the group. While it doesn't have the lowest analysis score, it is below average, and only a few performed worse.

The v3 head sensor (HIC) result is one of the highest in the group (lower is better). Combined with the chest clip result, which is also high, the final analysis result was low.

The HIC test result for the Mesa compared to the Nuna Pipa.   Credit: GearLab & MGA Research

The chest clip sensor test results for the Mesa v3 compared to those of the better-performing Nuna Pipa.   Credit: GearLab & MGA Research

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While it has passed the federal safety standard and is presumed safe, we run a slightly faster test with a more modern sled to identify seats that perform better than average. These seats could potentially offer an additional margin of protection over average-performing options. The Mesa is not a standout seat.

Ease of Installation LATCH

Installing the Mesa with the LATCH connectors is the easiest method and our preference for this seat. We think it is easier to install using LATCH than most competitors. This seat doesn't have an anti-rebound bar or load leg.

It has push-style LATCH connectors and a self-ratcheting strap, so you don't need much leverage or strength to get the strap tight enough. There are dial levels on both sides of the base to ensure the final installation angle is correct.

The LATCH installation of the Mesa is straightforward, and the connectors are easy to use.   Credit: Matt Lighthart

The Mesa base has a color indicator that shifts green when it is installed correctly.   Credit: Matt Lighthart

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Pushing the connectors into place was easy, and we didn't need guides. The strap sucks back into the base as you apply pressure to the base sides, rocking it back and forth until the color change indicator says you are good to go. This is a game-changer for those who can't pull a strap or can't get inside the vehicle to achieve the proper angle for strap pulling on more traditional seats.

The base feels stable enough after installation, but we were able to move it about 1 inch side to side with effort. Tightening the straps helped, but it still isn't the most stable in the group. The handle can be rotated to act as an anti-rebound device while driving.

Recline Adjustment

It has four recline adjustments. The button to engage the recline movement is stiff, and so is the foot that moves. Despite only having four different angle adjustments, the level indicator seems pretty forgiving, and we didn't have trouble getting the base dialed in.

Ease of Installation - Belt

The v3 can be installed using the vehicle belt, but it isn't our preferred method for the Mesa and is more difficult than most competitors'. In fact, it is one of the hardest to install this way.

While the Mesa lock-off should help secure the base to the belt, we weren't impressed with its locking ability.   Credit: Matt Lighthart

While the Mesa lock-off is easy to use, it didn't perform as well as competitors at locking the base to the strap.   Credit: Matt Lighthart

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The QR code on the base can give you on-the-spot instructions, which we appreciate. Installation isn't challenging, and the belt pathway is color-coded and clearly marked. The path has large holes, and threading the belt is easy.

We appreciate the easy-to-use, center-placed lock-off on the Mesa, but we wish it worked better at locking the base in place.   Credit: Matt Lighthart

The belt pathway on the Mesa base has large openings that are easy to use, even for bigger hands.   Credit: Matt Lighthart

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The trouble comes with the lock off on the Mesa. It is easy to operate, but it doesn't seem to do much to lock the base to the belt or to prevent the base from sliding along it. Most lock-offs are designed to prevent the base from moving, and this one isn't the best at performing its primary function. It passed our wiggle test, but when we applied significant force to test stability, it rocked fairly easily.

Ease of Installation - w/o the Base

Installing the Mesa v3 without the base is easier than the average seat, and one of the easiest methods for this seat.

The belt path for installing the Mesa with the vehicle belt is color-coded with subtle blue lines.   Credit: Matt Lighthart

The retention clip on the back of the Mesa carrier holds the vehicle belt in place and prevents the belt from twisting or sliding.   Credit: Matt Lighthart

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The Mesa v3 can be installed using the American or European belt pathways, with the European method listed first in the manual as the preferred method. The American method uses only the lap portion of the belt, while the other uses the shoulder strap to snug the carrier against the vehicle seat by wrapping around the back of the carrier.

The pathway is well marked, and the belt stays put when threaded. There is a decal with a line to ensure it is level. The seat is remarkably stable compared to competitors, and we didn't need a towel to finalize the installation.

Ease of Use

Overall, the Mesa is one of the easier seats to use. While the buckle requires more force than we'd like, we think most of the dialy features work well and as expected.

Buckle

The Mesa v3 buckle and chest clip are about average for ease of use. The chest clip requires moderate force to clip in place and more force to release. For the buckle, we didn't have to line up the latch plates perfectly to push them in, and the button is firm. The crotch pad doesn't obstruct the button, but the elongated shape has walls that make it more challenging for some testers to press. The latch plates did not move when we pressed the button; we had to pull them out while the button was depressed. We suspect some of the difficulty here is related to safety, but those with finger or hand strength issues might struggle.

Harness Tightening/Loosening

Tightening and loosening the harness is easy with a pull strap at the foot of the carrier and a release button under the fabric near the seat end. It feels sort of like a pouch. The strap slides smoothly and has a snap to help keep the excess in place.

Harness Adjustment

The Mesa has a non-rethread operation with an astounding 25 possible height positions. We cannot stress enough that this is far more than most competitors by at least double. The headrest/shoulder height assembly is a little stiff but still easy to adjust, unlike those that require rethreading. The crotch strap is also easy to adjust, and the padding on it has little wings to hold it in place for comfort without covering the release button.

Carrier to Base Connection

Putting the carrier on the base is straightforward, and it would be challenging to do it incorrectly if you are paying attention. It falls into place, and even if you miss centering it on the first try, it clicks into place with just a nudge. The release button is midway down the back; it has a well-defined lip, so you know where to grab.

Handle

The handle rotates smoothly and requires two hands. There are four possible positions, including one where it can act as an anti-rebound device. It has an icon that shows the handle position during driving, which we love for parents who might forget. In the no-rock position, we were still able to rock the carrier, though not as much.

Canopy

The canopy is easy to deploy and doesn't collide with the handle in any position. This means you can adjust either independently of the other without interference. There is also plenty of room for our hands to fit between the two, unlike some competitors, where the two touch, leaving no room.

LATCH and Manual Storage

The LATCH connectors on the Mesa retract into the base body when not in use. It is a tidy and helpful solution to prevent them from swinging while carrying or floating when installed with the vehicle belt. We really like this design and think it is second only to rigid LATCH connectors. They come to rest in the middle of the back of the base. Inserting or removing them requires pressing the button to get some slack so they can be pulled. Pull tabs make them easier to manipulate.

The pull tab on the Mesa LATCH connectors makes them easier to remove from storage and from the car anchors.   Credit: Matt Lighthart

The Mesa manual is located under the base, which isn't convenient, but at least there are also QR codes to access the manual on your phone.   Credit: Matt Lighthart

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The v3 manual tucks in a slide pocket under the base. While out of the way of spills, it isn't convenient to grab if the base is installed or you are away from the base and need it.

Comfort/Quality

Comfort and quality are where UPPAbaby shines, and the Mesa v3 is no different, performing significantly better than the average competitor in this review.

Fabric and Padding

The Mesa v3 fabric is softer than many competitors, especially in the seat and where bare arms might rest. The head and back areas are somewhat rougher, with a tiny cut design that makes rubbing against the grain feel rougher. While we don't think it will be an irritant, it seems like an odd choice, but it might make it more breathable.

The foam padding for comfort feels like memory foam. It is sufficient, though not ample, and feels less floofy than some but more supportive under weight. The design lacks creases and stitching, which could make it more comfortable. The infant insert is thicker and seems more supportive than many competitors'.

The Mesa is one of the few carriers with a peek-a-boo window in the canopy. We suspect this is a nod to pairing it with UPPAbay strollers.   Credit: Matt Lighthart

A center button on the Mesa's handle isn't ideal for gripping the carrier, but it is less intrusive than we thought it would be.   Credit: Matt Lighthart

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Handle and Canopy

The Mesa has one of the best canopies in the group, with expansive coverage all the way down to the lower portion of the shell. It looks taunt, not frumpy, with a design that stays open. The extension panel has mesh sides and a fabric center for increased airflow without sacrificing sun protection from overhead when used on a stroller. The extension tucks away and is easy to deploy.

The handle includes a center button for release from a stroller. There is no padding or central grip. It moves smoothly, doesn't impact canopy use, and has no rough edges.

Shell

The shell finish is smooth and clean, with no places for gunk to accumulate. It does have the standard warning and instructional stickers, but it isn't as “in your face” as those we see on some cheaper competitors.

Weight/Size

The Mesa is heavier than the UPPAbaby Aria, the UPPAbaby lightweight champ. The carrier weighs 10.9 lbs, which is slightly above the average in a way you likely won't notice.

While it doesn't get close to the heaviest option, it is still heavy enough that toting it with a baby could be a hassle. As your little one gets bigger, you will likely end up carrying over 20 lbs of carrier and baby weight at some point. If you plan to transfer it directly to a cool UPPAbaby stroller this could be a non-issue; if you plan to carry it in the crook of your elbow, it will be a much bigger concern.

Should You Buy the UPPAbaby Mesa v3?

We love many things UPPAbaby and often blather about how awesome their strollers are. They create high-quality products that often surpass competitors with ease of use and the feeling that a real parent used them and understands how frustrating baby gear can be. Unfortunately, in our opinion, UPPAbaby hasn't found the same success formula for their infant car seats, and the Mesa v3 doesn't do much to improve on the UPPAbaby Mesa v2, which wasn't all that impressive either. The v3 doesn't improve on the crash test results, and it remains harder to install using the vehicle belt than the Mesa v2. While we appreciate the better padding, soft fabric, and sleek look, it isn't a favorite, and we think there are better options, especially if your budget is this high.

What Other Infant Car Seat Should You Consider?

The Nuna Pipa RX is our favorite seat, with the highest crash-test rating we've ever seen. It is very easy to install in every method, and while somewhat more complicated to use than average, it is higher quality, comfortable, and lighter than most seats. If the price of the Nuna is too high, the Britax Willow S is a compelling choice with significantly better-than-average crash test results and an easy-to-install design with easy-to-use features. If your primary goal is stroller compatibility, and your stroller of choice won't support the Nuna or Britax, the Chicco Keyfit 30 is our favorite stroller companion.

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