ajs@hpfcla.UUCP (06/16/84)
A year ago we couldn't decide whether to buy Strollee or Century child car safety seats. Since we needed two, we bought one of each (the Century is a Model 200, I think). Now, a year later, we have a definite preference for the Century, and recommend it. Both have held up well. The Strollee might be a tad safer because of the large padded front bar. On the other hand, our kid finds it easy to slip out of the shoulder straps, and usually does, which is certainly not good. The clip-over strap connector slides down to where it is useless, and is a pain to use anyway. In fact, simplicity is the major reason for preferring the Century. Just one large padded bar on two wide straps to slip over the head, and plug into a socket. It's MUCH easier to use and, since the straps stay put, certainly appears safe enough. The Strollee, however, is a real pain. You have to find two outside straps, get them over a squirming child, then hold them while you swing the bar over, then feed them separately through a loop, THEN find the socket, and plug them in separately. The straps are hopelessly twisted, too, and it's tough to adjust them. One other thing. We've taken the Century with us a few times travelling and it's suffered abuse without significant damage. I rigged up some extra straps that make it easy to carry with a child or small suitcase sitting in it. It's lighter and more compact than the Strollee. Regardless of the kind, DO use a car safety seat religiously. -- Alan Silverstein and Spring Carlton