Maxi Cosi Kore Pro I-size R129     

Maxi Cosi Kore Pro  I-size R129

When we saw Maxi-Cosi’s new Kore Pro i-Size high back booster seat we knew we wanted a closer look! It’s one of only a small handful of i-Size boosters currently on the market in Europe, and it has some cool features that looked really intriguing. Luckily, Maxi Cosi was kind enough to send us one to try out. So how does it stack up? Let’s find out!

• Weight range: There is no weight minimum or maximum
• Height range: A child height of 100-150 cm
• Lowest belt guide position: 32 cm
• Highest belt guide position: 51 cm
• Maxi-Cosi recommends a maximum of 10 years of use
• Replace after any crash — Maxi-Cosi offers a Car Seat Swap Service in some European countries. After a crash they may offer to replace your seat free of charge.

Measurements

• Width at widest point on base (front of the seat pan): 45 cm
• Width at narrowest point on base (at the back): 31 cm
• Width at widest point of seat: 45 cm (front of seat pan) with headrest at lowest setting; 49.5 cm (at shoulders) with headrest fully extended
• Shoulder area measurement: 26-29 cm at the back depending on backrest height; 31-37 cm at the front depending on backrest height
• Seating area width (at the back): 22.5 cm
• Seat pan depth: 34 cm
• Weight of booster: 6.1 kg

Features

• ClickAssist light
• Expands in width as well as height
• i-Size compliant

So what’s so great about i-Size boosters? Lots! In addition to requiring more stringent testing, i-Size regulations have also removed weight limits on booster seats. Instead of having 36 kg limits on all boosters, i-Size boosters have no weight limit at all! This is fabulous news for kids who reach 36 kg before being able to pass the 5 Step Test. Caregivers no longer have to make the tough choice of using a booster beyond stated limits or having their child go without a booster before they’re ready.

In place of weight limits, i-Size regulations have introduced a booster standing height limit of 150 cm. No matter what their weight, children can continue to use the booster until it is outgrown either by belt guide height or by the standing height limit.

The ClickAssist light system is completely unique to the Kore Pro i-Size. These LED lights at either side of the seat are designed to light up the vehicle buckle, making it easier for the child to see the buckle and get themselves buckled up. To activate the light on one side, hold the button above it for 3 seconds until it flashes. To deactivate, do the same.

The light comes on automatically when a child gets in the seat, stays on for 22 seconds, then turns itself back off. A quick press of the button above the light will activate it manually if it doesn’t come on automatically. Maxi Cosi says the batteries will last approximately 4 years. The battery compartment is located on the bottom of the base, and requires two AA batteries.

The cover of the Kore Pro i-Size features bamboo fibres intended to help with temperature regulation. In addition, mesh fabric panels at the sides of the seat are also intended to help keep young passengers cooler. Several rather refined colour choices are available.

The cover is removable and can be washed at 30 on a gentle cycle followed by drip drying.

The back of the Kore Pro i-Size adjusts upward to ensure the shoulder belt guide is in the correct position. The manual shows that the correct position for the back is with the bottom of the headrest aligned with the child’s jawline.

I found that adjusting the headrest took a bit of practice, but once I got the hang of it I found it easier to do with the seat installed than some other boosters I’ve tried. Squeeze the adjustment handle on one side of the headrest — to get the leverage to do this, put your fingers into the belt guide, then use your thumb to squeeze the handle. Then pull up (the booster raises from the bottom of the backrest rather than the top) to the desired height, release the handle, and make sure the back is locked into position.

Installation: With ISOFIX

The ISOFIX arms on the Kore Pro i-Size operate independently of each other. This is a bit different from some other seats, but is pretty easy to get used to.