Chicco NextFit Zip vs. UPPAbaby MESA: Which is Better? (2024)

Hi there! We're here to help you decide between the Chicco NextFit Zip and the UPPAbaby MESA.

Our goal is to provide you with the information you need to feel confident that you're choosing the optimal car seat for your family's needs and budget. Let us know if you have any other questions!

At A Glance

Our Thoughts

As a parent specialising in car seat reviews, I understand the importance of safety, ease-of-use and longevity when choosing a car seat for your child. That's why I'm comparing two equally formidable options -- the Chicco NextFit Zip and the UPPAbaby MESA.

The Chicco NextFit Zip convertible car seat is an adaptable, long-lasting option that grows with your child from infancy through preschool and up to 65 pounds. Its prominent features are the Zip & Wash seat pad for easy maintenance, a SuperCinch LATCH tightener for secure installation, and DuoGuard protection, which offers two layers of side impact protection. Despite its numerous advantages, some parents have mentioned difficulty in strap management, and its bulky size can limit front seat legroom in compact cars. There's also the point to consider that the Chicco NextFit Zip limits rear-facing configuration to 40 pounds, constraining legroom for the child as they grow.

On the other hand, UPPAbaby's MESA infant car seat is a high-end investment designed specifically for newborns and smaller babies. Highly praised for its advanced safety features, ease of installation, and compatibility with UPPAbaby strollers, it's a great choice for parents who regularly travel with their infants. Key features include a SMARTSecure system for secure installation and side-impact protection integrated within the headrest. However, the MESA only caters to infants up to 35 pounds, and its higher price point and the perceived heaviness of the car seat could be potential drawbacks for certain families.

Depending on your family's needs, both options have their own strengths. If you're looking for a car seat that will adapt and grow with your child over several years, then the Chicco NextFit Zip would be a fantastic choice. It's also specially suited for those who prioritize safety features and ease of cleaning.

But if you need an infant car seat that effortlessly marries sleek design with superior safety features and doesn't mind the higher price point, the UPPAbaby MESA will serve you extraordinarily well. It’s particularly recommended for families who have or plan to purchase an UPPAbaby stroller.

In the end, the decision really boils down to each family’s individual needs and priorities. Always remember that the main goal is to ensure your child's safety and comfort during car journeys. So choose a car seat that will best serve this purpose.