Key Fit For You

Prior to purchasing a travel system stroller, we did some research in order to determine which would be the best fit for us. After reviewing many kinds, we decided on the Chicco Cortina Key Fit 30 Travel System Stroller. This travel system had great safety features which were a primary factor for my husband and me. Although it was more expensive than many of the other travel systems costing slightly over $320, the additional safety features made it a reasonable price in our minds.  Being first time parents was intimidating as we really did not know much about strollers and car seats and wanted to give our daughter the safest ride possible. 

The Chicco Cortina Key Fit 30 - Atmosphere Travel System Stroller contains a car seat that is fully FMVSS 213 certified.  These are standards set by the Federal Motor Vehicle Department.  The car seat is able to hold a baby up to 30 pounds and the stroller is able to hold up to 50 pounds.  When the car seat is placed into the stroller or the included base for the vehicle, it makes a snapping sound to let you know that it has been inserted properly and is secure.  If you attempt to pull the car seat out of the stroller or base without being unlocked, it is obvious that it is held firmly in place.  The release for the car seat is located on the front of and out of the reach of the baby.  This release is used to take the car seat out of the vehicle base or stroller.  The base is also equipped with a level to ensure that the car seat is sitting in the appropriate place.  The car seat has been fitted with a 5 point harness that adjusts easily with a button located in the front of the car seat.  This car seat is intended for rear positioning only. 

The base of the car seat is held in place with the vehicle's seatbelt.  There are also small straps on the front that have hooks that connect to the metal bar between the sitting area and back area of the seat.  You may have to search to find these in your vehicle.  I like knowing that there is more than a seatbelt keeping my daughter secured in the car.  Addition bases for the The Chicco Cortina Key Fit 30 - Atmosphere Travel System Stroller are available and can be purchased for around $50. 

Both the car seat and stroller have been given soft and comfortable fabrics to make the ride smoother for a baby.  In addition, the car seat includes a cushioned neck/head for small infants so they do not bounce around when the car seat is in motion.  This pad is removable and is held in place by fitting into the straps.  The padded areas of the stroller and car seat are able to be removed and are made of washable fabrics.  Both the car seat and the stroller are fitted with umbrellas that can be opened or closed if needed.  When the car seat is placed in the strollers, the two umbrellas can be opened up and nearly all sun is blocked from hitting the baby.  The stroller has a small plastic viewing space so you can make sure the baby is fine.

The car seat can be heavy to carry around especially when the baby is inside.  As compared to other carriers, it is about 2-3 pounds heavier although it feels much more durable.  The handle has been provided with a cushioned grip to help carry it around easier.

The aluminum framed stroller folds up easily with the pull of a lever located on the handle.  It contains a small storage around on the handle as well as a cup holder.  Under the stroller, there is a large storage area great for carrying a purse or bags.  The seating are is able to be reclined using a handle on the back of the seat.  The handle can be a little difficult to reach although the baby or toddler will not be able to access it while they are in the stroller.  The stroller has also been provided with a 5 point harness.  There is a removable plastic piece that attaches to the side of the stroller.  This piece provides some spaces for the baby or toddler to rest items in.  Although when folded up, it is bulky although most folded up strollers are.  I have a mid size SUV and it fits perfectly in the back.  The stroller has been given brakes on the back tires that are activated by pressing down on a lever located next to the tire with your foot.  It is released by pressing up on the lever.  Although there is a latch on each side, one side controls both brakes.

The only thing I would have liked to seen different is that the seat would recline a little higher as when it is up all the way, my daughter is still slightly leaning back and will keep pulling herself up to sit upright.  She doesn’t seem to be uncomfortable but just wants to have a better view.

I highly recommend the The Chicco Cortina Key Fit 30 - Atmosphere Travel System Stroller as not only is it safe for the baby, it is so easy to use.  We never had any problems locking or unlocking the car seat into the base or the stroller.  It has been easy to keep clean and is extremely strong and sturdy.  We stopped using the car seat when my daughter was around one year of age and that was because she was big enough for the next level up.  We still use this stroller today and it is in great shape after a year and a half.