Originally launched back in 2010, the Maxi-Cosi Rodi AirProtect has proven to be one of the brand's best-selling products and taken a whole host of accolades over the years.
Suitable from 15kg to 36kg - roughly 3 - 12 years - it’s packed with safety features and has a comfortable padded seat, without being bulky. It’s lightweight, so easily transferable between cars and is available from all the usual retailers.
The seat covers are removable and washable – ideal for inevitable spillages. For added comfort factor, a drink/bottle holder (£13.25) and a footrest (£39.99) can be purchased.
What we love
As a fan of some other Group car seats in the Maxi-Cosi range, I was keen to try the Rodi AirProtect. Until recently, we had been using a Group 2/3 seat from another brand, and while it was much cheaper, it didn’t provide the same comfort-factor that comes with this new seat from Maxi-Cosi.
As soon as I strapped my son into the Maxi-Cosi Rodi AirProtect, the features were obvious – the seat positioning was slightly higher than our previous cheaper seat, so he could see well from his window (which he loves) and it’s luxuriously padded.
I certainly felt confident that he was secure, which is by far the most important thing for me. The installation instructions were simple to follow and the Rodi AirProtect can easily be secured - all you need to do is strap your child in, using the car’s regular seatbelts and you’re ready to go.
The Rodi AirProtect has loads of fab features. The backrest grows with your child and has a wide seat and comfortable headrest.
There are shoulder supports that can be adjusted to suit your child’s size (or if they are wearing a bulky coat), plus an anchor that secures the seat’s headrest to the car’s headrests, which helps keep the seat in position.
The Maxi-Cosi Rodi AirProtect also has added protection for the head, loins and hips against side impact and there are belt hooks that adjust to your child’s size, so you can feel confident that your child will remain comfortable and safe in it for years to come. When your child’s ready, you can remove the backrest and the seat can be used as a booster, though it's worth noting Maxi-Cosi suggests you don't, because you'll lose out on all the side impact protection. You can find info on this in our article on high-backed and backless booster seats.
The Maxi-Cosi Rodi AirProtect also gets a big gold star for its AirProtect safety technology. According to Maxi-Cosi, 25% of all car accidents involving children have side impact collisions, meaning that the head of your child is most vulnerable.
With AirProtect, there’s a shock-absorbent, inflated foam cushion embedded in the headrest. In the event of an impact, the device acts like an airbag, giving your child’s head increased protection.
A lot of Group 2/3 car seats don’t recline, which means that car napping is limited, but the Rodi AirProtect includes a recline feature and padded headrest, which is a big bonus for many parents.
What to watch out for
It’s hard to fault the Maxi-Cosi Rodi AirProtect. It does feel as though Maxi-Cosi thought of everything when developing it. At £125, it is one of the more expensive options of its type, but the safety features, long life and overall performance make it a worthwhile investment.
Who is the Maxi-Cosi Rodi AirProtect car seat best for?
Families who spend a lot of time in the car, after a seat packed with safety and comfort features.
With its comfortable, contemporary design, superb safety features and a recline position, the Maxi-Cosi Rodi AirProtect car seat is hard to beat. It’s a quality product from a well-known name, and the price tag isn’t cheap but is worth it.
