If you're looking for a booster seat to use long term, then the Eddie Bauer Adjustable High Back Booster Car Seat 22880 may just fit the bill. It is designed as a forward-facing car seat -- complete with a five-point harness -- for children weighing as little as 22 pounds. It can be used as a belt-positioning booster for children weighing 40 to 100 pounds, and it can convert to a backless booster.

The Eddie Bauer Adjustable High Back Booster Car Seat has plenty of convenience features, including a pair of built-in cup holders, a three-position adjustable headrest and padded armrests that pivot out of the way when necessary. Plus, the five-point harness can be adjusted up front, with just one hand. But, even though this EPS-foam lined, padded car seat looks comfortable and inviting, we have a major complaint. As we placed child after child into the car seat, we realized not one of them could really sit up straight. Why? The booster has a concave design, which might be snugly comforting for infants, but which gives older children a seemingly uncomfortable ride.

Still, we applaud the use of "wings" on each side of the head and shoulder area. This added protection can provide additional support should a side impact occur. The gender-neutral fabrics in coordinating tan and plaid fabrics are attractive -- as is the car seat as a whole. Unfortunately, the Eddie Bauer Adjustable High Back Booster Car Seat doesn't perform as well as it looks.


Pros: EPS foam, for children 22 to 100 pounds
Cons: Uncomfortable design