Diono Rainier Convertible plus Booster Preview

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Diono Rainier - ClaraThe new convertible+booster lineup from Diono features deeper side wings than the previous Radian models and some other minor changes. In the head area, a compression wall design features a rigid double wall structure for enhanced side-impact protection. The outside wall compresses under load to absorb additional energy in an impact, enhancing side-impact crash performance without increasing width. New fabrics on certain models wick moisture for comfort. The harness webbing is slightly different and the seat now comes with 2 sets of harness strap covers.

The Diono Rainier, Paifica & Olympia are either currently shipping or coming soon to Amazon.com and specialty retailers.  Stay tuned for the Diono Rainier review at CarseatBlog!

      

Diono Rainier Specs & Features:

  • Rear-facing 5-50 lbs.; or outgrown by height when there is less than 1.5″ of shell above child’s head or child reaches 44″
  • Rear-facing lower LATCH anchor limit is 35 lbs. (once child weighs more than 35 lbs. you must install with seatbelt)
  • Forward-facing 20-90 lbs.; or outgrown by height when top of child’s ears are above top of restraint or child reaches 57″
  • Forward-facing lower LATCH anchor weight limit is 40 lbs. (once child weighs more than 40 lbs. you must install with seatbelt and tether, if tether is available)
  • Booster 50-120 lbs.; up to 57″
  • 5 sets of harness slots
  • 3 crotch strap/buckle positions
  • Aluminum reinforced headrest
  • Energy-absorbing EPS foam
  • SafeStop load-limiting device (only use with forward-facing children who weigh less than 40 lbs.)
  • Rear-facing tether capability
  • Heavy-duty SuperLATCH lower anchor connectors
  • Comes with 2 sets of harness strap cover – usage is mandatory (use one set for children under 65 lbs; other set for children over 65 lbs.)
  • FAA certified for use on aircraft
  • Folds flat for travel or storage
  • When used with harness seat has 8 year lifespan before expiration; when used without harness in booster mode seat may be used up to 12 years (4 extra years)

The Diono Rainier is packed with features but does it pass the ultimate test by pleasing a finicky rear-facing 4-year-old?

 

Edited to add: Here are a few comparative pics showing the Diono Rainier next to the previous generation Diono Radian R120. Even though it looks much wider, the Rainier is actually only 1″ wider but the widest point is now up at the top. The side walls of Rainier are also considerably deeper than its Radian predecessors.

Side-by-side Diono Rainier & Diono Radian R120

Back-to-back Diono Radian R120 & Diono Rainier

Back-to-back Diono Radian R120 & Diono Rainier

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Back-to-back Diono Radian R120 & Diono Rainier

6 Comments

  1. Jennifer August 30, 2014
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