The 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
I’m contemplating this seat for my 5 mo old twins. One is already 20 lbs and very tall so I need something with high rear facing limits. I have a Toyota Sienna minivan. Will these fit ok?
Can you fit three rear facing side by side?
Hi Jackie, use the smaller ones. The really big ones are only for kids over 65 lbs. HTH!
I just purchased this seat, but can’t figure out which strap covers to use! It doesn’t say anywhere in the manual or online. My 10 month old is 20 pounds, so does she need the grey cover or the black one? Thanks!
If your truck has an air bag you can use a key to turn off (or doesn’t have one at all) then you can use it just fine.
Hi! i am thinking of purchasing one of these carseats for a 2002 ford ranger that is only a single cab 🙁 Its what ive got so it will have to work. My little will be rear facing but i am wondering if you think this will be a smart choice given the fact he cant be in the back seat? he is 1 year, 5th percentile weight 60 percentile height.