UPPAbaby Mesa V2
Have you ever felt like you needed an engineering degree to properly install a car seat? I’ve had that myself. So when I purchased the UPPAbaby Mesa V2, I was expecting something different, something simpler. But those expectations were not met.
First Impressions
Right out of the box, the Mesa V2 made a solid impression. The fabric is sturdy and soft, not plastic like it sometimes is. We chose the Stella color, a light gray that goes with anything. The frame is sturdy and the overall design is sleek and modern. It looks like a well-designed product for a child, not just a car seat. The packaging is minimal. I hate dealing with a lot of cardboard and plastic. I wanted to see if this car seat lived up to its features and appearance.
Features
This car seat is packed with many features for everyday life. The threadless seat belts are just a dream. Instead of agonizing over adjusting the straps, just slide the headrest up or down and the straps move with it. This saves time, especially for fast growing children. The larger sun visor is another big plus. It’s 20% larger than the original Mesa model, which means more coverage and less sun in your baby’s eyes.
- The seat belts are easily adjustable with a sliding system.
- Oversized sun visor: Provides shade and protection.
- European belt path: Provides secure installation without a base.
- Newborn insert: is removable and designed for newborns weighing 4 to 11 lbs.
The European harness track is something I didn’t even realize I had. It can be installed without a base, making it perfect for cabs and grandma’s car. The newborn insert feels comfortable and secure, and the fabric can be removed and washed. The seat itself is lightweight, making it easy to move around and transport children in the car. The fourth roll-back handle acts as an anti-tip bar, increasing safety during transportation.
Real Situations
I have used the Mesa V2 in a variety of situations and all of them were easily handled. Basic installation is simple. The latching system and red-green indicator light give me confidence that the unit is installed correctly. I remember once having to make an emergency vehicle change for a family vacation. That’s when the base-less installation came in handy. It was easy to install with the seat belts and I was relieved to know that my little ones were safe. It also helps with Uber or cab rides. No need to carry the base with you. There are no screws to adjust the harness, which makes life so much easier. Now it’s much easier to go shopping with your baby or take long trips. And you won’t have to worry about carrying the UPPAbaby Vista from car to stroller, as it easily attaches to the stroller.
Flaws and Limitations
No product is perfect. The seat itself is lightweight, but the base is bulky. Storage when not in use presents some challenge. Also, the visor could have been extended a little more. You may need a sunshade when in direct sunlight. This is also not the cheapest car seat. The price range may be a little high for some families. Also worth noting is the lack of legs that the Mesa Max has. This is not a deciding factor, but it is worth recognizing that they are not available. It should be noted that a base is required for the safest installation in a personal vehicle, and units without a base are intended for short-term temporary use.
Comparison
We looked at several other car seats before settling on the Mesa V2. The Nuna Pipa Lite is popular, but it is more expensive and does not have a European seatbelt pass. The Chicco KeyFit 30 is a budget-friendly option, but it lacks the premium features and ease of use of the Mesa V2. The reason the Mesa V2 is my top choice is the balance of safety, convenience, and style. The threadless harness, larger sun visor, and European harness path are all features not found in other car seats. The fact that the Mesa V2 is compatible with UPPAbaby strollers is also a big plus, allowing for a convenient travel system. It’s not just a car seat, it’s part of a well-designed system.
Final Thoughts
The UPPAbaby Mesa V2 is a great fit for our family. It’s easy to use, safe, and looks good. The beltless harness and European belt path make it a great choice for parents who value convenience and safety. It’s not the cheapest option, but the features and overall quality justify the price. The Mesa V2 is worth looking at if you’re looking for a car seat that will make your life a little easier. This is a great car seat for families who are constantly on the go. We would highly recommend it to other parents. It is a worthwhile purchase that will give you peace of mind on the road.
