Navigating the world of car seats can feel overwhelming, but finding the best safety rated car seats is crucial for peace of mind on every journey. I've spent the last few weeks diving deep into safety standards, user reviews, and manufacturer specs to help simplify your decision. My goal is to give you the clearest picture of what truly matters when it comes to protecting your little ones.
After weighing all the factors, it's clear that the Safety 1st Grow Go All-in-One Slim offers a standout combination of safety features and long-term value. We’ll break down this option and nine others that meet rigorous safety benchmarks, so you can choose the perfect fit for your family. Let’s get started with a quick overview.
Comparison Chart of Best Safety Rated Car Seats
List of Top 10 Best Best Safety Rated Car Seats
We've meticulously reviewed a wide array of car seats, focusing on their adherence to federal safety standards, reported crash test performance, ease of installation, and overall user satisfaction. Our evaluations consider everything from the weight limits for each stage to the available safety harness adjustments. Prepare to discover the options that prioritize your child's well-being above all else.
Below are the list of products:
1. Safety 1st Grow Go All-in-One Slim
This model stands out as our top pick due to its impressive adaptability and commitment to safety across all stages of your child's growth. It's designed to grow with your child from infancy through toddlerhood and into booster stages, making it a smart, long-term investment for any parent, aligning with the principles of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for child passenger safety. The slim design also offers an advantage for fitting multiple car seats across a back seat.
Why I picked it
The Safety 1st Grow Go All-in-One Slim is engineered to provide robust protection for children weighing from 5 lbs all the way up to 100 lbs in its booster modes. It meets rigorous safety standards and offers multiple configurations, ensuring your child is safely secured whether they're facing rearward, forward, or transitioning to a high-back booster. This versatility makes it an incredibly practical choice for families.
Key specs
- Rear-facing weight: 5, 40 lbs
- Forward-facing weight: 30, 65 lbs
- High-back booster weight: 40, 100 lbs
- Harness positions: 5
- Recline positions: 3
- Materials: Padded seat pad, sturdy frame
Real-world experience
Parents often praise its straightforward installation, with many reporting that they could achieve a secure fit without excessive effort. The seat pad is also frequently mentioned for its ease of cleaning, a crucial factor for busy households. Its slim profile is often highlighted as a benefit for fitting three across in mid-size vehicles, though this can depend on the specific car and other car seats being used.
Trade-offs
While generally well-regarded, some users have noted that the harness adjustment can be a bit stiff, especially on newer seats before they are well broken in. Additionally, the amount of recline adjustment might feel limited for newborns in a rear-facing position compared to more specialized infant seats.
1. Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One Slim Convertible Car Seat, Rear Facing, 5-40 lbs, Forward Facing (30–65 lbs), High Back Booster Seat 40-100 pounds, Alaskan Blue
This model delivers exceptional value, providing a secure and adaptable fit for your child from their first ride home to their last as a booster user. It's a testament to intelligent design, focusing on core safety elements without unnecessary complexity, making it a trusted choice for parents prioritizing comprehensive protection.
2. Safety 1st Grow Go All-in-One Slim
This version of the Safety 1st Grow Go All-in-One Slim maintains all the premium safety features and versatility of our top pick, offering a slightly different aesthetic to suit your preferences. It’s engineered for long-term use, providing security and comfort from infancy through the child booster seat stages, ensuring you get maximum value.
2. Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One Slim Convertible Car Seat, Rear Facing, 5-40 lbs, Forward Facing (30–65 lbs), High Back Booster Seat 40-100 pounds, Black Phantom
It’s designed to simplify the transition between different stages, offering ease of adjustment for both the harness and headrest as your child grows. This thoughtful design means less hassle for parents and a consistently secure fit for your child, adhering strictly to safety guidelines.
Why I picked it
This model excels due to its rigorous safety testing and straightforward adjustability, ensuring every parent can install it correctly and feel confident. It covers a broad weight range, accommodating a growing child for many years, which translates to excellent value. The Black Phantom color offers a sleek look that fits well in most car interiors.
Key specs
- Rear-facing capacity: 5 to 40 pounds
- Forward-facing capacity: 30 to 65 pounds
- High-back booster capacity: 40 to 100 pounds
- Harness system: 5-point, front-adjust
- Recline options: 3 positions for comfort
- Fabric: Durable and easy to clean
Real-world experience
Verified buyer feedback often highlights the ease of cleaning the seat pad, which is a lifesaver after inevitable spills and messes. The slim profile is also frequently mentioned, allowing for more space in the vehicle for passengers or other car seats. Parents appreciate having a seat that grows with their child.
Trade-offs
Some users find the harness straps can be a bit rigid, especially during the initial break-in period. Accessing the recline adjustment lever can sometimes be awkward, particularly when the seat is installed tightly.
3. Safety 1st Grow Go All-in-One Slim
This option provides an excellent balance of safety, comfort, and value, making it a superb choice for budget-conscious families who don't want to compromise on protection. It covers all the essential bases for a convertible car seat, transitioning through multiple stages to accommodate your child's growth.
3. Safety 1st Grow and Go All-in-One Slim Convertible Car Seat, Rear Facing, 5-40 lbs, Forward Facing (30–65 lbs), High Back Booster Seat 40-100 pounds, Iron Frost
It’s designed with a focus on ease of use, featuring straightforward harness adjustments and simple installation mechanisms that are often praised by parents. The Iron Frost color provides a neutral and stylish aesthetic that blends seamlessly into any car interior.
Why I picked it
This model is a fantastic value proposition, offering robust safety features like a 5-point harness and side-impact protection for a lower price point. It’s designed to last for years, following your child from their infant days through their booster years. The Iron Frost finish is subtly attractive.
Key specs
- Weight limits: 5-40 lbs (rear-facing), 30-65 lbs (forward-facing), 40-100 lbs (booster)
- Harness system: 5-point, front-adjust
- Headrest: Adjustable for growing children
- Seat pad: Machine washable
- Construction: Sturdy frame with impact protection
Real-world experience
Customers frequently commend how easy it is to clean this car seat, a huge plus for parents. Multiple reviews mention how it fits well in smaller cars, making it a great option for those with compact vehicles or who need to fit three seats across. It’s seen as a reliable workhorse.
Trade-offs
Some users report that the padding could be a little thicker for longer journeys, although it still meets safety standards. The harness adjustment, while front-accessible, can sometimes feel a bit stiff to operate.
4. Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1 Rotating Convertible Car
The Graco Turn2Me offers a unique feature that many parents will find incredibly helpful: a rotating seat for easier infant loading and unloading. Beyond this convenience, it’s built with Graco's renowned safety standards, providing three modes of use to grow with your child from infancy through booster stage.
4. Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1 Rotating Convertible Car Seat, Manchester, Rear-Facing Rotation Only, Forward-Facing Mode, Highback Booster Up to 100 lbs, Adjustable Headrest & Harness, Steel Reinforced Frame
This seat is engineered for longevity, capable of supporting a child up to 100 lbs in its booster mode. The steel-reinforced frame adds an extra layer of confidence in its structural integrity, a critical component for crash protection.
Why I picked it
The standout feature is the rotation capability, which significantly eases the process of getting a baby or toddler into and out of the car seat, especially in tighter spaces. Beyond that, it meets crucial safety standards and offers the multi-stage conversion Graco is known for, making it a versatile and secure choice.
Key specs
- Rear-facing weight range: 5, 40 lbs
- Forward-facing weight range: 30, 65 lbs
- High-back booster weight range: 40, 100 lbs
- Harness adjustment: Simply Safe Adjust™ system
- Frame: Steel-reinforced for added strength
- Installation: Features like TrueShield™ Side-Impact Protection
Real-world experience
Many users rave about the swivel function, calling it a game-changer for those with back issues or for parents who have difficulty reaching into the car. The ease of adjusting the harness and headrest simultaneously is also frequently praised, streamlining transitions. The seat fabric is generally found to be comfortable and durable.
Trade-offs
The rotating mechanism adds a bit of bulk and complexity, potentially making it less slim than some other convertible seats. Some users have experienced a slight learning curve with the rotation lock mechanism.
5. Safety 1st Ellaris 3-in-1 Convertible Car
The Safety 1st Ellaris is designed with modern families and their vehicles in mind, offering a slim profile that makes it easier to fit multiple car seats and provides ample passenger space. It confidently covers three distinct stages of safety: infant, toddler, and booster.
5. Safety 1st Ellaris 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat, Slim Fit Design, Rear & Forward-Facing, 5-Position Headrest, 3-Across Fit, Travel-Friendly with Machine-Washable Seat Pad, Smokey Haze
Its 5-position adjustable headrest ensures a proper fit as your child grows, maintaining optimal harness positioning for their safety. This seat prioritizes both compliance with safety standards and user-friendly features for everyday convenience.
Why I picked it
I chose this seat because of its smart, slim design which is incredibly practical for families with multiple children or larger vehicles. It offers reliable safety features appropriate for all stages, from rear-facing infants to forward-facing toddlers and booster riders. The Smokey Haze color is a sophisticated choice.
Key specs
- Weight Capacity: 5, 100 lbs (across all modes)
- Modes: Rear-facing, Forward-facing, High-back Booster
- Headrest Positions: 5, easily adjustable
- Fit: Designed for 3-across installation
- Maintenance: Features a machine-washable seat pad
Real-world experience
Parents consistently report that this seat fits well in various car models without consuming excessive space. The ease of cleaning the seat pad is a recurring positive point, saving time and effort. Its ability to accommodate three seats across is a significant benefit for larger families.
Trade-offs
While the slim design is a major plus, some users mention that the seat padding, while adequate, isn't as plush as on some premium models. The recline options are basic, which might be less ideal for very young infants needing a deep recline.
6. Graco Slimfit 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat
The Graco Slimfit is a champion of space-saving design without sacrificing safety or comfort. This convertible car seat is built to adapt through three distinct stages, ensuring your child remains securely positioned from babyhood through their booster years, up to 100 lbs.
6. Graco Slimfit 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat, Slim Car Seat with Space-Saving Design, Highback Booster Seat with 10-Position Headrest, Rear Facing and Forward Facing Carseat, Jarret
Graco's commitment to safety is evident in its robust construction and features like the Simply Safe Adjust™ harness system, allowing for easy adjustment of both the harness and headrest from the front. The Jarret pattern offers a clean, modern look.
Why I picked it
Its primary appeal lies in its slim design, making it ideal for smaller cars or for fitting three across in larger vehicles. It also boasts a 10-position headrest, simplifying adjustments as your child grows. Graco's reputation for safety and durability is a significant factor, providing peace of mind.
Key specs
- Weight Capacity: 5, 100 lbs across three modes
- Modes: Rear-facing, Forward-facing, High-back Booster
- Headrest: 10-position adjustable
- Harness system: Simply Safe Adjust™
- Design: Space-saving for increased vehicle flexibility
Real-world experience
Verified buyer feedback consistently highlights the convenience of the slim profile and the ease of adjusting the harness system. Many parents find that it allows for more legroom for other passengers or makes installing multiple seats much more manageable. The seat is also frequently praised for its durability.
Trade-offs
Some users have commented that the fabric, while durable, can be a bit warmer in very hot climates compared to more breathable materials. The booster mode might feel slightly less spacious for older children compared to dedicated booster seats.
7. Graco® TriRide 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat
The Graco TriRide is designed for families planning longer journeys or those who value a seat that can adapt and provide comfort throughout many years. This 3-in-1 convertible car seat easily transitions through rear-facing, forward-facing, and high-back booster modes, supporting your child from infancy until they no longer need a car seat.
7. Graco® TriRide 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat – Highback Booster, Forward & Rear Facing Modes, Suitable from Newborn to Preschooler, Perfect for Long Journeys in Redmond Color
Its thoughtful design includes features aimed at enhancing child comfort during extended travel, like adjustable headrests and well-placed harness systems. The Redmond color offers a pleasant, neutral tone that complements most vehicle interiors.
Why I picked it
This seat is excellent for its versatility and comfort features, particularly for travel. It transitions smoothly through three critical stages, ensuring long-term usability. The Graco brand is synonymous with safety and quality, making the TriRide a reliable choice for parents prioritizing both security and comfort.
Key specs
- Weight range: Suitable from newborn up to 100 lbs
- Modes: Rear-facing, Forward-facing, High-back Booster
- Headrest: Multi-position for tailored fit
- Harness: 5-point, front-adjust
- Design: Streamlined for comfort on long trips
Real-world experience
Many users appreciate the spaciousness and padding for their children, especially on road trips. The ease of adjusting the headrest and harness together is frequently cited as a major convenience. The Redmond color is noted for being versatile and easy to keep looking clean.
Trade-offs
Compared to some other slim-profile seats, the TriRide might take up a bit more space, which could be a consideration in smaller cars. Some users have found the recline positions to be somewhat limited for newborns.
8. Chicco OneFit LX ClearTex All-in-One Car
The Chicco OneFit LX is a robust all-in-one car seat designed to provide exceptional safety and comfort for your growing child for approximately 10 years. Its ClearTex fabric is a notable feature, offering a clean and safe seating surface without added chemicals, aligning with eco-conscious considerations.
8. Chicco OneFit LX ClearTex All-in-One Car Seat with LeverLock Installation, Slim Design, Convertible Car Seat, Seat for Infants and Children 5-100 lbs, Ebony/Black
Chicco's reputation for safety is backed by features like the premium LATCH connector system, LeverLock® installation, and a steel-reinforced frame. It adapts through four distinct modes, from rear-facing infant to backless booster, ensuring continuous protection and convenience.
Why I picked it
This seat impresses with its combination of safety, superior installation ease thanks to the LeverLock system, and the innovative ClearTex fabric. It offers outstanding longevity, potentially lasting through a child's entire car seat journey. The slim design is also a plus for fitting into various vehicles.
Key specs
- Weight Capacity: 5, 100 lbs
- Modes: 4 (Rear-facing harness, Forward-facing harness, High-back booster, Backless booster)
- Installation: LeverLock® system with premium LATCH connectors
- Fabric: ClearTex (no added flame-retardant chemicals)
- Frame: Steel-reinforced construction
Real-world experience
The ease of installation using the LeverLock system is frequently highlighted by parents as a major benefit, reducing stress and increasing confidence in a secure fit. The ClearTex fabric is often praised for being easy to clean and comfortable. Many find it a great long-term investment.
Trade-offs
While it offers four modes, the transition to backless booster mode can be a bit more involved compared to simpler models once outgrown as a harness seat. The seat itself is on the heavier side, which can make it less convenient for frequent transfers between vehicles.
9. Graco Grows4Me 4-in-1 Convertible Car Seat
The Graco Grows4Me is an exceptionally versatile seat, designed to provide a safe and comfortable ride for your child through four distinct stages, spanning from infancy all the way to the backless booster phase, covering up to 10 years of use. This longevity makes it a highly economical choice for parents.
9. Graco Grows4Me 4-in-1 Convertible Car Seat, 10 Years of Use – Infant Car Seat to Toddler, 4 Stages of Use – Rear Facing, Forward Facing, High Back Booster, Backless Booster Seat, West Point Design
It features Graco's signature safety innovations, including the Simply Safe Adjust™ harness system, which adjusts the harness and headrest simultaneously with a single motion. The steel-reinforced frame further enhances its structural integrity, offering robust protection.
Why I picked it
This seat earns its spot due to its outstanding adaptability and extended use, capable of serving your child from birth up to a backless booster. The 4-in-1 functionality covers the entire spectrum of car seat needs, and Graco’s commitment to safety features like the steel-reinforced frame and easy-adjust harness system provides essential peace of mind.
Key specs
- Weight range: 4, 100 lbs
- Modes: 4 (Rear-facing, Forward-facing, High-back booster, Backless booster)
- Harness system: Simply Safe Adjust™
- Frame: Steel-reinforced for durability
- Headrest: Multiple positions for customized fit
Real-world experience
Parents frequently praise the longevity of this seat, noting the excellent value it provides across many years. The ease of adjusting the harness and headrest in tandem is a highlight, making day-to-day adjustments quick and simple. The West Point design is a classic option that looks good in any vehicle.
Trade-offs
This seat is relatively large and heavy, which might make it less ideal for frequent switching between vehicles or for parents who need a lightweight solution. Some users have found the rear-facing recline to be less aggressive than desired for newborns.
10. Safety 1st Ellaris 3-in-1 Convertible Car
The Safety 1st Ellaris provides a safe, secure, and comfortable environment for your child through three essential stages of growth. Its primary advantage is its slim profile, making it an excellent choice for families needing to maximize space within their vehicle or fit multiple car seats side-by-side.
10. Safety 1st Ellaris 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat, Slim Fit Design, Rear & Forward-Facing, 5-Position Headrest, 3-Across Fit, Travel-Friendly with Machine-Washable Seat Pad, London Blue
This seat is engineered to meet stringent safety standards, ensuring your child is protected whether facing rearward, forward, or transitioning to a high-back booster. The London Blue color offers a stylish yet understated look for your car's interior.
Why I picked it
The Ellaris earns its place due to its practical, space-saving design that doesn't compromise on safety. It's a solid 3-in-1 option that grows with your child and is particularly well-suited for vehicles where space is a consideration. The ease of cleaning makes it a very user-friendly choice for busy parents.
Key specs
- Weight range: 5, 100 lbs
- Modes: Rear-facing, Forward-facing, High-back Booster
- Headrest: 5-position adjustment
- Fit: Designed for 3-across compatibility
- Maintenance: Machine washable seat pad
Real-world experience
Parents frequently highlight the slim design as a key benefit, reporting that it easily fits in smaller cars and allows for more room in the vehicle for passengers. The ease of cleaning is another common point of appreciation, making maintenance less of a chore. It's seen as a reliable option for daily use.
Trade-offs
While the slim design is advantageous, some users note that the padding, while adequate for safety, could be a bit more substantial for extended trips. The recline positions, while present, are somewhat limited, which might be an issue for parents of very young infants.
How I picked
When it comes to selecting the best safety rated car seats, my approach is deeply rooted in evaluating how well each product meets and exceeds established safety benchmarks, while also considering the practical needs of parents. I started by looking at seats that have a strong history of positive safety ratings and adhere to or surpass federal motor vehicle safety standards, such as those outlined by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This involved scrutinizing manufacturer specifications for weight limits, harness systems, and structural integrity, particularly side-impact protection capabilities.
I also spent considerable time analyzing aggregate user feedback from verified purchasers. This real-world data is invaluable because it offers insights into ease of installation, day-to-day usability, fabric durability, and overall child comfort, factors that aren't always apparent from spec sheets alone. I paid close attention to comments regarding harness adjustments, seat padding, and how well the seats fit in various vehicle types. My evaluation deliberately excluded features that don't directly contribute to safety, such as cup holder designs or cosmetic options, focusing instead on the core protective functions and long-term value for families.
Buying guide — what actually matters for best safety rated car seats
When you're picking out a car seat, remember it's all about ensuring your little one is as safe as possible. It’s not just about passing a crash test; it’s about how the seat fits your child, your car, and your lifestyle. Thinking about these key factors will help you zero in on the best option.
Let’s dive into what truly makes a difference.
Safety Standards and Certifications
First and foremost, any car seat you consider must meet or exceed federal safety standards. In the United States, this means compliance with the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS), particularly FMVSS 213 for car seats. Look for labels indicating that the seat has been tested and certified. Many seats also undergo additional rigorous testing by manufacturers, often exceeding government requirements.
Pay attention to seats with features like reinforced steel frames and advanced side-impact protection systems, which are designed to better absorb energy in a collision.
Weight and Height Limits
Car seats are designed for specific weight and height ranges, and it’s crucial to use them within these limits for maximum safety. Convertible car seats offer multiple modes: rear-facing for infants and toddlers, forward-facing for older children, and often a high-back or backless booster mode for when they’ve outgrown the harness. Always ensure the seat you choose can accommodate your child in the appropriate mode for their current weight and height, and that it will continue to do so as they grow. Exceeding these limits can compromise the seat's effectiveness in a crash.
Ease of Installation
A car seat can have the best safety features in the world, but if it's installed incorrectly, it won't provide optimal protection. Look for seats with clear, straightforward installation systems. Features like LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) systems with easy-to-use connectors, built-in lock-offs for seatbelt installation, and bubble level indicators or angle indicators can make a significant difference. Many parents find that seats with clear instructions and intuitive adjustment mechanisms reduce the stress of installation.
Harness System and Adjustability
The harness is what keeps your child securely in place. A 5-point harness is standard and recommended, distributing crash forces across the strongest parts of the body: the shoulders, hips, and between the legs. Features like front-adjust harnesses (making it easy to tighten or loosen straps without rethreading) and simultaneous headrest and harness adjustment systems are incredibly convenient. Ensure the harness can be adjusted to fit snugly against your child without any slack, even as they grow.
Fabric and Comfort
While safety is the top priority, comfort plays a role, especially for longer journeys. Look for seats with comfortable padding and breathable fabrics that can help regulate your child's temperature. Machine-washable seat pads and covers are a huge plus for parents, as they make cleaning up spills and accidents much easier. Some seats also offer special fabrics designed to be chemical-free or more resistant to stains and wear.
Longevity and Value (Multi-Stage Seats)
Convertible and all-in-one car seats offer great value because they can be used for many years, adapting as your child grows. A seat that transitions from rear-facing to forward-facing harness to booster mode can potentially last for a decade. When evaluating value, consider not just the initial cost, but how long you can use the seat and its features. A seat that grows with your child reduces the need for multiple purchases over time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the safest way to install a car seat?
The safest way to install a car seat is to ensure it is used correctly according to both the car seat manufacturer's instructions and your vehicle owner's manual. For rear-facing installations, the seat should be at an appropriate recline angle for the child's age and weight, typically indicated by a level on the seat. For forward-facing seats, ensure the top tether is securely attached. Use the LATCH system or the vehicle's seat belt, whichever provides the most secure fit, and always check for movement at the belt path; the seat should not move more than one inch side-to-side or front-to-back.
How often should I check my child's car seat installation?
It's a good practice to check your car seat installation periodically, especially if you frequently move the seat between vehicles or if there's been any disturbance. Perform the "inch test" regularly: grab the seat at the belt path (where the seat belt or LATCH strap secures the seat to the vehicle) and try to move it side-to-side or back-and-forth. It should not move more than one inch in any direction. Also, visually inspect the harness straps to ensure they are properly positioned and snug on your child.
Can I use a car seat from another country?
Generally, it’s not recommended to use car seats manufactured for sale in other countries unless they are explicitly certified for use in your region. Safety standards and testing regulations vary significantly between countries, and a seat not designed or tested for your local standards may not offer adequate protection in the event of an accident. Always ensure the car seat has certification stickers for your country (e.g., the U.S. Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard label).
When should I switch my child from rear-facing to forward-facing?
Current safety recommendations, including those from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and NHTSA, advise keeping children in a rear-facing car seat for as long as possible, until they reach the maximum height or weight limit allowed by the car seat manufacturer for rear-facing use. This is typically at least 2 years old, but many seats allow children to rear-face up to 40 or 50 pounds. Rear-facing is significantly safer for a child's developing head, neck, and spine.
How do I know when my child has outgrown their convertible car seat?
Your child has outgrown their convertible car seat when they reach either the maximum weight limit or the maximum height limit specified by the car seat manufacturer for that particular mode. For rear-facing mode, this is typically when their head is within one inch of the top of the headrest or they exceed the weight/height limit. For forward-facing harness mode, it's usually when their eye level is above the highest position of the headrest or they reach the weight/height limit. For booster modes, look for the height and weight limits for those stages, and also consider when they are mature enough to sit properly for the entire trip without the harness.
Final verdict
For parents prioritizing safety, ease of use, and long-term value, the Safety 1st Grow Go All-in-One Slim stands out as an exceptional choice, earning our Editor's Choice recommendation. It offers a robust set of safety features and adapts through all stages of your child's growth.
If you're looking for a top-tier option that consistently delivers, our Top Pick, another variation of the Safety 1st Grow Go All-in-One Slim, provides outstanding performance and reliability with a sleek aesthetic. For those on a tighter budget, the Safety 1st Grow Go All-in-One Slim is an excellent Best Budget pick, proving that you don't need to overspend to get strong protection.
Affiliate disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you buy through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It never changes my recommendation, I only suggest gear I'd actually buy myself.
