Products > Car Seats > Group 0+ (0-13kgs) > Jane Matrix Pro
Group 0+ (0-13kgs)
Jane Matrix Pro RSS
The arguments continue between the two camps; one which is all for a lay flat car seat and one against. Well whichever camp you are in there is no question that The Matrix has caused some uproar.
Expert review
This is a car seat which can lay flat and has three more upright positions for both in the car and on any of the Jane chassis that have the ‘Pro-Fix’ system because the Matrix Pro is part of that fitting system Jane. This is the system that connects products in the range to each other. Taking over from the ‘Easy-Fix’ system, ‘Pro-Fix’ requires no extra fitting kit as the fittings are all built into the products. The system works well and has been designed to be used with only one hand.
Jane is one of a few companies that have their own Crash Test equipment signifying a very serious and responsible approach to the car seat industry. There are conflicting opinions on the use of carrycots in cars and we lean towards saying that a conventional car seat is the best way to transport a baby in the car as it is still highly questionable whether a lie-flat car seat will perform as well as an upright seat on impact.
Even if you are not ‘sold’ on the idea of having the seat laying flat in the car, you could always use it in the upright position and have the flexibility of using it as part of a travel system in the flat position – possibly the best of both worlds?
The recline mechanism which has previously been difficult has been redesigned and is now an easy adjustment from the top of the backrest. The whole seat is well padded and now has improved side impact protection. For extra comfort there are chest pads and a pillow at the baby’s head all included.
Fitting is quite easy in the upright position but a little fiddly in the lay-flay position. In this position the seat will use up more of your seat belt, so make sure that your belt is long enough in any car that you may wish to use this in. As with all car seats, always confirm correct fitting and compatibility with a trained Nursery retailer or Road Safety Officer.
THE LOWDOWN
How do you know if it fits? As with all car seats, always confirm correct fitting and compatibility with a trained Nursery retailer or Road Safety Officer.
What Group and what does this mean? This is a Group 0+ seat which will take your baby from birth to 13kg/28lbs
Key considerations – Make sure your seat belt is long enough to accommodate the seat in the upright position
Ease of fitting – Easier in the upright position
Any defining features – A lie-flat car seat that forms part of a travel system
Budget - £180
Optional Accessories – Rain cover and Insect Net
Fact File
Top> Title: Matrix Pro
> Brand: Jane
> RRP: £180
> Weight group: 0-13 kg
> Category: Group 0+
> Isofix compatible: No
> Combination: No
> Integral harness: Yes
> Seatbelt secured: Yes
> Base option: No
> Travel: Yes
> Age group: From Birth

The Jane range was recommended by a baby product shop - I purchased the matrix pro recliner on the basis that it was ideal for long journeys since we are shortly due to immigrate to canada. In fact my baby was born pre-mature and lying in the flat position was excellent - in the sense of not crouching him in a sit-up position re: lungs, neck and head. The only downside that you can not pull the car seat in and out like other carriers. If you wish to buy this product it must be permanently installed. Also, when lying in a flat position it all takes up the whole rear seat - no room for back passengers - there is but no spare seat belt (or like me if you have a smaller car - A3). On the whole it is a car seat that suits our child, it is surely strong and the little one is happy lying in flat position on long rides - you also have the benefit of setting it upright.