When in Doubt, Default to Shorter.

Choosing the right length Extender is an essential component to buckling up safely. The number one principle of choosing the right length is that you should always choose the shortest possible Extender that is going to resolve your problem and suit your needs. When in doubt, default to shorter.

The reason that you want the shortest possible Extender is because Car Seat Belt Extenders are a fixed length, and when an Extender is buckled in your seat belt will retract, using the full length of the Extender.

Our Extenders are measured by the amount of additional length you get when the Extender is buckled in. That is to say, a 7” Extender will give you a full 7” of extra seat belt length once it is clicked into your car’s seat belt.

Here is a short guide to selecting the right Extender length based on your need:

Police Officers - As a police officer, if your challenge is your utility belt, measure from the top of the receptacle to just below the upper height of your utility belt when you’re sitting in your seat. That distance is likely 7-8”, but even if it’s a little more, we recommend not choosing longer than the 8” Rigid Extender (barring a few exceptions).

Plus Sized People - Larger people tend to have the widest variety of options regarding the Extender they can get. The right length is simply how much length you need. If you can buckle your seat belt but it’s just tight because of your size, consider the shortest lengths of the Rigid (3” or 5”) or the shortest length of the Regular (7”). Don’t select a longer Extender if you can buckle up.

The Mobility Impaired/Disabled - If the seat belt fits across your body normally and buckles in but you have mobility impairments due to injuries, surgeries or other challenges, then you want to pick the shortest possible length that will alleviate your burden. Typically, the 5”, 7” or 8” Rigid Extender is the best length. If you want to be more precise, sit in the seat and try buckling up. Measure the distance between the two ends of the seat belt when the task of buckling up becomes either too burdensome or impossible to complete. That is the length Extender that you should consider.

The Elderly - Unless they can’t currently buckle up, the elderly should consider the shortest length Extender available that will make buckling up easier. In most cases, this is the 3”, 5” or 7” Extender (depending on Style preference). If your buckling challenge is related to arthritis, joint pains or other general discomforts, try buckling up and at the point the discomfort sets in, stop and measure the distance between the two ends of the seat belt. Purchase that length Extender.

Don’t see information that helps you select the perfect length for your needs? Contact us and we’ll be happy to guide you!