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Single Strollers

12 May 2008

Baby Jogger City Classic Single Stroller 2008 - Review

Baby Jogger City Classic Single Stroller:  Known for its patented Quick-Fold technology, the Baby Jogger City Series attempts to incorporate active urban walking with easy car storage and mobility.  In theory, the Quick-Fold system is a great feature: easily lift the folding strap to allow the stroller to collapse on itself and place in the car with one hand (as seen in this video).  There are some logistical problems with this folding system: when the stroller is folded, the seat is completely exposed.  If it is raining outside and you are placing the stroller in the car, it will get wet.  If you place the stroller in a not-so-clean trunk or storage space, the seat will be directly exposed.  It is also not as easy to lift a 21 pound stroller with a small strap.  The weight of the entire stroller is transferred to the small carrying handle - transferring the weight directly to your hand and possibly crunching your four fingers - very uncomfortable.  As we usually recommend, always try and pick up a stroller using the frame structure if you can.  The weight is distributed more evenly and the stroller will feel lighter and more balanced - you will not be fighting the stroller to get it in your car.  Something else to think about - are you really going to be constantly folding the stroller and placing it in your car, or are you going to have a second, lighter durable stroller (see Maclaren Volo, Quest, and Triumph for durable, light travel and car strollers) to use in and out of your car for quick trips and travel?  Either way, a stroller's fold is important - surely - but a stroller's frame composition, durability, and strolling function is more important.

Bl Ns  Rs

INNOVATIONS

The Baby Jogger City Classic Single Stroller is lighter and more durable than most of its competitors.  It does offer adjustable hood coverage, recline suitable for a newborn, pneumatic (air-filled) tires to absorb the shock and friction of rough terrain, and a quick folding system (though is not as logical as it seems - see above).  The innovations included are not as functional as they appear - the recline system is controlled by a string and plastic buckle, similar to the tightening system in a winter jacket's hood.  Anytime this pieces breaks or the buckle's tension system fails, it can be replaced but may cause much frustration.  There is also a significant amount of plastic on the stroller's frame (which reduces the stroller's overall weight) that may cause problems in the long run.  Anytime plastic fractures or breaks due to handling, heat and cold or storage and travel, the stroller is unusable.  A stroller's composition on a basic level should always be noted when thinking about any stroller.  The Baby Jogger City Classic Single Stroller has much more exposed plastic than most of its direct competitors (BOB Revolution, Mountain Buggy Urban Single, Phil & Ted's SPort).  The Baby Jogger is also missing a very important feature: a functional suspension system.  The only suspension absorption built into the stroller is through the pneumatic tires.  A better suspension system would make the stroller easier to push (as a suspension system absorbs the tension of a turn), and make it a smoother ride for your child.   The Baby Jogger City Classic Single stroller does have one great feature: a venting system built into the hood and the seat, cooling your child in the heat while proper shade is utilized. 

FEATURES

  • Patented Quick-Fold technology making the fold easier (see above).
  • Large, adjustable hood with ventilation system and peek hole.
  • Swivel front wheel that can be locked easily for light jogging (Note: this stroller is not a technical jogger.  It is suitable for very slow jogging/fast walking) or maneuvering over rough terrain.
  • Quick-release rear wheels can be detached for storage or travel.
  • Padded, ventilated seat reclines enough for newborn.
  • Tilting, adjustable handle.
  • Included storage areas on seat back and under seat.
  • Rear parking brake.
  • Reflective accents on stroller's fabric.

COMPATIBILITY:  The Baby Jogger City Classic is adaptable with the following infant carriers with additional Infant Car Seat Adapter (sold separately):

  • Graco Snugride
  • Graco Safe Seat (Step 1)
  • Most Evenflo car seats
  • Peg Perego Primo Viaggio SIP
  • Britax Companion
  • Maxi Cosi Mico

ADDITIONAL ACCESSORIES:  Baby Jogger brand specific and sold separately:

  • Bug Canopy
  • Rain/Wind Canopy
  • Food Muff
  • Child Tray
  • Bassinet
  • Belly Bar
  • Belly Bar Console
  • Liquid Holster
  • Soft Pram
  • Tire Pump
  • Infant Car Seat Adapter

SPECIFICATIONS

  • Weight:  21 lbs
  • Capacity:  75 lbs (Please note: most stroller companies include both child and storage weight restrictions when calculating total weight capacity)

DIMENSIONS

  • Open:  47.5" L x 24.75" W x 32" - 48" H
  • Folded:  32"L x 24.75" W x 17" H

THE PRICE:  $399.99

AVAILABLE COLORS

  • Black / Silver
  • Navy / Silver
  • Red / Silver

ALSO CONSIDER

Something we missed?  Want a side-by-side comparison?  Email us!  strollerinfo@gmail.com

18 April 2008

Baby Jogger City Mini Single 2008

The Baby Jogger City Mini Single: becoming more popular in cities and suburbs as an easy to fold stroller for quick shopping trips and travel.   Like all of the Baby Jogger strollers, the City Mini uses a one-handed folding system making it easier to fold and stow while holding a child.

There are some logistical problems with this folding system: when the stroller is folded, the seat is completely exposed.  If it is raining outside and you are placing the stroller in the car, it will get wet.  If you place the stroller in a not-so-clean trunk or storage space, the seat will be directly exposed.  It is also not as easy to lift a 16.8 pound stroller with a small strap.  The weight of the entire stroller is transferred to the small carrying handle - transferring the weight directly to your hand and possibly crunching your four fingers - very uncomfortable.  As we usually recommend, always try and pick up a stroller using the frame structure if you can.  The weight is distributed more evenly and the stroller will feel lighter and more balanced - you will not be fighting the stroller to get it in your car.

The wheels are also large in size: 8" plastic wheels instead of 5"-7" wheels found on most umbrella-like strollers.

Cityminiorange CityminiblackCityminiblack_4

Though the City Mini is becoming more popular, the stroller still weighs a heavy 16.8 lbs, far more than the Maclaren Volo (8.6 lbs.), Maclaren Triumph (11 lbs.) and Maclaren Quest (12.2 lbs.).  The weight capacity in the seat is only 33 lbs, far less than all of its competitors (typically between 40-70 lbs.).  The wheels are larger, so the ride tends to be a little more smooth (as more of the wheel is touching the ground enabling a smoother glide over bumps and cracks), but they add weight and are still a spoked plastic that can crack in extreme conditions.  The stroller also folds in half for storage, unlike traditional umbrella strollers, so tends to take up a little more room in your car. 

The City Mini does have a great recline for younger children, offering the opportunity to use the stroller when your child is newly born, which is a great plus.  The canopy also has great coverage, which has been a main complaint of the Maclaren models.  This stroller is adaptable for infant car seats, which is very convenient (adapter sold separately).  Baby Jogger strollers tends to last longer than the cheaper equivalents in terms of frame durability, but they use far more plastics than Maclaren and less aluminum: giving the stroller extra weight and less durability.

This stroller seems to exist somewhere between lightweight umbrella stroller (something only used for quick trips and travel), and deluxe umbrella stroller (used as a primary stroller for suburban parents that need something reliable and convenient for mostly indoor, minimal outdoor use). 

FEATURES:

  • Uses Baby Jogger's Quick-Fold Technology
  • Nicely vented seat with padded 5-point safety harness
  • Seat reclines to near flat position for infants
  • Slight suspension on the front wheel
  • Quick release, 8" rear wheels enables easy storage
  • Large, adjustable sun canopy with peek hole
  • Rear wheel parking brake
  • Seat back storage pouch and underseat storage basket included
  • Adaptable to infant car seats (adapter sold separately) and other attachable accessories
  • Weather shield included

COMPATIBILITY:  The Baby Jogger City Mini is compatible with the following infant car seats (individual adapters sold separately):

  • Peg Perego Primo Viaggio
  • Peg Perego Primo Viaggio 30/30
  • Graco Snugride
  • Britax Companion
  • Evenflo (most infant car seat models)

ADDITIONAL ACCESSORIES: Baby Jogger brand specific and sold separately:

  • Bug Canopy
  • Rain/Wind Canopy (Included)
  • Foot muff
  • Child Tray
  • Liquid Holster
  • Parent Console
  • Belly Bar
  • Belly Bar Console
  • Car Seat Adapter (see above)

SPECIFICATIONS:

  • Weight: 16.8 lbs.
  • Capacity: 33 lbs. (seat), 17 lbs. (storage)

DIMENSIONS:

  • Open: 42" L x 24" W x 29.5" H
  • Closed: 30.5" x 24.25" x 9"
  • Seat Width: 10.5"
  • Seat Height: 20"

THE PRICE:  $229.99 [PRICE INCREASED JUNE08; ORIGINAL PRICE $199.99]

AVAILABLE COLORS:

  • Blue / Grey
  • Black / Black
  • Green / Grey
  • Orange / Grey
  • Red / Black

ALSO CONSIDER:

Something we missed?  Want to see a specific stroller reviewed?  Email us: strollerinfo@gmail.com

15 April 2008

Phil & Ted's Vibe - Review

The Phil & Ted's Vibe: marketed as a streamlined upgrade to the Phil & Ted's SPort all-terrain walking stroller.  The Vibe has been eagerly anticipated for quite some time, being one of the only stroller types that conveniently allows for the addition of a second seat - converting it from a single to a double stroller.  The look of the Vibe is definitely more streamlined than that of the Phil & Ted's SPort and the now discontinued e3. 

The Vibe has been upgraded to accommodate a one piece fold with the In-line Doubles Kit (sold separately) attached.  Unfortunately, we have found the Vibe more difficult to fold with the Doubles Kit attached.  The parking brake has also been moved to the handlebar for easier access - but in an impractical position, leading to accidental engagement while strolling.  Initial handling has also revealed that the Vibe is not as easy to maneuver as the SPort: the front wheel seems to be positioned a little differently.  The tires are pneumatic, offering more fluid maneuverability than the plastic wheels - but Phil and Ted have yet to add any suspension to their stroller's basic frame structure, making the handling more difficult as weight is added.

Phil_teds_vibe_kit

The underseat basket has been increased in size over earlier models, but some have observed that it is still far to close the the ground, especially when trying to tip the stroller up a curb or while maneuvering through any amount of snow.  Like the SPort, the all-terrain wrist strap is still attached to the handle, creating a possible tipping hazard if the stroller loses control: all of the stopping force is applied to the handle and could cause the stroller to tip back.

There are a few features that Phil & Ted have not included with the Vibe that are available on the SPort: there is no integrated locking system to hold the stroller together while folded, and there is no carrying handle to use when the stroller is folded for easy transport. 

The padding and support added to the Vibe is much more comfortable for younger children than the padding on the SPort, and the hood has been increased in size to offer more shade than the SPort - both great additions.    

The differences between the Vibe and SPort seem only to be aesthetic - there is only a 1 pound difference in weight between the Vibe and SPort.  Conclusion:  It is not practical to get a Phil & Vibe over the SPort unless one prefers the Vibe's Bugaboo and Quinny-esque appearance.

FEATURES:

  • Added ergonomic, contoured padding for additional comfort and support.
  • Aluminum tubing used to provide a sleek appearance and reduce weight.
  • All tires are pneumatic, making pushing the stroller easier and lighter feeling.
  • Larger, more secure storage basket.
  • Stroller seat fully reclines into a bassinet for an infant.
  • The seat is now adjustable using a strapping system, offering more recline positions.
  • Parking brake located on handle, making its implementation more accessible.
  • Larger hood shades child from the elements.
  • Quick-release wheels for storage and/or travel.
  • Wheel guards located on both rear wheels.
  • Folds with the second seat attached (In-line Doubles Kit sold separately).

COMPATIBILITY:  The Phil & Ted's Vibe is compatible with the following infant car seats (individual adapter sold separately) Corrected :

  • Phil & Ted's Vibe Infant Carrier (not yet released)

*Adapters cannot be used while In-line Doubles Kit is attached

ADDITIONAL ACCESSORIES:

  • In-line Doubles Kit (MSRP: $109.99)

SPECIFICATIONS:

  • Weight: 22 lbs (without In-line Doubles Kit)
  • Capacity: 55 lbs (88 lbs total with In-line Doubles Kit)

DIMENSIONS:

  • Width: 29"
  • Folded without wheels: 29.9" L x 22" W x 8.6" H

THE PRICE: $599.99 [Note: Price does not include In-line Doubles kit, which is an additional $109.99]

AVAILABLE COLORS:

  • Black
  • Red

Something we missed?  Want to see a specific stroller reviewed?  Contact us: strollerinfo@gmail.com

04 April 2008

Silver Cross Dazzle 2008

The Silver Cross Dazzle:  a hip, sleek, minimal umbrella stroller from Silver Cross - the English company that has been creating the most beautiful Prams since 1877.  The Dazzle, marketed as a luxurious urban umbrella stroller, definitely looks the part.  It has a one handed recline system, is suitable from birth and up, and incorporates soft and luxurious fabrics.  It is a little heavy (at 15.4 lbs), but it does accommodate a child from birth ensuring the maximum use.

Sc_dazzle_2

FEATURES:

  • Suitable from birth and up
  • One-handed recline system
  • Ergonomic, comfort grip handles
  • Slight suspension in all wheels
  • Canopy with dual air vents and viewing window
  • Hidden shopping basket
  • Ventilated rain cover included
  • All fittings are concealed for streamlined look

COMPATIBILITY:  This stroller is NOT compatible with infant car seats.

SPECIFICATIONS:

  • Weight: 15.4 lbs.

DIMENSIONS:

  • 30" L x 19.3" W x 42.75" H
  • Folded:  40.5" L x 10.6" W 10.7" D

THE PRICE:  $299 [current price in the US]

AVAILABLE COLORS:

  • Cosmic Black
  • Blueberry
  • Tangerine
  • Neon Pink

Contact us: strollerinfo@gmail.com

BOB Revolution 12" AW (Aluminum Wheel) 2008 - Recommended

The B.O.B. Revolution 12" AW (Aluminum Wheel):  Introduced with the 2007 BOB line, the BOB Revolution 12" AW offers the best in quality and suspension for active urban parents and active walkers alike.  Answering the calls for a slightly lighter and more urban friendly stroller, the engineers at BOB have fine tuned some of the features on the original BOB Revolution:  instead of having two 16" rear wheels, most suitable for a smooth jog, they reduced the size to 12" decreasing the overall weight of the stroller and offering a more compact fold for storage and travel.

*Not to be confused with the original BOB Revolution.

Bob_12

FEATURES:

  • Suitable from 2 months to 70 lbs.
  • Reclines up to 70 degrees from the vertical position
  • Incorporates a built-in suspension system - offering the smoothest ride possible
  • Large adjustable canopy with a peek hole
  • Lockable swivel front wheel with direction gauge
  • Padded 5-point harness with sternum strap and easy adjustment straps
  • Fully padded seat back
  • Large Low Boy Cargo Basket
  • Pocket on back of seat for added storage
  • 2 interior seat pockets for sippy cups, snacks, or toys
  • All wheels quick-release for storage and travel
  • Safety wrist strap included
  • Extremely fast, compact folding system with Velcro locking system
  • Safety strap included

COMPATIBILITY:  Compatible with the following Infant Car Seats (adapter sold separately)

  • Graco Snugride
  • Peg Perego Primo Viaggio
  • Britax Companion

SPECIFICATIONS:

  • Weight: 21.9 lbs.
  • Capacity:  70 lbs.

DIMENSIONS:

  • Swivel Mode: 45" L x 23" W x 4.6" H
  • Folded w/ Wheels:  37.6" L x 23" W x 16.9" H 
  • Folded w/o Wheels:  32.8" L x 11.1" H

THE PRICE:  $399 [Price updated to reflect increase in July 2008]  [Note: BOB products are a fixed price unless otherwise authorized by BOB]

AVAILABLE COLORS:

  • Black / Camel
  • Coffee / Chocolate
  • Navy

Something we missed?  Want to add a review?  Contact us: strollerinfo@gmail.com

01 April 2008

Quinny Zapp

The Quinny Zapp:  Released in the US last year after having been very popular abroad, it incorporates a sleek design and a compact fold.  Re-designed for the US (the front wheels had to be moved apart to ensure the stroller would not tip), the Zapp generated a great deal of buzz in the US stroller market.  When we first glanced at the Zapp, we were impressed by its sleek design, but were a little concerned about a few key features that didn't seem to be completely worked out.  The stroller has no recline, so it is only recommended for children 9 months to a year and up.  But it does accommodate the Maxi-Cosi Mico infant carrier, making it a little more useful before that time.  But again, it has no recline, so your child cannot sleep comfortably.  It does allow for a compact fold, but still weighs in at 18.2 lbs : heavier than the full size Bugaboo models (17-18 lbs), and almost as heavy as the BOB Revolution 12" AW (21.9 lbs).  With some added recline in future models and a little more sun coverage, this stroller would be great as a primary suburban stroller.

FEATURES:

  • Compatible with the Maxi-Cosi Mico infant carrier (the adapters are included)
  • A 3-D compact fold for storage and/or travel.
  • Includes valuable accessories: sun canopy, rain shield, and travel bag.
  • Ergonomic handles for smooth strolling.
  • Slight suspension build into the frame.
  • Heavy duty wheels - almost impossible to crack or break.
  • Parking break on rear wheels.
  • Lockable front swivel wheels.
  • Underseat storage basket.

PRICE: $199.99 (Was initially sold at $239.99, but the price was soon reduced and offered as a sale price)

SPECIFICATIONS:

Weight: 18.2 lbs.

Dimensions: 69 x 27 x 30 centimeters - folded.

COMPATIBILITY:

  • Compatible with the Maxi-Cosi mico infant carrier (adapters included).
Pink_zapp

AVAILABLE COLORS:

  • Pink (shown)
  • Capri
  • Lime
  • Mandarine

Something we missed?  Want to write a review or receive a free consultation?  Email us: strollerinfo@gmail.com

26 March 2008

Orbit Infant System - Recommended

Introduced almost 2 years ago, the Orbit Infant System has become increasingly popular with urban parents.  Offering a deluxe version of the standard "Travel System" (meaning both a stroller and a car seat combination), the Orbit has set a new standard in stroller/car seat compatibility:  the Orbit travel system accommodates the Orbit infant car seat (included standard), the Orbit toddler car seat (additional accessory), and the Orbit toddler stroller seat (additional accessory) for the stroller system.  It is the ONLY complete system currently available on the market. 

Included Standard: MSRP $899.99

  • Stroller
  • Infant Car Seat
  • Universal Car Seat Base (for both the infant car seat and the toddler car seat)

Additional Accessories Available:

  • Toddler Stroller Seat - MSRP $180.99
  • Toddler Car Seat - MSRP:  $300.00

More accsesories are available for the home.

COMPATABILITY:

The Orbit Baby Infant system is only compatible with the Orbit Baby Infant and Toddler car seats. 

The concept has taken a little while to sink in, as the toddler car seat was just recently released (finally) and the system has been harder for retailers to sell without all of the anticipated accessories.

Now that the toddler car seat has been released, we predict this system to be one of the hottest gets in the stroller world for years to come. 

Color Shown: Black

Orbitisblk_3

Click the above links for specific information and specifications for each component to learn more.

Was there something we missed?  Want to share a review, or request a free consultation?  Email us: strollerinfo@gmail.com

20 March 2008

BOB Revolution - Recommended

The BOB Revolution: successfully redefining the all-terrain stroller in the US.  This is our favorite all-terrain jogging/walking hybrid stroller currently on the market.  It is lightweight, durable, well put together, and includes a remarkable suspension system that is not seen on (but we hope will have a future impact on the basic construction of) its basic competitors.  It weighs in at 23 pounds, has enough recline to support a two-month old child without added support, has a 1-inch suspension built into the frame structure that transfers to a 3-inch wheel movement while pushing or jogging, and has a true pin-locking system on the front wheel to accommodate a more stable jogging mode.  And the price is perfect!

*Not to be confused with the BOB Revolution 12" AW (Aluminum Wheel).

FEATURES:

  • Walking: Suitable from 2 months to 70 lbs.
  • Jogging: Suitable from 8 months to 70 lbs. (Ask your pediatrician)
  • Includes an adjustable suspension system, enabling the smoothest ride.
  • A very large, adjustable sun canopy with a large peek-hole.
  • Padded 5-point seat harness with sternum strap.
  • Two pockets in the seat for sippy cups, snacks or small toys.
  • Large Low Boy Cargo Basket and pocket on back of seat for storage.
  • Lockable 12" swivel front wheel with direction gauge.
  • Large 16" quick-release rear wheels.
  • Foot operated parking brake.
  • Safety strap included.
  • Fast, compact folding system.
  • Adaptable with the Graco Sunigride, Peg Perego Primo Viaggio and the Britax Companion (adaptor is purchased separately)

THE PRICE: $359.99 [Note: BOB products have a fixed price unless otherwise authorized by BOB]

SPECIFICATIONS:

Weight: 23 lbs.

Max Capacity: 70 lbs.

Dimensions:

  • Swivel Mode: 45" L x 23" W x 41" H
  • Jogging Mode: 50.9" L x 23" W x 41" H
  • Folded w/ Wheels: 37.6" L x 23" W x 16.9" H
  • Folded w/o Wheels: 32.8" L x 23" W x 11.1" H

AVAILABLE COLORS:

  • Navy / Cool Grey
  • Chocolate Brown / Pink
  • Mesa Orange / Chocolate
  • Chocolate / Blue
  • Black / Camel

Something we missed?  Want a comparison or consultation?  Email us: strollerinfo@gmail.com

17 March 2008

Triumph - 2008

The Maclaren Triumph: the middle child between the Volo and the Quest.  It folds as all Maclaren strollers fold, it has a slight recline, and features a more substantial amount of seat padding than the Volo.  We recommend it for children at least 6 months of age, as the recline is not deep enough for a younger child. 

FEATURES:

  • Suitable from 3 months to 55 lbs (we recommend at least 6, as the seat does not have a substantial recline system).
  • Seat fabric covers the entirety of the seat, offering more comfortable support and padding than the Volo.
  • Frame is composed of high quality, lightweight aluminum that has a minimal amount of pesky plastics.  Where plastics are used, they are of high quality.
  • It has a convenient shoulder strap to use when you are on the go: easy to sling over a shoulder and carry a child at the same time.
  • Extremely compact when folded, ensuring more room in your trunk or in the closet when stored.
  • Incorporates a child-resistant 5-point harness.
  • Front wheels lock into place to stop the stroller from veering while maneuvering over rough or slick terrain - or if you are pushing the stroller up a steel incline.
  • Removable, washable seat fabric.
  • Multi-position strap recline system (meaning the seat can be reclined with a strap and buckle - but not fully).
  • NEW dual strap patterns.
  • Includes a rain cover - a great addition when thinking about possible accessory costs. 

THE PRICE:  $174.99 [Note: Maclaren products have a fixed price unless otherwise authorized by Maclaren]

Continue reading "Triumph - 2008" »

Quest 2008 - Recommended

The Maclaren Quest: our favorite travel and car stroller on the market.  The Quest folds easily and compactly for travel and storage - yet offers your younger infant the recline needed for earlier use - recommended at 3 months.  This year a shoulder strap was added, in addition to the standard side handle, to free up your hands while carrying baby short distances.  The Quest has been the most consistently successful, durable stroller in its class for many years.  It is lighter than the more complex, heavier deluxe umbrella strollers.  Though some say it is a little pricey, it will pay for itself in the long run - it easily lasts 4 years if used as a convenient, durable secondary stroller. 

FEATURES:

  • Offers a four position recline system - suitable from 3 months and up.  This is a more honest recommendation, as a stroller's age recommendation has to do with recline.  Some of its competitors offer the same recommendation, but do not have much of a recline.
  • Comfortable seat fabric with and extendable leg rest for added support.
  • It is composed of a high quality, lightweight aluminum that has a minimal amount of pesky plastics.  And were plastics are used, they are of high quality. 
  • The Quest has a convenient carry handle OR shoulder strap to use when you are on the go: easy and light to carry like a satchel, or sling over a shoulder and carry a child at the same time.
  • The Quest is extremely compact when folded, ensuring more room in your trunk or in the closet.
  • Incorporates a child-resistant 5-point harness, newly designed for this 2008 model.
  • Front wheels lock into place to stop the stroller from veering while maneuvering over rough or slick terrain - or if you are pushing the stroller up a steep incline.
  • The wheels are larger than most umbrella strollers and completely reinforced - no need to worry about them cracking or breaking.
  • Water resistant hood with added rear storage pocket and UV protected viewing window. 
  • Reflective accents for added safety.
  • NEW central foot brake.
  • Includes a rain cover - a great addition when thinking about possible accessory costs. 

THE PRICE:  $224.99 [Note: Maclaren products have a fixed price unless otherwise authorized by Maclaren]

Continue reading "Quest 2008 - Recommended" »