Stroller Reviews - Fathercraft.com https://fathercraft.com/stroller-reviews/ Sat, 08 Nov 2025 22:21:56 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8.3 https://fathercraft.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/cropped-fathercraft-favicon-32x32.png Stroller Reviews - Fathercraft.com https://fathercraft.com/stroller-reviews/ 32 32 The best travel strollers of 2025: Real parents picked a clear winner  https://fathercraft.com/best-travel-strollers/ Sat, 08 Nov 2025 22:17:49 +0000 https://fathercraft.com/?p=29595 We put some of the best travel strollers to the test: the Joolz Aer+, UppaBABY MINU 3, Bugaboo Butterfly, YOYO2, GB Pockit, the Colugo Compact Stroller+, and Baby Jogger City Tour 2

There are two kinds of travel stroller reviews: the ones written by someone who skimmed the product manual and maybe pushed the stroller across their living room—and the ones written by parents who’ve sprinted to a departure gate with a baby strapped to their chest and a preschooler yelling that they dropped their donut. Guess which one this is?

Kristan cruising through the airport with the YOYO2 and her socks/slides combo

At Fathercraft, we don’t mess around. We (Mark, toddler dad, and Kristan, bay and toddler mom) tested six of the best travel strollers in the wild—real-world conditions, real kids, and real travel chaos. In this article, we’ll break down what actually matters when choosing a compact stroller (and what doesn’t) when you’re trying to survive a trip with tiny humans in tow.

We put these six strollers through their paces:

Heads up: Fathercraft is reader supported, meaning, at no cost to you, we may earn a commission if you click a link and make a purchase. Details in our policies.

Our travel stroller testing process

We didn’t just wheel these things around the driveway. This was real-world, real-parent testing in the chaos that is family travel. Mark—dad to a 20-month-old son—ran these strollers through solo airport missions, neighborhood walks, and daily errands, often while juggling a diaper bag and the squirmy toddler. Kristan—mom to a 3-year-old and a 7-month-old—tested the gear in full family-travel mode, including vacationing with two kids, a baby carrier, and a coffee run that became a full-body workout (more on that later).

Between the two of us, we folded and unfolded these strollers dozens of times, navigated TSA lines, fit them into overhead bins, and saw how they held up when pushed one-handed across gravel while balancing a drink carrier. We tested for what actually matters to make travel easier: ease of folding on the go, maneuverability, comfort for both baby and parent, and how much stress each stroller saved—or created—when it counted.

Is a travel stroller worth it?

If you’re looking at these prices, you might be asking yourself if a travel stroller is worth it at all? Can I just use my full-size stroller for travel?

If you’re traveling with small kids (4ish or under), the answer is a resounding yes. You’re going to need to move your kids around, just like you do at home, but your full-sized Mockingbird setup isn’t going to fit on a plane.

You might also be asking yourself if you can skip this review and get the $20 umbrella stroller at Costco. Kristan owns that stroller and has vacationed with it… and she wouldn’t do it again.

Two reasons:

  • This is how much luggage we (Kristan + my husband, Tim) brought with us when we were traveling with ONE kid. And we were packing light. It would have been really nice if that stroller would have folded up into a tiny square with a strap.
  • This is 6’0″ Tim trying to push that stroller. He ditched two things after this vacation: that stroller… and the beard.
#throwback

The best travel strollers, reviewed

When choosing a stroller for travel, here’s what to consider:

  • Is it lightweight and compact? Strollers that fit in overhead bins are really convenient—you’ll benefit from it in the airport. Plus, it won’t get banged up during the checked baggage journey. Weight matters too…at some point you will end up carrying this thing on your trip, and a your back will thank you for choosing a lightweight travel stroller.
  • How the stroller folds… and in particular, can you fold it one-handed?

The more you check these boxes, the more you can enhance your travel experience.

FeatureJoolz Aer+UPPAbaby MINU V3Bugaboo ButterflyBabyzen YOYO2GB PockitCity Tour 2Colugo Compact+
Price~$499~$499~$399$449~$270~$359~$249
Weight~13 lbs16.7 lbs~16.1 lbs14 lbs~10.5 lbs~14 lbs~16 lbs
One-Hand Fold🌟🌟🌟👍❌❌❌🌟
Smooth Ride👍👍👍🌟❌🌟👍
Carry-On?YesYesYesYesFits under seatYesYes
Storage👎👍👍👎👎👎👎
Harness👍👍👎❌❌👎👍

Joolz Aer+: The MVP

If you’re the kind of parent who wants their gear to just work—without a manual, without a meltdown, and preferably with a latte in the other hand—the Joolz Aer+ is your dream machine. This stroller was hands-down the favorite in our testing, thanks to a folding mechanism so smooth it borders on magic. It’s a true lightweight stroller, compact, and built with the kind of no-nonsense precision you want when navigating an airport solo. As Mark put it, “I could shut this thing down with a baby in one arm and a coffee in the other.” It’s not cheap, and the storage space is minimal, but for ease, reliability, and daily use? This thing takes the cake for the best travel stroller.

Best for: solo air travel, urban explorers, anyone who values smooth operation above all else.

What we loved: One-handed fold so smooth it feels like magic. Tight construction. Small footprint makes it a true compact travel stroller (and fits in the overhead bin). Just works.

“Holy crap” moment: “I could shut this thing down with a baby in one arm and a coffee in the other.” – Mark

Downsides: Modest storage basket. Premium price.

Overall Winner
Joolz AER+

True one-handed fold, smooth ride, and just works.

Shop on Amazon Shop on PBK

UPPAbaby MINU V3: The Cadillac

The UPPAbaby MINU V3 is practically neck and neck with the Joolz. Of the travel strollers we tested, it’s the one that oozes quality, from the plush seat fabric to the leather-wrapped handlebar, and pushes like a dream. Mark compared the experience to “driving a Cadillac.” It’s solid, stable, and feels premium in every way. The harness is secure and familiar if you’ve used UPPAbaby’s full-size models, and the fold is easy (though not quite Joolz-easy). The downside? It’s heavier and more expensive than its rivals. But if comfort, craftsmanship, and a brand name you can trust are your top priorities, the MINU V3 delivers.

Joolz Aer+ (left) vs. UPPAbaby MINU 3 (right)

Best for: Parents who value premium materials and don’t mind a slightly larger frame.

What we loved: Most solid in-hand feel. Leather-wrapped handlebar. Great harness system. Quality everywhere. Comes with a travel bag.

“Holy crap” moment: “Everything about this just feels nice—like driving a Cadillac.” – Mark

Downsides: Carry strap is weird. Said travel bag is huge and awkward. A little heavy. A lot expensive.

Premium Pick
UPPAbaby Minu V3
$499.99

This is the premium option for parents who want to travel in style. It looks good, it works well.

Shop on Amazon Shop on PBK
03/10/2026 04:02 am GMT

Bugaboo Butterfly: The AlmostWinner

The Bugaboo Butterfly sits comfortably in the upper tier of travel strollers—just a smidge behind the Joolz and MINU. It’s compact, well-built, and comes with thoughtful features like a roomy basket and a stellar canopy that actually blocks the sun (yes, it matters). It folds up small enough to fit in the overhead compartment, but finding the carry strap once it’s folded is a mini scavenger hunt—Mark gave up and just started carrying it by the frame. The brake system also left something to be desired, with Mark noting it was stiff and annoying to use. Still, it’s a well-rounded, everyday-use contender for parents who value premium functionality.

Best for: Families looking for a sleek travel stroller that doubles as a daily driver.

What we loved: Great canopy. Solid construction. Spacious basket. Compact fold.

Downsides: Brake is stiff. Carry strap is buried. Slightly behind Joolz in folding finesse.

The almost winner
Bugaboo Butterfly
$384.30

Lots to love with a few quirks.

Shop on Amazon Shop on Bugaboo
03/10/2026 04:01 am GMT

Babyzen YOYO2: The Smooth Operator

The YOYO2 is the stroller equivalent of a city scooter—slick, agile, and kind of expensive for what it is. It earns high marks for its maneuverability and ultra-smooth one-handed steering. Kristan pushed her three-year-old with one hand, while wearing a baby and balancing coffee in the other. That level of agility makes it great for urban parents who value portability and style. But the folding process? A nightmare. Kristan FaceTimed her husband in a coffee shop just to figure it out, but even together they were unsuccessful in getting it folded on the fly. The harness is frustrating, storage is minimal, and at nearly $500, you’re paying for brand recognition (the YOYO is now officially a Stokke stroller) more than convenience.

Mastering the one-handed push
  • Best for: One-handed steering lovers. Those interested in modular accessories (newborn kit, ride board).
  • What we loved: Rides like a dream. Extremely maneuverable. Compact. Carry-on compliant.
  • “Holy crap” moment: “I pushed my almost-4-year-old one-handed while balancing a coffee carrier and wearing a baby. This thing rocks.” – Kristan

Downsides: Folding is frustrating. Harness sucks. Pricey for what it offers.

Shaded? Yes. Easily strapped in? No.

Where to buy: Amazon

GB Pockit All-Terrain: The Tiny Marvel (that hurts to push)

If your priority is ultra-compact size and nothing else, the GB Pockit is…fine. It folds down small enough to fit under an airplane seat, making it a marvel of engineering—but not one of comfort. The handlebar is a nightmare for tall users (Mark is 6’3” and hated it), the harness system is weak, and the fold involves more steps than you’d expect. It’s not intuitive or fun to use, but it’s lightweight and good in a pinch. Think of it as your “emergency stroller”—the one you keep at grandma’s or in the trunk just in case. Just don’t expect it to feel good to push.

  • Best for: Packing into a backpack or fitting under a plane seat.
  • What we loved: It’s impossibly small. Like, fits-under-the-seat small.
  • Downsides: Two tiny handles. Terrible for tall people. Folding is multi-step and slow.
  • “This drove me insane”: Handlebar ergonomics and the harness system.

Where to buy? Honestly, don’t. But if you must, Amazon

Colugo Compact Stroller+: The best budget travel stroller

We’ve long been fans of The Colugo Compact. This stroller is for parents who want champagne on a white claw budget. And, in 2025, Colugo made some significant upgrades in the form of The Colugo Compact Stroller+, which upgraded the fold, the harness, and the push bar. Sure there are still a few tradeoffs but man is it a solid option. And, at literally $200 less than our best overall pick, it does warrant serious consideration. The Colugo will need two hands to fold, but its two-step fold action is smooth. It’s built sturdily and has a surprising number of well-thought-out features like an adjustable footrest and canopy.

Two hands to fold? Yes. Still smooth and satisfying? Also yes.
  • Best for: Those who want quality and features… but not $500 quality.
  • What we loved: Price. Sturdy build quality. Nearly flat recline. Features that punched above its price class.
  • Downsides: Bulkier and heavier than the Joulz Aer Plus. Smaller basket and less-intuitive recline.
Top budget pick
Colugo Compact Stroller+
$239.20

The budget pick with non-budget features and quality

Shop on Amazon Shop on Colugo
03/10/2026 04:02 am GMT

Baby Jogger City Tour 2: The Budget Backup

The Baby Jogger City Tour 2 is the kind of stroller you might begrudgingly accept as a hand-me-down. It’s affordable and reclines nearly flat (which is rare in this group), but that’s about where the praise ends. Mark was “over it before he even used it,” thanks to the awkward folding mechanism and cheap-feeling materials. It doesn’t stand up on its own when folded, and the handlebar flops around like it’s given up on life. It’s an okay option as a backup for occasional use, especially if you want something inexpensive, but it lags behind the rest in nearly every way.

Baby Jogger… best for stuffies
  • Best for: Secondary stroller at grandma’s house or for budget-conscious travelers.
  • What we loved: Price. Nearly flat recline. Decent canopy.
  • Downsides: Clunky fold. Cheap materials. Doesn’t stand when folded. Build quality = meh.
Budget runner up
Baby Jogger City Tour 2
$349.99
Shop on Amazon
03/10/2026 04:01 am GMT

Who Should Buy What?

Final verdict: what’s the best lightweight, compact stroller for travel?

If you’re going to spend $400+ on a travel stroller, get the one that actually delivers on every front: Joolz Aer+. That one-handed fold isn’t just a gimmick—it’s a sanity-saver.

But the UPPAbaby MINU V3 is a very close second. And if you’re more into modular upgrades or one-handed steering, you might find yourself leaning YOYO2 despite some frustrations.

And, if you’re on a budget, the Colugo Compact Stroller+ is the way to go.

Bottom line: don’t buy based on hype. Buy based on what actually matters when you’re juggling bags, boarding passes, and babies.

Travel stroller FAQs

Can I use these strollers from birth?

Some travel strollers can be used from birth, but most are better suited for babies around 6 months and up. Models like the Babyzen YOYO2 and UPPAbaby MINU offer optional newborn attachments or car seat adapters that make them newborn-friendly. That said, if you’re traveling with a very young baby, wearing them in a carrier might still be your best move—especially when navigating airports.

Are they compatible with car seats?

Yes—many of the best travel strollers are car seat compatible, but it depends on the brand and adapter. The MINU, YOYO2, Joolz Aer+, and Bugaboo Butterfly all offer adapters that work with popular infant car seats. If car seat compatibility is a must for your travel setup, be sure to check the brand’s compatibility chart before buying.

Can you bring a stroller through TSA or onto the plane?

Yes—TSA allows you to bring a stroller through security, and most airlines allow you to either gate-check it or carry it onboard if it meets size requirements. In our experience, a quick fold matters most during airport security. Strollers like the Joolz Aer+ and Bugaboo Butterfly made the process smooth, while others like the YOYO2 required a full-on folding tutorial (and, in one case, a FaceTime call to a spouse).

Do they work on rough terrain?

Travel strollers aren’t built for trails or cobblestones, but some handle bumps better than others. The UPPAbaby MINU and YOYO2 were the best performers on uneven sidewalks or gravel. Just don’t expect all-terrain wheels or suspension systems—these are designed for portability, not off-roading.

What accessories should I consider?

Travel stroller accessories to consider include:

  • Cup holders or snack trays
  • Travel bags (some are included, some are sold separately)
  • Ride-along boards (especially for the YOYO2)
  • Car seat adapters
  • Rain covers and sunshades

Meet Fathercraft

Looking for more Fathercraft? Check out our list of baby essentials or our other product reviews.

Editor’s note: this list was originally published in May, 2025, but was updated in July, 2025 with information on the Colugo Compact.

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Veer Cruiser Wagon Review: All-Terrain Stroller Alternative https://fathercraft.com/veer-cruiser-review/ Fri, 20 Jun 2025 00:43:06 +0000 https://fathercraft.com/?p=29785 Product: Veer Cruiser (XL, All-Terrain, City models)
Made by: Veer
Product type: Stroller wagon hybrid + modular accessory system
Price: $699 – $799 (base models, before accessories)
Review period: 2+ years

Here’s the deal: most stroller wagons feel like compromises. They’re either too flimsy for real adventures, too bulky for everyday use, or missing key features that make them actually useful. But the Veer Cruiser promises to be different—a premium “adventure rig” that grows with your family.

After 2+ years of testing the Veer Cruiser XL in urban environments and parks with my sons Oliver and Calvin, we’ve got thoughts. Big ones.

An in-depth review of the Veer cruiser system

We’ve spent serious time with the Veer Cruiser XL, testing it in the real world where parenting actually happens. City streets, park paths, grocery stores, and yes, up and down more stairs than we care to count. We’ve also researched the All-Terrain and City models extensively.

Quick jump navigation:

What is the Veer cruiser?

The Veer Cruiser is a premium stroller wagon hybrid designed to be your family’s go-to transportation solution from toddlerhood through elementary school. At its core, the Veer system is built around modularity—an incredibly well-built base wagon that can be customized with dozens of accessories to fit your family’s specific needs.

But here’s where it gets interesting (and expensive): Veer offers three distinct models, each optimized for different family situations.

Veer cruiser models breakdown

Veer Cruiser XL ($799)

  • Best for: Families with multiple kids or bigger kids (up to 55 lbs per seat)
  • Key specs: 37″ L x 24″ W, 220 lb total capacity, 32.5 lbs weight
  • Our take: This is what we tested extensively. Maximum hauling capacity for adventure families, though it can feel overwhelming for daily urban use.

Veer All-Terrain Cruiser ($699)

  • Best for: Most families looking for the perfect balance of stroller functionality and wagon versatility
  • Key specs: Seating for 2, premium stroller feel with rugged wagon capability
  • Our take: As Veer puts it, this is “what happens when you combine a premium stroller and a rugged wagon.” It’s the world’s first all-terrain stroller-wagon crossover.

Veer Cruiser City ($699)

  • Best for: Urban families who want traditional stroller steering with wagon versatility
  • Key specs: Available in 2 or 4 seat configurations, swivel wheels for stroller-like steering
  • Our take: Perfect for families who love to push on sidewalks and through local attractions. The swivel wheels let you steer it like a traditional stroller when pushing, but the handlebar drops into wagon mode for pulling over uneven terrain.

How the Veer cruiser works

The build quality reality check

After 2+ years of testing, this thing is built like a tank. The aluminum frame feels solid in a way that gives you confidence when hauling precious cargo. The polyurethane foam wheels are genuinely impressive—removable with a button push and handle everything from smooth pavement to rocky trails.

What really stands out is the elevated seating position. Kids sit higher than in most wagons, which they love (better views!) and makes it easier for parents to get them in and out. All models come equipped with two cup holders and a drink and snack tray.

Push or pull versatility

You can push or pull the wagon depending on terrain and situation. The Cruiser City particularly excels here, with swivel wheels that enable stroller-like steering when pushing on smooth surfaces. There’s also a reliable brake system that engages with a simple foot pedal.

The folding reality

Let’s be honest: folding the Veer doesn’t save you as much space as you’d hope. When folded, you’re looking at a 37″ x 24″ x 14″ footprint. It’s still substantial equipment that won’t tuck away like a traditional umbrella stroller, something to seriously consider if you’re in a small apartment or have a compact car.

Veer cruiser pricing

Here’s where things get expensive. The base models are priced at premium levels:

  • Cruiser City: $699
  • All-Terrain Cruiser: $699
  • Cruiser XL: $799

But that’s just the beginning. Veer’s accessory ecosystem is extensive:

  • Infant car seat adapter: $80
  • Switchback Infant Seat: $399
  • Canopy: $150
  • Rain cover: $109

Want to use this as a true stroller replacement from birth? You’re looking at $1,100+ once you add the infant seat and essential accessories.

The awesome

Build quality that justifies the price After 2+ years of testing, including genuinely abusive scenarios with Calvin and Oliver climbing in and out constantly, the Veer shows minimal wear. The frame is solid, wheels are holding up beautifully, and all mechanisms still work smoothly.

Easy cleaning (the magic moment) You can hose this thing down completely. The Veer wagon is fully waterproof, which means beach days, muddy adventures, and inevitable spills don’t require careful spot cleaning. Just spray it down with a hose. This makes it genuinely bombproof for beach trips—there’s something liberating about not worrying if your expensive wagon can handle whatever chaos your kids throw at it.

The modular system actually works Unlike some “modular” systems that feel like marketing gimmicks, Veer’s accessory ecosystem is thoughtfully designed. Accessories snap in and out easily, and you can genuinely customize the wagon for specific activities.

Smooth ride quality The suspension system and large wheels provide a genuinely smooth ride. Even on bumpy surfaces, there’s no jarring or bouncing. Your kids will actually enjoy the ride.

The wish it were different

The accessory ecosystem can become a money pit. This is the Tesla problem: the base price seems reasonable, but by the time you add everything you actually need, you’re in luxury territory. Want full stroller functionality? That’s $400+ just for the infant seat. It adds up fast.

Urban maneuvering is genuinely challenging. Despite the swiveling front wheels, navigating tight spaces is frustrating. I found navigating the smaller quarters of my house quite frustrating, and crowded sidewalks, narrow store aisles, and especially stairs become genuine challenges.

The weight is real. At 32.5 pounds empty, plus kids and gear, you’re looking at a substantial load to push. On flat surfaces, it’s manageable. But hills, curbs, and especially stairs become serious workouts. Lifting the Veer into your vehicle over and over again can become that toe in the door of that CrossFit lifestyle you’ve always dreamed of.

Limited handlebar adjustment. The handlebar only adjusts about 3 inches up or down with only one angle position. For families with significant height differences, this gets annoying.

Veer vs Wonderfold

Since we’ve also tested the Wonderfold W2 extensively:

Size and capacity

  • Wonderfold W2: Larger overall (44.5″ L x 19″ W), 55 lbs, 200 lb capacity
  • Veer Cruiser XL: More compact (37″ L x 24″ W), 32.5 lbs, 220 lb capacity

Maneuverability. The Veer wins here. While neither is great in tight spaces, the Veer’s lighter weight and better engineering make it notably easier to navigate.

Price

  • Wonderfold W2: Around $700 for the Luxe model
  • Veer Cruiser XL: $799 base, but accessories add up quickly

Bottom line: The Wonderfold is better if you prioritize maximum capacity. The Veer wagon is better if you want something more refined and manageable for regular use.

The verdict

Is the Veer wagon worth it? For families with the budget and the right use case, absolutely. The build quality, ride comfort, and modularity create a premium experience that justifies the cost.

For urban families: Consider the Cruiser City model, but honestly evaluate whether you need a wagon at all. The maneuvering challenges in tight urban spaces are real.

For adventure families: This is where the Veer truly shines. If you’re hiking trails, going to beaches, or doing outdoor adventures with kids, the Veer’s ruggedness, waterproof design, and smooth ride quality make it worth the investment.

For families with infants: The infant car seat adapter ($80) makes this viable from birth, though the full Switchback infant seat system ($399) pushes the total investment well over $1,000.

Our Recommendation by Model:

  • Cruiser City: Best for urban families who want stroller-like steering
  • All-Terrain Cruiser: The balanced choice for most families
  • Cruiser XL: Perfect if you have multiple/bigger kids or haul lots of gear

The Veer Cruiser isn’t for everyone, but for families who can justify the investment, it delivers on its premium promises. Just go in with realistic expectations about the total cost and urban limitations.

After 2+ years of testing with Calvin and Oliver, we can confidently say it’s built to last and performs as advertised. Whether that’s worth the premium price depends entirely on your family’s specific needs and budget.

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Mockingbird stroller review: Why the Single-to-Double 2.0 is my favorite new piece of baby gear https://fathercraft.com/mockingbird-stroller-review/ https://fathercraft.com/mockingbird-stroller-review/#respond Sat, 23 Nov 2024 18:35:40 +0000 https://fathercraft.com/mockingbird-stroller-review/ The Mockingbird Single-to-Double 2.0 is Mockingbird’s newest stroller model. Think: smoother ride… better straps… a larger sun canopy to shade your child from their incredibly bright future. I put it to the test to see if it lives up to the hype. 

Spoiler alert: I love my Mockingbird stroller.

But I wasn’t originally convinced this would be the stroller for me. Even though the Mockingbird has always been highly rated, a voluntary recall in 2022 left some customers wary of cracks in the frame, and Reddit almost had me convinced to try something else (I’m glad I gave it a shot anyway). 

a baby and a preschooler ride on the Mockingbird
My kids on our Mockingbird

In this Mockingbird stroller review, I chat about the great and the not-so-great… and how the Mockingbird Single-to-Double 2.0 ultimately won me over. 

Read straight through or skip to what you need:

Heads up: The Mockingbird stroller tested for this review was provided free to us by the manufacturer. They received no promises of positive words for us. Also, Fathercraft is reader supported, meaning, at no cost to you, we may earn a commission if you click a link and make a purchase. Details in our policies.

What’s so special about the Mockingbird stroller?

Mockingbird’s biggest flex is how easy it is to customize and change your setup with Mockingbird’s accessories. Kids seated and facing you? Check. Facing each other? Check. Riding board? Bassinet? Car seat? Check, check, and check.

The base model price is $450, which makes it a more affordable option than something like the UPPAbaby Vista 2. But full disclosure… my setup came to a grand total of $935 (more on that later). 

Unboxed mockingbird parts and accessories
My base model + accessories. Minnie Mouse not included.

Mockingbird Single-to-Double 2.0 specs 

The base model comes with: 

  • a stroller frame
  • four wheels
  • one seat with a detachable child bar
  • an extendable canopy
  • The storage basket underneath 

That means second seats, organizers, and, yes, even cupholders, are sold separately. Pro: You can save a bit by only purchasing what you need. Con: You’ll probably need to purchase a cupholder.

With one seat, the stroller is 27 pounds… with two seats, that becomes 35 pounds. Frankly, it’s a little heavy, but I wasn’t necessarily expecting a heavy-duty double stroller to feel like a lightweight compact stroller. So, I don’t personally have a problem with the weight. 

a dad attaches a wheel to the mockingbird
Assembly is easy… everything snaps into place!

Other dimensions: 

  • Unfolded: 25.5” (widest point) x 40” (wheels to handlebar) x 33” (front to back wheel)
  • Folded: 34” x 25.5” x 18”

What’s new with the 2.0?

The Mockingbird Single-to-Double 2.0 was released in 2024. Its basic design and concept are all the same as its original model, but the 2.0 has the following improvements:

  • Larger sun canopy
  • Easier-to-use straps 
  • More intuitive fold
  • Smoother ride
a comparison image of the mockingbird with the shade up and down

As a heads up, we reviewed the original Mockingbird single-to-double in 2021. You can find the 9-minute video review of the original at the bottom of this page.

My setup

I have two kids—a three-year-old and (at the time of writing) a 10-week-old infant. So, I needed some configuration options. 

These are the accessories I received with my Mockingbird stroller: 

Grand total: $935

Mockingbird stroller parked on a sidewalk. It's configured with an infant carseat facing the parent, and a toddler seat facing outwards. The riding board is attached.
This is what my Mockingbird looks like 90% of the time

The biggest reason I love my Mockingbird? How much I can do with just those accessories. 90% of the time, my infant is in her car seat and my three-year-old is on the riding board. Sometimes, she’ll opt for the seat (and I like having the option of having them both in a seat when my infant is older). 

I’ve also done this:

  • Just the riding board—if I’m out with just my three-year-old, sometimes I’ll push her around on the board so that I can have the storage basket. Looks weird, works great. 
  • Just the infant seat—a lighter option when I just have the baby
  • Bassinet + toddler seat—I honestly only used the bassinet once or twice. It’s probably the only accessory I wouldn’t purchase again. Nothing wrong with it! Just hasn’t been used as heavily as the car seat adapter.

Mockingbird: It’s best for sidewalks

Just because I love this stroller, that doesn’t necessarily mean you will. I think stroller choice should larely depend on lifestyle and where/how you’re going to be using it. So, let’s see how much we have in common! 

I live in a suburban neighborhood with a bunch of other kids. I frequently walk the neighborhood with my two kids to meet up with other families (or just to get some exercise), and that’s where I use my stroller the most—on the sidewalk.

I’ve also taken the stroller to festivals, markets, parks, and the local Target. I take up a bit of space at a market or a festival, but I can navigate it pretty easily and without feeling like I’m taking up more than my fair share. Below, I’ve detached the second seat altogether for a lighter stroll through a local festival (P.S., check out the Fathercraft diaper bag fitting perfectly into that storage basket).

Me with the mockingbird. My baby rides in the infant seat and my preschooler rides the riding board
“Elsa” and I at a Halloween festival

I wouldn’t go off-roading in this thing, but you can lock the front wheels if you need to cut through some grass, which works well enough. 

What about the sidewalk cracks? 

For some reason, I’m seeing a lot of flack online about the Mockingbird not being able to handle a sidewalk crack. I’ve not found that to be true (and I live in a neighborhood with some construction, so we have some rough sidewalks at times). I’m thinking this is an improvement they made with the 2.0.

My official Mockingbird stroller review

The pros

Change things up with ease 

I love that this stroller works for basically any situation I’m in. I can stroll with one kid or both. It grows with them as they age. They can face each other (or not). There are 19 official configurations, but the options honestly feel a bit endless. 

The best part? Changing up the configurations is easy. Accessories snap on and off intuitively (and safely). 

Everyone enjoys a smooth ride 

The first thing I noticed is that this stroller glides so much smoother than the Graco stroller I bought for my first. It’s kind of fun to push. Oh, and the handlebar is adjustable, so it’s comfortable for everyone. 

Accessories are high-quality 

Yes, you have to buy accessories. Yes, I wish they would just include the cupholder. But, at the very least, all of the accessories seem to be of super high quality. The cup holder is flexible, so it fits my knock-off “Stanley.” 

Maybe it’s a Stanley. Maybe it’s a $15 Walmart dupe. Either way, it fits.

The riding board is honestly my favorite thing about the whole setup. My three-year-old loves it, and it’s made toting her places much much easier (she typically protested my old stroller). 

Large storage basket 

Multiple kids need lots of things. All of those thingsl fit in the Mockingbird’s generous storage basket. Enough said. 

I could have more kids and not need another stroller 

A third child would change a lot of things. But not my stroller. The Mockingbird single-to-double can accommodate a “squad” with a total weight limit of up to 90 pounds in the seats (45 pounds in each seat)… and then there’s the riding board. 

The cons

Heavy / bulky to store 

The stroller is heavy and takes up a fair bit of space, even when folded. Also, the second seat has to pop off before you can fold it (in fact, I pop most of the accessories off). That said, it’s a permanent fixture in the trunk of my minivan, so if you’re extremely cool like me and rock a minivan, you’ll have plenty of room. 

The lever to break it down gets a little jammed 

I’ve been using this stroller for about four months, and the lever used to collapse the stroller recently started jamming a little. It still works, but I wouldn’t call it a flawless, one-handed fold. 

You’re not going off-roading with it 

The front wheels lock, but I’m not going to do a lot of off-roading in this stroller. To be fair, I probably wouldn’t do a lot of off-roading in any stroller. That’s what a carrier is for. 

Pricing and where to buy

The base model is $450 and can be purchased directly from the Mockingbird website. You won’t find it in most stores, because Mockingbird sells directly to the consumer, which helps keep the cost down. But Mockingbird has provided a few ways to try the stroller:

  • Try it at home risk-free for 30 days: If you purchase the stroller through Mockingbird’s website, you can return it within 30 days, no questions asked. 
  • Check it out at Target: Mockingbird recently partnered with Target, so you can try out the base model and purchase it in store. 
  • Connect with a “parent host”: Mockingbird now has official “parent hosts.” You can use this tool on their website to find a parent near you that will let you try out their stroller.

The face-off: Mockingbird stroller vs. UPPAbaby Vista

If you’re picking between these two double-converting stroller options, which is better? We picked the Uppababy Vista V2 for our favorite luxury stroller in 2024, but we prefer the Mockingbird as a more practical, affordable option. Here’s a quick comparison between the two: 

  • The price: $450 for the Mockingbird base model, $799 for the Vista V2 (and $899 for the new Vista V3). Adding a second seat is another $145 for the Mockingbird and $249 for UPPAbaby.
  • The kid’s dimensions: The Mockingbird can actually support a taller child (42″) than the Vista (40″). However, a single seat on the Uppababy can support a child up to 50 pounds, while the Mockingbird only supports up to 45 pounds. 
  • The stroller specs: Both weigh the same at just over 26 pounds. They also fold to about the same size, but the Mockingbird is three inches shorter unfolded.
  • Configurations: The Uppababy actually has more configuration possibilities than the Mockingbird (30 vs. 19). 

Both are pretty similar in features like maneuverability (although our Uppababy tester had a hard time with it at the mall), adjustable handlebars, and standing ability while folded. But we ultimately sided with Mockingbird because of its affordability.

What about that recall?

I mentioned a recall earlier—so what was that about? 

In 2022, Mockingbird issued a voluntary recall of several lots of their original Mockingbird single and single-to-double stroller. Approximately 0.1% of customers had reported hairline cracks in the frame, which could have posed a fall risk to children. No injuries or fatalities were reported, and Mockingbird supplied customers with a “reinforcement kit.” 

Mockingbird made improvements to the 2.0 frame, which not only helps correct this issue, but also gives you a smoother ride. 

My personal opinion? I take my children’s safety extremely seriously (we still rear-face my three-year-old, and who knows when I’ll stop cutting her grapes), but I feel safe with my stroller and will continue to use my 2.0 model.

The final verdict

The Mockingbird Single-to-Double 2.0 is a resounding yes for me. Out of all the gear we’ve used with our second child, this stroller is easily my favorite. 

I love how easy it is to change up the configurations, and I feel like I can navigate anything from our neighborhood sidewalks to local markets and festivals with ease. 

So… don’t walk, don’t run… fly to get this stroller (sorry). 

Looking for more Fathercraft? Check out our list of baby essentials or our best diaper bags of 2024.

Editor’s note: We originally reviewed the Mockingbird Single-to-Double in 2021. We re-tested the stroller with the 2.0 model, beginning May 2024, and wrote this review. Our original video review is below:

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The 8 best baby strollers of 2025: From compact to luxury https://fathercraft.com/best-strollers/ https://fathercraft.com/best-strollers/#respond Mon, 15 Apr 2024 19:52:47 +0000 https://fathercraft.com/?p=19933 One of the first big purchases I made as a parent was my soon-to-be baby’s stroller. And to be honest with you, I wish I would’ve spent more time making the decision. We didn’t realize quite how much time we’d spend with our stroller and how much we’d need it to make sense within our lifestyle. There’s a lot to consider:

  • Do you want it to grow with your family (a question I definitely should have asked, but didn’t)?
  • Do you need something big and sturdy? Or something more compact?
  • Do you need your stroller to be compatible with a certain car seat (i.e., do you need a travel system)?
  • Plan on taking a jog with it (not all strollers are joggers!)?

It can feel overwhelming, but we’re here to simplify the process. We’ve compiled a list of the best strollers of 2025, and we like to think there’s something on this list for everyone… whether you’re pining for luxury, hoping to keep up your workout regimen, or strolling on a budget:

One more thing before we dive into our list of best strollers of 2025: please note Fathercraft is reader-supported, meaning, at no cost to you, we may earn a commission if you buy after clicking an affiliate link. Learn more. Also, we are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

How to choose the best stroller for your family

With so many different types of strollers to choose from you can fit your needs with just about any one of them. First, consider your lifestyle. How big is your home, and how much storage space do you have? How often do you travel? What’s your budget?

two young children sit in side-by-side strollers, wearing sunglasses and smiling

Then, consider the age and needs of your children:

  • Age:
    • 0-6 months: Your child isn’t old enough to sit in a typical stroller seat yet, so you’ll want to make sure you have a bassinet attachment and/or that your infant carrier is compatible with your stroller (bear in mind most jogging strollers aren’t safe until your child is between 8 and 12 months–check the weight minimum!)
    • 6-12 months: Most stroller seats should work with your child!
    • Toddlers and beyond: Many toddler seats can accommodate most children up to 3 or 4 years, but you may also consider special attachments like riding boards
  • Special needs:
    • If your child has special needs, you will want to check with your medical provider for stroller recommendations
  • Number of children:
    • If you have (or plan to have) multiple children you may want a stroller with multiple seats or attachment options

Finally, consider your needs. What accessories do you need? Organizers? Cup holders? With all the different options below, you’ll find a stroller that works for baby and you.

Our top stroller picks for 2025

Most versatile stroller: The Mockingbird Single to Double 2.0

mockingbird stroller is parked on a sidewalk
Infant carseat + toddler seat + riding board

If you want to cover more than one base, the Mockingbird Single to Double gets our vote for most versatile stroller.

  • Why we love it: Built from sturdy aluminum with a utilitarian fabric pattern, cargo sling underneath, and the option to add another seat for another passenger, this stroller is like the Jack of All Trades when it comes to strollers. It’s also compatible with other makes of infant car seat with the use of an adapter (sold separately).
  • What you need to know: This stroller gets the job done right out of the box, but you could find yourself on a slippery slope when it comes to add ons.  $15 here, $30 there, you might be tempted to add another seat, cupholders, snack trays, and even footmuffs.
  • Our review: In short, a strong buy that would suit any family with plenty of room to grow. You might get nibbled to death by ducks with all the add-ons however.
  • Price & where to buy: Buy directly from Mockingbird on their website to save some money. It runs about $450 for the single and an addition $120 to add another seat.

Check Mockingbird pricing here.

Read and watch our full Mockingbird stroller review here.

Best compact stroller: The Colugo One

A baby asleep in the Colugo One at an outdoor market

This stroller might just be the one (sorry, bad pun). But seriously—it’s compact enough to quickly fold up into an airplane overhead bin, but equipped with enough features (car seat compatibility! cup holders!) to be your one and only. By the way, head over here deep dive the best travel strollers.

  • Why we love it: The Colugo One can go everywhere. The market? Obviously (see the above picture). The mall? Sure. An airplane. Why not? Big city stroll? This is the one. Plus, it’s a smooth ride for baby and boasts many of the same features as larger strollers, like the car seat attachments (in the picture above, the little one is sitting in a Nuna carseat). We can break it down with one hand, but we don’t need to worry about it literally breaking.
  • What you need to know: Colugo has another compact stroller (appropriately named the Colugo Compact) that’s a bit cheaper. But the Compact doesn’t have the same car seat compatibility featured by the One. So, if that’s important to you, it may be worth the extra buck to get the lastest and greatest from this brand.

Read our review of the Colugo Compact if you’re interested in that option.

  • Our review: If you need a stroller small enough to fit basically anywhere, and you don’t care about the fancier, bigger strollers (see Uppababy for a good contrast), the Colugo One is perfect for you.
  • Price & where to buy: You can buy directly from Colugo’s website for $395 and receive free shipping and a 100-day trial. Until recently, Colugo was a direct-to-consumer brand, but you can now also buy the stroller on Amazon and at Target for the same price.

Shop Colugo One on Colugo’s website

Shop for the Colugo One at Target

Shop for the Colugo One on Amazon

Best jogging stroller: Thule Urban Glide 2

A close-up shot of the Thule handle
You can just feel the gentle breeze flowing through that mesh, cooling your child, as your sculpted calf muscles power you past even kid-less runners at the local park

For the parent who just can’t sit still or enjoys the rush of the wind through their hair, the Thule Urban Glide 2 (Amazon) is our pick for best jogging stroller of 2024. 

  • Why we love it: This stroller is an absolute beast when it comes to jogging strollers. With 18″ rear wheels and a 16″ front wheel, this tricycle design lets you cover lots of ground on your daily run over just about any kind of ground. It features a handbrake, spoked wheels, and the harness keeps your kid where you buckled them, so no more surprise exits!
  • What you need to know: Like many jogging strollers, it is sturdy and built for speed more than maneuverability with a fixed front wheel. Also more expensive than the BOB (below). Reflectors on the body and wheels help provide visibility. Jogging with infants isn’t recommended until at least 6 months of age. Ask your pediatrician!
  • Price & where to buy: Buy from Amazon, that free Prime shipping is going to help with a big heavy box. The Glide 2 starts at $649.

Check Urban Glide 2 pricing on Amazon.

Read (and watch) our Thule Urban Glide 2 review

Go-to sturdy built jogger: The BOB Revolution

A BOB Revolution stroller in some fall leaves at a park

If the last stroller was a beast, this one is a tank. The BOB Revolution (Amazon) is another tricycle type stroller with large wheels and inflatable tires to handle the bumps in the road.

  • Why we love it: This stroller is a solid build with a handbrake, the ability to convert to a double stroller, and the ability to incorporate other brands of car seats with the use of an adapter.  The stroller is built tough for all-terrain use, whether it’s the beach, a mountain trail, or a run through the park. Also often retails for considerably less than Thule (above), our top jogging stroller pick
  • What you need to know: This stroller is heavy and cupholders come separately.  Adapters could be better marked and less confusing to use. Overall, this stroller feels a bit clunkier and didn’t ride quite as well as the Thule (above), hence why it comes in second in the jogging stroller category. But, it does the job, and there’s a reason it’s the 800-lb gorilla of the jogging stroller space …
  • Our review: Worth the price, durable, and you will use it every day, especially if you are active. It is durable and you won’t feel like you are breaking it when you collapse or open it up. Loved it!
  • Price & where to buy: You can buy this stroller on Amazon by using our affliliate link!  It helps us continue to bring you quality content and also with jelly removal. Right now it starts at $439, but lists as high as $549.

Check pricing on the BOB Revolution (Amazon).

Read (and watch) our full BOB Revolution review.

Best money-is-no-object stroller: UPPAbaby Vista V3(best luxury stroller)

We were big fans of the UPPABaby Vista V2. In fact, we deemed it the “Cadillac of strollers” after spending some time with the absolute beauty. The Vista V3 makes some deisgn improvements while keeping its leather-wrapped handles, noticeably smoother ride, and green-light indicator to show you when your brakes are engaged (if you’ve ever operated a stroller, you know what a big deal this is). The only downside? The new model no longer includes a bassinet with purchase.

  • Why we love it: The Vista V3 makes things easy. The braking system is operated with a one-foot pedal (plus, you get the fancy green-light indicator), and it breaks down quickly. Plus, it takes care of a few different needs. It’s compatible with our car seat (Nuna), and we used the bassinet stand to use the attachment as a secondary standalone bassinet when it wasn’t attached to the stroller.
  • What you need to know: This stroller has one genuine drawback—it’s huge. We actually found it to be a bit too big for a trip to the mall. But we used it in plenty of other environments, and we like that it can grow with our family. The V3 also doesn’t include a bassinet attachment.
  • Price & where to buy: You can buy the UPPAbaby Vista V3 on the company website for $899.99.

Shop the UPPAbaby Vista V3

Best wagon stroller: The Wonderfold W2 Elite

Two children in the best wagon stroller

When if comes to wagon strollers, you might feel a little bit like you are playing Oregon Trail again with all the stuff you can haul with the Wonderfold W2 Elite. A two-passenger stroller wagon with built in sun shade that easily adjusts, all sorts of zippered storage panels, and ease of use when if comes to folding and opening on the go, you might not want to go back to a conventional stroller again once you’ve used this wagon stroller.

  • Why we love it: Not only can you carry two kids, buckled in and facing each other, this stroller wagon makes transporting a sleeping newborn simple when converted to a bassinet. With plenty of storage, leg room, and a sturdy design you can easily maneuver, your kids can enter and exit through a fun hatch, and it folds up neatly for transport.
  • What you need to know: This stroller wagon is heavy, and though it folds up, it still has a fairly large footprint which could eat up a lot of space in your vehicle. The seats are adjustable, but for laying back you have to slide the seats up, at the expense of leg room. Though the fabric is washable, it might be less time-consuming to spot clean with a wet cloth and soap than it is to dismantle the whole assembly to wash on a delicate cycle.
  • Our review: Overall a quality stroller wagon that will be a joy to use. With plenty of storage space, solid construction, and clean looks it’s a solid buy, if not on the higher end of the price scale.
  • Price & where to buy: Starting at $529, you can purchase the W2 Elite on the Wonderfold website or on Amazon.

Shop Wonderfold W2 on the Wonderfold site.

Shop Wonderfold W2 on Amazon.

Read (and watch) our full Wonderfold Wagon review.

Best umbrella stroller: Summer Infant 3D Lite

Umbrella strollers are a common staple in just about every parent’s assortment of kid gear, especially when space is a commodity and comfort can be sacrificed for portability. That isn’t to say that you can’t have those features as well as durable, quality design and the convenience built in. And that is where the Summer Infant 3D Lite (Amazon) shines as our pick for the best umbrella stroller of 2024.

  • Why we love it: It is a cut above most other umbrella strollers, with ergonomic push handles, a light yet durable aluminum frame, and cup holders, of course!  The seat is padded for comfort and features a padded, adjustable five point harness. Unlike other strollers of this type, it features a cargo area underneath the seat and four anti-shock dual wheels. And, all this comes in at just under $100.
  • What you need to know: A little on the heavy side, the Summer Infant 3D Lite weighs in at 13lbs, but the wider seat means more comfort, especially for bigger kids.  The seat features a four position recline for comfort, naps, and relaxation for your passenger.  A sunshade keeps your little one protected from the elements when outside. While this stroller is cheaper than the others on our list, it’s not the lowest-price umbrella stroller you can find (and there’s a reason for that—build quality is better).
  • Price & where to buy: Purchase from Target or on Amazon.  Prices start at $99.99.

Shop Summer Infant 3D Lite on Amazon.

Shop Summer Infant 3D Lite at Target.

Best budget stroller: Graco FastAction Fold Sport Travel System

The Graco FastAction Fold Sport comes from a pedigree of tried and tested strollers and other kid gear from mega baby brand Graco.  This quick-folding, tricycle type stroller is more like the Honda Civic of strollers compared to the Bee6 above.  But it does come with cupholders, a sunshade, and snack tray.

  • Why we love it: It’s a combo! (Exploding head emoji 🙂 ) Meaning: this is both a stroller and a car seat, and they work together! Not only do you save money buying as a package, you’ll also get to experience the joy of taking your sleeping baby out of the car and putting her in the stroller without disturbing her slumber — the car seat clicks into a base that stays in your car, and clicks into the stroller base, too.
  • What you need to know: While this stroller’s wheels are marketed as ‘off road’, we found that to be a stretch. Big rocks and sidewalk bumps can bring the front wheels to a grinding halt.
  • Price & where to buy: Purchase on Amazon.com through our affiliate link!  Prices start at around $330.

Shop Graco FastAction Fold Sport (travel system) at Amazon.

Shop directly on Graco’s website.

Read our Graco FastAction Fold Sport review

Best double stroller (and best stroller for twins)

Our pick for best double stroller goes to a familiar favorite—the Mockingbird single-to-double. Yep, our pick for best overall is also our pick for best double. And for good reason. In addition the what we mentioned above, the Mockingbird has a key double stroller design — it is NOT a side-by-side design. Allow us to shoot you straight—side by side doubles are enormously wide. They’ll drive you crazy trying to Tetris them through doors, they’ll take up the whole sidewalk and cause dogs walking the other way to try and jump into traffic … we could go on. But, just don’t. Get a Mockingbird instead.

  • What to know. Mockingbird does get pricey when adding a second seat (which is why it’s nice you can do it later if you only have one baby right now). Learn more about the Mockingbird stroller by reading our review.
  • Price and where to buy. A Mockingbird with a second seat kit retails for $595. You can buy it from the Mockingbird website and Target (note you need to add the second seat kit separately. And you might need to use the search function on Target’s site to find it if you go that route.

Honorable mentions in the double stroller category go to the Wonderfold W2, also mentioned above (though note your kids need to be old enough to sit up on their own for this option), and, for you hardcore running parents out there, BOB does make the Duallie, and absolute beast of a double jogging stroller. Find wide paths for running and prepare to see pedestrians jump for their lives like you’re living a car chase scene in a Bond movie.

Other stroller shopping considerations

Chances are you’re going to be using this stroller through the majority of your child’s early years. Be warned, though—strollers multiply like rabbits, so start with two at your own risk. And unlike random pens and hair ties, strollers can take up a lot of room. Choosing the right stroller will help you cover as many bases as you can without having to add a stroller parking garage to your home. Like any good tool in your garage (or kitchen) a stroller should be good for more than one specific purpose, otherwise, you’ll have a surplus of the things in no time at all. Pay attention to durability, too, if you plan on using your stroller for more than one kid over the years.

Looking for more? Check out all of our stroller reviews here.

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A Colugo Compact Stroller review https://fathercraft.com/colugo-stroller-review/ Mon, 15 Jan 2024 16:26:37 +0000 https://fathercraft.com/colugo-stroller-review/ Welcome to our review of the Colugo Compact Stroller. Use this handy decision tree to decide what to do next:

  • If you prefer to watch your reviews, there’s a video review right below. Then, you can skim the written review for more details.
  • If you prefer to read your reviews, scroll past the video, and you’ll find our written review.

Editor’s note: Fathercraft is reader-supported, meaning, at no cost to you, we may earn a commission if you buy after clicking an affiliate link. Learn more.

Colugo, like us, was founded by a dad who wasn’t able to find the products he was looking for after becoming a parent. We strongly relate to this, so we decided to check out the Colugo Compact Stroller. In this review, we chat about benefits to a compact stroller, how easy it is to break down, accessories, what we loved, and what we wish could be different.

Our Colugo Compact Stroller Review

A compact stroller is (you guessed it) smaller than a full-sized stroller, and is likely to be lighter on features than its bigger, heavier brethren.

Small, but mighty. The stroller and the kid. Note this pic is the Gen 1 Colugo Compact so you can see a baby in it. Subsequent pics are of the Gen 2

Compact strollers are great in a few scenarios:

  • If you’re living in a city, where you’re likely to have a smaller living space
  • If you travel with your baby on airplanes
  • If you’ve got a smaller car with a smaller trunk
  • If you’re looking for a second stroller for travel

Compact strollers aren’t likely to be good for:

  • Infants (the Colugo Compact, as an example, recommends babies be 6 months old). But, they released “The Infant Kit” – a $95 add-on that turns the Colugo stroller into an infant-ready “bassinet” type stroller. We haven’t personally tested this accessory, but we love the idea of not having to buy a whole separate infant stroller.
  • Jogging (most compact strollers lack the suspension and big wheels that make for a good jogging stroller)

Alright, now that we understand a bit more about compact strollers, let’s talk about the Colugo Compact Stroller.

The Colugo Compact stroller on a park sidewalk
The Colugo Compact in its natural habitat — a city park

Colugo Compact Stroller stats

The Colugo Compact stroller is designed with urban & on-the-go parents in mind. It’s lightweight (just 16 pounds), it folds and unfolds with one hand in (according to Colugo) 2 seconds or (according to Fathercraft) in 3 seconds. Either way, it’s fast and doable while holding a baby in your other hand. Once folded, the stroller is just 17” x 24” x 10” and features a carry strap that allows you to carry it like a (somewhat bulky and hard) messenger bag.

It’s also designed to fit into an overhead bin on a plane, and it comes with a carry bag. Though we tested it in the suburbs of St. Louis, we could certainly imagine a New York mom or dad navigating subways and taxis with ease.

The next thing we noticed about the Colugo was its handling. We did some testing in a crowded Sunday morning farmer’s market and wove through the crowd with ease and a shockingly smooth ride and balanced feel.

Colugo also does a great job with its canopy—it’s UPF 50+ rated, easy to manipulate, and large enough to provide good coverage. You can unzip it to provide even more coverage.

Extending the canopy on the Colugo Compact stroller

The canopy also has a “peek-a-boo” cover for playing the namesake game, or just quietly gazing at your adorable little one.

Accessories

The Rain cover (included with stroller)

The rain cover was included in the base stroller price (it’s often sold by other companies as a separate, and pricey, accessory) and was really easy to put on without needing the instructions. It covered the whole stroller and was pretty roomy for the kid inside.

The carry bag (included with stroller)

The carry bag, also included with the stroller, was a nice to have, not super easy to get stroller in b/c it was tight. It’s worth noting that the diaper backpack won’t fit in carry bag with the stroller.

We’ve seen other stroller models you can roll behind you like a rolling suitcase, but we don’t think that was the use-case Colugo was going for, and we’re not sure just how necessary that is–why not just put your kid in the stroller and push her?

The cupholder

If you’re seen any of our other stroller reviews, you might know we’re not fans of stroller companies that don’t include cupholders with the base model. I mean come on, parents need coffee 24×7. Fortunately, Colugo includes theirs with the Compact at no extra charge.

The diaper tote (sold separately)

Colugo’s diaper tote is a small, no-frills (but thoughtfully designed) tote designed to hold the essentials for your baby (diapers, wipes, a bottle, and a few other things of your choice, which gets its own insulated pocket). The tote does not include a changing pad. Shameless plug, if you’re looking for a more, we here at Fathercraft make a bigger, full-featured diaper bag.

The Colugo Complete stroller in a backyard

The organizer

Out of the box, the Colugo stroller doesn’t have any zippered pockets. The On The Go Organizer is a new product (we haven’t tested it yet) that attaches to the handle of the stroller, adding 2 cupholders and 3 zippered pockets. Like other Colugo products, it’s waterproof & machine washable, which we appreciate knowing how gross anything like this can get. It also converts into a fanny pack or cross-body bag, so you can take valuables with you, and rock that oh-so-cool fanny pack look if you want.

The cozy

The Cozy basically turns the stroller into a mini-sleeping bag for your kid for cold days. It’s got a polar fleece lining on the inside and is water-resistant on the outside for Sex-in-the-City-type sprays of water from taxis. And yes, it too is machine washable.

Plus, crucially, the stroller can still fold flat with it attached.

Alrighty. Let’s jump into what’s awesome, what we wish was different, and our final verdict.

The awesome

Size, weight, and ease of carrying/manipulation

The Colugo, when folded, is small. It sort of accordion-collapses in thirds, into a relatively neat brick of stroller. Whether you’re carrying it over your shoulder, putting it in your trunk, or storing it in your small apartment, small is much appreciated. It’s worth noting that just because a stroller is labeled as compact, that doesn’t mean it’ll fold up super small. We’ve got an UPPAbaby compact stroller that’s folds in half, but is still a solid 45 inches tall when folded.

The size, combined with the carry strap placement and the three-second, one-handed fold makes the Colugo super easy to carry around, lift in and out of the trunk of a car, onto an airplane, or wherever your adventures take you.

A hand demonstrating the Colugo Compact stroller's fold mechanism
Press to fold …

Colugo has some nice animations of this folding and storage on their website here.

Maneuverability, ride, and build quality

As we mentioned above, the Colugo stroller has a surprisingly smooth ride and feels well-balanced, making one-handed turns a breeze.

This is due in part to a balanced design, and in part to the wheels, which are puncture-proof but also not the hard-plastic versions you’ll find on other compact strollers like the Colugo competitor Mountain Buggy Nano.

Finally, the Colugo looks and feels well-built. It’s got curb appeal (and with its variety of designs, you can match your style), and is solidly-built despite the lightweight design.

100-day trial

We love that you can try out the stroller at home (or wherever it is you take your kids) for 100 days. If you decide it’s not for you, you can send it back risk-free.

Machine washable, removable inserts

As we noted above, baby gear gets gross. You will (trust us) let your kid eat in the stroller eventually. And crumbs and food packet gunk will get everywhere. So machine-washable removable inserts are a key selling point you’ll thank us for pointing out.

The wish it was different

Straps & buckling/harness system

The straps and buckling system on the Colugo Compact received an upgrade in the second generation model. While the straps are still a bit flimsy and made of the same generic canvas-y material you’ll find you’d find on cheaper products, they do have shoulder padding, but are a bit on the harder end of things to tighten or loosen. We’re delighted that Colugo brought the magnetic buckling system from its the Colugo baby carrier to the Compact Stroller. It still takes some getting used to, but once you get the hang of it, it works well—magnets in the buckle help with final alignment and security.

Seat-back design

In order to achieve its extremely compact fold, the seat back on the Colugo stroller can bend in half. This can (and did once during testing) result in your child pulling himself forward into an awkward position. But, this just happened once and is another common complaint of the sector of compact strollers that fold like this.

We also felt the Colugo could stand for mesh sides we’ve seen on some other compacts vs its very open design–when it’s in the upright position there’s not a lot of side wall.

A lack of built-in frills

Out of the box, the Colugo is fairly no-frills. (Again, this is true of many compact strollers.)

Final verdict: is the Colugo Compact worth it?

Overall, the Colugo Compact Stroller is our top choice in the compact stroller category. And for parents who live in small or urban spaces, we think the Colugo could easily be your one and only stroller (assuming you purchase the Infant Kit).

The combination of design, size, features, buying experience and price are unmatched. And, while there are some quirks and small annoyances (we haven’t found a stroller that doesn’t have these), we feel like these are heavily outweighed by an overall excellent product at a great price.

Where to buy & pricing

Colugo started as a direct-to-consumer brand (meaning you could only purchase Colugo products online through their store), but now you can find Colugo at mass retailers like Target, Walmart, and Amazon.

But, if you want the 100-day trial, you’ll need to purchase directly from the Colugo website:

Optional accessories pricing:

That’s all for this review! Want to see the full list of items that made the cut for our baby essentials list that the Colugo stroller and carrier are a part of? Head on over here to see the full list.

Still got strollers on the brain? Well, then, check out all of our stroller reviews.

Editor’s note:

This review was originally published as just the video in January, 2019, but was updated with a full review in February, 2019, and updated with a review of the second generation compact in January, 2022. It was updated once more in January 2024 with new information about where and how to buy Colugo items.

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Graco FastAction Fold Sport Travel System Review — thoughts after 2 and a half years with this combo … https://fathercraft.com/graco-fastaction-fold-sport-travel-system-review/ https://fathercraft.com/graco-fastaction-fold-sport-travel-system-review/#respond Thu, 27 Apr 2023 23:45:27 +0000 https://fathercraft.com/?p=24159 Stroller review? Check.

Car seat review? Check.

Buying both in a package deal?!  Double Check.

Aaron Rogers? Discount Double Check.

I Need a Car Seat AND a Stroller!

Well you’re in luck!  The Graco FastAction Fold Sport Travel System is a great way to fill both of those needs.  In this review, we’re going to talk about the stroller – is it durable, easy to use, etc.

And the car seat – the things we like and dislike.

It can be challenging to find a stroller that fits your needs as a family.  Some are big and bulky and cost $5,000 (no, really).  Others seem too cheap to trust putting your child in and maneuver cracks in the sidewalk. Never fear! At Fathercraft, we go deep on strollers, so chancers are we have a stroller review for you.

Once you finally find a stroller that you like and think will work for your lifestyle, you now get to see if the carseat you planned on buying (or already have) is compatible with said stroller. Quick side note: why is it helpful to have a stroller and car seat that are compatible? Well, when your little one is real little, he may fall asleep in the car and you may really not want to wake him to transfer to the stroller. Hence: strollers that have car seat adapters. Simply unclick the car seat from its base in the car and click it into the stroller. Do all this with the super stealth transfer moves you’ll quickly develop as a parent and viola! Your baby continues to sleep peacefully.

But, what if you could buy a stroller that works for your family, is from a reliable brand, is easy to use and it includes a great car seat that is compatible?!  That’s exactly what we have here.  So, let’s get into it.

The Stroller

This Graco Stroller has been used and abused for over 2 and a half years in my house.  We bought it before our first son was born, and now use it with our second boy.  It has been folded and unfolded hundreds and hundreds of times.  It has seen puke, poop, food, water, juice, milk, dirt, mud, chalk…. you name it, this stroller has seen it.  It has been pushed around the neighborhood, the campground, the zoo, 5k’s, vacation  – just about anywhere and everywhere you can take a stroller.

A kid in the Graco FastAction Fold stroller

So – before we get into the minutiae of “was it easy to assemble” and “how much does it weigh” and “would it survive the Dwight Schrute Stroller Test?”, I’ll go ahead and give my opinion on this stroller:

It’s Awesome. In fact, we’ve named it one of our top strollers of 2023.

Now, for the minutiae.

Specs 

  • Stroller holds a child up to 50 pounds
  • Stroller features a one-second fold
  • Multi-position reclining seat to find the perfect position for baby’s comfort.
  • Large storage basket with expandable rear pouch to hold all your travel essentials.
  • Stroller weight: 21.38 lbs
  • Child’s tray with cup holder pivots or removes for no-fuss stroller entry
  • Convertible 3- or 5-point harness grows with your child
  • *Meets Disney size requirements*

Lets go over some of these specs;

  • One Second Fold: Yes, really!  There is a red strap right in the middle of the seat.  Pull up on the strap, and the stroller folds in half.  This is super convenient – you don’t have to click 20 little buttons to get the stroller to break down.  This part is awesome!
  • Reclining Seat:  This is also a cool feature.  When your little one is in their car seat, the stroller needs to be fully reclined.  But when they can sit in the stroller on their own, you have the option to have them sit upright or recline to almost completely flat.
  • Childs tray pivots or removes:  This is also a feature I like.  Sometimes it’s just easier to leave the tray off – it makes for easier transportation and it allows your little one to just hop in and out easily.

My Takeaways After 2.5 Years

I like…

  • That this stroller is super easy to use.  I have had to fold and unfold this thing hundreds of times of the last few years.  The folding mechanism shows no signs of breaking down or getting worn out.  Like I mentioned, it really is a 1 second process.
  • That this stroller is durable.  We have used this thing in all different types of environments – walks, camping trips, zoo visits, etc. and it has stood the test of time.  It has been loaded into the trunk of my car over and over. The wheels have gone through gravel and dirt.  The fabric has been abused with goldfish crumbs and juice. Yet, it still looks new and functions just the same.
  • When I’m pushing the stroller, it feels big and solid but I can easily load it into the trunk of my small car. This isn’t a small, flimsy stroller that weighs 2lbs.  But at the same time, its not so bulky that its a bear to move around.  When I’m pushing my kid in it, there is a nice weight there so I feel confident that a small bump won’t knock us over.
  • That this stroller came with a great carrier that just clips right in! We have been using the stroller for our 2yr old, but with the birth of our second son, we can just go back to clipping his carrier in for walks. It’s super easy and intuitive when attaching and removing the carrier.

I don’t like…

  • My biggest complaint is about the wheels. This stroller isn’t marketed as an ‘off-road’ stroller – BUT… if those front wheels catch a rock the wrong way, they lock up and put the breaks on.  We’ve had a couple times where we were going at a good pace and hit a rock or large bump/crack in the sidewalk and the back wheels nearly lifted off the ground because we came to a sudden and abrupt stop.  I’m not asking for off-road jeep wheels and a 3 inch lift kit, but being able to walk down a sidewalk without flinging my kid out would be nice.
  • The cupholders are not very deep. Yes, I know – first world problem times 10.  But if you have a drink in the cupholder like coffee or something with an open lid, bumps will be your enemy. We’ve even had taller water containers flip out of the cup holder because they are only an inch and a half-or-so deep.

Are the dislikes enough to outweigh the likes? Not in my mind. For the value – this stroller is perfect for our family.  It’s not too expensive, it comes with a carrier, it’s very easy to use and its good quality. It’s like a Camry or Accord. Are they the most luxurious? The fastest? Coolest looking? No.  But they’re not cheap, poor quality or impractical. That’s what you’re getting with this stroller.

The Car Seat

Cute yawns like this nearly guaranteed …

The Graco SnugRide Click Connect 35 Infant Car Seat can be purchased on its own, but it is included in this package deal along with the stroller. This car seat on its own comes in at $143 on amazon.  

As far as car seats go – you can’t do much better than this one. Like I’ve said, we have used this one twice now in the last two years. To be honest – there’s nothing I don’t like about this carrier.  One thing I especially love about this system is that the car seat just snaps into the base (which stays in the car). Meaning, you don’t have to get the baby out of the car seat in order to leave the vehicle, you just pick them up in the car seat and move on.  

Lets go over some of the details:

Specs

  • SnugLock Technology – A Hassle-Free 3-Step Installation; infant car seat helps protect rear-facing infants from 4 – 35 lbs and up to 32″
  • Adjustable base with 4 recline positions lets you customize fit to your vehicle; easy-to-read level indicator helps eliminate installation guesswork
  • Click Connect technology provides one-step secure attachment of baby car seat to all Graco Click Connect strollers and bases; convenient compartment stores both the LATCH connectors and manual when not in use
  • Rotating canopy provides shade and sun protection for your baby; removable newborn head and body support cushions baby; easy to use front adjust 5-point harness helps secure your child; lightweight infant car seat for easy carrying
  • Side impact tested for occupant retention solely with the built-in 5-point harness system; engineered & rigorously crash tested to meet or exceed US standard FMVSS 213
  • Graco ProtectPlus Engineered: a combination of the most rigorous crash tests that helps protect your child in frontal, side, rear & rollover crashes; additional testing based on the New Car Assessment Program and for extreme car interior temperatures

These are the main talking points from Graco. I want to go over a few of these in more detail:

  • Click Connect technology: This is super cool. When you put the car seat into the base, you hear a loud click sound that tells you everything is good.  Same for when you put the carrier into the stroller – loud click telling you that it is properly latched.
  • The canopy is really nice – super convenient for helping block out the sun.
  • The fabric is durable and completely removable for washing.  As we found out on consecutive weekend camping trips, sometimes little kids get carsick…

The Car Seat/Stroller Combo

So we’ve covered each individual product, now let’s talk about using them in conjunction. Like I’ve mentioned, using them in combination is incredibly easy. To use the stroller with the car seat attached, all you have to do is recline the stroller seat and snap the car seat in (you’ll hear that magic *click* sound). To use the stroller as simply a stroller, you can adjust the recline of the back to your child’s liking.

If you’re wondering, when should I use the car seat or just the stroller? Well, that depends on the age of your child.  

Use the car seat and stroller when…

Your child is unable to support their own head. Usually, sometime around the 3 month mark kids are able to support their head. Until then, you need to have your child in the car seat when using the stroller.

Use the car seat or stroller when…

Your child is able to support their own head, but maybe not old enough to be strong enough to sit in the stroller for a long period of time.  We found that if we were going on a short walk we would toss the baby in the stroller and get moving. But if we were going to be on the move for a while, we’d have him in the car seat just so he’d be more comfortable.

Use just the stroller when…

Your child has outgrown the car seat. We still use our stroller with our 2.5 year old – it’s still plenty big enough and comfortable for him.  

Wrapping Up

If I could wrap up this review with 2 takeaways, it would be this: Easy to use. Good quality.

That summarizes the stroller and the car seat. They are both super easy to use. This is so nice when you’re in a hurry, when you’re by yourself or you are in the parking lot and a downpour just started. Everything about this ‘travel system’ was created with ease of use in mind – and they did a great job. Quality – like I alluded to earlier, these items have been made with good quality materials and they last through a lot of use.

Here is the link to the travel system on the Graco website.

Here is the link to Amazon.

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Thule Urban Glide 2 jogging stroller review https://fathercraft.com/thule-urban-glide-review/ https://fathercraft.com/thule-urban-glide-review/#respond Sat, 22 Apr 2023 18:59:30 +0000 https://fathercraft.com/?p=24139 Before you skip reading this thinking, “just another stroller review,” note the Thule Urban Glide 2 is far more than just another stroller. For active parents, the Thule Urban Glide 2 is a dream come true! It is equipped with all the features you need and wants to make getting back into shape or diving back into your running routine after the baby flawless, and earned a spot on our list of best strollers of 2023. So go ahead, and hit the path in style with your precious cargo safely and comfortably seated in the Thule Urban Glide 2.

In this Thule jogging stroller review, we’ll cover the following:

Before we jump in, if you’d like to see this review in video form, it’s your lucky day. Here’s our YouTube version of this Thule jogging stroller review:

Unboxing the Thule and getting it ready for your first jog

Like other jogging strollers, the Thule Urban Glide 2 comes in a large box housing the folded stroller in a plastic cacoon. Once out of the box, the fun part of desecuring the stroller begins. There are multiple plastic zip-ties to ensure the stroller stays safely folded and the harness stays secure during shipment. After freeing the Thule, find the folding mechanism under the footrest to unfold the stroller. While the front wheel is already attached, you must add the rear wheels by simply inserting them into their designated spots on each side. Flip up the handlebar, and you’ll be ready for your first jog with your child!

Overall, unboxing is pleasantly simple and allows for use within minutes. Thule’s manual does an excellent job guiding you through safely assembling the stroller, whether you’re a first-time parent or it’s not your first rodeo. 

Most-talked about features of the Thule Urban Glide 2

The Thule Urban Glide 2 has multiple raving reviews, and I think most are due to the extensive list of features the jogging stroller offers. From parent and child comfort to top-of-the-line safety, this stroller has it covered. 

One-Handed Recline

The one-handed reclining mechanism is a popular feature of the jogging stroller because it allows parents to recline the seat quickly and easily, whether for better comfort if the child falls asleep during the run or just better positioning as the child grows. 

Large Storage Basket

A spacious under-cargo storage basket is a must-have feature for any stroller owner. The Thule offers plenty of storage space for keeping blankets, toys, a dad bag, or any other essentials needed on your stroll. It also features a cargo cover with a zip top, which keeps everything secure while rolling over all terrains. The basket even has a rear zipper pocket for additional under-stroller storage. 

Multi-Position Canopy with Peekaboo Window

The multi-position canopy is perfect for ensuring your child’s comfort. It is complete with a side ventilation window and a top peekaboo window, or stroller sunroof as I like to call it, for checking on your little one. The peekaboo flap features a magnetic closure to securely keep the window open until you’re ready to close it. Therefore, no more fighting with keeping the stroller sunroof open because of the wind trying to blow the flap closed. 

Lightweight Design

Lightweight and easy maneuvering is one of the numerous reasons many parents choose Thule Urban Glide 2 as the go-to jogging stroller. It weighs approximately 25 pounds and offers a swivel front wheel for normal walking speeds, and the wheel can be locked into place for better stabilization with increased jogging speeds. The rear 16-inch wheels include a convenient foot pedal brake for securely parking the stroller. 

Comfort Handlebar with Braking

The handlebar offers soft foam padding and multiple height adjustments for ultimate comfort during your jog. The twist brake located on the handlebar help navigate tight turns and maintain a safe speed on hills. Engaging the hand brake allows runners to easily slow down the stroller’s rear wheels to maintain a safe speed throughout the duration of their jog. 

Ease of Storage

The Thule Urban Glide 2 will glide into a compact fold to make storage a breeze. We all know how challenging it can be to fold down some strollers, so thankfully, it provides a one-hand folding mechanism. The fold point is hidden under the footrest and can easily be folded by simply lifting up on the folding mechanism. 

Top-Rated Safety

In addition to the convenience features, the Thule Urban Glide is built for safety. The stroller has a padded 5-point harness system for the child to sit comfortably and securely during your morning or afternoon run. The number of harness points is important because the more harness points there are, the more secure the buckle. 

Attaching the Thule Urban Glide's 5-point harness

Other Must-Mention Features

This sleek stroller is made for comfort and style. One of the other comfort highlights is seat ventilation to help keep your child cool during your strolls around the park. Essentially, seat ventilation is a fancy way of saying it is a seat with holes. 

Another important feature parents check when purchasing a stroller is the weight rating. The Thule Urban Glide 2 has a comparable child weight rating to other strollers, up to 49 pounds. However, the overall stroller weight capacity is 75 pounds. Therefore, you can feel confident using the stroller for a quick grocery run for holding your nearly 50-pound kid and 25 pounds of groceries. 

Our Thule Urban Glide 2 review

The Awesome

I really love the Thule Urban Glide 2 because it goes through rigorous testing before being made available for purchase, giving me and other worrisome parents peace of mind that the stroller can handle the toughest conditions and is made with only the safest materials. One highlight is the springy suspension of this jogging stroller, providing a smooth ride over all terrain types for both child and parent. This is very beneficial for bumps in the sidewalk or tackling more off-road trails.

A robust parking brake keeps the stroller safely in place when you’re pulled over to the side of the trail demonstrating burpees for your child (or just getting a drink of water.

I love all the under-cargo storage with a zipping top, ensuring all your items stay secure, even on uneven paths. The lightweight design and ease of folding are every parent’s dream. We also love how easy it is to adjust the handlebar height so that pretty much anyone of all heights can comfortably push the stroller. Finally, the one-handed, compact fold allows for easy storage in your trunk, closet, or garage. It also makes transporting to and from your favorite jogging spots or taking it with you on vacation simple. 

The not-so awesome

Overall, the Thule is a solid stroller, especially for serious runners. However, I have a few bones to pick about the seat that could make the jogging stroller even better.

When the seat is in its fully upright, locked position, it is still fairly reclined, making it kind of awkward. Also, the seat of the Thule is pretty narrow, probably for better aerodynamics. Still, it can make it uncomfortable for your kids, especially if they’re like ours and have a caboose to carry around. Utilizing the side mesh pockets beside the seat for carrying bottles, etc. further constricts the seat’s width. 

The verdict

All in all, I think the Thule Urban Glide 2 is a super stroller. It is perfect for avid runners and would make an ideal stroller for anyone looking to get back outdoors with their baby. So while it has a hefty price tag, it is worth it for active parents looking to explore local paths and trails with their babies. One option to make this fantastic jogging stroller more affordable would be to attempt to buy a gently used stroller or have friends and family chip in together to purchase the top-of-the-line stroller. 

Canopy detail on the Thule Urban Glide

Pricing and where to buy

As we’ve noted, this stroller doesn’t come cheap. Prices typically range from $549 to $699, and can vary by color, so if you’re not picky, poke around! At time of publishing, the grey color is the cheapest on Amazon, coming in at $549.

The Thule Urban Glide 2 is available directly from the Thule website, from Pottery Barn Kids, and from Amazon (with Prime free shipping)

Thule Urban Glide 2 vs. BOB Revolution

Comparing jogging strollers, I recommend the Thule over similar options, such as the BOB Revolution stroller. The main reason is that the Thule is lighter and constructed for maximum efficiency when pushing. The Thule comes in at 25 pounds, and the BOB Revolution is about three pounds heavier at 28.5 pounds. The Thule Urban Glide 2 is also super responsive at navigating turns with the easy-to-use twist handlebar brake. 

While the BOB says it can handle your child from birth to 75 pounds, the Thule has a child weight rating of 49 pounds and an overall weight capacity of 75 pounds. Therefore, Thule is mainly saying by around 50 pounds, your child should be up and running with you instead of relaxing in the stroller. Although the BOB is technically classified as a jogging stroller, I consider it more of a hybrid stroller. However, if you’re looking for more of a hybrid stroller to use daily and as a jogging stroller, the BOB Revolution Flex is probably the right stroller for you. 

Thule Urban Glide 2 FAQs

Is the Thule Urban Glide 2 worth it?

For serious runners or if you plan to run a lot with your kid, it is hands-down worth the price for new parents to splurge for the Thule Urban Glide 2. 

Is Thule Urban Glide good for everyday use?

While it can be used every day, the Thule Urban Glide 2 is better specified for runners. 

Is the Thule Urban Glide 2 easy to collapse and transport?

As we discussed in our review, this stroller is extremely easy to collapse and store. The one-handed fold allows for fast folding, and the compact, lightweight design makes it simple to load and unload from your vehicle. 

What is the difference between Thule strollers? 

Ranging from around $650-$850, Thule all-terrain strollers have different features to accommodate various needs. 

The Thule Urban Glide 2 is available in multiple color combinations and has a sleek, lightweight design for easily strolling around town or your favorite walking paths. 

The Thule Urban Glide 2 Double Stroller offers the same features as the single Thule Urban Glide 2 while allowing you to bring two kids along on your run. 

The Thule Glide 2 is a high-performance jogging stroller designed for runners to take on any terrain. The main difference between the Glide and Urban Glide is the wheel size, with the Glide having slightly larger rear wheels. It features 18″ rear wheels and a 16″ fixed front wheel. 

What accessories are available for the Thule Urban Glide 2?

Stroller accessories are less about adding visual appeal and more about increasing the functionality of the stroller. Multiple accessories are available for the Thule Urban Glide 2, allowing you to add customized features to your jogging stroller to your heart’s desire. A few must-have additions include: 

  • Infant car seat adapter: You can use the stroller from birth with the infant car seat adapter. It allows you to conveniently and securely lock the car seat to the stroller without needing to move your sleeping baby. 
  • Stroller organizer and tray for your kid: The zippered pocket and built-in cup holder keep your child’s beverages and other small items within reach. The simple and easy installation makes this accessory a lifesaver. 
  • Bumper bar: The bumper bar provides additional security by providing your child with a bar to hold onto while in the stroller. The bar swivels out of the way for loading and unloading your kid easily. 
  • Mesh cover: Helps to protect your kid from the sun’s harmful rays, wind, and bugs. It easily attaches to the stroller, providing a protective screen for your tiny passenger. The mesh design allows for breathability without intense exposure to harsh outdoor elements. 
  • Rain cover: For avid runners, a rain cover for a jogging stroller is essential. It is custom-fitted for the stroller to provide maximum weather protection for your kid. 
  • Bassinet adapter: Similar to the car seat adapter, it allows you to use the stroller from birth. The adapter transforms your stroller into a pram in no time with a ventilated mattress and bassinet apron. It is ideal for babies 0-6 months. 
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Evenflo Pivot Xplore Wagon Review https://fathercraft.com/evenflo-wagon-review/ https://fathercraft.com/evenflo-wagon-review/#respond Wed, 12 Oct 2022 02:45:18 +0000 https://fathercraft.com/?p=21190 Look, it’s a bird!

No, it’s a plane!!

No – it’s a wagon…stroller…thing… it’s the Evenflo Pivot Xplore Wagon!!

So, which is it? A stroller or a wagon? Technically a wagon. But you’ll likely find yourself using it like a stroller more often than not. How? We’ll get into that later. 

If you have the need for something bigger than just a single stroller, the Evenflo wagon is definitely something to check out. Whether you have 1 child and a bunch of stuff, or 2 kids, this wagon is up for the task. After using this wagon at the zoo, the beach, camping trips and simply walking around the neighborhood, I have a pretty good feel for what makes this wagon awesome, and maybe not-so awesome. We’re going to cover:

Quick note: we are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. More about our policies here.

Let’s get started!

About

Evenflo really markets 2 main features of this wagon: the easy switch from push to pull, and the all-terrain design. Those two features are plastered all over the website, description and graphics when checking out this thing. So let’s talk about those two features. 

Push/Pull

The handle bar is very sturdy. It feels super solid when pushing in stroller mode. It is also extremely easy to adjust the length of the handle to accommodate those with longer legs (no kicking the back of the wagon when trying to walk!). 

The Evenflo Pivot in wagon (pull) mode

To switch from stroller mode (push) to wagon mode (pull) is also extremely easy. Two latches allow you to swing the handlebar over into wagon mode. I found that wagon mode is much better for going through grass, dirt, gravel or sand.

Lookin’ good in the sand, and making you look good by making it look easy.

All-Terrain

So, is it really all-terrain? I’d say YES! We’ve taken this thing camping and gone through grass, dirt trails and gravel. We’ve also taken it to the beach and used it to haul a cooler, bag, beach chairs and umbrella through the sand with no issues. The wheels are big and sturdy enough to handle bumpy terrain. 

A boy being pushed in an Evenflo wagon on a trail through the woods

Cool Features

Storage is plentiful on this wagon. There is a removable tray that snaps right in the middle of the wagon for the kids to put cups and snacks. There are cup holders all around the wagon. There is also a movable/removable storage bin that can be placed in the front or back of the wagon (or taken off all together). 

Add-ons sold separately include a “toddler seat or car seat with adapter for flexible seating arrangements”. You can find these configurations on the company’s site + on Amazon.

Assembly

2-year-old Micah making assembly look like the breeze that it is

Assembling the wagon was very easy. It only needed a hex wrench (included), but that was only needed for one of the steps.  Everything else snapped into place with ease.  The instructions were very clear, and piecing things together was super intuitive. It took less than 10 minutes to fully assemble, and that was with my 2 year old “helping” out.  Even though this wagon is larger than our single stroller, the assembly was quicker and easier.

Things I Love

Durable

This stroller feels super durable.  It feels like it can take a beating – loading it in/out of vehicles, weighing it down with kids and gear, pushing over dirt, gravel or rocky terrain, etc.  I have never worried about the wheels breaking.  I haven’t worried about the weight capacity.  The wagon is solid and there don’t seem to be any weak points.

Wagon-Stroller Switch

It is so easy to switch from wagon to stroller.  I’ve had times when I’m pushing on concrete and need to go off into grass or gravel, and I can switch in literally 3 seconds.  It is really convenient to not have limitations on where I can go with this wagon.

Smooth Ride

Pushing this thing on concrete or blacktop is nice and smooth.  While it is a big, heavy stroller, it is very easy to push.  The big wheels help with this; once you get rolling, you don’t have to work too hard.  My wife has no issue pushing kids around the zoo in this stroller.

Breakdown/Setup

Folding the wagon up for storage/transportation is really easy and intuitive.  There are simply two buttons, one on each side, that you push and allow the entire wagon to collapse in half.  The handlebar can easily fold in as well, taking up less room.  To open up, just push those two buttons and the wagon swings back out to its full form.  I can prep the wagon for transport in less than 5 seconds.

Things I Don’t Love

The Weight

This stroller is big, and because it is so sturdy; it is kind of heavy.  It weighs nearly 35 pounds.  Lifting it into the back of a truck, minivan or SUV isn’t light work, and depending on how tall the person is vs how high off the ground the vehicle is, it could be a bit cumbersome for loading/unloading.  It isn’t ridiculous, and I’m not sure they could make it lighter without sacrificing the durability….but, it is what it is.

Bulkiness

Like almost any wagon that can fit 2 kids, this thing doesn’t exactly collapse down into a small box.  It folds in half, but still takes up a decent amount of room.  I drive a Mazda3, and it will not fit in my trunk.  So, before you buy this (or any large wagon/stroller), just know that you need a vehicle that can provide the room needed to transport this thing around.

An Evenflo Pivot Xplore folded up
Folded up, though not exactly what you might call ‘compact’

“Removable” Fabric

This is probably my biggest complaint. The fabric covering the seats/inside lining of the wagon looks removable.  And, technically, it is removable.  BUT, in order to do so, you have to unzip all the way around the wagon (I thought that’s all you had to do at first) and remove several screws that not only hold the fabric in place, but also different plastic parts.  There are probably 8-10 screws that would need to be removed in order to take the liner out.  So, if your little one spills their cookies (literally or figuratively) and you want to toss the liner in the washing machine…it might be a process.

No Snoozing

Another main drawback from this specific wagon that others don’t seem to have is that there is no way for your kid to lay down.  The area where your little ones put their feet makes it awkward for them to do anything other than sit straight up.  Some people on the internet have measured that space and purchased a container to fill the void, creating a flat surface across the bottom of the wagon.  But, obviously, this would be less than ideal if you want to create a good spot for a little nap while on the go.

Final Verdict

Is it Worth the Money?

Yes.  This wagon feels like it will last forever, I can see our family using it in several types of situations where it would be better than a double stroller and it just simply looks cool.  I enjoy pushing/pulling it around, and the versatility makes it extremely useful. Ready for it? Here’s a link to the Xplore on Amazon.

Why This and not That?

Compared to other wagons out there, the selling point for me is the versatility mentioned above.  I’m not worried about it having a hard time going over rocks/gravel.  Dirt trails, sand, grass; no issues at all.  I’m not worried about it getting banged up or damaged.  Once again, the only reason I’d buy a different wagon would be if having my kid take naps in the wagon was a big priority.  For our family – my son takes naps in a dark room.  When he’s in the wagon, its party time.  BUT, if being able to sleep on the go is important to your family – I’d take that into consideration.

Compared to a double stroller, again, the ability to take this wagon anywhere is a big plus for me.  The only thing that a double stroller might do better is allow both kids to face forward.

If you’re wondering how the Evenflo Pivot Xplore (Amazon) compares to other wagon-strollers, you might check out our Wonderfold W2 review right over here. Or you can browse our full collection of stroller reviews.

Pricing and where to buy

The Evenflo Pivot Xplore is available on Amazon with Prime shipping. As of publish date, the list price was $399 with Amazon offering discounts from time to time.

The Pivot Xplore is also available from the company’s website, BuyBuyBaby, and Bed, Bath, and Beyond.

So, what’s next?

As long as you’re here, allow us to introduce ourselves. We’re Fathercraft, a company built by dads, for dads. We review baby and kid gear, create online courses for new parents, and make stuff that makes parenting (even) more fun, like our diaper bag for dads. You can learn more about Fathercraft here.

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Wonderfold Wagon W2 Elite review https://fathercraft.com/wonderfold-wagon-review/ https://fathercraft.com/wonderfold-wagon-review/#respond Tue, 10 May 2022 02:40:49 +0000 https://fathercraft.com/?p=19104 Wagons for kids have come a long way since the days of the stamped steel Radio Flyer wagons, which also doubled for yard cleanup and likely dragging other hapless neighborhood kids behind you on your bike on a hot summer afternoon. Today’s stroller wagons are sophisticated pieces of machinery that fold up for travel and deploy with the idea that you are going to be out for the long haul for the rest of the day. Whether it is the zoo, a theme park, trekking through a national park, or a day at the beach. These suckers are engineered with parents in mind, safety for the kids, and versatility of being able to fold and go whenever you need them. It’s a Wonderfold world out there just waiting to explore, and this wagon is going to take you places.

Before we dive deep into this Wonderfold W2 Wagon review, let’s start with a video review of Wonderfold:

And, we’ll also take a moment to remind you that Fathercraft is reader supported, meaning if you click a link and make a purchase, we may earn a commission at no cost to you. Read more about our disclosures and how we approach these reviews in our policies.

Alright, let’s dive into this beast.

The Wonderfold W2 Elite wagon is one of many collapsible wagons made by the Wonderfold company.  Unlike a folding utility wagon you might use to drag around coolers and towels and other supplies, the W2 Elite is built for action, especially with kids and growing families in mind.  Here are some of the features:

  • Durability: The Wonderfold W2 Elite is tough and sturdy, coming in at 47 lbs and able to support 200lbs of kid weight.  It’s like a beefier Play-n-Pack with heavy duty all-terrain wheels, canopy, and an adjustable handlebar.  With modular seats that can be adjusted to recline or removed entirely, the kids can ride strapped in or sit comfortably in the wagon without the seats.
  • Body and frame: The frame is made of tubular steel alloy with reinforced plastic composite joints which allow for reliable folding and strength.  The Wonderfold W2 Elite won’t creak and flex like other stroller wagons after a long time of use.  It folds out to 54″tall x 19″ wide x 44″long, which allows for taller kids to ride comfortably with maximum visibility.  It collapses down to 20″ x 43″ to fit into your minivan, SUV, luggage rack, or bed of your monster truck for easy transport.  A safety catch keeps the entire unit folded and locked into place until you are ready to open it up and go.
    The body is covered by a breathable mesh fabric that covers all the hard points of the frame and snaps into place.  You can remove the entire works, including the seats, and harnesses, and throw the whole thing in the wash (delicate cycle, cold water, air-dry only) when it gets covered in too much stickiness and snack crumbs. 
    The mesh panels also feature privacy curtains which deploy from zippered pockets that Velcro to the floor of the wagon.  They are good at blocking the sun and wind for kids that are conked out and need a nap, or might have gotten Wonder-cold.  A zippered doggie door at the back of the wagon lets your kids climb in and out of the wagon, providing minutes of entertainment.  
  • Wheels: Four, solid-composite all-terrain rubber traction wheels with shock-absorbing ABS plastic spokes are ready to take on pavement, gravel, mulch, or sand and never need to be inflated.  The front wheels swivel on casters and the back wheels are rigid and set on a solid axle for strength and support.  A brake pedal is easy to kick down to stop the wagon from rolling, and sits in the middle of the back axle.
  • Seats: The seats are constructed from heavy-duty ripstop nylon with rigid fiber boards in the backing and seating for support and added durability.  The seats are removable for a variety of different uses, adjustment  positions, and even cleaning.  For bigger kids, special needs kids, or maybe parents (under 200lbs) the seats can be pulled and stowed in the storage basket. Threaded through each of the seats is a five-point harness featuring a magnetic buckle.  The seats face each other, with the rear-facing seat in the forward end, and a forward-facing seat at the back.  
  • Canopy:  The canopy is a four-poster set-up which is adjustable up to 54″ tall, or can drop all the way down to the top edge of the frame.  Each post of the canopy frame locks into place with the help of a pressure catch.  The canopy curtain itself can roll back and forth along the hoops to block your kids from the elements as needed.  Like the other fabric on the W2 Elite, it is UV resistant and cleans up with soap and water.
  • Handlebar: The handlebar is an attractive and grippy, vegan-leather which keeps your sweaty palms in control of the situation as you push your kids past the gift shop at the zoo, hoping they don’t notice the overpriced stuffed animals in the display window.  Because kids will ask for stuff no matter how many times you have Wonder-told them “No.”  It locks into three positions at different angles for tall, medium, and shorter people pushing.  It also folds completely out of the way for storage or just being parked.  Not only can you push, but you can pull with an included nylon webbing strap that ties to the front support bar.
  • Baskets and storage: Underneath the seats is space to stash toys, bags, or whatever else you need to haul around.  But on the outside of each side of the wagon itself is either a small zippered storage bag, or at the back is a diaper bag-sized compartment which zips and holds all your stuff.  There’s almost no limit to what they can Wonder-hold.  The big bag at the back also serves as a holder for the canopy if you want to remove the poles and fasten them to the frame with the attached nylon straps and snaps.
  • Breakdown: The whole unit folds up just like a play-n-pack.  Just press down on the levers on either side of the Wonderfold W2 Elite and lift up on the middle of the top bar and the whole thing will accordion in on itself.  If you are still rocking the canopy, you will need to push down all four posts before folding.  (Also, make sure the kids are out of the wagon first).  The seats can be left inside, but newer wagons might be more difficult to fold up without removing them due to their stiffness.  The safety catch keeps the unit from opening up again until you are ready. 
  • Trim: A wide selection of fabric colors are available, from  black, to black camo, to hunter orange, and a whole range of assorted colors and flavors in-between.  Match your car, look cool, or pick a trim for better visibility. 
  • Accessories: There are so many different things you can buy for this stroller wagon.  From insulated faux fur mittens to a heavy-duty pull handle, to stroller-type canopies, to baskets, and rubberized mats.  You can even get a solar phone charger, travel covers (for using on your luggage rack), or additional storage with bags, cupholders, and cargo nets.  You can click the affiliate links to find where these products are Wonder-sold.

Drawbacks

As neat as the Wonderfold W2 Elite is, it has its downsides too.  At $530 (recently down from $700), it is expensive.  Your first car might not have cost as much as this stroller wagon.  It’s also heavy at 47 lbs, and the videos you can find online for reviews make some of the users look like they might have needed hernia surgery after lifting it into the back of their minivans (lift with the legs!).  

The unit does fold up, but the canopy poles are a little clunky and never really seem to go up or down without some fuss. 

Wonderfold W-2 Elite, folded up in a driveway

The nylon fabric is washable, but the process of removing everything (and putting it back together again) is time-consuming.  Also, if you wash in hot or do anything other than drip dry, you run the risk of shrinking the whole damn thing, and if that happens you’ve got problems.  It might just be better to wipe down messes with a damp cloth and light soap. From what we’ve been Wonder-told.

Seats are removable, which helps with cleaning.

Like with any stroller brake, if you have big feet or walk too closely when you push, you run the risk of kicking the brake pedal and locking the wheels, making you feel like an idiot in the process. 

Detail of the brake on the Wonderfold W2 Elite

The five point harnesses are removable. However, they will not convert to lap belts only. 

Due to the weight and distribution of the frame, it might be hard to pop up an end to push up to 200lbs worth of kid(s) onto a curb or other uneven surface. Seriously, if you haven’t watched the video at the beginning of this review, go check out where this still came from:

Yes, that’s a fully-grown adult airborne trying to pop a wheelie to push a 3 YO and 4 YO over a curb. Physics, man.

The height of the wagon also leaves it vulnerable to tipping over.  Because of the ride weight and the narrowness of the tires, you are in for a workout if you try to push this thing loaded across sand.

The seats lean back quite a bit, but at the expense of legroom for the occupants.  The whole unit is pretty big when opened, and you might not be making any friends at a theme park.  Due to size restrictions, some parks (such as Disney) might not allow them at all. Be sure to check restrictions.

Comparison with Veer Cruiser

Other than the plethora of Wonderfold W-series stroller wagons, which vary slightly from trim to trim, the main competition is going to be the Veer Cruiser (Amazon). So, let’s talk about Wonderfold Wagons vs Veer Cruiser.

The Veer is a lower profile, minimalist stroller wagon.  The Veer Cruiser is a pull-type wagon with a similar fabric body and steel alloy from.  It also features caster wheels and all-terrain tires.  It folds up for storage and travels much like the Wonderfold, and the occupants face each other when they are buckled in as well. 

Veer does not come equipped with much else.  Canopies, storage bags and baskets, and other accessories which come standard with the Wonderfold are all available for purchase, which could reach an already expensive price point of $700 into around four digits.  For a wagon.  Not a station wagon. Or a Conestoga wagon.  But a stroller wagon.  That’s enough to make most people Veer into buying something else.

The Wonderfold W2 is a more comprehensive unit, especially for what you are paying for, taller, a push-type design, and with built-in tidbits like the canopy and storage pockets and baskets, you are getting more for your dollar.  The canopies (after market of course) aren’t as high, and might not be as comfortable for taller kids.  The Veer Cruiser does come with a snack/drink tray and two cup holders.  It is a pull-type design, and also features all-terrain wheels.  Fully-loaded, the Veer can carry about 170lbs.  So, unless you lay off the snacks, you probably won’t be taking a nap in a Veer Cruisere anytime soon.

Wonderfold FAQ

How does it compare with other Wondefold wagons? 

The W2 Elite is a mid-size stroller wagon with an occupancy of 2 kids (buckled in).  The W4 is slightly wider to accommodate the extra passengers (four kids), and the seats feature a middle harness setting that gives you a middle-seat belt option.  The Luxe and the Elite are very similar, with built-in canopies, storage pouches and baskets, and composite all-terrain wheels.  The original W2 is a little bit more no-frills, without a canopy and non-adjustable seating.  

The Elite seems to be a happy medium when it comes to ease of use, comfort, and accessories.  The price point is also reasonable when compared to the higher end models.

Is the Wonderfold wagon worth it?

It all depends on how much you are willing to pay for comfort and ease of getting your kids from one end of the Zoo to the other.  It rolls quietly, pushes and pulls easily, and folds up for travel and storage.  It is also less expensive than what other folding multi-occupancy stroller wagons are going for, so sure!

How much is the Wonderfold Wagon?

The W2 Elite has gone down in price to around $530 from $700.  You might want to buy two for that!

Can you wash the Wonderfold wagon?

Yes, but it is a complicated process of taking the fabric off, removing the rigid seating panels, and being mindful of your washing machine settings.  Then putting the whole thing back together again.  Cold wash, delicate cycle, drip dry only. Our experience is that it’s better to just wipe messes clean.

Wonderfold Wagon weight

A heavy-ass 47lbs.

Are Wonderfold wagons good for the beach?

As with anything with wheels other than dune buggies, you might not like pushing up to 200lbs of kids and cargo through sand.  

Traveling with the Wonderfold wagon

It does have a bulky footprint, not leaving you with a lot of space inside your vehicle, but once you get to your destination, you might appreciate the wagon when you get there.

The Verdict

Even though the Wonderfold has a price point at the upper end of the scale, it makes up for that with the accessories it comes with as well as the ergonomics of its size and comfort of use for adults that are pushing the thing.  It’s plenty roomy for the kids and has some excellent safety features.  It is durable, sturdy, and pretty cool to look at.  It works as well as a full-sized stroller, if not better, since it gives the kids an area to hang out, play on the go, and keep them shaded on sunny days.  It’s a little bit on the big side for size, but for what you are getting it is very compact when folded up.  This stroller wagon will last you for years to come and probably have you grateful you spent the money on it. Once you start using the W2 Elite, you might never go back to using strollers again. 

Kids never got tired of the doggy door

Maybe not the best for the beach, but it will serve you Wonderfold-ly just about anywhere else you find yourself.

Sorry, had to get that last one in there. And seriously, this thing is pretty awesome. So, we added it to our list of the best strollers of 2022. Ok, technically it’s a wagon. But, stroller-wagon is hip. You can also see all of our stroller reviews here.

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Uppababy Minu Review https://fathercraft.com/uppababy-minu-stroller-review/ https://fathercraft.com/uppababy-minu-stroller-review/#respond Sat, 05 Feb 2022 04:52:51 +0000 https://fathercraft.com/?p=19038 When it comes to lightweight strollers, they don’t get much more uppa-end than the Uppababy Minu.  Built and branded as a lightweight travel stroller, it’s the kind of equipment that will leave your in-laws saying things like “back in my day, we had umbrella strollers and that was good enough for our kids!”  The big difference between the Uppababy Minu and an umbrella stroller (besides the $400 gap in price point) is the fact that “back in the day,” nobody liked using the umbrella strollers. Compared to those nightmares, this stroller is a dream. By the way—we think about (and test) strollers a lot. You can find our picks for the 9 best strollers of 2022 here.

One administrative note: Fathercraft is reader-supported, meaning, at no cost to you, we may earn a commission if you buy after clicking an affiliate link. Learn moreAlso, we are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

To start off our Uppababy Minu stroller review, here’s a breakdown of the features of the Uppababy Minu, piece by piece:

  • Durable and compact: Crafted from aircraft aluminum, and weighing in at only 15lbs, the Uppababy Minu is durable, lightweight, and folds up into a compact package at only 11.5″x20.5″x23″ and is designed to fit in the overhead bin of most commercial airliners (probably not Spirit, but if you are flying with kids, why put yourself through that kind of hell?). 
  • Wheels: The 5.8″ composite wheels have rubber tires and  shock absorbing spokes for a smooth and comfortable ride.   The front wheels swivel on casters and provide adequate turning with a short radius.
  • Frame: When opened, the distinctive triangle frame is incredibly durable, with aluminum arms and ABS plastic joints, that resist corrosion and wear. It looks like it was designed by someone who was really into mountainbiking.
  • Locking mechanism: The frame folds up with one hand, though the locking mechanism is a little more involved than other strollers.  Simply slide the mechanism to the right with your thumb and squeeze the front mechanism and the whole shebang folds up like a Transformer to stow away in your car, overhead bin, or closet when not in use. One-hand operation is also great when your other arm is full of squirming toddler, groceries, your diaper bag, or you just don’t want to get your other hand caught in the frame as it folds up.
  • The seat: The seat is washable fabric (which is good, because toddlers seem to exude jelly somehow), and strong enough to carry a 50lb kid.  At 13.5″ wide, the interior of the seat is roomy, compared to other lightweight strollers, so if your kid is on the larger side, they should be able to ride just fine with a little more headroom than other strollers (such as the Colugo).  With an easy-to-use adjustment strap at the back of the seat, you can lay your passenger back for naps or just to chill.  The seat does not lie back fully, however.
  • Safety: The Uppababy Minu features a locking 5-point harness with adjustable straps to keep your toddler from toddling off as you are wheeling them around.  It also keeps them snug in their seat when maneuvering down the sidewalk, weaving through pedestrians.  The brake is simple enough to use.  Pedals by the back wheels are marked red for stop and green for go.   Push down on the red pedal with your foot to lock both back wheels into position, or push down on the green pedal to release the brake.  The opposite pedal will move up or down accordingly, so it is easy to see if the brake is engaged or not. 
  • Canopy: The canopy features a peekaboo mesh window which you can use to check on your baby and the flap is closed with the help of magnets. The canopy extends over your little one’s head and also features a sunshade extension that extends out even further.  The fabric is rated at 50+ UPF for protection against the sun’s UV radiation (but it’s still no excuse to not put sunscreen on your kid–or yourself!).
  • Handlebar:  A selling point of the Uppababy Minu seems to be the leather grips on the handlebar, which give you a sure grip whether it is sunny or rainy outside.  A departure from the ratty foam grips of less expensive brands, these are probably nicer than what you have on the steering wheel of your car. 
  • Baggage compartments: We’ve all got baggage.  The Minu features a compartment underneath the seat for carrying some of it around–up to 20lbs!  Perfect for a diaper bag, toys, or our personal favorite: a box of a dozen donuts (maybe not 20lbs of donuts, but we can dream), this fabric shelf takes off some of the load with plenty of space, (compared to the Colugo). The drawback to the open-end design is you might not see items if they roll out of the front or the back of this shelf.  If this happens with your kid’s favorite toy, you know there will be hell to pay when you get back to the car.  A handy pouch on the back of the seat also holds your keys, phone, wet wipes, or any other miscellaneous stuff parents have to carry around.
  • Handy-dandy shoulder strap: When you fold the Minu up, you can carry it around with the help of an attached shoulder strap.

Available trims

The Uppababy Minu is available in four trims, each one named after one of the kids of the developers at the company.  Uppababy will also let you pick up to four free swatches to see which you like best.

  • Devin: Light gray fabric with silver frame. Chestnut leather handgrips. (see it on Amazon)
  • Jake: Black fabric with carbon finish aluminum frame.  Black leather handgrips. (see it on Amazon)
  • Jordan: Charcoal fabric with silver frame.  Black leather handgrips. (see it on Amazon)
  • Ryan: Teal fabric with silver frame.  Saddle leather handgrips. (see it on Amazon)
Look at that chestnut leather! (We tested “The Devin” trim, in case you were wondering)

Accessories

You can upgrade your Uppababy Minu lightweight stroller with a variety of accessories.  A conversion kit allows you to clip in your Uppababy MESA (or Maxi-Cosi, Nuna, or Cybex) infant car seat to the stroller for children under three months.  Bumper bars, snack trays, changing backpacks, storage basket covers, organizers, and the coveted upholder are also available.  For extreme weather conditions, you can add on rain shields, and the CozyGanoosh for winter weather.

Drawbacks

We’ve already touched on some of the drawbacks of the Uppababy Minu lightweight stroller, but here they are again with a more critical eye.

The problem with the brake:  If you are on the tall side, or simply have really big feet, you might find yourself walking along and accidentally stepping on the brake, sending the whole stroller screeching to a halt.  Compared to other strollers, however (like the Colugo), the distance of the angle from the wheels to where your feet probably are is a lot further back, so with practice, you should be able to master how to walk in no time at all.  There have been complaints about the brake mechanism malfunctioning as well, which means you might have to flip the mechanism up manually to disengage the brake.

Lieback seat: The seat doesn’t lie all the way back.  There.  I said it.  This probably isn’t the worst thing in the world, however, since it also keeps your kid’s head clear of your feet when you are pushing them down the sidewalk.

Mesh window: The peekaboo window is nice to check in on your kid (did you remember to latch the five-point harness?), but considering it is mesh, if it is raining outside, you are going to want to keep that flap down.

The mesh peek-a-boo window of the Uppababy Minu

Lack of cupholder: Cupholders are important for parents.  They hold milk bottles, they can hold your coffee that you need in order to function, and you can use them for things like your keys or anything else you need within arms reach.  There is a decided lack of cupholders that come standard with the Minu.  You can purchase them as an accessory from Uppababy. 

Price point: When compared to other lightweight strollers, the Uppababy Minu is at the upper end of the spectrum.  Considering the add-ons and accessories you might want to purchase to make the unit more compatible with your lifestyle, the price only goes higher.  Accessories can really start to add on the price, and at some point you might ask yourself if it’s really worth another $45 for a snack tray or $90 for a gear bag.  At least the fabric will match!

Storage space that’s not a basket. For some reason (maybe to allow you go get bigger things into it) the storage basket under the Minu isn’t actually a basket. It’s more like a slide in storage bay. But you know the old saying … if it can slide in, it can slide … ok maybe we made up that saying but you get the point.

The under the seat storage area of the Uppababy Minu

Uppababy vs Colugo

We did a video deep dive into the Colugo Compact v Uppababy Minu. Here it is, with the preface my hair was not cooperating that day, hence the super cool backward-hat-dad look.

We’ve covered the comparison between the Uppababy Minu and the Colugo lightweight strollers before, but it is worth mentioning again.  The Colugo (our review of the Colugo Compact here) is a little bit more comprehensive when it comes to features (including a cupholder), and though the two are comparable in size, somehow the Minu features a little bit more headspace and a little bit wider seating for bigger kids. 

Both fold up to a compact enough size to make them manageable. The locking mechanism for the Colugo is simpler, without the whole Rubic’s Cube effect of slide over and squeeze and push that the Minu uses.  The Colugo just requires that you squeeze the handle and the unit collapses into its portable shape. The storage basket on the underside of the Colugo is closed at the front end, meaning your possessions won’t go flying out the front if you stop suddenly. 

The five-point harness on the Colugo also features a magnetic locking mechanism rather than  the traditional buckle.  It can be a learning curve to figure out how to hold the pieces together and fit them into place, but otherwise it works well.

Detail of the Uppababy Minu 5-point harness
Minu harness detail, which is simpler to learn than the Colugo’s (though the latter is cool when you get the hang of it).

Both strollers have a sturdy, triangular frame for strength and support as well as canopies to protect your kiddo from the elements. The canopy and seat on the Colugo are probably more durable for machine washing over repeated loads.  The seat and canopy are available in a wider variety of colors, but the basket is available only in black and the frame in silver. The basket only carries up to 10lbs of gear, which is a little more limiting for what you can haul around.  It does, however, still feature enough volume for a box of donuts. These things are important!

The Colugo does lay back all the way, giving your kiddo a full 180 degree reclining position for naps, chilling out, or whatever else a full reclining position lets them do.

Where to buy

The Uppababy Minu is available on Amazon in a variety of trims and includes the options to buy the stroller as a package, like the “from birth kit“.

Uppababy strollers are also available at retailers like BuyBuyBaby and Nordstrom. Worth noting you can’t buy Uppababy strollers directly on Uppababy’s website like you can with other direct to consumer brands like Colugo and Mockingbird.

FAQ

Is Uppababy Minu good for newborn?

The Uppababy Minu is not recommended for children under 3 months of age, however, you can buy accessories that allow for a portable bassinet (the From Birth Kit) which lets your newborn travel while lying flat, or Car Seat expansion kits that connect with various infant car seats.

Is the Uppababy Minu worth it?

Your mileage may vary.  The stroller is engineered with comfort, convenience, and compact carry in mind.  There are other competitors (such as the Colugo) which are just as durable, capable, and stylish as the Uppababy Minu.  It all boils down to a matter of personal preference.  For the price point, this stroller is on the spendy side (around $400 new), but it might fit your aesthetic, and if you can afford it, then why not?    

Can you fly with the Uppababy Minu?

Yes.  But always check with your airline to see if it still qualifies for carry-on status, since those rules seem to change at the drop of a hat.

An Uppababy Minu in folded position
Folded and travel ready (the stroller, not the truck)

Does the Uppababy Minu fully recline?

It does not.  But it lays back quite a ways.

Does it face backward or forward?

The Uppababy Minu is a forward facing single-occupancy lightweight stroller.  If you would like to know more about double strollers with rear facing positions, check out this link to the Mockingbird stroller which we have also reviewed.

The Verdict

The Uppababy Minu lightweight stroller isn’t going to be for everyone, but it is a damn fine stroller that holds up well year after year, and is durable enough to use with more kids as you have them.  The stroller is designed to go wherever you want to go, is folded up and stowed for easy transport on planes, lightrail, subways, and even your car.  What it lacks in accessories it makes up for in engineering and ease of use.  It’s a no BS piece of equipment to have in your kid arsenal that looks great, isn’t clunky, and gets the job done.  A little on the expensive side, but hey, your kids are worth it.

What’s next?

Hey, we’re Fathercraft, a company focused on helping expecting and new parents with product reviews, online courses, free checklists, and more. If you enjoyed this review, you’ll probably enjoy more from us! Learn what we’re all about here, get some free checklists for expecting parents here, or check out more of our stroller reviews here.

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