When we found out we were having a baby one of the first big items we began to research was the stroller. We soon realized the smartest buy for us was to get a single stroller that converted to a double, since this was our first and are planning on having a second soon. We narrowed down our search to 3 strollers: the Britax B-Ready, Phil & Teds Explorer, & City Select. We must have read a million reviews and features listings before heading into a local store to test out all three and actually handle them (highly recommended). The P&T's was the first to go since it became quite heavy when folded for me (I am quite small at 5'0 & was worried about being able to carry it into the trunk). The other two were very similar in features, the City Select, however had the second child seated at the front (giving them a clearer and more open view, and not forfeiting the storage when the second child was in), whereas the B-Ready clicked "down below" and lost much of the storage with the second child. The CS handle also pulled out while the BR swiveled up and down. Now, since I am small I really wanted a double stroller that would not be massive for me. Although it had the better setup, the CS did convert into quite a long stroller for me when it was completely put together, whereas the BR was still quite compact and comfortable with room enough for both children. I personally liked how the BR looked better, since it had an included padding for the child's back and soft protective cover for the straps of the 5-pt harness (but this can be purchased separately I suppose). The deal breaker came when we learned of the Britax special that included your choice of the second seat or carseat, which snaps directly into the frame of the stroller without needing an extra stoller. CS didn't offer such a feature and was pricier to begin with so it was going to require the purchase of the stroller (more expensive), carseat, and adapter.
We love every aspect of this stroller. The recline function, the Britax carseat adaptability and that I only have to carry the base while the baby is still small. The fact that we can use the same carseat when our second child comes to snap at the bottom. It is easy to use and comes with the rain cover, cupholder and parent storage caddy included. We love the ability to position the carseat and stroller seat facing both directions, and that the large storage basket is accessible from all sides. I HIGHLY recommend this stroller, especially for a family just starting out with plans for (or an existing) a second child. Also, I recommend checking for current and future promotions offered by manufacturers since we were able to get a GREAT deal for both a GREAT stroller and a GREAT carseat all for the price of the stroller."..." Read more
- MommyToBe in Miami, FL