Stroller Search

Roll like a Rock Star

Who would have thought that shopping for strollers would be a lot like shopping for cars? The Bugaboos, Orbits and Stokkes are the BMWs, Mercedes and Jags of the stroller world. While the Gracos and Chicos are much like reliable Toyotas or Hondas. There are the off road vehicles such as the BOBs and Baby Joggers. And then there are the mini-vans - aka the double strollers. Whatever your needs are, there is a stroller out there for you and finding one can be as daunting as car shopping. We were in the market for an umbrella stroller and after test-driving numerous brands and styles, we finally found a winner – the Rock Star Baby Candy.

Ava's first stroller was the Graco Metrolite in the Milan pattern of Tiffany-ish blue and chocolate brown. I opted for this stroller because it was lightweight and I could easily snap on her car seat to cocoon her into a little shell (ah, the good ol' days). But I would be lying if I didn't confess the real reason I bought the Milan pattern… I will own up dear reader… I bought it because matched my delicious Cake diaper bag. There. I said it.

The year of the Metrolite has flown by and this poor stroller certainly has taken a beating. My beautiful diaper bag is now too heavy to lug around with a busy toddler and I'm at the point where I want more room in my trunk, less bulk and smaller ride. My new stroller wish list included: a seat wtih a deep recline, an adjustable leg rest, ease of use and preferably under $150. Is that possible to find? Here is the breakdown of my recent stroller discoveries and why Ava will be a Rock Star:

• Combi Cosmo EX – is adorable. This stroller looks like you could fit it in your pocket and comes in cute designs with names like Wasabi.  The price is on the low side at $99 (the Flare at only $69). But as appealing as all of that, it was unfortunately lacking. It didn't have a great recline and no adjustable leg rest, but the biggest deal breaker for me was the steering. It was tough to push and not very easy to maneuver.  For a cute, economy stroller, the Combi is… cute. But it's not for us. Next.

• Maclaren Triumph – is a smooth ride especially after driving the Combi. I liked the Triumph and I really liked the easy connect top clips on 5-point harness however the price was higher than I had hoped ($175-$200) and the leg rest wasn't adjustable. My search continued…

• Maclaren Quest – is a smooth ride like the Triumph with the added features I was looking for. It had the adjustable leg rest, it's very easy to steer and push and over all it felt good. Except for the price.  The Quest runs about $225+.  Ouch.

• Peg Perego Aria – is comfortable, lightweight and smooth, however it technically isn't an umbrella stroller and is about the same size as my Metrolite.  The leg rest doesn't adjust and the price is around $200. I would however, recommend this stroller for a beginner with a younger baby.

• Zooper Twist – is almost there. Although I didn't give it my full test-driving-workout, I like what this stroller has to offer. It has the adjustable leg rest, maneuvers well, folds easily, but the recline was just so-so. I could forgive that since it comes with a bunch of accessories like: a cup holder, leg cover for cold weather, rain cover and UV sun shade. You get all of this for about $189. Not too shabby.  Something told me to keep looking though. (Probably because I wasn't wild about the pattern and colors. This cute, green version sold here was not available.)

• Mia Moda Cielo Revolution – is unique. I had to check out this stroller with the strange design and ultra compact fold up.  Surprisingly the ride was very smooth. I love how this stroller condenses down and fits in a compact carrying case. However I'm not crazy about the open feeling of this chair-like stroller. It almost felt naked. The recline is also weak and while none of the umbrella strollers have ample storage space, this stroller has very little. But for a moderate $169, this design sure to be a head turner.

• Rock Star Baby Candy – rocks! This stroller, besides having the cool factor of being created by Tico Torres and Jon Bon Jovi, has everything I was looking for in an umbrella stroller. The back reclines to an almost flat position for the rare occasion that Ava may actually take a nap and the leg rest is adjustable for extra comfort.  It's easy to maneuver, has a good feel to it, has decent storage, and is only $139.  I do wish the top canopy had a window to peek through, but other than that it had everything else I wanted and it looks great.

The best part of all was taking Ava for a test drive. She loved it. I mean really LOVED it. She even had a melt-down when it was time to take her out of the Rock Star.  She kept trying to climb back in and was yelling, "Mo, mo mo!" (more in Ava speak). I was sold. It also comes in my signature color, cherry red. Which just so happens to match my new purse/diaper clutch. And my wallet. And my keychain. And my car. But that had no influence on me whatsoever. Honest.  ;)

I'd like to add… We've been using the stroller for a few days now while we are in Las Vegas. Because we are in hotel and in unfamiliar surroundings, getting Ava to fall asleep is tough.  This stroller has saved us. We recline it all the way back and off we go on a little walk. I thought the days of her napping in her stroller were long gone, but thanks to the Rock Star we've been able to get her to sleep. I love this stroller.  Rock on!

Comments

[Jazzy]

I hate to say this, but you did all of the hard work, and I am reaping the rewards. Now, all you have to do is tell me where in the Valley you found this gem :)

[Ro]

I'm glad it helped, Jazzy! I bought the Rock Star at Baby Ant in Tarzana (Ventura & Reseda-ish). xoxo, Ro

[Melissa]

I am still lugging around my Uppababy Vista for quick trips to the mall and while it is great for all-day outings, I sure do need a lightweight umbrella for everyday. Thanks for this review!

[Israeli Mom]

We went for a relatively cheap stroller, but a sturdy one. It served us faithfully in our town's rough roads for over five years (two kids)!

[Ro]

Israeli Mom- What kind of stroller is it? We are always on the lookout for good stroller info. Thanks! xoxo, Ro

[SuperMomz]

Great info - I'll link to it later today.

[TheScrappyMama]

Love the stroller! Thanks so much for the info. Will have to keep it on "my list."

[pushchairs strollers]

Great research! If all parents did this kind of research before purchasing a stroller, they would be assured of finding the right one for them and their child.

So has your purchase lived up to the expectations?

Recent blog post: Baby Pushchairs Banned From Cafe

[Rosina R]

Hi there! It's now been about five months since we bought the Rock Star and we still love it! Ava still thinks it's a fun ride and we have had several lucky naps in it as well. We've taken it to Las Vegas several times, amusement parks, malls and morning walks at the park. We both love it! xoxo, Ro