While I hate the idea of having to buy all new strollers…(ok, I rather enjoy the thought). The “upgrades” made to these next 3 are well worth, trading in the old…for the new. I’m very excited to introduce some of my favorite strollers & their wonderful improvements for 2010.
Some of the most noticeable changes to the Orbit G2 are the addition of a fabulous Ruby/Red color scheme and new toddler seat that features a previously lacking footrest. Yay! I always hated the idea of our daughters legs just dangling…but, not only is there a footrest, it’s 1 hand adjustable and grows w/your child. On the bumper bar, kids have the addition of a cute little ’Bento box’ w/lid, so even when you recline the seat, the contents stay in tact. The rear-tires have gone from air-filled to foam and there’s a whopping set of 4 shocks per wheel. The side handles that are used when docking and removing the seat and also allow the stroller to swivel on the smart hub, are now also used when wanting to recline/tilt the seat. Adjusting the comfy ergonomic handles is simplistic, along with the parent console that now only features 1 larger cupholder & storage for keys, cell phone…etc on either side. I have to admit that I loved having 2 cupholders, regardless how shallow they were…it’s a luxury most of our strollers don’t offer. So lets get to the bottom line…the G2 toddler stroller retails for $750, a noticeable difference from the previous $600 price tag. However, the infant system will remain the same price ($900)!
The best part about the Bugaboo Bee Plus is not only the new joint system that allows easier swapping of the seat from facing out to facing Mom, eliminating what used to be a rather tedious task…but, my new fave feature which is the height adjustable seat back & canopy. While the Bee remains one of my favorite strollers, it was quickly outgrown by our (average sized) 2 year old. So I can’t even begin to tell you how excited I am that the new Bee Plus will definitely “grow” with your child! It still has the same amazing maneuverability, roomy under basket, lightweight and an even more compact fold; while sporting new open star wheels and an improved braking system. The handle bar was also updated and now has preset increments for height adjustment. However, with these new features…comes a new price tag. The Bugaboo Bee Plus retails for $649…a $120 price jump over it’s predecessor!
Finally, my Love…the Stokke Xplory. I can’t tell you how excited I was to see this wonderfully sleek new seat on a rather unchanged chassis. New fabric for a more cocoon-like feel, new colors including a plush red & yummy purple, new canopy with quick fold visor. The storage bag is even bigger, with a more structured design and the footrest, which required 2 hands and a knee [and probably my only complaint] is now 1 handed! I can not wait to get my hands on this thing…Summer will not come soon enough! As far as price, I haven’t heard…
