Updates from the original Raffi pushchair include a more conveniently situated foot brake, a one-handed auto-fold mechanism for frame and seat, and improved wheels for covering all terrains.

The bundle includes a sleep-safe bassinet, pushchair and footmuff and is available in three colours, including a lovely rich burgundy-brown – the ‘heritage’ shade I tested out. You can also use the frame with most car seats, an excellent touch that adds versatility and convenience.

It's £725 RRP puts it alongside the likes of the Silver Cross Tide travel system bundle, £760, and a bargain compared to the premium Bugaboo Dragonfly with carrycot, £945.

How easy is it to build the Bababing Raffi 2.0 pushchair?

It took just under 10 minutes to set up the Raffi 2.0 from unboxing to having it up and running with the carrycot attached. The instructions are very clear and easy to follow — I’m not a good reader of instructions and often find myself having to watch a video to set things up right, and although Bababing have these online, too, which is great, the paper instructions were plenty. Most of the set-up is pretty intuitive if you’ve ever used any sort of pushchair system before.

How do you fold and unfold the Bababing Raffi 2.0 pushchair?

Folding and unfolding the pushchair is simple enough, and takes seconds:

• First, push the sun hood back and lower the handlebar
• Lift the lever at the top backside of the chair unit and begin to push the chair together
• And voila! The pushchair snaps together to fold

It's very easy to fold, although I think the 'one-handed auto-fold' feature is somewhat overstated. I didn’t really feel comfortable using just one hand, and for all but the very last moment where it folds together, you’ll probably find yourself using two hands in some capacity.

I certainly wouldn’t feel comfortable relying on it while holding a child in my other arm, for example, and if you’re small or not very strong, you’ll probably find it pretty unwieldy to do this whole motion without practice.

How compact is the Bababing Raffi 2.0 pushchair when folded?

The Raffi 2.0 is pretty compact when folded, measuring L64cm x W58cm x H34cm without the carrycot. It would fit easily in any car boot (I have an estate car, so this is not an area I was worried about, but it lies quite flat, so shouldn’t pose a problem in even much smaller cars).

How smooth is the ride?

I can’t find any fault with the manoeuvrability of the Bababing Raffi 2.0 — it glides smoothly along pavement and grassy terrain alike, and even makes a good job of getting up and down the dodgy gravelled trail that marks the entrance and exit to one of my favourite walks around our local lake. Considering its sleek styling and appearance as more of a city or urban pram, I’m impressed that it’s unfazed by more countryside pursuits.

On pavements, it’s absolutely fine to be pushed with one hand, though I wouldn’t risk doing so on anything less smooth underfoot. Generally, the pram is lightweight considering its size and doesn’t require too much 'handling' as it’s responsive and the suspension is more than adequate.

What do you think of the Bababing Raffi 2.0 carrycot?

The carrycot is a great bit of kit, particularly thanks to the anti-reflux incline and the fact that it is collapsible for storage or transport.

The anti-reflux incline is essentially a little prop under the head of the bassinet that allows you to lift it a few inches. Although they recommend you don’t use this until the baby is over 2 months old, I could see that it would work effectively for those who need it, and is even a good idea if your child doesn’t have reflux, as it can offer a nicer position for the child to see a little further out of the pram.

We used the carrycot on some of the first hot and sunny days of the year and I was impressed at the thought given to keeping baby shaded and cool – the canopy comes down really far, eliminating the need to buy a pram shade, and you can open up a mesh area at the back of the pram to increase air flow.

The carrycot also has a 'Kose Cool' lining to keep the temperature under control – although I couldn’t scientifically test this, I can say that my little one stayed comfortable and didn’t get overheated despite the warmth of the days we went out!

How easy is it to lift the Bababing Raffi 2.0 carrycot?

It is easy to lift the carrycot off the pram frame one-handed, although personally I’d rather not – I tended to keep it on the frame if baby was napping in it and just wheeled it indoors. It’s actually almost too easy to lift it off – I occasionally tried to use the handle to pull down the canopy for shade by accident, and nearly ended up releasing the carrycot from the frame unintentionally.

What age is the Bababing Raffi 2.0 carrycot suitable for?

The carrycot is designed to be used from birth up to approximately 6 months. If you have a big baby, I don’t think the carrycot will quite take you to 6 months (it’s not super long, so if your baby is tall, it won’t be roomy forever, but it carries up to 9kg).

For a child on the 50th percentile or below, it should last just fine, and for the first six weeks of his life, my baby has found it very comfortable and napped in it happily for more than an hour at a time.

What’s the seat like on the Bababing Raffi 2.0?

The pushchair seat is particularly important, as you’re likely to use this for much longer than the carrycot. It promises to carry up to 22kg, which could theoretically take you well past the toddler years, although at two, my toddler is already going off being transported in a pushchair, much preferring to balance bike – or worse, to be carried.

When he was in it, he didn’t complain and seemed comfortable and well-supported, and the magnetic buckle made securing him in the seat easy and uncomplicated.

The seat also lies almost flat for younger babies, if you want to use it from newborn, although I would not feel comfortable with this as I prefer the high sides and big sun canopy of the carrycot, which feels much safer and more protected for such a tiny one.

Is the pushchair easy to adjust for the parent and child?

Yes – the adjustable footrest on the Bababing Raffi 2.0 means it grows with your toddler and can be used or not used depending on what they find most comfortable. The canopy coverage is very good, especially on the carrycot attachment, although you might still need an extra sun shade on the pushchair on very bright days, especially if your toddler needs to nap on the go.

The handlebar adjusts easily between three heights, doable with just a squeeze of the button in the middle of the bar, and could be tweaked to suit me at 5ft 7 just as well as my husband at 6ft 2.

What are the brakes like on the Bababing Raffi 2.0 pushchair?

Great. The brake pedal is easy to use with a press or flick of your right foot to engage or release.

Do you like the storage basket on the Bababing Raffi 2.0 pushchair?

The storage could be a little better — the basket is a good size, although it appears bigger than it is in practice. It’s much easier to access when the carrycot is attached to risers — without them, it can be a bit difficult to get bits and pieces in and out. It would have been nice to have a little pocket somewhere to easily slip things like your phone or keys.

The bag hooks are nifty and work well – they are perfect for my large, shoulder bag style Avery Row nappy bag (though this will depend much on what kind of bag you have), but the one thing I am really missing is a cup holder! Where is this mama meant to put her coffee? I didn’t realise how much of an essential I considered this feature until I realised the Raffi didn’t offer it. Perhaps an idea for inclusion on a future 3.0 model…

How easy is it to switch between the seat and the carrycot on the Bababing Raffi 2.0 pushchair?

Switching between carrycot and pushchair attachments, or switching the pushchair from rear- to front-facing, is easy, although typically this is not something you’re likely to switch back and forth between often. I’ve always moved from carrycot to rear-facing pushchair at around 6 months old and then on to forward-facing shortly afterwards, and never looked back after moving on from each stage.

What’s in the box?

• Bababing Raffi 2.0 frame with storage basket
• Sleep safe carrycot
• Forward- and rear-facing seat unit
• Carrycot risers
• Car seat adapters
• Footmuff
• Raincover

Is the Bababing Raffi 2.0 pushchair worth the money?

Yes, I think it’s worth the money. It offers a similar level of quality to most competitors in the same price bracket, and some that exceed it, in particular the anti-reflux incline, the collapsible carrycot and the ability to use your own car seat with the frame.

What are the sustainability features of the pushchair?

The Bababing Raffi 2.0 is made from 100% recycled materials, and most parts can be replaced if necessary. The packaging was minimal – it all came in one large, recyclable cardboard box, which was surprisingly streamlined given the large parts included.

Where can I buy the Bababing Raffi 2.0 pushchair?

It is available from Kiddies' Kingdom, John Lewis and Bababing.

MadeForMums verdict:

The Raffi 2.0 is a solid, attractively designed pushchair which is as effective on all terrains and neither too large nor too small for your average outing. It’s the only pushchair you’re likely to need for one child, and it has some excellent features for particular problems, such as helping a reflux baby travel comfortably and keeping baby cool in warmer weather.

The one let-down for me is the lack of extra storage, such as a cupholder or the inclusion of any pockets or pouches, but if you’re happy with the colour range and those things don’t bother you, you can’t go far wrong with the Raffi.

Compared to sister pushchair Dune 2, which is designed for urban use, the Reef 2 has bigger wheels and enhanced suspension for multiple surfaces, making it a good choice for rural families who need a pushchair that can cope with a variety of terrain.

While the Reef 2's seat can fully lie flat, you can also buy a newborn carrycot, £250, if you prefer for those early months. It is suitable for overnight sleeping and, when not in use, folds flat for easy storage.

With an RRP of £695, the Reef 2 is an excellent quality travel system, that's versatile, stylish and feels premium.

How easy is it to build the Silver Cross Reef 2 pushchair?

Very! The pushchair arrived partly assembled and all we needed to do was unfold the base and seat unit, click on the wheels, and attach the hood and bumper bar. This meant it could be built in minutes. The trickiest bit was lining up and clipping the hood on.

How easy is it to fold and unfold the Silver Cross Reef 2 pushchair?

The pushchair is straightforward to fold and unfold. We didn’t have to spend time looking through the manual the first time we used it either, as handily there was a label attached explaining how to fold the pushchair in 5 easy-to-follow steps:

• Apply the brake and unlock the swivel wheels.
• Fold the seat.
• Slide the handle to its lowest position.
• Slide the catch on the handle, raise the handle slightly and press the trigger.
• Lower the handle.

To unfold the pushchair you:

• Move the lever on the lower right-hand side of the frame.
• Lift the handle.
• Lift up the seat unit using the catch on the back of the seat, underneath the hood.

How compact and portable is the Silver Cross Reef 2 pushchair?

The Silver Cross Reef 2 is a well-built and sturdy pushchair; the downside of that is it’s pretty heavy at 13.2kg. Depending on the height of your car boot it can be a struggle to load as it's also a fairly wide pushchair (61cm) so swallows up a lot of room in the boot. However, you can remove the seat to lighten the load and for flexibility about how you arrange it in the boot. It measures L71cm x W61cm x H30.5cm when folded, a little smaller than the Bugaboo Dragonfly.

During our family holiday, we were able to fit the pushchair, carrycot and plenty of luggage into the boot of our 7-seater SUV, with the back row of seats in the car folded flat. I am not sure we would have managed that if the carrycot didn’t collapse (a really nifty feature).

Given the weight of the pushchair with the seat attached, I couldn’t carry it and hold my baby at the same time, and there is no shoulder strap or carry case. However, it does self-stand well and never once toppled over.

How comfortable is the Silver Cross Reef 2 pushchair for your baby?

The first thing I noticed about the Silver Cross Reef 2 was the high quality materials. The carrycot (bought separately) comes with a soft bamboo mattress and my daughter slept soundly on it. She did look a little lost when the carrycot cover was attached, so I am not sure I would use the cover with a newborn baby.

Alternatively, you can use the seat unit from birth as it can lie completely flat. It also has a built-in footrest with plenty of room for a growing toddler. The harness is secure but my daughter had a habit of chewing on the adjustable straps, which I wasn’t able to tuck in.

I tested the Silver Cross Reef 2 in the spring, but for the warmer summer months there is plenty of ventilation in the hood and it offers UPF50+ protection for added comfort.

Is it easy to attach and detach the Reef 2 carrycot?

It’s very easy and can be done one-handed by holding the handle of the hood and clicking the carrycot in place. Once attached it feels secure, although there is a degree of movement if you wiggle the base.

How easy is it to switch between carrycot and seat unit on the Silver Cross Reef 2 pushchair?

Switching between the carrycot and seat unit can be done in a matter of minutes, without needing any tools. You simply press the buttons on either side of the seat unit to lift it off and, as mentioned, the carrycot can be fitted one-handed.

How smooth is the ride?

The Silver Cross Reef 2 is an all-terrain pushchair and I found it coped well with grass, gravel and cobbles. It wasn’t perfect, however. The wheels got stuck if the gravel was too deep or if the pavement or cobbles were too uneven.

My daughter was perfectly happy though, even on the bumpiest terrain, and on smooth tarmac it was super easy to push, and I could steer it comfortably with one hand. I also appreciated the fact that it was very quiet with no intrusive rattles, making it a pleasant experience for long walks.

How easy is it to manoeuvre the Silver Cross Reef 2 pushchair?

Generally, the Silver Cross Reef 2 is great to manoeuvre and feels solid. My only grumble is that kerbs are not effortless. You need the handle at the right height to put quite a bit of weight down on it in order to bump it up the kerb. It also struggled with some small ridges on a footbridge.

How good are the brakes?

The Reef 2's brake is positioned centrally on the footbar, so it’s ideal whether you are left or right-handed. It has step-on, step-off functionality and is clearly marked by a red sticker, making it easy to use. I tested the brakes on several steep inclines and it held the pushchair comfortably.

What do you think of the basket on the Silver Cross Reef 2 pushchair?

The Reef 2 has a generous basket; during our holiday we were able to load it up with a sports holdall and 3 large drinks bottles, with room for a few more small items. The basket is shaped so that nothing falls out, but that does mean it can only be loaded from the widest part at the front.

What's the Silver Cross Reef 2 pushchair's handlebar like?

The handlebar is comfortable and stylish with soft vegan leather. There’s a metal plate with an embossed Silver Cross logo which looks discretely premium. I’m 5ft 2in, but the handlebar can easily be extended to suit much taller parents by squeezing the button on the underside of the bar.

What do you think of the hood on the Silver Cross Reef 2?

The hood is thicker than on other pushchairs I’ve used and provides good shade when the pushchair is upright or reclined thanks to a pop-out sun peak. In a lie-flat position though a sun shade would be needed.

What did you think of the harness on the Silver Cross Reef 2 pushchair?

One practical feature which I found a little frustrating was the magnetic Genius™ buckle and multi-height rucksack-style harness. The idea of putting magnets together sounds brilliant, but with a wriggly baby it could be a real challenge at times. As soon as I had fitted some of the magnets together she arched her back and they all came apart again before I had secured them. I found it best to secure 2 of the magnets at a time rather than trying to hold all 4 parts. I know some parents really like magnetic buckles, but I found them a little tricky with such a young baby.

What’s in the box?

I tested the travel system and carrycot bundle which included:

• Reef 2 chassis and seat
• Carrycot
• Universal car seat adapters
• Rain covers

Is the Silver Cross Reef 2 pushchair worth the money?

With a £945 price tag, the Silver Cross Reef 2 pushchair and carrycot bundle is at the premium end of the market but is not as expensive as some rivals. It comes with a 3-year warranty and feels sturdy enough to not only take a baby from birth to toddler age, but potentially be used for another child if your family grows. In that respect it’s a good investment. If you're happy to use the pushchair seat unit in the lie-flat position, you can save the extra spend on a carrycot, making the Reef 2 a more affordable £695.

How sustainable is the Reef 2?

Silver Cross are taking positive steps, and I was pleased to see the Reef 2’s premium jersey fabric is sustainable, being made from recycled plastic bottles.

The life of the pushchair can be extended through Silver Cross’s premium valet and service, which includes a 6-point safety check and replacement of parts such as the wheels, brakes and harness, if necessary, as well as steam cleaning the chassis and fabrics. Also, rather than selling the Reef 2 after your child has outgrown it, you can donate it to a family in need through Silver Cross’s partnership with charity Baby Basics UK.

Where can I buy the Silver Cross Reef 2 pushchair?

It's available at Silver Cross, Amazon and John Lewis.

MadeForMums verdict

If you’re looking for a premium all-terrain pushchair that’s stylish, robust, easy to fold/unfold and has quality materials then you should definitely consider the Silver Cross Reef 2 pushchair. It feels made to last, although it's worth factoring in the extra cost of the carrycot (if you want to use it in this configuration) as well as the space you'll need to fit everything in your boot. Perfect for using around town and on country walks, it's a great all-rounder.

The idea is that this is an all-in-one pram that grows with your family and has plenty of room between the seats (which each supports children up to 22kg), with an RRP of £899. However, if you want to use it in double seat mode you'll also need to buy the second seat conversion kit for around £239.

What were your first impressions of the pushchair?

Taking the City Select 2 out of the box, I was impressed by its sleek and simple black design. Baby Jogger wasn’t a company I was previously familiar with, but on first impressions, its looks matched up to my other prams from well-known brands – the UPPAbaby Vista and Silver Cross Wayfarer.

How easy is it to build the Baby Jogger City Select 2 pushchair?

Very. It was straightforward to build, with simple and intuitive picture-based instructions that were clear to follow. Once I pulled it all out of the boxes, I set up the pram on my own in less than 10 minutes during naptime.

How does the City Select 2 compare to the Baby Jogger City Select?

The City Select 2 is pretty similar to Baby Jogger’s original City Select in design and appearance, with a few minor alterations made to improvement its usability. One was to make it easier to fold with the pushchair seat attached, and the other was to change the handbrake to a footbrake as is more commonly found on prams.

What do you think of the carrycot on the Baby Jogger City Select 2?

It felt sturdy and of good quality, although at 5kg it's fairly heavy to lift away from the chassis. I did feel the Velcro which attached the foot cover to the carrycot was a little flimsy and easy to knock off – I would have preferred a zip. I found the carrycot to be a little narrower than usual, although this did have its advantages when navigating skinny pavements and public transport.

Due to the City Select’s multi-configuration design, the Deluxe Carrycot 2 sits high up on the chassis. This was perfect for my height (5ft 7in) and my 6ft 2in husband found the pram very comfortable to use with the handlebar extended. The height made the carrycot feel very close, and it was easy to check on my baby with minimal leaning or bending forward – something which would have been a godsend for the first few weeks post-c-section.

However, I felt the height of the bassinet was a potential design flaw for shorter people. While you can attach the carrycot to the second lower attachment point on the chassis, where you would put a second seat, the handlebar then gets in the way of being able to easily lean down to baby.

It was also a bit of a pain that when sat down next to the pram in cafes and pubs, it was impossible to see into the carrycot without standing up. I think anyone under my height might struggle to use the pram to its full capacity.

Is the Baby Jogger City Select 2 carrycot comfortable for a baby?

My little boy loved sleeping in the Deluxe Carrycot 2 and had some of his best naps in recent months in there while out and about (up to 3 hours, the actual dream) so it seems he found it very comfortable! The mattress was firm, supportive, breathable and waterproof, in keeping with UK safe sleeping guidance.

The carrycot had deep sides which made for a cosy space inside and Baby Jogger say the bassinet is safe for overnight sleep if not attached to the pram chassis.

My little one is a fairly low centile baby and already didn't have loads more room left to grow due to the length, but particularly the narrowness, of the bassinet. While the instructions suggest the carrycot is suitable for babies up to 6 months of age, larger centile youngsters may grow out of this sooner.

One issue I did have is that the fabric lining of the carrycot wasn’t flush with the outer plastic layer and puffed out. While this created a cosy nest for baby, it made the available sleep space even narrower. A few times I found my son had ended up with his nose and face pressed against the side of the carrycot, which I wasn’t happy about from a safe sleep perspective, and so moved him away from the edge.

How easy is the carrycot to add on/take off the Baby Jogger City Select 2 pushchair?

Lifting the carrycot off the pram’s frame requires pressing a button on either side of the bottom of the carrycot at once. They’re not memory buttons, so you do have to press with both hands at the same time to lift the bassinet away.

It’s not a particularly fiddly process, but I do prefer to see baby items made with one-handed use in mind, for obvious reasons. This does make it safer to remove with baby inside, however, as you always have both hands on the frame. I didn’t find this very easy, just due to the depth of the bassinet, but my husband found it more straightforward with his longer arms.

How easy is it to fold the Baby Jogger City Select 2 pushchair?

I found the City Select 2 easy to fold, with a simple safety guard you pull to separate the frame before deploying the finger triggers on the handlebar. As my baby is only 4 months old, we tested the pram with the carrycot, which had to be removed prior to folding. However, when the pushchair seat is used the chassis will fold down with the seat attached (and facing either direction, although world-facing is easier), which is really useful.

How compact is the City Select 2 when folded?

When folded the Baby Jogger City Select 2 measures L103cm x W65cm x H31cm – a little bigger than other single to double pushchairs like the iCandy Peach 7 (L70cm x W61cm x H29cm) and the Cybex Gazelle S (L74.5cm x W56cm x H32cm).

The frame when folded was comparable to my UPPAbaby Vista pram, which has similarly large wheels. I found it fairly bulky but could be stored without too much issue in a car boot or cupboard at home, although it won’t stand up on its own so needs to be laid flat or propped up. At 12.5kg, it certainly isn’t light, but I could lift it up and put it in the car without too much difficulty.

The bassinet obviously takes up a lot of space due to its length and depth, but handily for storage will compress down concertina-style by folding the bars inside which give it its structure. Together, the frame and bassinet took up the majority of the floor space of my fairly roomy boot, but piled on top of each other there was space for a few bags of shopping too.

How easy is the Baby Jogger City Select 2 to push and steer?

The lightweight but sturdy frame meant the pram could be pushed one-handed without too much difficulty, which I appreciated when trying to walk baby and dog on my own. I also found its extra height made for a smoother ride when mounting high kerbs and going up and down steps, although this was much more of a wrist workout when the basket underneath contained a full load.

I particularly liked how smooth I found cornering and steering. The wheels had a tight turning circle which was especially appreciated when manoeuvring the pram around my narrow hallway, on trains and buses and in city centre shops.

One area I felt the City Select 2 could be improved was the front-wheel suspension, which despite being billed as offering a ‘more comfortable ride’ felt a little rigid – going over cobbles and icy grass (yes, in the interests of intrepid journalism, I took the pram out in the snow) the pushchair felt noticeably bumpier, and my little one got quite the bounce around.

How well does the Baby Jogger City Select 2 work on public transport?

Living in a city, using public transport with baby is par for the course, and the City Select 2 didn’t let me down. The narrow carrycot and tight turning circle meant I felt confident taking it on trains and buses. The large wheels also made it easy to navigate getting the pram on and off the train on my own – although this being Liverpool and Scousers being the friendliest people in the world, I received many offers of help.

What’s the chassis like?

The all-black design was sleek and stylish but didn't have any of the metallic accents I've come to associate with more premium brands. This did make the frame more scratch-friendly however, and it still looks as good as new.

How do you rate the buggy handle on the Baby Jogger City Select 2 pushchair?

The adjustable handle was smooth and straightforward; one of the best I've come across. It had a decent range of height options – at 5ft 7in, I used the handlebar without extending it, while my 6ft 2in husband found having it extended was more comfortable.

The handlebar was comfortable to hold, with a textured faux leather finish. However, as mentioned earlier I feel people shorter than me might find the handlebar and positioning of the carrycot too high to use comfortably.

What do you think of the City Select 2 seat unit?

As my baby is only just 4 months old, we weren't able to test the seat unit with him – Baby Jogger recommend the upright seat is not used for infants under 6 months and should not be used until babies can sit and hold their head up without assistance.

The seat unit looked roomy and spacious though, with comfortable padding and a secure 5-point harness. I particularly appreciated how the pram folds with the seat unit attached. It can be installed world-facing or parent-facing and has multiple recline options.

What’s the hood like?

Baby Jogger claims to provide rigorous and intensive pram testing and their marketing says each pram canopy gets opened up to 10,000 times. Maybe I was unlucky, but that unfortunately didn’t seem the case with mine.

I found the pram hood buttons stuck when trying to raise it – you needed to push them both in together with both hands at the same time as lifting it up, which was a tricky knack to master. I also found it difficult to fully raise the pram hood until the mechanism clicked into place, meaning a couple of times the hood popped back down when I was out and about. However, I did love the fact the canopy, when fully up, gave really good coverage and provided UV 50+ protection, with a peephole window for keeping an eye on baby.

What are the wheels like on the Baby Jogger City Select 2 pushchair?

I loved the City Select 2's large foam-filled, all-terrain tyres, which made city centre outings and off-road park trips alike a doddle – smoothly handling muddy park paths and bumpy pavements with ease. The ‘never-flat’ wheels meant I felt comfortable pushing it over uneven and potentially sharp surfaces, such as gravel.

As mentioned above, it was the suspension which let the pram down and caused bumpiness on very rough ground, rather than the tyres. They clicked into place on the axis and into the frame very quickly when setting up the pram.

How good are the City Select 2's brakes?

The City Select 2 uses a footbrake pedal in place of the handbrake featured in the older design. The pedal was right in the middle of the pram base and very easy to put on and off, but without there being any risk of knocking or kicking it accidentally while walking.

The brake felt secure and held well but had a little bit of give, which I liked as it meant you could rock the pram slightly indoors when you needed to (chasing that elusive long lunchtime nap usually) while being confident it wasn't going anywhere.

What's the basket like on the Baby Jogger City Select 2 pushchair?

Accessing the basket on the City Select 2 was a piece of cake thanks to the higher height of the carrycot leaving a bigger gap underneath. I found this a godsend for trips into the city or nipping to the supermarket and could fit pretty much my whole weekly shop in its 7kg capacity.

Day to day, I used it to stash my son’s nappy bag and found everything was very secure in the basket. The zip at the back also made it easy to throw things in and grab them quickly when needed. I can imagine the basket being a little less accessible, and capacity reduced when using the pushchair in double mode.

What’s in the box?

• City Select 2 pram chassis
• 4 x wheels
• City Select 2 stroller seat including canopy and belly bar
• Deluxe Carrycot 2
• Deluxe Carrycot 2 footguard
• Weather shield
• Adaptors to attach Deluxe Carrycot 2 to older style Baby Jogger pram chassis (if required)

What are the additional accessories that you can buy?

The idea is that this is an all-in-one pram that grows with your family, but you do have to fork out more for all these extra conversions. Separately, you can buy:

• Second seat kit, £239
• Glider board, £86
• Second seat adaptors, £27
• Car seat adaptors, £54 (for Maxi-Cosi, Cybex and BeSafe infant carrier car seats)
• Parent console, £40

What did you think of the packaging of the Baby Jogger City Select 2?

As someone who tries to make eco-friendly choices, I was disappointed to see a lot of bulky polystyrene packaging – something which isn’t recyclable in Liverpool. Seeing as Baby Jogger promote their sustainability credentials, I would’ve liked to have seen a recyclable alternative.

The packaging was secure though, and the stroller and all compartments felt well-packaged. Other than the polystyrene, the packaging was mainly cardboard with a few pieces of plastic wrapping and didn’t feel excessive.

How sustainable is the City Select 2?

The canopy, padded seat and carrycot are all made with TENCEL fabric, which is made from wood fibres and is compostable and biodegradable.

What are the repair options if the Baby Jogger City Select 2 pushchair breaks?

Baby Jogger provides a lifetime warranty on pushchair frames which have any manufacturer defects. All other components are covered by a 2-year warranty in case of any issues. Baby Jogger works with approved repair centres and dealers such as Buggy Pitstop, which also sells spare and replacement parts. Their website also suggests replacement parts can be bought from them directly by contacting customer care.

Can the City Select 2 pushchair be used with a car seat to create a travel system?

Yes, the pushchair can be used with selected Maxi-Cosi, Cybex and BeSafe car seats to create a travel system, but you must buy £54 car seat adaptors separately.

Now you’ve tested it, what would you have wanted to know before purchasing the Baby Jogger City Select 2 pushchair?

It would have been really helpful to know it existed before purchasing our UPPAbaby Vista, as the higher-up carrycot being easier to access without bending forward would have made a massive difference in the early days post-c-section for me.

Who would the City Select 2 pushchair be most useful for?

People who want a pushchair that can handle all but the bumpiest terrain, but don’t want to commit to a full 3-wheeler jogging pram.

Is the Baby Jogger City Select 2 pushchair worth the money?

With an RRP of £899, the Baby Jogger City Select 2 is similarly priced to other pushchair and carrycot pram bundles on the market, and a little cheaper than popular premium choices such as the iCandy Peach 7 (£1,149) and UPPAbaby Vista V2 (£1,099).

One of the City Select 2's main USPs is that it can grow not just with your baby but with your family, seating up to 3 kids – and potentially making it a sounder investment. However, all these add-ons come at an extra cost of hundreds of pounds.

Compared to the other prams I’ve used (UPPAbaby Vista and Silver Cross Wayfarer) I did find some of the City Select 2's fittings and details felt a little cheap – the pram hood buttons stuck, the hood was difficult to fully raise, the Velcro on the foot cover felt flimsy and the carrycot smelled strongly of plastic when I first unboxed it.

Where can I buy the Baby Jogger City Select 2 pushchair?

It's available at Natural Baby Shower and Amazon.

MadeForMums verdict

Overall, I found the City Select 2 handled busy city life and train journeys just as easily as it did countryside walks, and I would continue using it. If you’re looking for an all-rounder carrycot and pram bundle that comes in at slightly cheaper than some of the other best-known brands, this is well worth your consideration.

The Aqua Thermos is one of the brand's 4 pushchair models, with a focus on providing a smooth ride whether along city streets or on woodland walks. Suitable for use from birth with the lightweight, foldable carrycot, then from 6 months to approx. 4 years in the seat unit, it's a robust, stylish pushchair with an easy fold.

It's available as a 2-in-1 bundle, including the carrycot and seat unit, for £1,149, or with the coordinating Terra i-Size car seat for £1,199. It comes in a choice of 6 colourways, including Sand and Forest Green.

What were your first impressions of the pushchair?

At first look, I could already tell the Noordi Aqua Thermo was a good quality pushchair, thanks to the chunky wheels and plush-looking material on the carrycot and seat. As soon as I unpacked the box, I noticed there were lots of add-ons and accessories like a cup holder and a matching bag, and I thought the grey colourway was the perfect neutral. In fitting with Noordi's outdoorsy ethos, the wheels struck me right away as being large and sturdy enough to tackle rough terrain.

How easy was it to build the Noordi Aqua Thermo pushchair?

It took us around 50 minutes to assemble, but that's while being sleep-deprived and juggling a grizzly newborn. The user guide only features images, which can make the steps a little tricky to follow. However, there is a QR code with the option to watch a video of the set-up, which I'd highly recommend as it makes it so much easier. Once fully assembled I was surprised how big the whole thing was — I think it’s the large chunky wheels that make it look that way.

What do you think of the carrycot on the Noordi Aqua Thermo pushchair?

The pushchair comes with a 'Thermo cot' which, according to the website, ensures airflow and prevents moisture build-up, meaning no more clammy pram naps. The carrycot base looked rather jazzy and I thought to myself ‘Ah, that will be the Thermo tech I read about.’

The mattress is just as breathable as the one in my Moses basket and bedside crib, so I felt confident enough to let him have a longer post-walk snooze in it. The leg cover is a little tricky to zip on because it fits quite tightly, and I wasn't completely sold on the peekaboo window at the front of the carrycot, which left them zipped into the carrycot entirely.

I thought it was quite roomy for a carrycot, and definitely seemed wider than others. My baby seemed to enjoy naps in the cot; he fitted in it well and would be likely to be fine for him until 5/6 months. The carrycot also folds down which makes it so much easier to fit into the boot of a car along with the main frame. The mechanism for doing this (2 bars underneath the mattress) is rather stiff but may loosen with regular use.

How easy is the carrycot to add on/take off the Noordi Aqua Thermo pushchair?

It's so easy to take on and off the main frame and it doesn't require any add on clips like some prams; it's as simple as slotting on. It also comes with red labels which show green when the cot is correctly secured. Very handy!

You need to press the buttons on both sides at the same time, but it isn't too tricky. And, at just 3.1kg in weight, the carrycot it very lightweight and easy to whip on and off.

How easy is the Noordi Aqua Thermo pushchair to fold?

As a first-time mum, I know all too well the pressure of folding down a pram in public so, for me, a big selling point is how easily the Noordi Aqua Thermo folds down.

With most prams, you need to master the knack to get it up and down, but with this one it is fool-proof. As soon as you tuck the handle in, it automatically collapses, making the fold seamless. I felt like an absolute pro in the supermarket car park thanks to it being so smooth.

The frame folds the same with the seat attached, but of course, the whole thing is much bulkier then.

How big is the Noordi Aqua Thermo pushchair when folded?

The frame goes together quite well so it's not too deep but sadly the width of the pram along with the chunky wheels meant that the pram didn't fit in my car boot (I drive a Peugeot 208). When folded, the Aqua Thermo measures L80cm x W60cm x H30 cm. The frame isn’t too heavy (9kg), and lifting it up is totally manageable, but it seems a little weightier than others thanks to the shock absorber technology.

I struggled to stand up the frame once it was folded over, which made it a little tricky to store.

How easy is the Noordi Aqua Thermo to push and steer?

Looking up the product online I was perplexed to see the term "smart amortization", but after a bit of research, I discovered it means that the pram cleverly adapts to the weight of the baby that’s in it, for a smoother ride when out and about.

The ride is advertised to be "as smooth as running water" and I can report that it really is impressively smooth. Where I live there are potholes and bumpy pavements to contend with and this model cruised along with ease. Overall, the ride feels really smooth and there was only a very light rattle in the back wheels. The pram feels so sturdy and durable Ithat  was confident using it on rough terrains and my little one didn't even stir while bumping along a very uneven surface.

What’s the chassis like?

The aluminium chassis is shiny black so it's simple and chic – plus the branding on the side isn't too garish which is nice. There is an adjustable shock absorber option on the frame which can be used if you're tacking rough terrain.

How do you rate the Noordi Aqua Thermo's handle?

The pushchair handle is adjustable and you can easily move it up and down in increments – brilliant for switching between myself and my partner, depending on who was on buggy duty.

The handle itself isn't as padded as others I've pushed around and I felt the eco-leather on the handle could scuff when getting in and out of the car. I do like the little hooks on either side to attach the bag included in the bundle though.

What do you think of the seat unit on the Noordi Aqua Thermo pushchair?

Although I've got a newborn so didn't need the bigger seat, it looks great for future use! The lie-flat option, which almost goes completely horizontal, is something that will come in very handy for naps on the go. The safety straps can be adjusted as your child grows; this took us a little while to figure out but there are slits in the fabric where the straps can be fed through and moved up or down. The best bit? The harness clasp is magnetic, making life so much easier when you're in a rush.

What’s the hood like?

The Noordi Aqua Thermo hood is very generous, which made it ideal for my son to have naps even when we were out on blustery days. The mesh ventilation part of the hood is collapsible via a zip, so if it's too cold you can simply zip it up.

What are the wheels like on the Noordi Aqua Thermo pushchair?

The website advertises the wheel material as "real gel" and their slight squishiness does help with a smoother ride over dodgy pavements. It also makes them puncture-proof, so you can cruise over rocky surfaces without being panicked.

The back wheels are very large which I found bumped my skirting boards while trying to get out of the house, but they do make the pram ideal for uneven terrains and I did notice how smooth they made the ride.

The front wheels can be locked straight or left to pivot, and I found them very good for weaving in and out of snug spaces. The pivot ability is very handy for navigating around shops; very nimble and nifty.

However, one downside was that the front wheels seemed to spin unnecessarily when pushed along at times. Where I live there are lots of large kerbs that I have no choice but to bump up and down, and the wheels had a really good grip when getting up them, but the wobbly wheels did send it off-course at times.

How good are the brakes?

Very good; my driveway is a considerable slope and the brakes even held there. However, having the brake in the middle of the bar made it slightly harder to use as it’s normally by the wheel, where your foot is naturally in line.

Do you like the basket on the Noordi Aqua Thermo pushchair?

The uniquely shaped under-pram storage is genius as it’s quite covered at the front, which will prevent rain from getting in on wet days. It does mean it's harder to load things from the front, but it's worth the compromise to keep your shopping dry and secure. It's not the largest basket, but I managed to fit my supermarket essentials in there. The shape makes it really hard for things to fall out so you can bump around knowing you'll still have everything when you return home.

What’s in the box?

• Carrycot
• Seat unit
• Handle for seat unit
• Chassis
• Shopping bag
• Cup holder
• Backpack
• Cover for carrycot
• Cover for seat unit
• Mattress
• Raincover
• Mosquito net

What is the packaging like?

The pram came in one large cardboard box, which is easily recycled. There was minimal plastic packaging, as well as a few pieces of foam for protection of certain parts.

How sustainable is Noordi?

The production process is eco, and Noordi states on their website: "We make conscious decisions to manufacture in more eco-friendly ways, use more natural materials and leave a minimum impact on the environment."

What are the repair options if the Noordi Aqua Thermo pushchair breaks?

The brand offers a "limited warranty", but doesn't state how long it is valid for or how long a repair may take. However, they are dedicated to providing quality customer service should something go wrong.

Can the pushchair be used with a car seat to create a travel system?

Yes; a Terra i-Size car seat can be purchased separately to fit all Noordi prams.

Now you’ve tested it, what would you have wanted to know before purchasing the Noordi Aqua Thermo pushchair?

The size when folded. Measure your boot and where you'll be storing the pram at home to ensure it fits!

Who would the Noordi Aqua Thermo pushchair be most useful for?

With a carrycot for newborns and a seat that is suitable for 6 months to 4 years, this buggy will last you. If you've got a large enough boot, this easy-fold pram is ideal for getting out and about. Also, if you like taking your walks off the road it's the perfect option thanks to the puncture-proof wheels and shock absorber system.

Is the Noordi Aqua Thermo pushchair worth the money?

For the price, I'd expect it to be the full travel system (car seat included) – I'd say it's worth spending an extra £50 to add this to your bundle. You can tell that the pram is very well made with an array of clever features which help justify the price, but the skidding front wheels do let it down somewhat.

Where can I buy the Noordi Aqua Thermo pushchair?

It is available from Kiddies Kingdom and Pramworld.

MadeForMums verdict

The easy-fold up and down mechanism of this pram is a real game changer! It's a clever blend of technical features like a thermal cot, shock absorber system and good ventilation, as well as simple but parent-friendly features that have been thoughtfully considered – case in point the built-in hooks for the bag and the easy clip-on/off drinks holder. The sensitive wheels at the front that skidded out occasionally were quite annoying and it made the ride feel a bit unsteady, but if you're after a robust pushchair to see you from birth the Aqua Thermo is well worth considering.

Much like the original Oyster Zero Gravity, it offers a luxurious-feeling design at a reasonable price. It boasts a freestanding fold, which makes this one great for parents with smaller homes and cars, and all it takes is 2 clicks and a lift to get you there (once you track down the button!).

With an extra-large sun canopy and spacious storage basket, this stroller can be used with a carrycot or car seat – although the seat fully reclines, making it suitable from birth regardless.

Coming in at £379 for the pushchair alone, it's premium but at a good price and is a far more affordable option compared to the likes of the BabyStyle Egg2, £1,399, or the iCandy Core, £1,280. I tested the 5-piece travel system package which included the Oyster Gravity+ pushchair, Oyster carrycot, ISOFIX base, Oyster Capsule car seat and Oyster multi car seat adapters, at £699.

How easy is it to build the Oyster Gravity+ pushchair?

The travel system arrived in 4 bulky cardboard boxes, which took up a lot of space and inspired me to get it built as soon as possible. I like to think I my years of shopping at IKEA make me something of an expert DIY-er, but this one honestly had me stumped – so much so that I had to call in my father-in-law for help.

A former engineer, he was forced to admit that he also struggled with the build initially (the instructions aren’t very clear, and the photographs supplied are absolutely minuscule), but we persevered and got it all set up within a few hours. Thankfully, it’s well worth the effort!

To hopefully avoid these building issues, you can watch this useful demonstration video from BabySyle.

How does the BabyStyle Oyster Gravity+ compare to the BabyStyle Oyster Zero Gravity?

The original BabyStyle Oyster Zero Gravity is a brilliant bit of kit, but tends to work much better as a second stroller – unlike the new and enhanced version, which offers an always desirable parent-facing option (perfect if you want lots of face time with your little one).

Both versions can be used as part of a travel system, and both include that covetable extra large hood with UPF 50+ – easily one of the pram’s best features, as it can protect even a taller child from the sun. It’s lighter, too, making it one of the most compact parent-facing designs on the market.

How easy is it to fold and unfold the BabyStyle Oyster Gravity+ pushchair?

Slightly embarrassingly, it took me and my husband a long time between us to figure out how to fold and unfold the pram – there’s a primary lock to engage, then press down the 2 foot pedals sat either side of the brake. Once you’ve figured this out, though, it’s pretty effortless and can even be done one-handed.

And, unlike bulkier prams I’ve used in the past, you don’t have to remove the seat to do this – as if by magic, it all folds up together into a self-standing unit.

While the pram is lightweight, 9.5kg, it isn’t all that easy to carry about one-handed once it’s been folded up. Still, there’s no denying that it’s a beautifully compact design, and easy to stash in a cupboard under the stairs or in even a small car boot. Ideal if, like me, your home is on the smaller side.

What is the size and weight like?

Just like the name suggests, the BabyStyle Oyster Gravity+ pram is wonderfully compact and lightweight – as mentioned already, it’s a very manageable 9.5kg. This makes it quite easy for carrying or lifting compared to most prams (although you’ll likely need both hands as it’s a cumbersome shape) and it will absolutely fit into a standard car boot. With shopping alongside it! Unfolded it measures L88cm x W59cm x H112cm and folded it's a neat L73cm x W59cm x H26.5cm.

How comfortable is the Oyster Gravity+ pushchair for your baby?

There has been some chatter about the seat not being padded enough, and it certainly does seem thinner than most prams, but my little one was very snug inside it (as was my 3-year-old, who insisted on trying it out for herself after a long session at the park).

When it comes to seat adjustability, there aren’t as many recline options as I’d like; baby can be either sat up very straight (too straight!) or lounging in a deep recline – there’s not much middle ground. It does fully recline, though, making it ideal for naps. And the footrest can be adjusted to suit the moment, too. Both kids managed to have decent naps in there, and neither are very good nappers, so I’d call that a win.

What do you think about the harness on the Oyster Gravity+ pushchair?

My favourite thing about this pram is the harness. The components clip together magnetically, making it very easy to buckle, and the harness is easily adjusted by a pull of the straps. The result is a very snug and secure fit, which is ideal for keeping even the most fidgety of passengers safe on their journeys.

How well does the BabyStyle Oyster Gravity+ pushchair handle different terrains?

This pram works like a dream on pavements – you can actually do a 180-degree turn on the spot, which is ideal if (as I do) you have to spin around quickly to catch a child on the run! The lightness of the frame makes it easy to get up and down kerbs, too.

My nearest park is undergoing a refurb at the moment, so it’s a bit of a building site – and the pram was still able to navigate heavy mud, puddles, and grassy patches without too much extra effort. It isn’t as manageable on truly rough terrain or gravel, as the 4 wheels aren’t kitted out with thick treads, but it still does the job in a pinch. You may just need to keep this as your everyday and have an all-terrain number on standby if you’re planning any intense hikes.

What are the key features and design elements of the BabyStyle Oyster Gravity+ pushchair?

The standout feature of this pram is its amazing canopy – it unzips to offer extra coverage, and it even includes a flip-out visor to protect against that pesky winter sun when it’s low in the sky.

There aren’t all too many options when it comes to reclining; you can have your baby sit very upright, lounging back, or lying flat – it might be nice if there was a Goldilocks 'somewhere in the middle' sweet spot between these.

It does, however, boast all-round suspension, which means your baby will be sat in optimum comfort on even uneven terrain (although, as mentioned, it might be better to avoid any intense off-road tracks).

What is the BabyStyle Oyster Gravity+ pushchair's storage basket like?

The storage basket is Tardis-like in that it looks smaller than it is – when I eyeballed it, I was disappointed. When I stashed a rucksack, bottle, snacks, and discarded wellies inside it, though, I realised I still had room to play with and I was delighted.

How durable does it feel?

Considering the Oyster Gravity+ is a lightweight pram, you might think it would feel flimsy – it certainly looks like it should feel flimsy! Nothing could be further from the truth, though: the frame and wheels feel very robust, even after my 3-year-old decided she wanted to push it chaotically to the shops, and the materials are durable and stylish, too.

Is the handle on the Oyster Gravity+ pushchair adjustable?

No. Annoyingly, the handle isn’t adjustable – which is fine for me (I’m 5ft 7in) but maybe it's something to consider if you’re very tall or a little shorter.

How easy is the pushchair to clean?

This design is sadly not one that you can pop in the washing machine – they recommend wiping it down or hand washing at a push. I have given the material a few wipes when it got a little muddy, though, and it came up a treat.

What’s in the box?

The travel system arrived in 4 big cardboard boxes, and it included:

• A carrycot (which is actually an amazing bit of kit, as you can either set it up so it rocks or stands still - perfect for naptimes!)
• A car seat and adaptors
• ISOFIX base
• A chassis (with wheels and moving parts)
• A stroller seat (including bumper bar)
• A raincover

Personally, I’d have loved a footmuff for the stroller seat, but this is one to buy separately — ditto the cup holder, which is a shame.

Is the BabyStyle Oyster Gravity+ pushchair worth the money?

Considering how much a compact stroller usually costs, this is an absolute steal at £699 for a 5-part travel system – especially as it offers that elusive parent-facing option.

If you go for the £799 version, it comes with a footmuff, backpack, bottle holder and buggy lock – which feels like excellent value for money when you consider how much all those bits cost separately. Or you could just go for the stroller itself, £379, and use the recline option on your baby, the choice is yours.

How sustainable is the BabyStyle Oyster Gravity+ pushchair?

The pram chassis is made from aluminium, which is considered a sustainable material, and BabyStyle has expressed a commitment to minimise its environmental footprint by using eco-friendly practices. That being said, there was a fair bit of packaging to wade through when it arrived.

What are the repair options for the Oyster Gravity+?

While the manual advises people to carry out routine checks and tighten up any loose parts, any damage should be shown to a BabyStyle retailer – which means professional assistance is likely needed for major repairs. Which is good news or bad news, depending on how au fait you are with a screwdriver.

Where can I buy the BabyStyle Oyster Gravity+ pushchair?

Available at Baby Planet, Kiddies Kingdom and Pramsy.

MadeForMums verdict

I would absolutely recommend the BabyStyle Oyster Gravity+ in a heartbeat; I’ve gone through a few different prams over the past 3 years or so, and this one is easily my favourite. It’s parent-facing yet still lightweight and easy to manoeuvre, all while providing plenty of comfort for baby (and toddler!) without sacrificing any style points. I can also fit it through my notoriously tricky front door without folding it down – a first-ever for any pram – and it’s light enough that I can push it one-handed while holding onto my 3-year-old when out and about. The XL sun canopy and decent storage basket are the icing on the cake!

As the name suggests, American brand Baby Jogger created the first buggy you could take out while running back in 1984. They’ve since diversified to a product line of around 6 different strollers – so whether you’re after something small for city living or a buggy ready to be put through its paces on hilly terrain, Baby Jogger has you covered.

The City Sights model is their most versatile product yet – a 4-wheel compact modular buggy system launched in 2022 that will take you from baby’s first snoozy trip into the wide world to active days out when they turn into tiring toddlers. Relatively lightweight and quietly chic, it comes with a carrycot and rear and forward-facing buggy seat.

The real draw with this product is how you can fold it up neatly with one hand (Baby Jogger was the first brand to come up with this back in 2007), and once folded, it is slim and easy to store.

With an RRP of £899, it comes in 2 standard colours — Deep Teal and Rich Black — all teamed with black finishings, with there also being a third option, Commuter lilac, which will set you back £939. If you're past the newborn stage already, you can buy the standalone City Sights stroller for £599.

What were your first impressions of the Baby Jogger City Sights stroller?

On first impressions, everything was nice and compact in the box, which made me feel like the product was likely to be easy to store. This is essential in our two-kid household where toys and junk seem to multiply whenever you move into a new room. The chassis and main buggy seat are in a large separate box, while the carrycot and weathershields come in their own boxes. Everything is carefully bubble-wrapped and looks high quality.

How easy was the Baby Jogger City Sights stroller to build?

Putting the chassis together for the City Sights buggy is a breeze – all you have to do is slot in the wheels and then work out how to unfold, which is detailed in an easy-to-follow instruction manual. The seat for the buggy is also straightforward to unfold.

Assembling the carrycot was a little trickier – I struggled for about 10 minutes to slot both support bars in. Eventually, I managed to put the second bar in place by pulling it incrementally before clicking into place. A bit of a faff, but luckily we weren’t planning on collapsing the carrycot to store it after every trip out, so once it was up, it stayed up!

The instructions were easy to follow – there wasn’t much to it when it came to building the buggy – and later on, I found more detailed text instructions further in the manual.

What did you think about the Baby Jogger City Sights carrycot?

The carrycot measures H70cm x W40cm x L83cm, making it pretty long – which is great for my slim but tall 3-month-old baby Zach, who fills it with only a few inches above his head and toes. It should last most parents until their baby turns 6 months or 9kg, and is able to sit in the buggy seat. It’s also quite shallow compared to our other carrycot, which makes it feel more compact, but without compromising on comfort/functionality as far as I can see.

Zach seems happy in it – the mattress is firm and breathable but comfortable. Baby Jogger also states that the carrycot is designed to stay cool in the summer with an air vent in the large UV 50+ canopy to increase airflow.

The carrycot also sports a foot cover to help protect your baby from the elements, which attaches with magnets rather than zips. I found this very useful, especially when you need to take a wriggly, crying baby out at speed. The cover is also machine washable, which is essential for us with a reflux baby, but can not be put in the tumble dryer.

How easy is the carrycot to add on/take off the Baby Jogger City Sights chassis?

It’s very easy to attach the City Sights carrycot to the chassis – you just need to line up with the attachment, push gently and it clicks right in. Removing it is a little more laboured – there is a clip at the back of the hood you need to pull out before pulling the carrycot upwards to remove.

It took me a couple of goes as you need to make sure you pull upwards in a very straight motion and not wiggle it about to take it out. I’d say the carrycot is an average weight at 4.4kg, so if your baby is small it’s not too hard to attach/take off with the baby in, but it would definitely be a struggle for post-C-section mums.

Is the Baby Jogger City Sights carrycot suitable for overnight sleeping?

Yes. Another massive pro about the City Sights carrycot is that Baby Jogger states it is suitable for overnight sleeping, which is a huge plus point for families keen to stay away from home during those early weeks or months.

How easy is the Baby Jogger City Sights stroller to fold with one hand?

After watching this manufacturer’s video which shows you how to simply fold the City Sights stroller one-handed, I thought it was going to be a breeze but it took me around 6 or 7 trips out to master the manoeuvre.

There is a clip on a central bar just above the basket which has a sliding clip on the outside and a button on the inside. You slide the clip and then press the button with one hand and voila, it folds smoothly.

It took me a few tries to master this, and I did have to abandon the chassis in the hallway after a couple of attempts on more than one occasion. We’ve mainly tested out the carrycot, but the huge plus point with the City Sights model is that you can fold the buggy with the seat attached, which is a big space saver.

How compact is the Baby Jogger City Sights pushchair once folded?

The buggy does fold up pleasingly neatly (H31.7cm x W59cm x L80.6cm) and it feels slightly lighter than other high-end buggy systems, weighing in at 11.3kg. It’s also not as tall as other similar strollers, which means you don’t need a massive car boot to squeeze it into.

However, I did find that the front wheels don’t lock, which makes it difficult to store leaning against a wall – the first time I folded it to store it in our kitchen, I had to make a couple of attempts to stop it from falling over.

How good is the Baby Jogger City Sights stroller to push and steer?

The City Sights buggy comes complete with all-terrain wheels and front suspension, meaning that it should be more than comfortable tackling the uneven paths that come with living right next to one of London's largest parks. When pushing the stroller, it felt sturdy on pavements and off-roading on muddy and frozen ground.

I found going up and down kerbs relatively straightforward, although on some dropped kerbs I needed to give the buggy a bit more of a push than I’d expected, or it would get stuck. It’s easy to manoeuvre in tight spaces or if you need to turn around. And if your toddler is a speed freak like mine, you can make it go pretty fast for a round of buggy races at the park.

How did the Baby Jogger City Sights stroller fare on public transport?

The City Sights stroller is fine on public transport. I think the real test for a buggy’s brakes is when you’ve parked it on a bus, and the City Sights didn’t move an inch. The only slight issue I found was getting off the bus and train – even though the buggy is light, it felt a bit clunky/high up, and on one occasion I needed some help to get off the bus. I think this is because the rear wheel is quite large, and probably I just need a few bus trips to work out how to step off more carefully.

What’s the Baby Jogger City Sights chassis like?

The aluminium chassis is strong but lightweight. It has a matte black finish which I think looks sleek and stylish, but is also forgiving after a particularly muddy walk. Baby Jogger also offers a limited lifetime manufacturer’s warranty on the frame if it were to get damaged while out and about.

How do you rate the Baby Jogger City Sights handle?

The City Sights buggy handlebar is made from vegan leather, giving it a soft feel and plush finish, while also making it easy to hold. It is also adjustable, the lowest height setting is just right for me at 5ft 6in and my husband, who is 6ft 2in, was comfortable at the higher – but not the highest – setting. Overall, we were both comfortable pushing the stroller, and it is good to know the handlebar caters for different parent heights if needed.

What do you think of the Baby Jogger City Sights stroller seat unit?

The City Sights buggy seat is designed to last your child up to 22kg, or 4 years old and has plenty of room for wriggly babies and toddlers – my tall 3-year-old was very comfortable. It has an adjustable seat recline with 3 settings and is easy to lay back by just adjusting the clasp at the top of the seat.

While it doesn’t lie completely flat, it’s still ideal for napping on the go. The seat can also be parent- or world-facing and has a 5-point harness to give you that peace of mind that your child is safe. For extra comfort, there is an adjustable calf support for older children. It also comes complete with a vegan leather belly bar, which matches the buggy handle, giving it a luxe look but also keeping your child extra secure.

What is the Baby Jogger City Sights stroller seat unit hood like?

Much like its carrycot, the City Sights stroller hood is made of UV50+ material so it offers good protection from the summer sun, while it is also quite large to give cover on those rainy days. It also has a mesh window, meaning you can keep an eye on your toddler once the hood is fully open. The hood also feels nice and sturdy and was easy to attach to the buggy, staying neatly in place.

What are the wheels like?

The City Sights all-terrain wheels feel sturdy and are made from solid material. I was confident from the get-go that we’d be able to mount kerbs and head off-road in the park, as well as doing the usual trip to the shops and nursery.

There are four wheels, two larger ones at the back and two smaller ones at the front and the buggy only has front wheel suspension. You can choose to have the front wheels in swivel mode if you want. The wheels are also removable if you need to take them off for any reason such as storage etc.

How do you rate the Baby Jogger City Sights stroller brakes?

The main rear wheel brake – a small grey block clip on the bottom right-hand side of the chassis - is relatively easy to secure on or off. It holds very well and is quite stiff, meaning you need to wear shoes to give your foot some extra heft to apply it. This isn’t ideal when putting it together in the house in your slippers or when wearing flip-flops in the summer, as you may find it difficult to use in open-toed shoes or sandals.

What did you think about the Baby Jogger City Sights basket?

The City Sights storage basket is fab with lots of room for changing bags, mountains of shopping and more. It has an open-access design and, thanks to the fact that the carrycot or toddler seat sits high up on the chassis, you can easily place things in or out of the basket, which isn’t the case with some other high-end buggy brand’s systems.

The only slight hitch is that it does have a support bar in the middle of the basket, where the button to fold the buggy is, so if you might struggle to fit a really large, deep item. Overall, it has a great capacity for day-to-day items that you may need.

What’s in the box?

There are 3 separate boxes which contain:

• Baby Jogger City Sights chassis
• Toddler Seat
• Seat hood
• 4 x Wheels
• Safety bar
• Carrycot with mattress
• Weathershield

What are the additional accessories that you can buy?

• Glider board, £86
• Car seat adaptors suitable for Maxi Cosi, Cybex and BeSafe models £18.50

Can the Baby Jogger City Sights pushchair be used with a car seat to create a travel system?

Yes, the City Sights pushchair offers 8 possible modes as a travel system and you can purchase car seat adaptors separately to attach your chosen car seat, from the likes of Maxi Cosi, Cybex and BeSafe, to the chassis.

Now you’ve tested it, what would you have wanted to know before purchasing the Baby Jogger City Sights pushchair?

The City Sights buggy has everything that you’d expect from a full travel system but perhaps it would be worth noting that you’d need to purchase the car seat adaptors separately in order to accommodate your own car seat.

Who would the Baby Jogger City Sights stroller be most useful for?

As the name suggests, this buggy is perfect for city living, with the City Sights pushchair great for busy families on the go who need one reliable buggy that’s built to last. It will take them from the buzz of the city (up and down kerbs, on buses and trains) to quieter, more rural scenery (muddy parks and hills), tackling both terrains effectively. Crucially, because it’s compact when folded, it’s great for families that are also tight on storage space both at home or in the boot of their car.

Is Baby Jogger City Sights pushchair worth the money?

Yes, I would say it is. With an RRP of £899, the City Sights buggy will take you from your baby’s first moments right up until the day that they feel too grown-up to be pushed around. It is a stroller that feels built to last thanks to its sturdy frame and also offers 8 modes as a travel system, making it well worth its price tag.

Where can I buy the Baby Jogger City Sights stroller?

It is available from Baby Jogger, John Lewis and Kiddies Kingdom.

MadeForMums verdict

We were all impressed with the Baby Jogger City Sights buggy – it was comfortable for both of my children and easy to use for me. This pushchair is ideal for busy families like us who are always on the go, as it can handle any sort of terrain, whether it be a quick supermarket shop or a muddy park walk. The fact that it folds up so small is ideal and will benefit those who are lacking in storage, living up to its title as the perfect pushchair for city living.

The only real negative I can offer is that it slightly lacks the flair, in terms of design and premium feel, but that’s why it’s priced slightly lower compared to some of the big-name luxury brand models. However, taking into account its added extras such as its plush carrycot, easy-to-handle chassis and generous storage basket, I would recommend the City Sights stroller as it’s great value for money and does exactly what it says on the tin.

British brand Ickle Bubba was set up in 2013 by 2 mums who wanted to offer stylish baby products at an affordable price. The Cosmo 2-in-1 is one of the newest releases – a budget travel system range designed for town living. The convertible pram seat unit, which transforms into a carrycot, makes this suitable for use from birth, while the standard upright seat unit can be used until your child is 22kg (approx. 4 years old).

It’s a stylish-looking, solid offering which should last your new arrival through well into their toddler years. Features include a UPF50+ hood, extra-large shopping basket, seat recline, reversible seat and adjustable height handle.

At £329 it’s very competitively priced, and even comes with a raincover, footmuff and changing bag and mat. The pram unit can be purchased on its own or as part of an all-in-one i-Size travel system with car seat and ISOFIX base at a great price of £499 or rotating car seat for £429.

What were your first impressions?

Delivered in a smaller box than you might expect, Ickle Bubba fit an amazing amount in a small space, which makes actually getting to the pram parts the first challenge faced! Once out of the box the pram appeared a little plasticky but very solid. The leatherette elements are a nice design touch and jump out at you straight away.

How easy is it to build the Ickle Bubba Cosmo pushchair?

Ickle Bubba appears to have taken a leaf out of the Ikea book of instructions, meaning that at times it feels like you need an engineering degree to understand how to put this pram together. The instructions are all present but are not the clearest, which meant it took 2 adults over an hour to put this together. One stage of the instructions that is not clear is how to unfold the handle and lift the pram unit into standing – there is a lock towards the bottom right of the pram which you will need to pull quite hard to the side in order to achieve this.

What’s the Ickle Bubba Cosmo carrycot like?

With the majority of our testing done using my 3-month-old son as the guinea pig, the carrycot was one area of this pram which I feel could use some improvement. The fabric and support of the mattress area could be softer and more supportive as it is a little board-like for total comfort. It is also not that breathable so could get quite hot for baby during the summer and it’s not suitable for overnight sleeping.

That said, there is plenty of room in the unit and I liked that the harness could either be used or removed in this mode. It is also incredibly lightweight, making removal and storage easy. You can easily remove the carrycot by pressing the buttons either side of the handle area and lift, however you do have to press both buttons at once so you cannot remove one handed. I do think it's clever how the carrycot converts into the seat unit though, which says space.

How easy is it to fold and unfold the Ickle Bubba Cosmo?

Once you’ve worked out the knack for it, the folding and unfolding of the Cosmo is easy. Just push the button on the right handle and lift the sliding mechanism on both sides, and the pram does most of the work for you. You do have to remove the seat unit first which, whilst it will go flat, does not easily fold to the same small size as the main pram unit.

Unfolding the buggy is a little trickier due to the lock being quite stiff when new. This eases off with use but for the first week or so involved quite a lot of brute force.

How compact is the Ickle Bubba Cosmo pushchair?

Once folded the main pram unit is very neat and compact, measuring L110cm x W60.5cm x H36cm, so could easily fit in a small car boot – the wheels can be removed if necessary. It is also nice and light at 9kg. Once removed from the chassis, the seat unit folds flat, but you do need to leave enough room in your boot for the full length of the seat (80cm).

How good is the Ickle Bubba Cosmo pushchair to push and steer?

The Cosmo moves smoothly on flat ground, and the adjustable height handle meant even our 3 year old had a good go at pushing her little brother around. The pram handled the weight of my 3 year old well and was not much harder to push and steer with her on board than her brother. Occasionally though, when you turn 180° the front wheels lock a little and you have to pull backwards before regaining a smooth ride forward.

How well does the Ickle Bubba Cosmo tackle different terrains?

On standard urban surfaces this pram is very easy to push and steer, and mounting kerbs is easy as the Cosmo is very solid and sturdy. For rougher surfaces, such as cobblestones and gravel, the Cosmo struggles a little – a lack of suspension means that not only do you have to push quite hard to achieve the desired motion, it is also rather bumpy for the little passenger.

Country paths were also a bit too much of a challenge for this pram as very muddy ground caused the wheels to become very sticky. We had to give up and lift the pram fairly frequently on country walks.

What’s the chassis like?

At first the Cosmo's frame appears quite plastic, and I had doubts about its durability, but upon further testing I was impressed and found it both strong, sturdy and robust. It didn’t scratch easily, and the matte finish remained smart.

How do you rate the handle on the Ickle Bubba Cosmo?

The adjustable pushchair handle offers 3 heights, making the Cosmo suitable for a range of users. It is easy to adjust, and the leatherette finish is a nice touch. However, even the tallest height on offer (113cm) was a little short for my 6ft 4in husband who found he had to stoop a little to use the pram.

What do you think of the seat unit on the Ickle Bubba Cosmo pushchair?

The Cosmo’s seat unit is converted from the carrycot and would be suitable up to an average of age 4 (22kg). It can be both world- and parent-facing and offers a range of reclines from far upright for the older toddler to almost flat for a younger baby to nap in. I found it easy enough to recline, but when a larger toddler is in the pram it is much more difficult, and I found I had to remove her before adjusting. The seat unit is relatively roomy but a little narrow for a chunkier toddler. The fabric easily wipes clean, which is always a bonus.

What’s the hood like?

Not great. The hood for the Cosmo is a little flimsy; the material cannot really handle any extreme English weather and is not very waterproof, although it does offer UPF50+ protection. It is easy to use and remains in place but does not come down very far, letting a lot of light and wind in.

What are the Ickle Bubba Cosmo's wheels like?

The wheels are large, solid and sturdy and are easy to fix and unfix. However, they are more designed for city living due to a lack of suspension and a tendency to gather mud on country walks.

How good are the brakes?

The Cosmo’s brakes are situated on the bar linking the rear wheels and are very easy to put on and off with your foot whilst not getting in the way whilst walking. They hold quite well even when faced with an icy hill.

How do you rate the basket on the Ickle Bubba Cosmo pushchair?

Really spacious. The basket is a generous size with plenty of room for all your baby essentials and some shopping., although it can be a little tricky to take larger items in and out the basket when the pram is in pushchair mode.

What’s in the box?

• Cosmo pushchair
• Raincover
• Changing bag and mat
• Privacy panel for the carrycot
• Footmuff
• Car seat adapters (for use with the Ickle Bubba Stratus car seat)

What additional accessories can you buy?

• Stratus i-Size car seat, £199
• Stratus Isofix car seat base, £119

Now you’ve tested it, what would you have wanted to know before purchasing the Ickle Bubba Cosmo pushchair?

Whilst the Cosmo is a good solid pram and good value for the money spent, it is definitely most suitable for urban living. It may be fairly basic, but it does everything you need it to in a town/city.

Where can I buy the Ickle Bubba Cosmo 2-in-1 pushchair set?

Available Ickle Bubba, Baby Planet and Baby Snooze.

MadeForMums verdict

Overall I was pleasantly surprised by how well the Cosmo handled most things that I threw at it during testing. At £329 it’s good value for money, especially as there’s no need to buy an additional carrycot to use from birth. If I were an urban mum on a budget looking for a pram to last a number of years, I would be pretty happy with my purchase.

The Tide stroller is billed as the company’s lightest and most compact multi-terrain stroller, designed to fold down to a manageable size without compromising its ability to tackle all types of ground, from city pavements to country footpaths.

Designed to be used from birth up to 22kg (approx. 4 years), this stroller can transition from carrycot to seat and also be used as a travel system with a compatible car seat.

With 4-wheel suspension, a carrycot that is certified safe for overnight sleeping, a lie-flat seat that can be parent facing or world facing, a UPF50+ hood on both the carrycot and the seat and a freestanding fold, it is perfect for a quick trip to the shops or a full day out, and is light enough to be easily taken on public transport. The 6-piece bundle has an RRP of £595 and won Joint Gold in our MadeForMums Awards 2024 in the Newborn pram/pushchair under £800 category.

The Silver Cross Tide stroller arrived in an enormous box that took up most of my front hall. I was a little bit worried that the pushchair was going to be extremely bulky, but when I took all the parts out of the box it looked a lot more manageable and was lighter than I expected.

Everything about this stroller feels high quality and well-made and it is very aesthetically pleasing. I immediately liked the soft, sage green upholstery, which pairs smartly with the black chassis and seat. More adventurous than black, grey or navy, it’s still a gender-neutral colour, which means we could save the stroller to use with another baby or pass it on to a friend or relative down the line.

I had been using the compact Joolz Aer+ stroller, £429, with my baby Nuala for the first 12 weeks of her life and was initially struck by the Silver Cross Tide’s larger chassis and much bigger wheels, which made it seem comparatively bulky. However, once I clicked on the rear wheels and unfolded the frame, which came already fitted with the pushchair seat, I was surprised by how nimble and easy to manoeuvre it is and found it lighter to push and to carry than I expected.

The chassis weights 7.2kg – more than the entire Joolz Aer+ chassis and seat – and with the seat added it clocks in at 10.7kg. Used with the carrycot, the total weight rises to 11.15kg, but thanks to its smooth handling and large wheels it feels just as easy, if not easier, to push than my much lighter travel stroller and is still light enough to carry short distances when folded. As Silver Cross’ lightest, most compact all-terrain stroller it is also designed to fold down to a manageable size. It measures L61cm x W40cm x H23cm with the seat attached, making it easy to store at home or fit into a car boot for transport.

How easy is the Silver Cross Tide stroller to assemble?

The stroller arrived with the pushchair seat already fitted to the chassis, but since I wanted to use the carrycot for Nuala I needed to remove the seat and assemble and attach the carrycot. The box came with one set of instructions for the carrycot and another for the pushchair, however the assembly is so simple and intuitive that I probably could have managed without looking at them.

The instructions come in diagram format and are clear and easy to follow. First, I attached the 2 large rear wheels, which lock into place with a satisfying click, then unfolded the stroller, which takes seconds and can be done with one hand.

The pushchair and the carrycot both arrive with the hoods already attached and the pushchair seat is set up with its 5 adjustable straps and magnetic buckle already in place and ready to adjust and use. I was very pleasantly surprised by how simple the set up process was. My husband didn’t need to look at the instructions at all because I was able to demonstrate how to use all the functions in under two minutes.

How do you switch between the seat and carrycot on the Silver Cross Tide pushchair?

It's actually very easy. To remove the pushchair seat, I pressed a plastic level at either side of the chassis and lifted it off. Two adaptors click easily into place to hold the bassinet and then all I needed to do was expand it from its folded to its open position, place the mattress inside and slot it into place on the chassis. The whole process took 10 minutes, including reading the instructions. Once I understood the mechanism, I was able to switch between pushchair seat and carrycot in seconds, thanks to the simplicity of the design.

Is this the latest version of a previous Silver Cross pushchair?

The Silver Cross Tide is a new design but if you’re a fan of the brand’s Coast, Dune, Reef and Wave strollers the Tide will seem familiar, offering a similar aesthetic and many of the same top-end features but prioritising a more compact, lightweight build.

What did you think of the carrycot?

The Silver Cross Tide’s carrycot weighs 3.95kg, meaning it is light enough to carry in one hand. It is certified as safe for overnight sleeping, making it perfect for daytime naps at home and saving the need for a travel cot for the odd night away. To my relief, it is quite generously sized. Nuala is 98th percentile for weight and 99th percentile for height, making her roughly the weight of an average 6-month-old and the height of an average 7-month-old at 3 months of age.

Despite her size, she fits comfortably in the carrycot with 3 or 4 inches to spare at the top. I don’t think it will last her until she’s 6 months old, but it should continue to be suitable for another month, at which point she could safely transfer into the Silver Cross Tide’s seat, which has a lie-flat option and is suitable for newborns in its parent-facing configuration.

The carrycot’s design has a few small niggles that could be improved. Firstly, the hood is attached to the carrycot’s handle and can only be fully lowered or fully raised and locked into place, meaning the baby can’t be partially shielded while still able to see out. Also, the carrycot’s air mesh ventilation panel – a nice touch for hot summer days – is covered by a flap of fabric that tends to ruck up when the hood is opened. It needs to be smoothed down by hand each time as there is no zip or Velcro to secure it.

What is the Silver Cross Tide's carrycot mattress like?

Personally I find the bamboo-lined mattress quite thin and flimsy. The elastic on the fitted waterproof sheet I tried to use crumpled it up so much that I had to give up and use a far larger bedside cot sheet, tucked under at the edges, in order to get the mattress to lie flat. Once in place, however, the mattress is firm yet breathable and Nuala slept very soundly on it every time we left the house.

How easy is the carrycot to add on and take off the pushchair?

The carrycot is very easy to remove from the chassis. All you need to do is pull up the lever at the front and lift it by the carry handle. To place it back onto the chassis, you lower it onto the adaptors and it slots into place.

How easy is the Silver Cross Tide stroller to fold?

the Silver Cross Tide stroller is very easy to fold. When used for an infant, the carrycot must be removed first and then the chassis folds down separately. This means it requires more storage space than a compact pram like the Joolz Aer+ or the Babyzen Yoyo, which folds down with the carrycot attached. However, since the carrycot is spacious and comfortable, I ended up using it as a place for Nuala to nap at home during the day, meaning that only the chassis needed to be folded and stored.

It’s worth noting that although the Silver Cross Tide is advertised as having a freestanding fold, that only applies when it’s folded with the pushchair seat attached. When the chassis is folded separately it needs to be laid flat or propped up against a wall. With the pushchair seat on, the stroller can be folded down in both parent-facing and world-facing mode, meaning that from 6 months onwards it will take up a lot less space and be quicker and easier to fold.

The folding mechanism is straightforward but requires two hands and takes a few tries to do quickly. To fold, you need to pull up a level on either side of the chassis, while also depressing a small lock button on the right-hand lever. The stroller then folds down to the ground and a plastic arm close to the rear wheel automatically keeps it closed. To unfold, you just release this arm and pull up on the handlebar. This takes seconds and can easily be done one-handed.

How compact is the Silver Cross Tide stroller once folded?

The stroller measures L61cm x W40.5cm x H23cm when folded – similar to the Inglesina Quid 2 at L58cm x W46.5cm x H19cm – making it quite shallow and easy to store in a narrow hallway or a hall cupboard or to load into a car boot. It can be lifted and carried by the handle and because it folds so flat it is easy to manoeuvre one-handed and to lift into a car boot.

How easy is the Silver Cross Tide stroller to push and steer on different terrain?

Having got used to the Joolz Aer+’s small wheels and low-to-the-ground carrycot, I was amazed by how smooth the Silver Cross Tide is to manoeuvre and how clearly I could see and communicate with Nuala in its carrycot. I can push it around town with ease, across uneven paving stones and textured ground, and the large wheels and suspension mean that the carrycot sways slightly from side to side rather than being bumped or jostled, making for a smooth ride. I found that I didn’t need to slow down or lift the front wheels at all when going up low curbs or over small bumps and Nuala fell asleep easily in the stroller and stayed asleep over lots of different types of terrain.

In the park, the stroller did well on grass and uneven paths and was also easy to wheel over loose sticks and protruding roots when navigating a narrow footpath. It felt sturdy and smooth and was easy to push and steer with one hand on even ground. The front wheels have a locking function, which came in handy on the footpath, allowing me to focus on forward motion rather than steering. The strong handle also made it easy to lift the front and back wheels to mount high curbs and to go up the two wide steps to my house.

It moves very silently and felt extremely light, which surprised me, given its larger size. It can also turn very tightly, making it easy to wheel between tables in a busy café and to fit on buses and trains, where it needs to be slotted into a tight spot and locked in place for the journey.

How well does it work on public transport?

I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to get the Silver Cross Tide stroller onto both a bus and a train. I was able to lift the front wheels high enough to get it from a station platform onto a train without help. I also found that even when getting off a train with quite a large gap between the train and the platform it felt safe and in control at all times, thanks to the sturdy handle that can easily take the weight of the stroller and the baby without bending or compromising on balance. Although not as compact as my travel pram, it fitted easily into the wheelchair space on a bus, as well as into the vestibule of a train.

What’s the chassis like on the Silver Cross Tide stroller?

The chassis is striking to look at, with a smart matte black finish. It feels strong and well-made and is seemingly scratch proof, remaining in pristine condition even after being folded and unfolded several times on rough gravel.

How do you rate the buggy handle of the Silver Cross Tide stroller?

The rubber handle has a soft faux-leather finish and is very comfortable to hold, with a smart Silver Cross logo in the centre. Its adjustable height was a big plus point for my husband, who is 6ft 4in tall. The handlebar height is easy to adjust using levers on either side, but we found that if the handlebar is not completely level it won’t lock into place, so it can be a bit fiddly to get it to lock at the height you want it, particularly if you’re in a hurry.

What do you think of the Silver Cross Tide stroller’s seat unit?

At 3 months old, I felt that Nuala was a little too young to use the seat unit, which has a very slight angle to it when in the lie-flat position, so I kept her in the carrycot, where she had plenty of space and was shielded from the winter wind. However, the seat is smartly designed and looks very comfortable and I would feel comfortable moving her into it from 4 months onwards or as soon as she outgrows the carrycot.

The seat is suitable up to 22kg (approx. 4 years) and has adjustable calf support. It can be parent facing or world facing. It is also quite raised, meaning that your baby remains close to you. It has 3 different levels of recline and is very easy to adjust, with a single lever at the back allowing it to be lifted off the chassis and switched from parent facing to world facing. The same lever enables the back to be raised or lowered once slotted into place on the chassis.

The 5 adjustable straps ensure that an infant or toddler is safe and the magnetic buckle can be quickly locked and released without fiddling around to get all the pieces in the right place, a definite advantage when dealing with a squirming toddler.

What’s the hood like on the Silver Cross Tide stroller?

The UPF50+ hood is made from anti-crease jersey fabric inspired by luxury sportswear. It has a lovely soft, matte finish and feels very high quality. It unfolds and folds very easily using one hand and can be unzipped to create an extended cover that comes far enough forward to shield an infant or toddler from the sun or provide a dark space in which to nap. It stays in place well and, like the carrycot, has a flap of fabric that can be folded back to increase airflow and create a mesh window that provides a view of the child.

What are the wheels like on the Silver Cross Tide pushchair?

The wheels seem very sturdy and quite bouncy, giving the stroller great suspension so it moves smoothly even over rougher ground. They have an anti-puncture design, which set my mind at ease when wheeling the stroller across the sharp gravel of my building’s car park, and remained in pristine condition after several weeks of use over all types of terrain.

They can be removed with the press of a button and replaced in seconds – a bonus when cleaning them after a very muddy trip to the park, and have quite a deep tread, giving them good grip. The front wheels can be locked into place on rougher ground, but I found that it wasn’t necessary to use this function except when pushing the stroller on a path through woodland, where it was bumping over loose sticks and protruding roots.

How good are the brakes on the Silver Cross Tide pushchair?

The plastic brake feels chunky and is easy to flip on and off. A press of the foot locks the stroller in a second, but to release it you need to push up from below with the top of your shoe, which might prove annoying when wearing sandals in the summer or if wearing shoes or boots that are easily scuffed.

The brake feels strong and works well both on slopes and on public transport, holding the pram still on a bumpy bus ride and on a train. The brake is positioned to the right side of the chassis. This means I never engaged it by mistake – a repeated problem with my Joolz Aer+, which has a central brake – but it may be a bit of a faff for left-handed (and footed) parents.

How do you rate the basket of the Silver Cross Tide stroller?

After acclimatising to the very small basket of my compact travel pram, I found the Silver Cross Tide’s generous basket to be a huge bonus. It is deep and wide enough to hold a large changing bag, a handbag and some shopping or a couple of toys and the height of the carrycot or seat leaves plenty of space to access anything stored in the basket without having to crouch down, even with the carrycot attached. The mesh sides make it easy to see what’s inside and it’s deep enough that nothing fell out, even when I forgot to bring a bag with me and ended up with a lot of loose shopping inside.

What’s in the box?

• Chassis
• Carrycot with hood
• Seat unit with hood and magnetic buckle
• Car seat adaptors
• Bumper bar
• 2 x Rain covers

What additional accessories can you buy?

The Silver Cross Tide can be purchased with a bundle of additional accessories that includes a matching changing rucksack, footmuff, phone holder and cup holder. You can also buy the Silver Cross Dream car seat and base, which is compatible with the Tide as a travel system, in one bundle.

What did you think of the packaging of the Silver Cross Tide stroller?

Silver Cross has focused on sustainability with the launch of the Tide stroller. It is shipped in fully recyclable packaging and, although there was slightly more plastic than I would have liked in the box, I was able to dispose of everything in my building’s communal recycling bin.

How sustainable is the Silver Cross Tide stroller?

The Silver Cross Tide comes with a 3-year warranty against manufacturing faults that covers the chassis, frame and wheels and any accessories supplied. In order to prevent waste, the brand offers a special Silver Cross scheme that includes valeting and servicing of their products. The stroller can also be donated back to the brand for sustainable disposal when it is no longer needed. Silver Cross promises the scheme is designed to reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfill.

Can the Silver Cross Tide pushchair be used with a car seat to create a travel system?

Yes, the Silver Cross Tide is compatible with the Silver Cross Dream i-Size infant carrier and the car seat adaptors are included with the stroller. It is also compatible with a range of other premium car seats when used with universal adaptors, which are sold separately.

Now you’ve tested it, what would you have wanted to know before purchasing the Silver Cross Tide stroller?

That a larger, heavier stroller than the Joolz Aer+ could be so convenient and easy to manoeuvre in small spaces and on public transport. Despite its larger size, the Silver Cross Tide gives us everything we were looking for in a stroller – it’s smooth and easy to push and small enough to take into cafes and on buses with ease, it folds up small enough to store in our narrow hallway, it has a comfortable carrycot that’s safe for sleeping and as a bonus it has plenty of storage space and looks very stylish with its black and sage green colour scheme.

Who would the Silver Cross Tide stroller be most useful for?

I would recommend the Silver Cross Tide to anyone looking for a good all-rounder. It may not suit the needs of a cross-country runner or a frequent flyer who wants a stroller that folds to hand luggage size, but for most families the Silver Cross Tide will tick all the boxes. For city dwellers, it can handle tight spaces, steps up to shop entrances and public transport with ease, and for those who spend more time in the countryside it’s sturdy enough to withstand wheeling along unpaved roads, narrow footpaths or grass, and won’t take up too much space in the boot when driving into town.

Is the Silver Cross Tide stroller worth the money?

The Silver Cross Tide is a luxury stroller and comes with a luxury price tag (£595 for the 6-piece bundle) but in my opinion it is worth the money, especially if purchased for a newborn. That way parents can make the most of the comfortable carrycot, which doubles as a great place for daytime naps and overnight trips, saving the need to buy a moses basket for the house or a travel cot for overnight stays during the first 6 months. Versatile, stylish and durable, it promises to last our baby well into her toddler years and it does everything we need so I don’t anticipate needing to buy another stroller or pram down the line.

Where can I buy the Silver Cross Tide pushchair?

Available from Silver Cross, John Lewis and Amazon.

MadeForMums verdict

With its robust chassis, comfortable carrycot, reversible seat unit, adjustable handlebar and spacious basket, the Silver Cross Tide is a well-made stroller that is a pleasure to use.

Striking a careful compromise between compactness and durability, it lived up to my desire for a stroller that is easy to store and light to carry, while also capable of tackling a range of terrains, allowing me to use it both on city pavements and at the park. I was impressed by the suspension and enjoyed having my baby at a height where I could easily keep an eye on her, whether she was looking up at the trees above her carrycot or snoozing peacefully under its hood.

Equipped with sleek accessories, the slimline pushchair could easily be considered one of the most stylish buggies on the market.

You can purchase the stroller as part of a travel bundle or on its own for £699. Admittedly, it is at the higher price point within the market, and I was keen to test whether it was worth that figure.

What were your first impressions of the Junior Jones Aylo?

Unwrapping the boxes of the Aylo, it was immediately obvious this was a sophisticated, stylish pram, aligning with Junior Jones’ luxury standards for their brand.

We had chosen the rich black hue, but the stroller is also available in dark slate, pebble grey and grey marl. As I pulled each component out of the box, everything felt unusually and refreshingly lightweight in comparison to some of the bulkier strollers we had tried out.

It was perfect for mums like me who’d had a cesarean and were limited to how much we can lift and carry.

• See more lightweight pushchairs and strollers

How easy was the Junior Jones Aylo to build?

The instructions were easy to understand, with descriptions and diagrams on how to assemble and use everything.

Thankfully for my baby brain, there were not too many components to assemble and it felt reasonably easy to put together. After ripping off the plastic and cardboard, I just popped on the wheels.

If you were using the pushchair for a toddler, you would actually be good to go from this moment onwards as the seat was already attached to the chassis.

For us, however, we took the seat unit off and attached the adaptors and the carrycot. The adaptors also double up for a car seat — and can be used with various car seats from across the market, including Maxi-Cosi and Joie.

What did you think of the Junior Jones carrycot?

The carrycot seemed to be instantly comforting for Stanley when we placed him in there. The cot is very slimline so kept him feeling snug and the padded mattress was breathable, soft and cushioned but still firm, providing a safe sleep place for our baby boy.

Once we got moving, it was a bit of a bumpy ride but that wasn’t necessarily a bad thing — the rhythmic bumps sent Stanley into a deep slumber on a number of our walks with the pram.

We could quickly attach and remove the carrycot cover, using the velcro fastening, but I did find the flap a little high and had to tuck it in so I had a better view of Stanley.

The hood extended to the vertical easily, with buttons on the outside of the pram, which made it a lot easier than other brands with buttons on the inside.

During the February showers, we got a lot of use out of the carrycot rain cover. It is easy to pull over the pram when the heavens open, and is secured by velcro tabs to stop it blowing away in high winds.

How easy was the carrycot to add to the pushchair?

The carrycot slides quite easily on and off the pushchair — even straight out of the box. Once the adaptors are installed, simply push down the memory buttons on the top of the surround near the handle (you can do this one at a time, so you can remove it with one hand).

Junior Jones also say the carrycot is also suitable for occasional overnight sleeping which is useful (not that Stanley is doing much overnight sleeping!).

How easy is it to fold the Junior Jones Aylo?

Folding the buggy is easy to do and is pretty intuitive. Although Junior Jones says it can be done with three movements, it took us a little while to master it, but we got there in the end.

Simply rotate the handle, push down and pull the handle in the basket and voila. It can’t be folded with the carrycot or a car seat attached, as to be expected.

How compact is the Junior Jones Aylo when folded?

It becomes self-standing and compact once folded but does seem a little wobbly. It was then easy to carry into the house and put away or pop into the boot of the car — it's quite lightweight and not too bulky.

How good is the Junior Jones Aylo to push and steer?

The Aylo has ‘Tru-Ride2 technology,’ with Junior Jones boasting of the pram’s superior suspension.

On our first outing with the Aylo, we navigated a busy town centre, but it was easy to weave through the crowds with the swivel front wheels — which can be locked for different terrains.

It felt light and sturdy and easy to take up and down kerbs. However, I found it more difficult to push and steer when we took the pram onto the countryside lanes.

The back wheels are rather small which makes muddier and rockier terrain more difficult to manoeuvre. Luckily, the pram is lightweight so that helped to guide it along uneven ground.

What’s the the Junior Jones Aylo chassis like?

The chassis is lightweight and easy to fold. It appears to be quite hard-wearing so far as it has taken a few bashes in and out of our high boot and it is yet to scratch! The black, shiny finish is useful for masking any muddy splashes.

How do you rate the buggy handle?

I really loved the adjustable handle which was great when I was out walking with my husband as there’s a big height difference between us.

You simply turn the handle at the top and adjust to your preferred height. The handle is quite foamy rather than leathery, which would’ve added to its sleek finish but it’s a minor style point.

How do you rate the brakes?

The rear brake is on the right hand side and appears to be quite strong. The ‘flip-flop’ style of the brake did get stuck a couple of times when I released it and needed a bit of a wiggle.

Once you engage the brake, the pedal returns to its original position rather than staying down which may be a positive for some parents but I didn’t like that you couldn’t visibly see if the brake was engaged or not.

How do you rate the basket?

The basket is on the small side but does keep your belongings safe from falling out and it is easy to get to the items inside when the carrycot is in place.

We also used the Essentials bag, available to buy as an accessory, which clips onto the front of the pram, perfect to keep your essential items easy to access.

What’s in the the Junior Jones Aylo box?

• 1 x Aylo Stroller
• 1 x Carrycot
• 1 x Pair of Adaptors
• 1 x Rain Cover for Carrycot
• 1 x Rain Cover for Stroller
• 1 x Instructions

What are the additional accessories that you can buy?

• Changing backpack (£169)
• Luxury footmuff (£89)
• Essentials bag (£79)
• Cupholder (£15)
• Seat liner (£39)
• Car seat adaptors (£29)
• Sun shade (£29)

How did you find the packaging of the Junior Jones Aylo?

There was cardboard and plastic protecting each element from damage. The boxes and protective cardboard were recyclable in household recycling but the plastic was not. There was only the necessary amount of plastic packaging, so still quite sustainable.

What are the sustainability and repair options like?

Junior Jones encourages you to regularly check the fastenings and bolts of the stroller. If any part of the product is damaged or in need of repairs, you can contact their customer service team.

There is a warranty valid for two years on the stroller and you will need your proof of purchase to make any claims.

Now you’ve tested it, what would you have wanted to know before purchasing the Junior Jones Aylo?

We live in quite a rural area so a lot of our walks cross bumpy and muddy terrain. Despite it being advertised as all-terrain, I think there are better strollers on the market for countryside walks. The Aylo is a lot more suited to city and town walks on even ground.

Who would this pushchair be most useful for?

This would be a perfect pushchair for parents living in a busy city or town. It is lightweight and slimline so great for storing if you haven’t got a lot of room, easy to pop into the car boot, and easy to manoeuvre on city streets.

Where can I buy the Junior Jones Aylo stroller?

Available from Junior Jones, Kiddies Kingdom and Boots

MadeForMums verdict

An ideal stroller for the fashion-conscious modern parent, the Junior Jones Aylo is an investment worth taking to carry your little love from newborn until four years old.

Joolz produce good looking, well made and sustainability-focused buggies and the Geo3 is no exception. The fabric of the pushchair is made from recycled bottles, yet this doesn't compromise its style — it looks and feels smart and luxurious. The large wheels and solid handles make it a very pleasant buggy to push and steer, plus the lay-flat fold is quick and intuitive. The clever design of the Geo3 also allows you to go from a single buggy to a duo with relative ease, with an impressive variety of combinations.

An upgrade on the Joolz Geo2, the new version has a more straightforward build, a larger (very generous) shopping basket and a larger second seat unit when using the buggy in duo mode. The Geo3 is a very smart, versatile and thoughtfully-designed buggy that will grow with your family.

Read more pushchairs suitable for a newborn.

Tested by

Alice Skidmore lives with her partner, two young sons (aged 16 weeks and 3 years) and her 15-year-old stepson in a maisonette in Walthamstow, East London on the edge of a forest. She tested the Geo 3 there as well as on high street shopping trips.

Alice has over 10 years experience as a television producer working across consumer content, current affairs and factual entertainment for major terrestrial broadcasters.

What are the first impressions of the Joolz Geo3?

I thought that the Joolz Geo 3 looked like a smart and pretty formidable buggy. It arrived in a number of smart cardboard boxes which were printed with shapes to cut out and make animal models with. Inside, the packaging was all really well considered, with the majority being cardboard and recyclable.

How easy is it to build?

There wasn’t much to put together, the instructions used pictures over text and were pretty clear. It took about 30 minutes to build the basic pushchair and then a few more minutes to figure out how to adapt it into a double or twin set up. The only part I found tricky was removing the leg rest from the seat unit if it's going in the lower position as it's clipped on quite tightly. Apart from that, it was easy to build.

How does the Joolz Geo3 compare to the Geo2?

Visually, the Geo3 looks much sleeker and more luxe than its predecessor. The chassis is matte black rather than silver but the folding mechanism, the wheels and suspension seem unchanged. Size-wise it is pretty much identical, with a centimetre or so bigger in some places and smaller in others.

The shopping basket in the Geo3 can take around double the volume and 5kg more than the Geo2, though it has lost the carry handles to lift the basket out which is a shame. It was more complicated to convert the Geo2 into a double buggy and it had a smaller seat or carrycot that sat underneath when it was in duo or twin mode. The extra seat unit/carrycot for the Geo3, however, is the same, generous size.

What do you think of the Joolz Geo3 carrycot?

The carrycot is fantastically spacious, well-ventilated and, helpfully, suitable for overnight sleeping. However, you will need to buy sheets separately. It measures longer than a moses basket and the maximum weight capacity is 9 kg, so I’m confident that it will comfortably last my son until he is 6 months old.

The hood, which can attach by zip to either the seat or the carrycot, is HUGE. There would be no need for a rain cover and in fact, I’ve been caught in the rain a couple of times and the baby has stayed dry and cosy. There are ventilation panels in the hood, but no ‘peekaboo’ window — so you need to open the hood to check on the baby. There is also a large ventilation panel in the carrycot for summer days and overnight sleeping — they’ve thought of pretty much everything!

How easy is the carrycot to add on and take off the pushchair?

There is a really clever handle underneath the carrycot at one end which releases it. This took me a while to find at first, but it makes taking the carrycot on and off really easy. When using the adapters for double and twin mode, it's slightly more of a fiddle, but the sturdy bumper bar acts as a handle so that you can get a good grip of the carrycot while pushing the button to free it.

What do you think of the toddler seat unit on the Joolz Geo3?

The toddler seat unit has been really well thought through, it's a good size with a great, easy-to-use harness. The seat reclines using a one-handed lever behind the head and it reclines sufficiently so my son can have a decent snooze. My son is nearly three and a half and around 50th centile and I’m confident there will be room for him until the recommended upper age limit of approximately 4 years (22kg). The foot rest is fabric, so any serious muck on shoes will transfer to the buggy and be tricky to clean off.

How well does the toddler seat work in duo mode?

When in double mode, the seat can attach either underneath or above the carrycot, depending on the weight and size of your toddler (max 22kg in the upper position and 15kg in the lower). My eldest is under 15kg so I’ve tried sitting him in both positions. He doesn’t enjoy the lower position so much — it’s difficult to get in and out underneath the cot and he has a restricted view. He also complains about the pavement feeling bumpy.

Which double combination works well with a baby and a toddler?

For my kids, it works best to have the baby in the carrycot in the lower position and the toddler at the top — he can see around from up there and I can easily check how the baby is doing. The buggy works great as a double in either configuration, the only real criticism I have is that when the seat unit is in the lower position, his feet go straight into the shopping basket so you lose it completely.

How easy is it to fold the Joolz Geo3 in single and duo modes?

The folding mechanism is easy enough:

• Put the foot brake on
• Lower the handle
• Slide the catches on either side of the handlebar which folds the chassis down to the floor where it clips agains the wheelbase

It can be folded with one seat attached, but not with the carrycot or with any adaptors left on.

How big is the Joolz Geo3 when folded?

It’s a lay-flat fold rather than a self-stand, so takes up quite a bit of space when folded (92cmx60cmx33cm) so I rarely bother to fold it at home. At my toddler’s nursery we need to lift it up into a cubby on the wall and that’s not too heavy or difficult. We have a small car with no boot space, but I wouldn’t have a problem lifting this into a normal boot.

How easy is it to push and steer the Joolz Geo3?

In mono or single mode the buggy is pretty effortless to steer and handles curbs and uneven ground easily. As a double, the centre of gravity shifts as it does with similar pushchairs of this design. This means that it can take a bit of effort to mount curbs and I tend to pick where I cross the road very carefully.

The whole pushchair is quite heavy and not the easiest to steer one-handed, although this is easier when in single mode and not impossible in duo mode. The turning circle is really tight, making it easy to steer around even small shops.

The other double buggy I’ve used is a side-by-side pushchair, the Out'n'About Nipper Double v5. This was far easier to steer, but much more difficult to get into shops and cafes with due to its larger width.

How well does the Joolz Geo3 work on public transport?

As a double, this buggy is pretty long, so if there are other buggies on the bus, you’ve had it. However, because of its single width, it can fit through all the gates and doors that most other buggies can.

What’s the chassis like?

The metal chassis feels incredibly strong and durable. The coating is a sleek, matte black which is gorgeous but shows my toddler's fingerprints instantly! Luckily it’s easy to clean, just wipe it down with a cloth dampened with plain water.

What are the wheels like?

The wheels are nice, big and puncture-proof. When you convert the buggy into a double, the adapter kit comes with some shields to cover the insides of the wheel so that kids don’t stick their fingers through the ‘spokes’. However, there is nothing to stop children rubbing their fingers on the dirty wet wheel, but that could just be my child..!

Because of their size, the wheels can handle most terrains — I’ve tested the Geo3 on pavements and woodland and it coped really well on both.

How do you rate the buggy handle?

The adjustable handle is covered in a synthetic leather and is super thick (my fingers don't meet around it). It’s ergonomic, adjustable and comfortable to hold for both me at just over five-and-a-half feet and my six-foot partner.

What’s the hood like?

The hood, which can move between the cot and seat is really generous and has UPF50+ protection. It's easy to use and it creates a dark, dry space making it perfect for naps in any weather. I do miss a peephole or peekaboo window, but I can live without it.

How good is the brake?

The brake is really well-positioned and easy to use. I haven’t found myself struggling to engage or disengage it and never kick it by mistake.

How do you rate the basket?

The basket is massive and can hold 15kg of stuff. It’s great, but reduces to NOTHING when the pram is in duo mode, so don’t get too attached.

What’s in the box?

Depending on your needs, there will be different things in the Geo3 kit you choose. (If going from mono to duo, the duo kit turns the buggy into a double with just a few accessories).

Mono kit:

• Chassis with wheels
• Cot
• Seat
• Shopping basket
• Bumper bar
• Manual

Mono+duo kit:

• Duo adapters lower seat/cot
• Bumper bar
• Sun hood
• Wheel caps

Twin:

• Chassis with wheels
• 2 cots with sun hood & bumper bar
• 2x seats
• Duo adapters upper cot
• Duo adapters lower seat/cot
• 2x raincover

What are the additional accessories that you can buy?

Any accessory you can think of seems to have been thought of and made by Joolz. You can buy anything from a cupholder to a footmuff via footboards, changing bags and food trays. The only essential you will need to purchase is a sheet for the carrycot at £14.95, if you want to use it for overnight sleeping.

What did you think of the packaging of this product?

The vast majority of the packaging was cardboard, it was really protective and secure, without it feeling wasteful or over the top. Printed onto the box are animals to cut out and construct, should you want to re-use the packaging rather than recycle.

How sustainable is the Geo3?

Joolz have made a big effort to consider sustainability at every point — they plant a tree for every Joolz buggy sold and the Geo3 is covered in rPET fabric (made from recycled plastic bottles). A single Geo3 is made from 155 plastic bottles and the twin from 276! The 10 year warranty is transferable, so if you pass the buggy on, the new owner will also be able to benefit from it and there are plenty of spares available on the Joolz website to keep the buggy in perfect working order.

Can the pushchair be used with a car seat to create a travel system?

Yes, car seats can be used with a special adapter (£42.95) to fit them onto the chassis. I haven’t used a car seat with this buggy so check for suitability.

Who would the Joolz Geo3 be most useful for?

The Geo3 is perfect for new parents who are undecided about further children and it's an obvious choice for twin parents. For us, as parents of a toddler and a newborn, we had never considered a duo buggy, assuming we’d use a buggy board and our toddler’s scooter. However, he still likes to nap and we still like to get places in a timely fashion, so it’s definitely worth considering for families like ours, where it will still get a good 4 years’ use.

Is the Joolz Geo3 worth the money?

This buggy is at the higher end of the market, but you get a lot for your money. Especially as it's clearly been carefully and thoughtfully designed and built, both for your family and for the environment.

How does the Joolz Geo3 compare to similar pushchairs?

Where can I buy the Joolz Geo3?

It is available from Natural Baby Shower and Kiddies Kingdom

MadeForMums verdict

The Jools Geo3 is a really well thought-out buggy, offering comfort and flexibility whilst being really good-looking and stylish. Growing families can adapt their existing mono set up into a duo for just under £125 which would save buying a whole new pushchair. Starting with the twin set up is also a great option for families with two babies who want a solid and flexible buggy built to last.