Inglesina Zippy
$399, Inglesina, Elite Car Seats
Overall score: 5. It's got everything you're looking for.
Value: 5. It's not as expensive as comparable models, but it's got everything the others have, and it will last for years.
The basics: 20.7 pounds. Good from birth to 45 pounds. 21 inches at the widest point when it's unfolded. Collapses to 40 by 13 by 17 inches.
The extras: The Zippy features "one-action folding" and stands up by itself once it's folded. The aluminum frame is lightweight but durable, and its dual handles are ergonomic and height adjustable. The seat, which has a fully removable cover, reclines into four positions and can be laid flat for newborns. The Zippy also comes with a standard rain cover, and the canopy features an extendable front panel for extra sun protection. The stroller is compatible with all Graco and Compass infant car seats.
Folding and storage: Many strollers on the market claim to have especially quick one-handed-folding mechanisms. What sets the Zippy apart is that it actually does. A flip of the foot and a pull up on a handle and the stroller is closed. Unhinge a latch and give the Zippy a quick shake and the stroller unfolds. Plus, once it is folded, it is supercompact and stands on its own, so the Zippy's great for families with limited home storage or trunk space.
Pros: Parent-testers loved the Zippy. The aluminum frame and plastic pieces are durable, but, at less than 21 pounds, it's light. "I could carry it up and down stairs pretty easily, and I felt like my baby was safe while I was doing it," said one urban tester. Testers commented that the Zippy's light weight and narrow wheelbase made it ideal for the subway or the bus. The suburban testers appreciated that it still left plenty of room in the trunk of a sedan, and everyone liked that it could be stashed in a hall closet. Testers were also pleased with the five-point harness, which is uncomplicated to fasten but seems very secure. Another big plus? The seat reclines all the way down, and is suitable for newborns, but the seat is roomy enough for older children. "It could take you all the way through the stroller years," said one mom.
Testers also raved about the extralarge canopy, which hangs down almost to the restraint bar, if necessary, and has a ventilation panel at the back that can be opened for more air circulation. The seat sits slightly higher than that in a traditional stroller, so the child can see very well. Plus, the four-wheel suspension system allows for a smooth ride, even over rocky ground and grass. Parent-testers appreciated the telescoping handles, which suited even our tallest dad, at six foot six, but were also comfortable for our shorter moms. And the Zippy earned high marks for its storage space. "I've never had a stroller with such great storage," said one parent. A large diaper bag slides into the basket, and even without a child in it, the Zippy is sturdy and balanced when extra bags hang from the handles.
Cons: There are very few issues with this stroller, but teaters did note that the cup holder on the adult tray seemed small. Another complaint was that the canopy has to be removed in order to fold the stroller. The Zippy is also slightly difficult to maneuver one-handed with a heavy child. "With our 2-year-old niece in it, it was a little awkward to steer with one hand, but it did fine with our 10-month-old," one mom said.
Who will love this stroller? Everyone. It's a decent price, lightweight, compact, durable, and easy to maneuver. We really can't think of a family that won't enjoy this stroller.
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