Combi USA Helio
$150, Combi USA, Stoller Depot
Overall score: 3.5. It's not all tricked out, but it's a good stroller for daily use.
Value: 5. For a low price, you're getting a good basic stroller.
The basics: 13.6 pounds. Good from birth to 55 pounds. 21 inches at its widest point when unfolded. Collapses to 13.5 by 19 by 40.25 inches.
The extras: The lightweight stroller has a convenient carrying strap, and the pouch that hangs from the handles is ideal for stashing a cell phone or car keys. The vibrant seat cushion is washable, and the removable guardrail features two compartments, perfect for a juice box and a bag of Cheerios. The Helio is also compatible with Combi's Shuttle infant car seat.
Folding and storage: Folding is fast, but it requires two hands. For a lightweight stroller, it doesn't collapse into as compact a shape as comparable models, but it's still small enough to store in a hall closet. Unfolding the stroller takes a bit of getting used to, but it's quick once you do.
Pros: Parent-testers appreciated the attractive design of the Helio. The deeper seat is perfect for older babies, and the removable guardrail makes getting the child into and out of the stroller painless. Urban testers found that the light frame and narrow wheelbase rendered the stroller ideal for buses and subways.
Cons: You're getting what you pay for. The Helio is more difficult to maneuver than higher-priced models. The plastic wheels seem less sturdy and yield a much bumpier ride along uneven ground. The wheels aren't well suited for ice or snow, and while the light, breathable fabric may be a nice feature in warmer months, the Helio offers little protection against cold, wet weather. Storage is sufficient for a quick trip out, but parent-testers said that when they had to take along more than a standard diaper bag, it was a tight fit. One mom also felt that her child wasn't well secured by the harness as other strollers she has used.
Who will love this stroller? Parents who want a stroller that's stylish and sturdy and don't need the extra features of more expensive, larger strollers.
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