Orbit Baby Stroller Review
September 9th, 2011
Orbit Baby Stroller Infant System
We’ve been selling Orbit Baby products for years, and have done extremely well with them. I’ve wanted to write a review of their stroller for quite a while, but felt that we needed to experience the product a little longer first to write something meaningful.
As a dad to 2 young boys, I’ve had the opportunity to use several different strollers. For the past year, we’ve been using the Orbit Baby Toddler Stroller for our 2 year old son. We absolutely love it. It’s a phenomenal product for so many reasons. As a general observation, I will say that this company has thought of everything, and managed to solve most of the issues we all seem to have with other leading strollers on the market today. So, specifically, what do I mean? Ok, here’s a breakdown;
For one, there are no adapters! Since Orbit Baby makes their own infant car seat, clicking in from the car to the stroller is as quick and easy as picking it up and putting it down again in one fluid motion. Not only that, but their patented Smart Hub technology allows you to plug any component into any one of the Orbit Baby base products. For example, the Orbit Baby Toddler Car Seat, Infant Car Seat, and Bassinet will all seamlessly snap into the Orbit Baby Car Seat Base, Bassinet Rocker, AND the stroller frame. Yes, that’s right, you can even take the big, bulky, permanently fixed toddler car seat and stick it on your stroller frame if you need to. While I don’t recommend using the Toddler Car Seat as a Stroller Seat, that fact that it can be used this way is extremely helpful when traveling.
Orbit Baby Toddler Stroller w/SideKick
The most obvious feature to the Orbit Baby Stroller System is the ability to rotate the Infant Cart Seat, Stroller Seat, Bassinet, and Toddler Car Seat 360 degrees. This is a first, and currently the only stroller on the market today that offers this feature. So, what’s the real advantage to it? Well, I can think of too many to write in this entry. However, for me, there are two that stand out the most. The first would be to facilitate ease of entry into the car. With traditional infant car seats, you have to wrench your back slightly to drop it into the car seat base in your car at an uncomfortable angle. With the Orbit Baby Infant Car Seat, you can face the car door, drop the car seat into the base, then rotate it 45 degrees into it’s proper rear facing position. So simple, yet so smart. My second favorite is being able to rotate the stroller seat, creating a number of great new features such as; Turning away from the sun, giving your child a better view of you while still being able to see the world, and being able to use your stroller as a highchair in a restaurant. When your stroller is alongside the dinner table, just rotate the stroller seat and voila! A great high chair is born! Not only is it more comfortable than those nasty restaurant high chairs, but it also allows you to keep your stroller with you instead of the usual mandatory check-in at the front of the restaurant. I hate that.
Aside from these significant advantages, here are a few smaller ones to consider;
Orbit Baby Color Packs
Removable Cargo Pod (Under Seat Bag)
Again, a really simply idea, but solves so many issues. I love it because it doubles as a diaper bag, allowing me to take the bag into the front seat of our car and access the bottles, diapers, wipes, and toys that we put in there. Being able to remove it also allows for easy access to everything in there. It also makes packing up a breeze. We load it up with snacks and toys in the house, then slide it onto the stroller in the garage.
SideKick Stroller Board
This thing is just plain awesome! Every single person stops us wherever we go and comments on how cool it is. The Orbit Baby Sidekick is a stroller board that connect to the back wheels of the stroller frame to allow your child to stand on the back and “hitch” a ride. These types of boards are common with high-end strollers. It allows you to have a second child standing on the back, or your stroller riding child to take a break from sitting for a while. However, what makes this board unique and better than any of its competitors is it’s location. While all other boards sit directly in the back of the stroller (blocking your walking stride), the Orbit Baby Sidekick clips onto the wheels off to the side. This keeps the center wide open so you can walk and push your stroller properly. Since it clips onto the wheel, there is an option for two of them! This means that you have the possibility of having three children on this stroller at once. Very clever.
Orbit Baby Stroller Panniers (Storage Baskets)
For those of us who need a little extra storage (lets face it, we all do!), these detachable Panniers are a gift from the heavens. They are sold in pairs (1 on each side of the stroller), and each provide an extra 8 pounds of unobstructed storage. Easy to access, easy to use, easy to remove. These things are just what you need for that stroll to the market, or down to the park or beach.
Orbit Baby Bassinet w/Rocker
Orbit Baby Bassinet and Rocker
So, every high-end stroller has a bassinet option. What makes this one so unique is its size (the largest on the market), and the rocker that comes with it. Earlier in this article, I spoke about how interchangeable all Orbit Baby products are with one another. So, the rocker that comes with the bassinet can be used at home with the bassinet and all 3 of Orbit Baby’s seats (Infant, Toddler, and Stroller Seat), creating an instant rocker/bouncer.
Orbit Baby Color Packs
These Orbit Baby Color Packs are a brand new addition, allowing you to change the look of your Orbit Baby Stroller Seat. So, if you are bored with the look of your stroller seat, these color packs will offer you 9 different color options. They are also great to consider to make your stroller more gender-specific for your current child or the one on the way!
Double Stroller Adapter!
Although this product has not yet been launched, its pending release has been a huge factor with our customers looking to purchase a stroller that will grow with their family. Orbit Baby has plans to release an adapter to turn your Orbit Baby Stroller into a double! (which will be compatible with the current G2 Stroller Frame). So, come November/December, Orbit Baby customers will be able to purchase one, allowing this popular stroller to carry up to 4 kids! (2 in seats, and 2 on Sidekicks). I think it might be time for a motor!
All-in-all, Orbit Baby is a great company, producing great products that address many of the issues we all face with strollers on a daily basis. There are many phenomenal strollers on the market today. Orbit Baby’s a great one to add to your list to choose from!
New 2010 Stokke Xplory Stroller Review
April 29th, 2010
After playing around with the stroller for a while, I want to share my thoughts with you in hopes of answering most of your questions about it. There are several great blog entries about the new Xplory already on the web, so I thought I would focus on answering the most common or popular questions we’ve been receiving from our customers.
If you have the current Xplory in stores now, it IS possible to upgrade to the new one. For $399, Stokke will be offering a stroller seat package which will include the seat, seat fabric, canopy, and under seat bag. So, if you are getting ready for your second child and want to give your existing stroller a face lift, you are in luck!
So, what’s different about the stroller?
If you have an Xplory with serial number greater than 113464 (these have been in stores for months), the chassis will be almost exactly the same. The only differences are:
Chassis (Stroller Seat 
- Brake pedal is now Red, not Cream colored
- There are 2 clips on the frame to hang your Stokke Changing Bag, or any other diaper bag with a strap
- The under seat bag has been completely remodeled. It’s larger, has a zipper closure instead of a drawstring, and fastens to the chassis much easier than the current model.
Bassinet (available with the Stokke Xplory Complete Stroller Only)
The hard plastic shell that makes up the bassinet is exactly the same. The difference are:
- Textile set (fabric inside the bassinet) is completely different. Stokke replaced the current fabric with a new micro-fiber material. It’s designed to create a softer and smoother look and feel. It will also take moisture away from your child more efficiently, to keep them dry and cool. It’s also water resistant.
- The Canopy now has a visor (2 inch lip on the edge of the canopy). You can extend it or leave it tucked in. When extended, it gives your child more shade from harmful sun rays.
- There is a great mesh window on part of the canopy, designed for better ventilation. It can be opened and closed easily and securely.
Stroller Seat
This is where most of the changes are, such as;
- Increased comfort with upgraded textiles (same as the Bassinet).
- Deeper seat for increased comfort and support
- The back of the seat (previously exposed plastic) is now coated with the same color seat fabric for a sharper, sleek look.
- Tighter seat rail fabric padding with easy on/off capabilities.
- The footrest features a one-handed adjustment, as opposed to the current model which features 2 clips.
- The canopy is the same as the bassinet description above, complete with visor and mesh ventilation
- The under seat bag is larger and zips up for added security and convenience
So, what works and what doesn’t from the current to new model? The short answer is that all current accessories will fit the new Xplory. Here are the details;
- The new parasol does not need the clip/adapter piece anymore. It plugs right in. However, the current parasol WILL fit the new model
- The Sleeping bag is now only offered in one color, cream. It had been completely redesigned and will match any color stroller. The current sleeping bags WILL fit the new model
- The new Footmuff is softer, and has a drawstring to create a snug cocoon-like fit around your child. It’s also a bit larger. The current footmuff WILL fit the new model
- Car seat adapter have not changed at all and WILL fit the new model
- The changing bag has been completely remodeled. The current bag WILL fit the new stroller
- Also to come, Stokke is planning to add a summer kit (only to fit the New Xplory) and a sheepskin insert.
New Items
Stokke came out with a new Blanket that they refer to as the “Celebrity Blanket”. It’s soft and cuddly, but can also be used as a shield from the sun and wind. With 2 convenient snaps, it clips around the stroller canopy securely so that it won’t fly off. As a parent, I definitely appreciate that feature.
Colors:
The new Stokke 2010 Xplory Stroller will be offered in 6 colors; Red, Purple, Green, Dark Navy, Blue, and Beige.
Price:
The Price will be increasing slightly. The Stokke Xplory Complete Stroller will retail for $1259.99. the Basic (without bassinet) will be $1059.99
Pre-Order Schedule
The New 2010 Stokke Xplory Stroller will be available for pre-order in June for delivery during the first week of July. The dates may change, but this is what it is looking like at this point in time.
PRE-ORDER NOW: Click Here
In the meantime, if you have any other questions, feel free to contact us anytime.
New 2010 Bugaboo Bee Stroller Has Arrived!
April 14th, 2010
Thanks for waiting everyone! The New 2010 Bugaboo Bee Stroller has arrived and is ready to ship today! For complete details on the stroller, feel free to read our formal review from January 2010, and click here to see the latest pictures and product specifications.
We also received the New Maxi-Cosi Mico Infant Car Seat Adapter, so the New 2010 Bugaboo Bee is now compatible with this car seat. Please also note that the New 2010 Bugaboo Bee Breezy Sun Canopy is available and combines both a sun canopy and sunshade in one!
If you have any questions, please contact us anytime via online chat, email, or toll-free at 1-866-271-5437. Happy Shopping!
Buggy Baggs – Review
January 5th, 2010
Buggy Baggs Shopping Cart Cover
I love the Buggy Bagg – so convenient. My son hates the infant car seat, and I always had to carry him around the grocery store in a baby carrier, which works, but can be cumbersome when reaching for heavy items. I always felt like something would fall on him. Now that he is 6 months and can sit up on his own, I decided to try the Buggy Bagg Shopping Cart Cover. I had always heard great thing about it and thought I would put it to the test myself.
I have used it twice in two days and I love it. First of all, you can position the Buggy Bagg shopping cart cover into the shopping cart using only one hand if necessary – which always comes in handy when holding a baby or extra large coffee. The Buggy Bagg unfolds into the cart with the release of one large and very smooth zipper. Once opened, it is like a little padded oasis for your baby. I have the jungle pattern which is very bright and colorful (but it is available in more subdued prints). There is a storage compartment which hangs behind the “seat” of the shopping cart – which can be used for wipes, toys or snacks. Also, the Buggy Bagg extends over the handle of the shopping cart, which creates a resting place for a child’s toys or snacks. The Buggy Bagg is extremely convenient, hygienic and fun. I recommend it for anyone who regularly shops with an infant or toddler.
Boon Frog Pod Review
December 23rd, 2009
Boon Frog Pod
The Boon Frog Pod and Bug Pod are just what your kid’s bathtub was missing…It’s not a tough product to understand, but wanted to weigh in and tell you about it first hand, in case you had any questions.
The base attaches to the wall of your tub with double sided tape or suction cups if you want it to be “less permanent”. Both options are provided in the box, it’s really just up to you to decide how solid you want it to be on your wall. For our kids bathtub, we started with the suction cups but they didn’t hold up so well. So, reluctantly, I went for the tape next. It holds up pretty well, but be sure to store only the light bath toys. Otherwise, this thing will come crashing down at 2am and wake everyone up…not that it happened to me.
The design is playful and smart. Whether you buy the Frog or the Bug, they are sure to be a hit with your child. From a practical standpoint, it’s a really great product. The shovel/storage bin has several large holes to strain the water-logged toys once you’ve collected them from the bath. So all you need to do is wave it around through the bath water to pick everything up and then place it in the base on your wall. In addition to holding the shovel, the base also has a ledge at the top for shampoo and soap storage.
If you are considering the Boon Frog Pod or Bug Pod, make sure you’ve got a large area to place it on, as these things are surprisingly large. and…don’t be afraid to make a statement.
Not Neutral BB2 Set – Table & Chairs
December 21st, 2009
Not Neutral BB2 Set - Table & Chairs
Looking for a table and chairs for your kids? If so, you might want to consider this set of 2 chairs and a table from Not Neutral. If not, you might want to start thinking about getting one. I say this because I, never in a million years, thought of getting my kids their own table and chairs. I was actually against the idea at first. However, 2 years later, I can now say that it was a great investment. My 4 year old loves this set. He eats and plays at it all day long…The chairs are a little small for me, but I get down there from time to time and work on lots of projects with him. It’s great.
Although the set only comes with 2 chairs, you can always order more. We bought the set 2 years ago, and just purchased 2 additional chairs because my son is now starting to have lots of friends over. It comes in handy for meals and art projects. It’s somewhere safe for kids to play and interact with one another at their level. It allows the kids to move around easily and provides them an area that is more suitable for their size. A bonus, not to be taken lightly, is a clutter-free dinner table. If you get the BB2, all of your kids toys, crayons, paint and paper will be spread out all over your new pint-sized dinning set.
The surface is really easy to clean (thermoplastic polymer paint), and looks great. It comes in 3 cool colors to contrast any room. I say contrast because the colors are pastel green, blue, and orange…not usual colors for a family room or kitchen. The base for the table and chairs is a really dark grey. The design is smart and sharp, and the construction is sturdy. The materials comply with ASTM standards.
BOB Jogging Strollers – Review
December 14th, 2009
BOB Revolution Stroller
BOB is, arguably, the best jogging stroller brand on the market today. The question is not whether or not to buy one, but rather which one is right for you and your lifestyle. As a retailer that sells tons of these strollers, we get this question every day. So, here’s what you need to know about BOB and how to go about choosing the right jogging stroller for your needs.
If you are a hard core runner, the BOB Sport Utility Stroller (SUS) or the BOB Ironman Stroller will be a popular choice. What matters to runners is weight, stability and durability. The stroller needs to roll smoothly, be able to stand up to the hundreds of miles that you’re going to put on it over the next few years, and be as lightweight as possible. Both of these BOB Stroller models have these features in spades. The 16-inch aluminum wheels help keep the overall weight down to 20.4 pounds on the Ironman and 21.1 pounds on the D’Luxe SUS. They both have fixed front wheels to add much needed stability, a necessity when using the stroller primarily as a jogging stroller.
The BOB Revolution was a welcomed addition to the BOB family a few years ago. It’s the swivel-wheeled version of the Sport Utility Stroller that BOB is best-known for. It was created for parents that want the performance of a jogging stroller combined with flexibility and versatility of a standard everday stroller. If you like to walk on the beach, through the park, up a mountain, and through the tiny aisles at the supermarket, then the BOB Revolution Stroller is a great choice for you. The front swivel wheel enables you to maneuver just about anywhere. Lock it in place and you’ll have the stability needed to go for a long walk and a light jog.
BOB Ironman Duallie Stroller
The BOB Revolution also comes in a 12″AW (All-Wheel) version. Instead of the 2 large 16 inch back wheels on the standard Revolution, the AW features 12 inch aluminum back wheels, to match the front swivel wheel. The result is a lighter stroller with increased maneuverability. Simply put, a smaller wheel means a smaller turning radius. So, it takes less space to turn, allowing you to steer through even tighter spaces. The smaller wheels also take up much less space in your car trunk.
All BOB stroller models are available as Duallies (double stroller) as well. You will compromise a bit on performance, but with 2 kids you must be used to compromise by now! All BOB Duallie Strollers fit through standard doorways, making it just as easy to get around with two kids as you were accustomed to with one. BOB is one of the very few stroller brands to offer such versatility.
So, remember, the scale from hardcore runner to casual stroller starts with the Ironman (large, fixed wheels), and follows with the SUS, the Revolution, and finally the Revolution AW (small wheels with a swivel).
Beaba BabyCook Food Processor Review
December 8th, 2009
Beaba Babycook Food Processor
Our youngest son, Hudson, is finally ready for solid food, so we cracked open the Beaba Babycook box last weekend and started making our own baby food. This thing is great!
You might be asking yourself why you’d shell out $149 for another version of the food processor you have sitting in your basement or tucked away behind the pots and pans in your kitchen. I know I did… All I can say is that it’s worth the money and is much different than the blender you’ve already got.
Taking it out of the box, it’s pretty easy to assemble. There aren’t many parts to it, just the blade, splash lid, cover, spoon/spatula, and steaming basket. It took 2 minutes to put together. It comes with a cooking guide/Recipe book which is very basic, but gives you a good idea of how to steam and blend as well as some ideas on what to cook for your little one.
What makes the Beaba Babycook so unique is that it steams and blends your food in the same blending bowl. The steaming feature can be used to soften raw vegetables to prepare them for blending, or to defrost baby food that you have already made. Steaming time is determined by the amount of water you put into the Beaba. There is a chart in the recipe book to help guide you with that. We started by steaming raw carrots in our Beaba, then blending them…all with the flick of a switch! The Babycook has one dial, with 2 settings; “Blend” and “Steam”, so it’s hard to screw it up.
Beaba Babycook Multiportions Tray
Beaba also makes the Multiportions Tray, a soft plastic tupperware tray with air tight lid to store and freeze your baby food in seven 1/4 cup portion sizes. Once frozen, the soft plastic compartments make it really easy to push and pop each portion out. If you opt not to get the tray, any household tupperware will work just fine.
Overall, this is a great machine. It will save you money by not having to buy all that expensive baby food. It’s also much heathier for your child and comforting for you to know exactly what you’re feeding them.
