By Amanda G.
I recently had the opportunity to review the new Maxi-Cosi Kaia stroller (MSRP $200) with my two year old. The stroller is for use from birth with the car seat adaptor and works with their Mico and Prezi car seats or you can use it for babies 6 months and up with the regular seat. Since my son is a toddler I focused on our strolling needs.
The bright color and roomy seat is perfect for my son.
Maxi-Cosi Kaia Stroller Review: Toddler & Mom Approved!
The stroller comes in bright red or black and I love that the metal frame has the same paint job, it really adds a special something. The seat holds children up to 50 pounds and has a nice high seat back to accommodate taller kids. The footrest area is strong and will not bend like some strollers do. The edge of the seat adjusts easily to accommodate all leg lengths. Like most compact strollers the seat does not fully recline but it is easy to adjust with a strap and clip system and my son is quite comfortable napping in it for up to two hours!
From a parents point of view, I found the Kaia easy to push with a smooth ride and I was even able to push one handed in Target as I held the shopping basket in my other hand! Not many two handled strollers can handle that. I liked the slightly higher handles which are great for taller parents, but not too tall for those who are a bit shorter. The stroller comes with a snap on cup holder which can go on either side and is a great addition. I love the storage net which snaps off for easy cleaning and can hold a surprising amount of gear. My large diaper bag, blanket, toys and umbrella are easy to fit and easy to access even when the seat is reclined. When pulled down the shade gives great coverage and does not block the child’s ability to look around. I do miss having a pocket in the back of the stroller for snacks and little toys but instead I stick everything in the bottom net and it isn’t a big deal. The wheels have a rear break system in which you push down on the left side to brake, the right side to release. Simple and strong. The Kaia weighs 19 pounds, so I need two hands to load it into the trunk but I found it completely manageable.
One of the most useful amenities for parents who live in apartments or who go to restaurants often is that the stroller stands up when folded! This feature is often only found in much pricier models and I absolutely love that it saves space in my entryway/dining room. It also has a super easy close and open with a satisfying snap that lets you know the seat is secure and ready for your child. The stroller has a standard five point harness and is a bit different in that you click the two straps together before pushing them into the center buckle. Now when I am using a stroller just for a short time, like going to pick up my 6-year-old from school, I am used to just doing one side of the buckle for a quick stroll. However, with this buckle system, you must do both straps so while it’s safer (but it’s a little less convenient for me).
I really like our “red roller” as my son calls it and recommend it for a sturdy and bright umbrella stroller that will definitely take you from birth to preschool. It is easy to clean, easy to open and close and has great features for the price point.
The stroller is on sale for $99 at Amazon.
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