Stroller brand review: UPPAbaby

UPPAbaby’s Vista is their flagship stroller–it can morph from a single to double stroller. Price: $670-$780.

Web: UppaBaby.com

UPPAbaby was launched in 2006 by Bostonians Bob and Lauren Monahan. Bob worked for First Years and Safety 1st in product development before striking out on his own; Lauren provides the PR and design mojo. Obviously, the Monahan’s  have kids, as you can tell from the well-thought-out designs of their strollers.

The models. UPPAbaby has a hit with their flagship model, the multi-function Vista ($670-$780, 26.6 lbs.; pictured). Made with an aircraft alloy frame, the Vista stroller system includes a bassinet and stroller seat, telescoping handle and simpler one-step fold. We liked all the included extras, such as a rain shield, mesh sunshade and bug cover. Plus the Vista uses rubber-like foam wheels that give a smooth ride, but don’t go flat. Unlike the Bugaboo, you can fold the Vista with the seat attached.

The Vista can hold two seats—two UPPAbaby Mesa infant seats, two toddler seats, two bassinets, etc. With eight configurations, this is similar to the Baby Jogger Select.

New for 2018, the Vista will have real leather handlebars and a new front wheel design for easier maneuverability. The bassinet will also be two inches longer than the previous model.

UPPA has tweaked the Vista over the years (2015 was the last major refresh). Compared to previous versions, the current Vista hasa simpler one-step fold (like the Cruz, described below).

That extra Vista seat that turns the stroller into a double runs $170.

While the Vista is the flagship, UPPA’s most popular strollers are their lightweight G umbrella models. These are anchored by the G-Lite ($180-$200, 8.3 lbs.), a super lightweight umbrella stroller with a standing fold and mesh seat. The G-lite doesn’t recline, so it is best for babies six months and up. FYI: the G-Lite’s mesh seat doesn’t come with seat pad, which is a bummer. New for 2018 is an extendable UPF 50+ sunshade, cup holder, machine washable removable fabric and partial zipper recline.

There is also an upgraded version of the G-Lite, dubbed the G-Luxe ($180, 16 lbs.). It features a standing fold, bigger wheels, partial (three position) seat recline, removable/washable seat pad and a canopy with fold-down sunshade. The G-Luxe also has new features for 2018 including a larger canopy, one-hand seat recline, cup holder,, adjustable footrest and larger basket.

The double version of their G-Luxe stroller is called the G-Link ($400, 25 lbs). It features a quick fold from a center strap. The G-Link seats have independent reclines, footrests and canopies; if one baby wants to sleep, but the other is wide awake, they can each have what they want. The only bummer: this stroller does not have a one-hand fold . . . but it stands when folded, which is nice. The company has added a cup holder to the G-Link as well.

UPPAbaby Cruz Stroller

The final stroller in the UPPA line is the Cruz ($450, 22 lbs.), positioned between the G-Luxe and the Vista in terms of features. It features a reversible seat (but no bassinet), adjustable height handle and leather handlebar (in the 2018 version). Car seat adapters for the Maxi-Cosi, Graco, Chicco and Peg Perego infant seats are available for $30 to $40. Accessories include a cup holder ($25), snack tray ($40) and travel bag ($120). Interesting note: the travel bag guarantees against damage by airlines. Just register the bag with Uppa Baby’s TravelSafe Program before you leave on your vacation.

Among the newer accessories to the UPPA line is the PiggyBack, a $100 board that attaches to the back of a Cruz and allows an older toddler to stand aboard.

Coming in late Spring 2018, UPPA Baby is releasing a new, more compact stroller called the Minu for $400 to $430. It has a one-hand, one-step fold to a standing position (with lock) and both a carry strap or carry handle. It folds small enough to fit in an airline overhead compartment. The seat is a partial recline with a 50 lb. capacity and leather handlebar.

The stroller will accept a car seat (the Mesa), has pedicure-friendly brakes and four wheel suspension for a smooth ride. We like the extendable canopy and mesh canopy window. It weighs a mere 14.7 lbs., which is quite light. A lay-flat seat is available for an additional $120.

Here’s a quick video preview of the Minu:

Our view. We like UPPAbaby—parent feedback on most of their strollers has been quite positive.

Readers who like the Vista praise its quality, huge basket and high-riding seat and bassinet. The no-flat tires also win raves. The negatives include a basket that is a bit hard to reach with the bassinet attached—and the rear wheelbase (25”) on the Vista is rather wide, making the stroller harder to maneuver in tight aisles or doorways.

Another bummer: the seat doesn’t have a full recline, which irks some users. But . . . the footrest is adjustable (something the Bugaboo lacks) and the fold is much easier and more compact compared to Bugaboo. And to use the second seat, you have to purchase separate adapters ($20 each for the upper or lower adapters). You’d think for $700+, UPPA would throw those in.

Those criticisms aside, folks who have the Vista give it high marks for quality and durability. The company’s customer service is also excellent. If you live in the city and need a durable, multi-function stroller (and can live with the weight/bulk), the Vista is a good choice.

The G-Lite wins similar kudos, with fans citing its super light weight and included cushions. The lack of seat recline in the G-lite is one major negative, but folks with older toddlers say it is fine for them.

The Cruz is probably our least favorite model in this line-up, as parent feedback is mixed at best.

Up until 2020, we recommended this brand for their strollers with an A grade. That changed when the company poorly handled (in our opinion) a safety recall of a new convertible car seat. This shook our confidence in this brand, leading us to pull recommendation of all their products.

Rating: NOT RECOMMENDED