We have a confession to make: since Vera came along, we’ve pretty much given up hope on strollers.
As excited first-time parents then, the very first big ticket item we bought was… a stroller! No guesses there, but the fact was, we didn’t do much research, and was simply drawn to the idea of a lightweight stroller. And hubs was extra happy when we had a promising new ride for our baby that was limited edition (don’t ask!) and yet a breeze to push sans baby.
Fast forward: who knew our first born would be an anti-stroller bub and a professional nap striker. Due to its light frame, stability during maneuvering was compromised and let’s just say it didn’t help with naps.
So after test-driving three strollers with V, we were a little apprehensive about trying the fourth. Practicality takes the front seat and we put our new BABYZEN YOYO+ to test – with both bubs, no less ;)
Yes, both baby and toddler have gone on several spins. The BABYZEN YOYO+ comes with the 0+ and 6+ pack, which are designed for newborns and babies from 6 months old respectively.
#1: Lightweight Yet Sturdy
Our key deciding factor for a stroller remains, but with our past experience of lightweight strollers that end up filmsy, our expectations have leveled up since.
Despite its weight (between 6.2kg – 6.6kg), the BABYZEN YOYO+ makes a surprisingly good drive. It remains stable even when making turns, with minimal centrifugal forces that threaten to push the stroller over. For that, I’d attribute it to intelligent product design (see #4) which helps offer the little ones with a smoother ride, and parents a peace of mind. K raves about its sturdiness whenever we use the stroller; it really does make a difference especially if you’ve got a sleeping child in there. Right, parents? ;)
Not forgetting that I wouldn’t be able to manage a bulky stroller on my own, the lightweight and compact features are virtues to look out for if you’re as unmuscular or unstrong as I am! :P
#2: Compact and Easy to Store
Most strollers fold up like an umbrella and are unable to stand on their own. One of ours keeps this way – not that it’s a major boo-boo but when it comes to storage, it needs to squeeze in some tight space (in between boxes?) in the storeroom. Or we’d try to lean it against the wall and hope it doesn’t slide off.
Space is a growing concern these days, especially with two young bubs. Our home and the car are trying to get their way through decluttering although it’s going to be a tall order.
It definitely helps that the BABYZEN YOYO+ stroller boasts an airline-certified size (52 x 44 x 18 cm) when folded. It take a small space in the car boot and fits even in the leg space of the co-passenger seat when we are out and about, and will be super handy when we’re on-board a plane. There’s even a storage bag to keep the stroller nicely protected.
Thanks to its minimalist style, the BABYZEN YOYO+ is a breeze in tight spaces too. Think in between cars in a carpark and riding through rows of clothes in a fashion store, or even up the escalators.
When dining out, it has also been easy to simply park the stroller aside without getting in the way of busy service crew.
#3: No-fuss Folding and Unfolding of Stroller
Folding: In the video above, that’s K doing a demonstration folding the stroller with the 0+ pack. The BABYZEN YOYO+ is equipped with a one-hand folding system which makes it quick and easy to “open up” the stroller for use. This video was filmed during our first few tries of usage with our newborn, and now we’re able to fold the stroller with greater ease too.
Unfolding: In the next video, K shows how to unfold the stroller with the 0+ fabrics. It comes with a handy strap to put over a shoulder and lugging a diaper bag with the other.
#4: Thoughtful Product Design Elements + Functional Features
Since we had the chance to test both 0+ (we were told that we were the first to try this in Singapore – lucky Leroy!) and 6+ packs with both newborn and toddler, here’s what we discovered:
0+ pack: Parent-facing view. Complete flat carry cot for infants as they are mostly lying down during this stage, has a 5-point harness to secure baby, a 3-position fully covered canopy, a foot cover (great for cold weather too!) and a removable headrest which acts like a little pillow. Takes up to 15kg.
6+ pack: World-facing view. Has a backrest which can be inclined to 145° in several positions that is easily adjustable for child’s comfort, and features comfortable padding plus a 5-point harness. Canopy comes with a peep window. Takes up to 18kg.
In addition, both 0+ and 6+ canopies offer UPF50+ sun protection, which is akin to sunscreen for our skin. Excellent feature to have especially in sunny Singapore too!
Clearly designed with busy parents in mind, the one-step brake scores points for this safety feature.
Why?
Simply because lesser reaction time means we are more efficient in putting the stroller to a safe stop, instead of having to step on two brakes. One is enough. Just like the one-handed folding system. Extra points!
Driving over different terrains is smooth too, coupled with its 4-wheel suspension and “soft drive” system, which acts as a buffer feature against bumpy roads.
One-hand steering is possible, while being in control over the stroller’s maneuverability, without worry that it would sway off-course, especially during turns.
Not forgetting, the carry-on strap to allows us to sling the folded BABYZEN YOYO+ over our shoulders with ease.
The storage basket under the stroller is also handy enough to keep essentials at bay. Extra space is always good for parents, especially if you need items such as wet wipes to be within reach.
The BABYZEN YOYO+ is built with aluminum frame and wheel axles, stainless steel and high performance technical plastics. Interestingly, all of its materials can be recycled. Earth-loving parents would also be happy to know that no plastic wraps were used for its packaging, and the recycled cardboards are printed with soy-based inks too.
#5: Customisable Accessories
The 0+ packs and 6+ packs come in 6 colours and there is a choice of white or black frames for the stroller. The packs can be switched whenever you want, and with ease. So essentially, parents can mix and match to suit your fashion style too! Whoever said being parents mean looking worse for wear?
Additional accessories are available as well, including rain shields, cup holder, and car seat adaptors to offer convenience to our lifestyles.
#6: Car Seat-adaptable
With the BABYZEN YOYO+ car seat adaptors, parents need not worry about taking a sleeping baby out of the car. These car seat adaptors are compatible with the following car seat models : Maxi Cosi Pebble, Maxi Cosi Pebble+, BeSafe iZi Go and Cybex Aton 4 & Q.
Some babies wake immediately upon realising they’ve been carried out of the car seat and placed in a stroller – that’s baby Vera! So, a helpful point to note: if you’re planning to get a car seat for your little one, do look out for these models that would fit in the BABYZEN YOYO+.
#7: Easy Maintenance
Products with easy maintenance always win the hearts of parents. Time savers are the best! Fabrics that make up the BABYZEN YOYO+ are easy to remove and are machine-washable at 30°C.
As for the stroller frame, handle bar and wheels, simply use a wet towel with baby accessories cleanser or dettol to keep them clean. This is especially so for the wheels as they’ve been going around various terrains.
#8: Perfect Travel Stroller
Families who are planning to travel, did you know that the BABYZEN YOYO+ can be conveniently checked-in? It was easily done when we flew to Jeju and Seoul, and the stroller went on both international and domestic flights safely.
Superdad takes on all the load upon his shoulders as we landed in Seoul. This man’s a keeper for sure <3
As you would have noticed, little Vera has been sleeping in the BABYZEN YOYO+ on multiple occasions. Looks like this is a winner for the anti-stroller child who has been stealing naps in the BABYZEN YOYO+!
As with all new gadgets, assembling the stroller might take some practice. Not to worry, a step-by-step guide is included, so daddy can do the fixing up while mummy gets the kids ready to head out!
BABYZEN YOYO+ is available at Motherswork, at their retail stores and online site. Follow Motherswork (Facebook and Instagram) and BABYZEN Singapore (Facebook and Instagram) for the latest happenings and promotions.
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