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BRITAX Announces New B-READY Stroller Colors

by Kate on January 8th, 2013  |  5 Comments  |  Shopping

BRITAX announced three new colors for the popular B-READY Modular Stroller System. Slate Gray, Moss Green and Copper will be available for purchase in February. The BRITAX was revamped in 2012 to include a wheel upgrade.

According to Michelle Davis, director of fashion design at BRITAX, the B-READY’s new slate (gray) color frequently appears in home interiors, as families move beyond basic neutrals in search of a stately shade to complement a range of colors. BRITAX selected moss because the green hue is trending upward in apparel and accessories. After all, Emerald Green is the Pantone color of the year! Copper is increasingly popular as a chic accent in jewelry and decorative metals.

Britax B-READY Slate Stroller Britax B-READY Moss StrollerBritax B-READY Copper Stroller

 

“Our fashion selection strategy involves more than just changing or mixing primary colors,” said Davis. “At BRITAX, we draw inspiration from fashion research, listen carefully to our customers, and then bring colors that appeal to a parent’s sense of style. Together, these three new colors complement our evolving, fashion-forward stroller line.”

What do you think? Do you like the new colors? Any other colors you’d like to se BRITAX add to the B-READY?

Shop! The BRITAX B-READY Stroller is available from our affiliate Amazon with a suggested price of $499.99. You can preorder the new colors now but we recommend waiting until the release date as most other colors are on sale for around $350.

Kelty Speedster Swivel Deluxe Jogging Stroller {Review}

by Nicole on November 28th, 2012  |  5 Comments  |  Reviews, Strollers

Kelty is one of the world’s most well-known companies for all things outdoorsy, and it’s no surprise that they recently added the top-of-the-line Speedster Swivel Deluxe Jogging Stroller to their extensive product line. The Speedster even received Babble.com’s award for ’2011 Best Stroller’.

Stroller Features

  • Easy folding design
  • Bell to alert others
  • Independently reclining seats (on double stroller)
  • Fully padded seat and frame
  • Adjustable height handle (34-45″)
  • Quick-release wheels
  • Adjustable sun/rain hood
  • Rear wheel brakes
  • Runaway leash
  • Lightweight aluminum frame
  • Reflective accents
  • Seat-back storage pocket with key fob
  • Under-seat storage bin
  • Water bottle holders
  • Weight: 22 lb
  • Maximum Load Weight: 70 lb

Kelty Stroller Review

My son is super comfortable in this stroller. How do I know? For starters, he asks to sit in it all the time. Even if we aren’t going anywhere. The padded seats and gentle recline must seem like an easy chair to him. There’s a padded five-point adjustable harness that can be easily raised or lowered to the child’s shoulder height. The seat has an adjustable recline feature which is great for when Ben falls asleep while we’re out jogging.

The sunshade is very generously sized and does a great job at keeping the hot desert sun (and rain, if we ever have any) off him, and there’s even an expandable flap that velcros onto the back and sides of the seat when it’s in the reclined position. This stroller does a wonderful job of protecting its rider from the elements. However, I wish the sunshade had one extra “rib” in it so that it would fold down more compactly. When I lift the shade up to access Ben or let him feel the sun on his skin, it sticks up almost comically and catches the wind. Perhaps this is a small price to pay for such a large shade.

Kelty didn’t have only comfort for the rider in mind when they designed this stroller. Parents will appreciate the adjustable handlebar height (adjusts from 34-45″ high) and the leg-room for those with a long stride. The front wheel can swivel for easy turning or be locked in the straight position for the hardcore runner, and there is a quick-and-easy adjustment to counteract any slant in the road that may cause the stroller to drift to the right or left side. The stroller has a lightweight aluminum frame and inflatable tires for easy pushing. In fact, I can’t get over how easy this stroller is to run with. My regular stroller felt quite heavy after pushing the Speedster Swivel Deluxe.

The Speedster Swivel Deluxe has a four-step locking assembly that was built for off-roading. Some may find it cumbersome to set up and collapse, especially if the stroller will be taken in and out of the car a lot, and a lot of pressure needs to be put on the clamps in order to engage the stroller’s locked position (although this may loosen up over time). But if you’re planning on hitting some bumps in the road or bidding the pavement adieu and trail jogging, this stroller may be just what you need. The stroller is extremely sturdy and ready for some abuse. There’s no flimsy locking assembly here! It folds almost flat for storage and transportation, and has quick-release wheels for times when you need the stroller to fold totally flat.

Kelty’s stroller has reflective accents on the hood and an alert bell on the handlebar for safety. The bell can be easily adjusted around the handlebar; I prefer mine hanging down so that I don’t accidentally hit it and wake my almost-asleep son up from his nap. The stroller also comes with a generously sized runaway leash that attaches to both the frame and the runner’s wrist. There’s a mesh water bottle pocket with an ingenious independent elastic strap that can stretch over the bottleneck of your water bottle to keep it from bouncing. An additional pocket with a key fob is ideal for storing snacks, a cell phone, and sunscreen. The under-seat storage bin is generously sized and easily accessible from the back and sides of the stroller.

The stroller has two brakes (one on each back wheel) that engage separately. Both brakes must be locked or the stroller can pivot around the locked wheel and move while you stop for a water break. The brakes lock securely in place, and I found that I can flip the brakes up easily when I’m wearing sneakers. However, I have to use my hand to disengage the brakes when I’m wearing sandals or flip flops.

The Kelty Speedster Swivel Deluxe is available as a single seat in blue and curry (soft orange) colors or as a double stroller in blue color. Check out the video below to see it in action.

To Buy or Not to Buy

To Buy… If you live for going off-road and need a jogging stroller than can keep up with your on-the-go, active lifestyle, a stroller made by outdoors-experts Kelty may be just what you need. Kelty’s Speedster is ready to handle some serious bumps!

Not to Buy… If you’re looking for a stroller for walking and jogging that can double as an everyday, walk-around-the-mall-and-run-errands stroller, you may find the four-step setup, dual braking system, and extra-large sunshade to be bothersome.

Shop! The Kelty Speedster Swivel Deluxe is available as a single ($400) or double ($500) model directly from Kelty and from our affiliate Amazon.

Thanks to Kelty for providing a product for review.

Baby’s First Christmas Giveaway!

by Kate on November 15th, 2012  |  5 Comments  |  Giveaways

This holiday season, both Emilie and I are celebrating a Baby’s First Christmas in our home, so it is only fitting that we have an awesome Sparkling Holiday Gifts Galore to celebrate the milestone.

Baby’s First Christmas Giveaway

This giveaway has a little bit of everything from play time with Tiny Love to bath time and feeding with Munchkin to strolling in comfort with Contours and styling some new shoes with Pediped. What is not to love?

1. Contours® Options® 3-Wheeler Stroller in Berkeley (red/black) ($170) Enjoy the many features of this stroller including a reversible seat that allows your baby to face you or face forward, infant car seat attachment (included!) that fits most brands, a child cup holder, height-adjustable canopy and simple fold. With the 8″ front single-swivel wheel you can easily steer through crowd and a large basket is included for storage. Take a peek at your baby with the height-adjustable canopy with a peek-in window and let them snooze comfortably or look around with the reclining seat which goes from 90 degrees to 45 degrees to full recline. Get from national retailers including Babies’R Us, Target.com, Walmart.com and our affiliate Amazon!
2. Super Mat and Toys from Tiny Love ($68 total). Super Mat: 0-12 months ($44.99) This extra-large developmental playground creates a special place for your baby to play and provides a softer surface. (Perfect for those accidental tip overs!) Includes an adjustable stand alone mirror and other toys and textures within the mat for extensive tummy-time play. Very portable with built in handles and multiple indoor and outdoor uses.  Jumpy: 0-12 months ($7.99) This adorable happy guy bounces when you tap on his head. This toy is lots of fun and helps develop gross motor skills by encouraging baby to crawl after it. Love his cheerful face and colorful legs. Spin Ball 0-18 months + ($7.99) This unique ball offers multi-sensory stimulation with its mirror on the inside panels giving fun reflective properties. The ball itself it bright and colorful with a textured exterior.

And we just love the smiling face hiding inside! Sunny Sunflower Rattle 0-12 months ($6.99) You can find Tiny Love toys at retailers nationwide!

3. Bathtime Fun and Feeding Time with Munchkin ($60 total). Munchkin has over 200 innovative products meant to make our lives easier and more fun!  One of their newest products is the line of Click Lock™ Cups featuring a simple click-and-lock lid to securely close for a leak proof seal – guaranteed. They also have amazing bath products including their White Hot Inflatable Duck Tub. Munchkin wants to offer our winner a collection of products for feeding and bath time that will total at least $60! (Product may vary from what is shown.)

Munchkin Facebook Contest:  Now until November 30, visit the Munchkin Facebook page to participate in the “Help Me Babyproof” campaign and learn more about the new line of babyproofing accessories for their homes. Post your childproofing dilemmas via stories, photos, videos and more, and Munchkin will award the full line of safety accessories to the best submissions on a weekly basis!

4. Pediped Originals Shoes ($35 to $43)The Originals® line of soft-soled flexible infant shoes is available in sizes 0-2 years. It is recommended by pediatricians and podiatrists because the shoe’s design closely mimics barefoot walking. Learn about their new and improved sole which features a diamond leather tread and creates a more slip-resistant surface!  Fifteen new styles were added thisseason. Highlights include Hazel, a suede boot for girls, and Betty and Stella for more formal events. For boys, casual sneaker shoes Frederick and Jett are comfortable and stylish options. (Winner can choose size and gender but pediped will choose style based on availability.) Become a pediped insider on their homepage to receive news of special promotions, new product introductions and more.

Win! Baby’s First Christmas Prize Package worth over $300!

Prize Package Includes Contours® Options® 3-Wheeler Stroller in Berkeley, Tiny Love Super Mat and Toys, Munchkin Bathtime Fun and Feeding Time package, Pediped Originals Shoes in winner’s choice of size and gender. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaway ends December 5. Open to US addresses only.

Thanks to our wonderful sponsors for providing the giveaway prizes and samples.

Winter White Baby Gear {Trend Alert}

by Kate on October 29th, 2012  |  5 Comments  |  Shopping

Keeping baby warm this winter just got more fashionable thanks to some of our favorite brands. We absolutely love the winter white trend that keeps parents and baby comfortable with flair. While the designs may be a little J.Lo-esque, we think they’re the perfect balance of style and function.

ERGObaby Designer Edition Winter White Carrier

Not your mama’s baby carrier, I spied the show-stopping ERGObaby Designer Collection Winter Edition at the Kind + Jugend show and the buzz has been building about this gorgeous carrier since its debut.

ERGObaby says:

Conquer the cold in style with this designer carrier combination.  On wintery days, your baby stays cozy in a quilted lining with luxurious sheepskin trim. Your hands stay warm in the removable quilted muff, which features matching sheepskin trim.  When the mercury rises, just remove the lining and muff, and you have a stunningly simple lightweight carrier, all in white.  No carrier looks better with your sheepskin boots.

We love that the muff and lining can be removed so you have a gorgeous white carrier for warmer weather. The Winter Edition ERGObaby will be available for purchase soon is now available for $195. Stay tuned to The Shopping Mama for more info. (No, seriously, stay tuned! We just may have one to giveaway.)

Stokke Xplory Winter Kit

The Stokke Winter Kit transorms your Xplory into a cozy cocoon that’s warm for both baby and mom. The Kit includes:

  • Insulated hood with attachable genuine sheepskin trim.
  • Color coordinated rear textile cover for a seamless look.
  • An easy to install storm cover to shield from bitter wind and biting cold.
  • Snap on Handmuffs with sheepskin lining to hands warm whilst strolling too.


We think the Winter Kit is a must if you live in a city and use your stroller on a regular basis. The look maintains the style your Xplory deserves. Purchase the Winter Kit for $300 from our affiliate Amazon.

Stay Warm. Look Cool.

I put together a quick Polyvore set inspired by the Xplory Winter Kit and the ERGObaby Designer Carrier.

Winter White. Stay Warm. Look Cool
Winter White. Stay Warm. Look Cool by theshoppingmama featuring circle scarves

Skip Hop Stroller Liner: Add Style & Protect Your Stroller

by Kate on October 26th, 2012  |  5 Comments  |  Reviews, Strollers

Skip Hop recently introduced a new product to protect your stroller and add a little flair at the same time. The Memory Foam Stroller Liner also creates a more comfortable seat for your tot while protecting your stroller investment from every day spills and wear and tear.

Stroller Liner Details

  • Breathable memory foam with water-repellant fabric
  • Multiple slots fit most stroller straps, except Bob Strollers
  • Stays put with non-slip backing
  • Durable foot area wipes clean
  • Stash hats, diapers & more in handy zip pocket
  • Machine wash cold, tumble-dry low
  • Size (inches): 15 wide x 36 high x .75 deep
  • Liners have been through many safety tests to meet the following legal regulations: CPSIA, EN71 and AZO Reach. No flame retardants are included in this product.
  • Fits most standard strollers, including: 4Moms, Baby Jogger, Baby Trend, Britax, Bugaboo, Chicco, Graco, iCandy, Inglesina, Joovy, Maclaren, Orbit, Peg Perego, Phil & Teds, Quinny, Stokke, and some UPPAbaby (wide bottom may hang slightly over the UPPAbaby Cruz) and we’ve tested it on Baby Cargo

Stroller Liner in Use

The Skip Hop Stroller Liner has multiple slots at the shoulder and crotch straps to fit snugly on your stroller. Though not mentioned on the Skip Hop site, we had no problem getting it on our Baby Cargo 200 series. The top area of the Liner is wider than the waist area but it has to ability to fold on the sides to fit in even more narrow strollers.

The actual Liner is made of Memory Foam, which is textured to allow air to flow. While this may not be so important now as the weather cools, it’s a great feature for keeping kids comfortable in the summer. Despite being only 3/4 of an inch thick, the Foam provides some extra cushion and comfort for little bums. In addition, the material is water repellant and we love that it is machine washable. The back side of the Stroller Liner is non-slip to keep it in place.

I was concerned that, even as thin as it is, the Stroller Liner would negatively impact the compact fold of the stroller. But, nope, not a problem. The stroller still folds easily and compactly with the Stroller Liner on.

One of the fun aspects of the Stroller Liner is that it can add a pop of color to your stroller while protecting it – love the bright blue and green. You can add some color without a big commitment. Or, you can go more subtle and the Liner can blend it and be a silent workhouse (like ours).

Shop! The Skip Hop Stroller Liner is available in four colors: Blue, Green, Platinum and Red. It is $30 and available from our affiliate Amazon and directly from Skip Hop online.

Stokke Announces Two New Strollers: Meet Stokke Crusi & Stokke Scoot

by Kate on October 19th, 2012  |  5 Comments  |  Shopping

Stokke, the Norweigan company behind the fabulous Sleepi crib system, has announced two new strollers. The Stokke Crusi and Stokke Scoot join the Stokke Xplory to create a collection of strollers that are “all about connection.”

Stokke Crusi

Dubbed the multitalented connection stroller, the Stokke Crusi grows with your child – and family – and transforms from a bassinet stroller to an inline double. The Carrycot and Seat (the same used on the Xplory) rest high on the stroller to encourage bonding and communication between baby and parent. The Carrycot is luxurious and roomy for baby’s ultimate comfort and the specially designed Crusi Sibling Seat fits below the Carrycot or Crusi Seat to create an inline double. The stroller has a large storage basket, lockable front swivel wheels and soft suspension for a smooth ride.

Crusi specs

  • Suitable from birth
  • Sibling seat option creates double stroller
  • Maximum weight: 33 pounds (single) and 66 pounds (double)
  • Parent facing or outward facing seat
  • 5 positions from flat recline to upright high chair position
  • Chassis weight: 19 pounds
  • Chassis with Carry Cot weight: 30 pounds
  • Chassis with Xplory® & Crusi Seat weight: 28.2 pounds
  • Color options: Brown, Navy, Dark Navy, Purple, Beige, Light Green, Black Melange

Stokke Scoot

The Stokke Scoot is the brand’s stylish answer to the lightweight stroller. It’s easy to push, has a quick one-handed fold and has a handle for easy transport.

Scoot specs

  • 2 way rear and front facing seat
  • 4 position recline and upright position
  • Suitable for cafe or high chair substitute
  • One handed compact fold
  • Height adjustable handle
  • Soft suspension: Easy to stroll on rough and uneven surfaces
  • Lockable swivel wheels
  • Extra roomy cargo basket
  • Stroller weight: 22 pounds
  • Color options: Brown, Red, Dark Navy, Purple, Beige, Light Green, Black Melange

Stokke Crusi & Stokke Scoot Images

Scroll through the gallery to see more images of the new Stokke strollers.

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Stokke Crusi Features
 Stokke Crusi Features
Stokke Crusi
Stokke Crusi
Stoke Crusi Parent Facing
Stoke Crusi Parent Facing
Stokke Crusi & Xplory Seat
Stokke Crusi & Xplory Seat
Stokke Crusi at Table
Stokke Crusi at Table
Stokke Crusi Carrycot
Stokke Crusi Carrycot
Stokke Scoot Features
 Stokke Scoot Features
Stokke Scoot Black Melange
Stokke Scoot Black Melange
Stokke Scoot at Table
Stokke Scoot at Table
Stokke Scoot Fold
Stokke Scoot Fold
Stokke Scoot Footrest
Stokke Scoot Footrest
Stokke Scoot Parent Facing
Stokke Scoot Parent Facing
Stokke Scoot Seat
Stokke Scoot Seat
Stokke Seat Wheels
Stokke Seat Wheels

Shop! The Crusi and Scoot will be available in Europe in November, but US customers will have to wait for the early 2013 release.

Orbit Baby Double Helix Stroller Update: Pre-Order Today!

by Kate on September 26th, 2012  |  5 Comments  |  Shopping

The highly anticipated Orbit Baby Double Helix is now available for pre-order with expected shipping in mid-October. The folks at Orbit Baby expect this to be a big hit and believe the first production run will sell out. So, if you are interested in the Double Helix, we suggest you pre-order now and you can be one of the first to push this drool-worthy stroller.

Pre-Order the Orbit Baby Double Helix

We have all the scoop on the Orbit Baby Double Helix pre-order and pricing options. For each option, you have your choice of White or Black Frame. Orbit Baby products ship free from our affiliate Magic Beans.

Orbit Baby Helix Plus Double Stroller Upgrade Kit, $350. Get this if you already own an Orbit Baby G2 Stroller and want the ability to turn it into a double. The Upgrade Kit includes the second SmartHub ring attachment, materials to attach it to your G2 Frame, Large Stroller Basket, Extendable Handle, and ShadePad tablet holder.

Orbit Baby Double Helix Stroller Frame, $750. This is the best option if you already own Orbit Baby car seats. The Frame includes two SmartHub rings with the ability to use one as a single or double.

Orbit Baby Double Helix Stroller with Infant Car Seat and Toddler Seat, $1,470. Go with this configuration if you plan to use the stroller with children of different ages. It includes the two SmartHub rings, Infant Car Seat and Car Seat base, and Toddler Seat. The Infant Car Seat can accommodate infants from birth through 30 pounds or 32 inches. The Toddler Seat can be used from birth and has a 40 pound weight limit.

Orbit Baby Double Helix with 2 Infant Car Seats, $1,630. Twins? This is the set for you, as it’s perfect for use with two infants from birth.

Click to pre-order from Magic Beans today for shipment in October.

Orbit Baby Double Stroller Features

In case you’re not familiar, here’s a recap of the most noteworthy features of the stroller:

  • Face-to-Face: As the only premium double stroller with front-and-back seats, Double Helix makes strolling-time sibling-time too
  • Live life in 360°: Dual SmartHub® rings rotate to face any situation, and allow your child to pop into the double seat by herself
  •  2-in-1: Doubles for all – Helix™ is the only premium double stroller also available as an upgrade kit, ensuring that current Orbit Baby Stroller G2 owners can double two
  • Family Flexible: Flexes to fit – whether you have two kids on the go, or just one kid for the day, Helix flexes to fit your changing family life
  • 6-Wheel Maneuverability: With 6 wheels and 24 QuadShock™ shock absorbers, the Double Helix steers anywhere and goes everywhere
  • Safe for your kids, Good for our planet: Orbit Baby keeps your family healthy with the world’sfirst strollers and car seats using fabrics eco-certified safe by Oeko-Tex®

Updated Double Helix

We got a look at the updated Orbit Baby Double Helix at Kind + Jugend. There are a few changes to the design compared to the initial Orbit Baby double stroller announced and displayed.

  • New height-adjustable handle with sunshade called the ShadePad. It’s designed to shade the child sitting in the lower seat and also holds an iPad.
  • Easier access storage basket

What do you think of the Orbit Baby Double Helix? Will you preorder?

Joovy News from Kind + Jugend {New Stroller & Baby Products}

by Kate on September 25th, 2012  |  5 Comments  |  Shopping

Hanging out at the Joovy booth was one of the highlights of our short trip to Kind und Jugend, a huge global trade show dedicated to baby and children’s products in Cologne, Germany. The visit with Joovy confirmed what we’ve suspected all along: that Joovy is truly a family company dedicated to creating products families really need. The brand has a LOT of great products coming soon – take a look!

Joovy Groove Ultralight

Joovy’s great collection of strollers just got a little lighter. The Joovy Groove Ultralight is a new, lighter weight version of the versatile Joovy Groove without sacrificing function. The Groove Ultralight weighs only 12 pounds (compared to the Groove at 17 pounds). The wheels on the Groove Ultralight are slightly smaller and the seat has less padding, but we love this version of the lightweight stroller and think it will be a great option for urban families and for travel.

moonRoom Playard

The moonRoom is a functional and playful version of the their classic playard the Joovy Room. Despite the funky shape, the moonRoom collapses into the same size as the Room playard. The angled walls add some cool interest, making this truly unique. It will be available in early October in purple, charcoal and black for $199 on Joovy.com.

Boob

The Boob bottle system features an innovative vent system to reduce gas and colic that is easy to clean. The boob bottle system will have a huge range of accessories to best fit your needs, including an adapter to fit most breast pumps so you can pump directly into the bottle, insulated bottles to ensure the right temperature and cup holders to transition from bottle to cup. The entire line should be available for purchase by the end of the year.

Caboose Too

The super cool Caboose Too turns the rear seat of your Joovy sit and stand stroller (Caboose, Caboose Ultralight and Big Caboose) into a second seat. Available now for $70.

We love the new products coming from Joovy so stay tuned for more release information. Keep up with all things Joovy on Facebook and Twitter.