But the Bruin Storm Stroller - which is suitable from birth - has changed my life. This super-lightweight stroller is fantastic for getting around town.
The buggy has five seat positions, including a lie-flat option. It weighs just over 8kg, making it easy to lift up and down stairs or into buses, trains and taxis. Front and back suspension makes for a smooth ride, while you can keep an eye on your little darling through a viewing window in the hood. An optional footmuff keeps baby snug and warm, while a set of detachable toys keeps them entertained on the move.
At under £100, this is a great option for cash-strapped parents.
What we love
I fell in love with this stroller the first time I used it. My sleep-deprived husband managed to assemble it without any trouble, which was a feat in itself. Two-month-old Eve snuggled into the cosy footmuff and fell asleep immediately while I peered at her through the see-through window in the hood.
Things got even better when we left the house - it was liberating to be able to lift it up and down stairs at our Tube station and not wait around like a damsel in distress looking for help. The back of the hood has a handy mesh pocket, fabulous for stashing your keys, phone and wallet (as long as you don't wander away!).
The cute Ziggy Zebra motif and accessories make it look much more expensive than it is, too. The detachable toys are great for entertaining small babies that can’t tolerate boredom and can be easily attached to a car seat, travel cot or activity mat when the journey is over.
What to watch out for
The lightweight chassis comes at a price - this stroller feels a bit insubstantial and I felt it could tip over in strong winds. The suspension isn't super smooth either, meaning a bit of a bumpy ride for little babies. It's fine for city streets, but I wouldn't take this for long walks on uneven terrain or in the countryside.
It's also worth knowing that the footmuff is pretty much essential if you're planning to use this from birth, meaning you need to spend an extra £30. I suspect it might be a bit uncomfortable without it for older children too.
The raincover is a little flimsy and doesn't cover the hood - if you were out in a downpour I'm not sure it would withstand a real soaking.
The shopping basket is inaccessible if you use the lie-flat option - and it's actually pretty small. Don't expect to be able to pack a changing bag or any shopping into it!
The stroller is forward facing, so it takes a bit of getting used to if you use the lie-flat option, even though you can keep an eye on your baby via the viewing panel.
Who is the Bruin Storm Stroller best for?
Parents of newborns after a buggy that's easy to use on public transport, take travelling or stash in the car boot.
It feels a bit lightweight for off-piste travel, but the Bruin Storm Stroller is absolutely brilliant for getting around town, especially if you use public transport.
