What we love
While at first glance, the Halo does appear bulky (thanks to that eye-catching elliptical frame), on closer inspection its physical dimensions and weight compare very favourably to similar models. The unusual aluminium frame gives this sturdy stroller a chic space-age vibe, while the cool colour choices include a lovely icy blue and a spring-like green. I also loved the sweet dandelion design on the reversible - and washable - seat liner of our black Fusion model.
Steering while loaded up with my 9-month-old baby, Elliot, was fine – not easy-peasy, but not back-breaking either – and the rubber wheels gave a super-smooth ride.
The shopping trolley-style horizontal handlebar makes one-handed pushing a possibility, and any multi-tasking mum will tell you how handy that can be.
Strapping Elliot in was fairly pain-free, though he looked strangely precarious propped in the most upright position. The seat was sufficiently padded to ensure he would nod off nicely while I stroll round the block, and there's ample room for your baby to grow.
Lowering the seat was a breeze with a silent-glide mechanism allowing any number of positions; it reclines fully flat so is suitable from birth.
The Halo also has extendable leg support, great for accommodating sneaky growth spurts. The hood, with UV sun visor, extended well in front of Elliot's face, ensuring he'd be well screened from the sun without call for fussy parasols.
Where the Halo scored brownie points was on folding. A click and a push and it sandwiched in half like a dream. Its neat dimensions and inwards-folding wheels mean it will happily slot into the boot of the smallest car, even a Mini. It can also be propped on one end if you have limited storage space at home. This idiot-proof folding mechanism will shave minutes off faffing about, while specially designed hinges means little fingers can't get trapped.
As the Halo arrives with both padded foot muff and raincover, you'll save those crucial pennies here. There's also some nice detailing: like the way the hood's held in place with magnets – a Silver Cross speciality – and how easy it was to attach the very smart foot muff using two plastic hooks.
The four-wheel suspension and durable, puncture-free rubber tyres gave a very smooth ride, protecting baby from bumps and jolts.
What to watch out for
Steering is on the sluggish side when navigating corners. The handlebar is at 102 cm, and I found this on the high side and there’s no option to adjust. This should be a consideration if, like me, you're fairly short. A moulded rubber finish, rather than harsh plastic, would have made it kinder on my wrist and elbow.
Hoisting the seat back up from the reclined position felt a bit fiddly, especially with Elliot in it, though presumably this gets easier with practice.
We found the fabric on the flimsy side, with a loose seam appearing relatively easily. Rather than a traditional basket, there is an elasticised cargo net underneath, which could require some careful positioning to avoid leaving a trail of toys down the high street.
Once folded, a carrying handle must be looped into place over a button, which could become tiresome. I also found the harness kept slipping loose from its slot in the plastic catch as I strapped Elliot in, another minor irritant.
Who is the Silver Cross Halo best for?
Urban mums after a buggy with a distinctive modern edge, but not the credit card bill to match. And those with small cars – it’s a doddle to stash in any boot.
For the money, the Halo is a competitive entry into the 4-wheeler market from a trusted, classic brand, plus you can use it from birth. It looks fantastic, and is perfect for cruising the local high street. However, you get what you pay for: while it offers a lovely smooth ride, some of the materials err on the cheaper side. If you're planning longer outings with your baby, you might want to consider something nimbler to steer.
