2011 Maxi Cosi Foray LX Review

Let's say you're really lusting after a high-quality reversible stroller. But you can't, or won't pay nearly 4 figures, or more.

Before now, your only choice was to scout for bargains. Not easy, since most higher-end brands are exempt from sales.

You could also look for used. But then you are risking getting something dirty or broken. And, you tank your warranty.

What to do, what to do.....
 
 BANG! It's the new Maxi Cosi Foray LX to the rescue!!!!

 

I am so impressed with this, I can't tell you. When I saw it at the "2011 BIG Stroller Roll-Out!" I couldn't wait to get my hands on it.

      

  I LOVE the 12" rear air tires, gives it a simply fantastic ride. Really comparable to the higher end models. Just glides, one-handed.

 

The front wheels even have a wicked suspension!

 The seat is really a generous size, which isn't as common as you might think. In general, reversible strollers have pretty small seats; and many children outgrow them by 18 months, two years old. The Maxi Cosi Foray LX is going to last you much longer.

  It doesn't come with a bassinette, but that makes it a really good choice if your baby is out of the newborn stage. Why pay for the bassinette, if you don't need it?

The latest model is much easier to fold than prior models, and it will fold with the seat on! It also stands folded.

The seat pops off really easily, too, if you prefer to fold it in two pieces. Splitting the weight into two pieces is great if you've had a C-section, or can't lift much for some other reason.
 
 It's also nice because it is so quick to change directions on the seat. And the seat sits pretty high up from the ground; always a great feature.

The basket is bigger than in prior models. And, check out how ingenious it is. So easy to access from the front, and you can velcro it closed. Why don't more strollers have this?

The handle slides out to 44", so it's great for a taller person. But the bottom height is 39", so it's fine for someone shorter as well.

The brakes are literally one-step, the easiest out there. Totally flip flop friendly. Just step on that white center button to put the brake on, step on it again to release it. And notice how the back of the basket closes with a drawstring.

 The napper bar easily opens up and pivots out, or comes off completely. Makes it very easy to get your child in and out of the seat, or for your child to climb in him/herself, when they are older.

The Foray LX does fully recline. But, because it's more of a "bucket" type seat, though, it isn't suitable for a very young baby. There is too much of a "dip" in the center. I have an old English pram that has what they call "a newborn wedge" just for this reason. You insert it in the dip, then the seat is flat.

 

Most people just use their car seats now, although I am not a huge fan of sticking car seats in strollers. But this is compatible with the Maxi Cosi Mico car seat.

The large canopy has three panels, and the side windows are UV protected. Great to protect your baby from strong rays.

And don't worry if it rains, because it comes with a rain cover!

And you know what else it comes with, one of the biggest Q's we always get in Strollerland--it's own cup holder, whoo hoo!

 Maxi Cosi Foray LX

Weight:                               24 lbs. (16 lbs. Chassis, 8 lbs, Seat)

                     
Seat Back:                          19.5"

Seat to canopy:                23"

Seat Width:                      13"

Seat Depth:                        9"

Drop to footrest:              7"

Seat to ground:                22"

Length:                               32"

Width:                                24"

Height:                               39"-44"

Folded:                              39"L x 24"W x 14"H

 If you want to see all the new stroller models coming out in 2011, go to StrollerQueen.net And if you want me to help you find the perfect stroller for you, go to StrollerQueen.com

Baby Jogger Summit XC Review

BEACH BJ SUMMIT SUNSET

Lately, we've had a thing for big wheels. We, meaning SP 2.0 and me. We decided to try out our latest toys on the beach. He, with his monster truck, and me, with my monster stroller.

If you are going to the beach, don't bother with anything smaller than 16" wheels. And this is what you will find on Baby Jogger's new Summit XC. 

Of course, if you are really hard core, you can go for their 20" Performance jogger. The front wheel does not swivel, however, and it is harder to fold.

The Summit XC will be sufficient for most people.  The difference in going from 12" air tires--one of the biggest categories in the market--to 16", is like going from 8" to 12". Yes, the performance really is that much better. 

 Why 16" aren't more popular is a mystery. You can count on one hand the number of companies that offer 16" rear with a front swivel. As of late, these true hybrids are being offered as the perfect offspring  between those who want the day to day versatility of the 12" A/T's, with the high-octane 20" runners.

To whit, they are being offered with handbrakes.

And in the case of the BJ Summit XC, springy suspension, quick release wheels, and a foot brake as well.

 This is a really important safety feature that prevents big air tires from rolling down hills, running away in a breeze, etc. The placement of the brake also allows you to easily attach a Glider board to the rear axle, so another child can ride along.

 

The Summit XC also has the trademark full canopy that people have come to love in the BJ Mini and Elite.

And a full recline, with a back strap pull. 

 

A nice bonus is that even when you lie the seat flat, you still get plenty of coverage from the canopy.

The new Summit XC also has all those other special touches that makes BJ's so popular, that they are sold out everywhere.

It has the back netting on the canopy, for air circulation on hot days. You can also get an additional bug net, or raincover.

And there's side mesh vents, for even more air flow. On the frame, there are universal brackets. They allow you to attach a snack tray, belly bar, car seat adapters, carrycot for a newborn, or jump seat for a sibling. Wow!

The basket is small-ish, but I could fit my large purse in the back net pocket.

But the seat is huge. Look at all the growing room.   And with a 75 pound weight limit, my 9 year old StrollerPrince can still ride. Has to fight little SP 2.0 for the seat, though.

This is how you lock the front wheel, for rougher terrain, or curbs. Just switch it back again if you want the wheel to swivel.

I know some people advise not using a stroller on the beach. But then, look how much fun you will be missing! You can stroll down to the pier and see the Ferris wheel.

Or check out that cool lifeguard truck, and the lifeguard station.

And there are so many birds to stroll along and see.

 Of course, if you are ambitious, you can also run after them!

And then, there are those beautiful sunsets. Sigh.

 Strolling along the water's edge with your baby, as you watch the sun sink below the horizon, is close to heaven. A reminder of the majestic beauty in all that matters. You will remember it for a lifetime.

Kodak moment aside, having a seat for a tired baby at the end of a long day at the beach is, well, priceless.

As is not having to fool with the fussy folds that are notorious on joggers. Just one quick step, and you're in the car. Pull on the strap in the center of the seat (the same as is on the Mini and Elite), and it collapses in half. It even stands up  folded, into a surprisingly compact package.

Baby Jogger Summit XC 

Weight:                               26.5 lbs.

Seat Back:                          20.5"

Seat to canopy:                24"

Seat Width:                       14"
 
Seat Depth:                       10"

Drop to footrest:             10.5"

Seat to ground:                23"

Length:                               39"

Width:                                25.5"
 
Height:                               41"

Folded:                             25"L x 18 "W x 28"H

                

I can help you find the perfect stroller for YOUR needs. Don't let a salesperson sell you a stroller that won't work for you! For more info on consultations, visit strollerqueen.com There are lots more reviews here, and info on how to get the 2010 BIG Stroller Roll-Out, an online video magazine of all the new stroller models. strollerqueen.com