Do you Bugaboo?

While the Bugaboo Cameleon seems to be the stroller of choice for celebrities everywhere, is it really worth the $900 investment? This snobby mommy says YES! I was initially drawn to the Bugaboo for my baby due to its bassinet option. There are very few strollers in the United States that offer a bassinet stroller that converts to a toddler seat, while in Europe babies are only placed in bassinet-style buggies for the first several month of their lives. I had been advised that laying flat early on is best for baby, so my stroller options were limited.

There is a bassinet accessory that can be purchased for the Peg Perego Pliko P3, but after evalutating the quality my husband and I decided against it. It was very flimsy and didn't feel like it would provide the proper support for baby. Peg Perego has since released Skate, its Bugaboo Cameleon competitor. My assessment of Skate is that it's a poor imitation of the Cameleon. It's heavy, awkward and the materials look cheap. The salesperson at Buy Buy Baby explained that it is a city stroller and not really intended for car transport and mall use.

We have owned the Bugaboo for more than a year now and have not regretted the purchase. The frame still looks new despite daily abuse. The tires are solid and have yet to be refilled. We have purchased an extra seat cover and hood for the summer. This allows us to use fleece in the winter and canvas in the summer. Plus, the replacement fabrics are an easy way to make the stroller look new again when baby #2 comes along. I recently purchased the Bugaboo umbrella for our stroller. It easily attaches and is simple to adjust depending on the angle of the sun.

So while Bugaboo definitely hurts the wallet, it is a stroller that can withstand bumpy roads, squirming toddlers, dings, dents and anything we can dish out. We also own a Pliko P3 that we have relegated to indoor use only. The wheels are not made for walking outdoors, whereas the Bugaboo can handle any bump that comes its way.