Are Maclarens really that good?

[chopchopquick]

Hi Ladies

I have a P&T which I love but I need to get something a lighter for use perhaps a couple of times a week. The problem is I really hate buggies/stroller types of pushchairs. I don't know why I just do, just think they are rubbishy. I have had a fair few prams since having my first DC over three years ago and the only two strollers that I have had I didn't like and didn't keep them long, Zapp, it was flimsy and made a funny noise and a Silver Cross Pop too tall and although it ticked all the boss I just thought it was hhhmmmm rubbishy. I think I have this thing in my head that children should be in proper prams/pushchairs.

But I do want something more lightweight and I think logically a Maclaren is my best option. I got an XT earlier in the month but when it came again I just didn't like it so back it went. I have now been looking at the Quest but my concerns are:
Doesn't look comfy for child, no padding etc
Small wheels and not being able to bump it up the kerb and having to tip it iyswim.
Bumpy ride for DC
Being able to push it one handed so I can hold DD hand, she wont get on a buggy board and I think I would struggle as I am short.
Lack of space for shopping.
Flimsy
Unattractive to look at.
I am being too picky? LOL!

The only stroller that I sort of like is the Peg Perego SI but I really don't have £200 to spend. Hence, looking at the Quest. Do you think that once I start using it I will get over all the things I say I don't like? Are they not as bad as I think they are going to be? Anyone else a convert?

TIA
Chopchop

I've had three macs in the past year and I would say they were good, but I've sold them on each time. Thy are good, the best of a 4 wheel stroller IMO, but I prefer my baby jogger city mini, it ticks all the boxes. Easy to push one handed, big wheels, great to get up curbs,no bumping. Expensive new, but can get a good price second hand.

HI I have had a BJCM but I was put off it when it tipped sideways after getting caught in the smallest of potholes in the pavement. I know it was probably just one of those rare things but I sold it after that. Bit of a shame really as it ticked all the boxes. Thanks anyway.

I've never had that problem, although it is a pita getting on a bus with it as veers to the left.

If you've hada BJCM and don't like it then I'd say Macs would be the best ones.

That thing you like is the same as a Streety isn't it? There are usually a good few of those on ebay.

How old is the dc in question? Anything older than about 12 months and a Mac is absolutely fine and dandy. I have a 25 month old and a Techno. She's lovely and comfy in it, it has a nice recline, nice and padded, big hood for rain or sun, especially now that she refuses the rain cover. I'm not sure what it is you're not liking?

No its more like a Pliko but smaller and lighter than a streety and not rear facing. DS is 18months. To be honest I don't exactly know why I don't like them just ....... not keen. My DS is not keen on the rain cover but I am not sure how big the hood on the quest is. I may pop over to Mothercare today to have a play with a Quest.

What about a Cybex/Mamas and Papas Callisto? That has a single handle so might be a bit easier to push one handed.

I actually don't mind the Callisto and did really consider that but I decided against it as it is 8.5kg so on the heavier side for a light weight.

Think I am just too fussy lol

i love my quest its perfect for an 18m old. my 2.5yr old regularly sleeps in mine. i think the mods are so pretty to look at too!! i've got green/black apples mod was on sale last month at littlewoods so bargain. They are soo much nicer than any other buggy.

I had a peg perego si was gutted when it came as just wasn't right as s stroller imo too heavy and clumsy.

quest is just right.

I have had 2 own brand buggies and Maclarens and have also used a lot of wheeled products for babies as I was a nanny. Maclarens are better by a mile.

If you want one but don't want to pay the cost of a new one I am selling mine as DH won't let me have any more babies and it is in vgc. LMK.

I have 2 maclaren one from birth(techno classic) and one from 3 months (triumph)

my dd is now 4 and they have been through my son as well and they are worn but not broken. I am really plased with them.

with any future children I will prb se if I can stick with the techno classic for the first 3 months then get the quest. if not a would get an xlr I really find them excellent.

could you not try out someone elses and see if you like it?

Thanks for all your help.

I went and had a look this afternoon and I am still not totally convinced but you cant all be wrong about them?!

I don't mind the green pea quest and have seen it for £120 but as it was on sale a few weeks ago so thats a bit annoying. I don't mind the black and white butterfly one but probably a wee bit too girly?

I would consider a used one but would have to be in tip top condition and ideally the 2009/10 colourways. So, send me your pics and let me know how much you are selling for.

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Thanks

Sounds like a quest would not suit you, according to your tastes. I have had Maclaren Techno XT - great. But I like small and compact, so have really loved (and still have) my techno and my quest. Have also had a long list of other buggies/prams - Silver cross, Phil n Teds. Marco Sky, Graco, mountain buggy.

I've been through quite a few pushchairs but finally bought another Maclaren Techno XT today and have to say there is really no comparison!

My dd is 2 and in everything else she has felt so heavy to push around. I was so resistant to another Maclaren - they seem so boring in comparison to some of the more stylish M&P pushchairs!! Am chuffed to bits with my techno though - ticks all the boxes for me.