This buggy has been designed to fit in with modern lives without compromising on usability. It’s lightweight and compact, so is a breeze to stow in the car boot or a narrow hallway, and because its maximum width when open is 52cm/20in, it will squeeze down any shop aisle and not clutter up the pavement. The handle is height-adjustable and the step-on step-off brakes are real shoe-savers. But where it really differs from other lightweight buggies is the fact that it can be used forward or rear facing – just unclip the seat unit, spin it round and click it back into place. Once you’ve done it a few times it’s easy.
The seat is also extendable, depending on whether it is in upright or reclined position, so little legs can stretch out for a comfy snooze. Whether sitting or lying, your baby is sure to be comfortable as four-wheel suspension and foam-filled tyres combine to give a smooth ride. For newborns, we’d recommend the baby cocoon, with its super-soft fleecy lining, as it offers extra padding and a more pram-like feel.
It’s not built for anything more bumpy than the local park, but that’s not what this is built for – it’s an urban buggy and perfect for the job. The jogging strap seems slightly redundant, but I guess it would make you feel more secure going down hills. The basket underneath is a decent size and easily accessible.
What we love
The cute yet cool look of the Bee is very appealing, and its versatility gives it a real edge over any other lightweight buggy. It’s one of the smoothest to push around and will always garner admiring glances. For parents the padding on the handle makes it a pleasure to push, and it’s so well made you can turn it with one finger (and definitely steer with one hand). It may be small, but it is pretty much perfectly formed.
What to watch out for
In forward facing mode, the sheer size of the hood, combined with the fact that there’s no viewing window, means your baby may be well protected from the elements, but you’ll struggle to see him. The seat position is quite low down, so he may not get much of a view when facing forward, and it’s quite narrow, so may be a squeeze for a big toddler. The price tag isn’t small and you need to spend more if you want extras such as a foot muff and sunshade, which often come included in the price of other buggies. However, you do get a lot of hi-tech design for your money.
Who is the Bugaboo Bee best for?
Urban yummy mummies.
A gorgeous buggy with that unmistakable Bugaboo look, the Bee offers all the urban mum could want: style, user-friendliness, versatility, making it perfect for modern city life. However, the abundance of stylish features comes at a price.
Updated 03/09/2015
