The Mamas & Papas Rubix 3 in 1 is also travel system compatible. You can add either the Mamas & Papas Cybex Aton car seat (£115) and the Rubix Car Seat Adaptor (£20) or the well-known Maxi-Cosi Cabrio.Fix car seat.
The Rubix does have similarities to the Mamas & Papas Ziko Herbie travel system, which is no longer available. The Ziko Herbie had lots of good points, but I came across complaints of the chassis feeling unstable, especially when going up kerbs, the front wheels often locking, and some mums saying it actually folded spontaneously while their babies were inside. Mamas & Papas says it’s taken these problems into consideration in the design of the Rubix, so lots of the plus points of the Herbie are still there, but the Rubix feels very sturdy and durable over rough terrain and up kerbs, and the steering is very smooth.
What we love
The Mamas & Papas Rubix 3 in 1 is very easy to assemble, and moving from the carrycot to the buggy seat is quick and easy.
A big bonus is the spacious shopping basket. As a busy mum of three, who also looks after a baby girl two days a week, I need an option that can handle schoolbags, shopping, snacks and toys!
I love that the seat unit can be forward or rear facing, and that it’s straightforward to change the direction, too. This reversible seat direction allows my toddler to chat to me when we’re out and about, and to his older brothers if they’re walking alongside.
The padded seat liner and cosytoes are lovely, comfy extras for a smaller baby.
What to watch out for
The Mamas & Papas Rubix 3 in 1 is a bit bulky. It weighs around 11kg, and I had to pop off the wheels to get it into my car boot. That said, all four wheels are quick-release, so pop off without hassle.
The seat shape is great for my toddler, but not ideal for the 8-month-old baby girl I childmind - her legs aren’t long enough to reach over the bend of the legrest. It’s also a bit fiddly to adjust the seat recline with a child in it.
Who is the Mamas & Papas Rubix 3 in 1 buggy best for?
New parents after a space-smart alternative to the traditional buggy with carrycot.
The Mamas & Papas Rubix 3 in 1 offers all the plus points of a traditional pram and buggy, but without the issues of storing a bulky separate carrycot. The price is reasonable, especially considering the versatility of the Rubix and the durable, quality feel. Just be prepared to pop the wheels off to fit it in your car boot.
