What we love
The real innovations in this pushchair are less obvious at first glance, but are no less impressive because of that.
The first innovative feature is the seat and carrycot being one unit, so you don’t need to find space for extra items. Converting from one to the other is surprisingly simple: just pull the straps at the sides and top and hook into place – those at the sides create the seat while the one at the top offers three recline options in addition to those on the chassis itself. Clever, huh?
Secondly, there are three height positions for the seat/carrycot unit, so you can have it as low or as high as you want. This is great when you want your baby nice and close, and very useful to bring him to table height if you’ve stopped for a quick coffee.
And thirdly, the handle can be adjusted by both height and angle so anyone who pushes this buggy, whether tall or small, should be able to find a position that suits. This is also well padded for comfort.
The combination of large pneumatic tyres and individual wheel suspension makes for a smooth ride for both you and your baby, and as the generously padded seat insert is also the carrycot mattress, you can be sure it will also make a comfy seat for your toddler.
The pedal on the chassis that clearly says ‘Fold’ leaves you in no doubt as to how to open and close this buggy (use it in conjunction with levers on the side to close, just press and pull to open). The quick-release wheels make for a flatter fold.
The fact that the car seat adaptors are included in the price is helpful – and if you buy the package that includes the car seat and stand you not only save money, but also will effectively have an indoor chair/Moses basket combination as well as a great pushchair.
What to watch out for
Depending on the colour chosen, the seat insert could get dirty very quickly and not stay looking smart (we tested the Grape, which has a pale insert).
To lock the buggy when folded, you have to make sure the seat is in its lowest position – I would probably use it in its highest position normally, as this is gives your baby a better view, either of you or his surroundings, depending which way he is facing.
The basket design looks as though it won’t hold a great deal, and what it does hold will have to be all in one bag to avoid losing anything.
The Skate is not the most compact when folded, although removing the wheels will help. It’s also not the cheapest.
Who is the Mamas & Papas Skate best for?
Design lovers seeking versatility without too much clutter.
The Skate is a great-looking buggy that’s packed with really useful features and is a joy to push around, whatever your height. However, the basket is not a great idea, and this innovative design comes at a price.
