The Phil & Ted's Vibe: marketed as a streamlined upgrade to the Phil & Ted's SPort all-terrain walking stroller. The Vibe has been eagerly anticipated for quite some time, being one of the only stroller types that conveniently allows for the addition of a second seat - converting it from a single to a double stroller. The look of the Vibe is definitely more streamlined than that of the Phil & Ted's SPort and the now discontinued e3.
The Vibe has been upgraded to accommodate a one piece fold with the In-line Doubles Kit (sold separately) attached. Unfortunately, we have found the Vibe more difficult to fold with the Doubles Kit attached. The parking brake has also been moved to the handlebar for easier access - but in an impractical position, leading to accidental engagement while strolling. Initial handling has also revealed that the Vibe is not as easy to maneuver as the SPort: the front wheel seems to be positioned a little differently. The tires are pneumatic, offering more fluid maneuverability than the plastic wheels - but Phil and Ted have yet to add any suspension to their stroller's basic frame structure, making the handling more difficult as weight is added.
The underseat basket has been increased in size over earlier models, but some have observed that it is still far to close the the ground, especially when trying to tip the stroller up a curb or while maneuvering through any amount of snow. Like the SPort, the all-terrain wrist strap is still attached to the handle, creating a possible tipping hazard if the stroller loses control: all of the stopping force is applied to the handle and could cause the stroller to tip back.
There are a few features that Phil & Ted have not included with the Vibe that are available on the SPort: there is no integrated locking system to hold the stroller together while folded, and there is no carrying handle to use when the stroller is folded for easy transport.
The padding and support added to the Vibe is much more comfortable for younger children than the padding on the SPort, and the hood has been increased in size to offer more shade than the SPort - both great additions.
The differences between the Vibe and SPort seem only to be aesthetic - there is only a 1 pound difference in weight between the Vibe and SPort. Conclusion: It is not practical to get a Phil & Vibe over the SPort unless one prefers the Vibe's Bugaboo and Quinny-esque appearance.
FEATURES:
- Added ergonomic, contoured padding for additional comfort and support.
- Aluminum tubing used to provide a sleek appearance and reduce weight.
- All tires are pneumatic, making pushing the stroller easier and lighter feeling.
- Larger, more secure storage basket.
- Stroller seat fully reclines into a bassinet for an infant.
- The seat is now adjustable using a strapping system, offering more recline positions.
- Parking brake located on handle, making its implementation more accessible.
- Larger hood shades child from the elements.
- Quick-release wheels for storage and/or travel.
- Wheel guards located on both rear wheels.
- Folds with the second seat attached (In-line Doubles Kit sold separately).
COMPATIBILITY: The Phil & Ted's Vibe is compatible with the following infant car seats (individual adapter sold separately) Corrected :
- Phil & Ted's Vibe Infant Carrier (not yet released)
*Adapters cannot be used while In-line Doubles Kit is attached
ADDITIONAL ACCESSORIES:
- In-line Doubles Kit (MSRP: $109.99)
SPECIFICATIONS:
- Weight: 22 lbs (without In-line Doubles Kit)
- Capacity: 55 lbs (88 lbs total with In-line Doubles Kit)
DIMENSIONS:
- Width: 29"
- Folded without wheels: 29.9" L x 22" W x 8.6" H
THE PRICE: $599.99 [Note: Price does not include In-line Doubles kit, which is an additional $109.99]
AVAILABLE COLORS:
- Black
- Red
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