I don't think that I've ever started a product review by pointing out what's wrong with the product. I try to be objective and to the point... but I try to be kind too. In the following review I'm taking a different tact, though I'm still being kind, I have to tell you that there is indeed something wrong with the Joovy Kooper.
In my opinion, the problem with the Kooper is that it's not an umbrella stroller but it's compared to umbrella's and it's not a standard-sized stroller but it's compared to standard-sized strollers. The parents, the Kooper stroller owners who provided input for this review, whether they knew it or not, have identified a new product category. I don't know what this category is called but, in summary, the Kooper is great looking, lightweight, safe and stable... It's not as light or as compact as umbrella strollers, and it doesn't have the bells and whistles that you'd typically find in standard strollers. Apparently, Joovy has built the Kooper for parents who need something between 'umbrella' and 'standard'. Hm, perhaps I spoke too soon, perhaps there isn't anything wrong with the Joovy Kooper. Let's take a closer look.
Stroller Umbrella
Joovy has built the Kooper with all-aluminum tubing, it has a very large canopy that can be adjusted for either maximum visibility or maximum protection.
The key feature that makes the Kooper stroller unique is the wheel system. The Kooper has four large pneumatic wheels that can be removed for transport and storage. So even though the Kooper is larger than umbrella strollers, it folds into a compact form factor - just right for traveling.
Another feature that helps the Kooper to distance itself from the competition is the multi-position seat recline. Rarely do you see umbrella strollers with this functionality - parents adjust the angle of recline by simply loosening or tightening a strap that is located behind the seat.
Benefits
Easy to fold
Easy transport and store
Great protection for your child... protection from the sun, wind and rain
Who's using this stroller?
Parents who want stability and comfort and the compactness
Parents who want a product that is highly maneuverable
Parents who are willing to pay a bit more for high quality
What's working well?
Maneuverability
Huge canopy
Removable wheels
What's not working well?
No automatic locking mechanism to keep folded stroller secure
The Kooper stroller handles are not height adjustable
The Joovy Kooper weighs 18 pounds. This is on the heavy side for an umbrella stroller.
Why should you buy the Kooper?
You should buy this stroller if you're looking for a high quality stroller that's built to last.
You should buy the Kooper stroller if you want a portable stroller that's as comfortable as a larger standard-sized stroller
You should buy Kooper if you want a stroller that looks as good as it strolls.
Why you should 'not' buy the Kooper?
You should not buy this stroller if you're looking for an ultra-light, ultra-compact umbrella stroller.
You should not buy this stroller if you're looking for standard-sized stroller features such as a child tray, child cup holders and / or if you are looking for a stroller with an extra large under-seat storage basket.
Other strollers to consider
Maclaren Volo - The Volo is a well built umbrella stroller that's manufactured by a top-notch stroller company. Like the Joovy Kooper, the Volo has a reclining seat.
Maclaren Techno XLR - In addition to sporting lots of great features, the Techno XLR is compatible with a wide variety of infant car seats.
The Graco Ipo stroller is a umbrella stroller with lots of great features. What sets the IPO apart from the rest is the price tag. The IPO costs less than most umbrella strollers - it's a great value.
Recommendation
The Joovy Kooper is not as light as an umbrella stroller but it's a heck of a lot smoother and safer... the Kooper is not as feature-packed as a standard-sized stroller but it beats standard-sized strollers 'hands down' when it comes to weight, maneuverability and compactness. The folks here at The Stroller Shop really love Joovy products and we recommend the Kooper to those parents who are looking for a new stroller category - somewhere between 'umbrella' and 'standard'.
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Universal Stroller Umbrella - Red Feature
- Fits most strollers
- Easily detaches from stroller-clip stays on and umbrella can be removed
- Protects baby from sun from all angles
- Easily adjustable
- 28" diameter umbrella
Universal Stroller Umbrella - Red Overview
Protect your baby from the sun! This stroller umbrella fits most strollers and is easily adjustable to protect your baby from the sun from most angles. The umbrella can be taken off and put back on easily-the clip stays on the stroller and the umbrella can be taken off. Stroller sold seperatlySAVE NOW on the special offers below!
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