The Balios S is, without a doubt, one of the top 2019 strollers. It is stylish, multifunctional, and has several solid features that make it a pretty decent option for many parents.
It is built as an everyday baby stroller and is nicely equipped and compact for daily city use.
The stroller has a number of different seating positions to cater for both newborns and toddlers.
And that is not all! The Balios S has a very large canopy. This is actually one of my favorite features about this stroller.
- 3 IN 1 SYSTEM: The Balios S stroller frame can be used as a 3-in-1 travel system. Simply attach the matching Cot S, the matching seat unit, or one of the renowned CYBEX and gb infant car seats.
- ALL-WHEEL SUSPENSION: Contains smooth all-wheel suspension that helps you get anywhere while navigating bumpy terrain
- SAFETY FEATURES: Is equipped with a pull-out UPF50+ sun canopy that eliminates sun and wind for ultimate child protection and overall safety
- DESIGN: Contains a reversible seat that can face towards or away from parent. Parent friendly design involves an extendable handle for 4 different positions and a 1-hand-operated recliner to adjust for the most comfortable experience
- INCLUDES: Includes stroller and rain cover for CYBEX car seat
Main features
- Horizontal recline position for comfortable naps
- Huge canopy for extra protection from the sun and wind
- All-terrain suspension and wheels that allow you to use the stroller anywhere you wish
- Massive storage basket and an adjustable handlebar
- Folding up is very simple
- Stylish appearance and good-quality materials used for its manufacture
- Can be used for newborns. Just include an infant car seat (Cybex or GB), carrycot S, or cocoon S.
Review of The Balios S stroller features
The Balios S is a new baby stroller by Cybex that hit was introduced to the market last year. The stroller is made from top quality fabrics and has a contemporary, minimalist design. For 2019, however, Balios S come s with a new look, which includes new fashions and colors. In spite of the changes in appearance, the stroller is still the same with regard to functionality.
This multifunctional baby stroller has numerous seating positions that make it appropriate for both newborns and toddlers. You can use it for up to roughly four years.
Different seating positions offered by Cybex Balios S
Let us now take an even deeper look at some of the amazing features of Balios S.
The Seat
The featured seat is actually reversible and so your baby can either sit facing you or the world when riding. Seat reversal is quite simple thanks to the featured memory button. Everything clicks right into the stroller’s frame.
The reversible seat of the Balios S
The seat also features a three-position recline including the near-flat position that makes this particular stroller appropriate for younger and smaller kids. There is a lever located at the back of the seat that is used for reclining the seat; very simple and fast.
Near- flat recline seating option
The seat also features a leg rest that can be adjusted with three different options. Also included in this stroller is a step, which taller and the much older kids could use as a footrest. Bear in mind, however, that this step is not adjustable and is only usable when the baby is seated facing forward.
Adjustable backrest and leg rest
Another great aspect of this stroller is that it features a bumper bar. Most baby strollers do not have this particular accessory and one actually has to pay extra to get it. The one featured on Balios S rotates and can open from whichever side, something that makes it simple to put your baby in and out of the seat.
The featured seat is quite spacious and well-padded with super-soft fabric. You can actually tell that the craftsmanship and the fabric used are of top quality just by looking at the stroller.
Very comfy seat with soft padding
This seat has a five-point harness with a nice buckle at the center and easy-to-adjust straps. The harness is also very nicely padded- it is very soft and feels nice to touch.
The Balios S was specifically designed to offer the baby maximum comfort. The harness ensures that the baby is safely held in place and are well-padded for added comfort.
One other feature that is worth mentioning is that the seat is positioned quite high. This makes it appropriate for enjoying a meal at the dinner table.
The seating arrangements for newborns
The regular seat featured in this stroller could be used right from day one (when the seat is completely reclined and the leg rest completely raised). And honestly speaking, this is undoubtedly the deepest recline on a baby stroller that I have laid my eyes on!
The seat reclines almost completely flat
I would, however, still make use of extra attachment which offers a more supportive laying surface. You could attach a newborn cocoon to offer good support for your baby’s neck, head, and back.
Even though the seat almost completely reclines, I recommend including a carrycot, infant car seat, or a bassinet for newborn babies
Compatibility of infant car seats – The Balios S Travel System
There are several infant car seat adapters and car seats sold separately that allow parents to convert this stroller into a travel system. Balios S is compatible with the GB and Cybex car seats. To use the Balios S as a travel system, detach the toddler seat and attach a compatible newborn car seat.
The stroller the Cybex infant car seat
The Balios S bassinet
This stroller can be converted into a pram through the attachment of its special bassinet known as the Cot S.
The Cot S is a big and spacious bassinet. It is perfect for newborns as it provides a roomy environment for them to play and sleep in.
It comes covered by a decent two-panel canopy. The canopy includes an apron and a sun visor to provide the baby with full protection from bright sunlight, strong winds, and the rain.
Besides the canopy, the visor, and the apron, the Cot S also comes with a special memory foam type of mattress.
The mattress provides the baby’s back with amazing support and protects the spine for normal growth and development. It is perfect for newborns.
- The deluxe soft foam mattress covered in cozy fabric is perfect for baby's first months
- The extra-large UV50+ canopy with additional flip out panel provides optimal protection from the sun
- A matching cover for the foot end of the Carry Cot easily snaps on and off depending on your individual needs
- The rotating adapter easily connects to the M-Strollers and allows for use with either the Carry Cot M or CYBEX Infant Car Seats, without ever having to take the adapter off the stroller
- The deluxe soft foam mattress covered in cozy fabric isperfect for baby's first months.
The Balios S Newborn Cocoon
The one thing I like the most about Cybex strollers is that all the ones I have seen or read about are designed to keep babies safe. This one is no exception.
Although this stroller’s toddler seat can recline to a deep position, it doesn’t get to the true horizontal position and is, therefore, not safe for babies to sleep on.
So if you want to use this stroller to carry your newborn, you will have to buy the Cot S reviewed above.
However, if you are on a budget, you should get the Balios S Newborn cocoon shown below.
The Cybex Balios S Newborn Cocoon
This cocoon is essentially a mini version of the Cot S bassinet. It features a comfy and flat base to provide your newborn with maximum support in a true flat position.
The cocoon is special in the sense that it comes with two special covers. One cover is for keeping your newborn cool during summer, while the other is for keeping him or her warm during winter.
The cocoon comes with special openings where you can attach the stroller’s harness to secure it. This will ensure it cannot easily fall off even if you stop the stroller suddenly.
- The Cybex Cocoon S is a soft nest for your baby – perfect for when your little one wishes to take a nap while being on the go.
- Its design matches ideally with the S-Line series by Cybex and is perfectly suitable for the strollers Balios S or Eezy S Twist.
- An all-round zip makes it particularly easy for you to put your little one in and lift him out of the Cocoon. The padded head area can be adjusted in height by using the Velcro fastener.
- The Cocoon S also features a 2 in 1 climate function. The upper wind protection has a warming winter side and a temperature balancing summer side.
The Balios S canopy
Based on what I have seen and what I know about this stroller, its canopy is its best feature. I will tell you why in just a moment. Let’s go through the basics first.
It is a huge, multi-panel, and UPV 50+ rated canopy that offers true protection from bright sunlight and from harmful UV rays.
The canopy has two panels. A third one can be revealed through simple unzipping. Moreover, it also includes a sun visor for extra protection. So if you have been wanting a stroller with a canopy that offers full cover and protection, your prayers have been answered.
Huge canopy offering almost 100% cover
When the canopy is fully extended, you can open the monitoring window at the back of it to keep a close eye on your young one. The monitoring window is made of mesh so it also provides good ventilation and prevents the baby from overheating.
During winter, you can simply keep the window closed to prevent wintry air from getting to your baby.
The monitoring/ peek-a-boo window
The Handlebar
This magnificent 2018 Cybex stroller has a special handlebar. It is special in the sense that it can be extended. It can be extended to four different positions. This means both tall parents and short parents will find it convenient to push.
It is particularly nice especially for tall parents as by extending it they will be able to push the stroller without kicking into the back of it.
The extendable handlebar of the Cybex Balios 2018
The Wheels
The wheels on this stroller are rubberized and not inflatable. This means you have no need to worry about carrying a pump around or about getting a puncture.
The back wheels are bigger than the front ones. This ensures stability and easy pushing.
There are two special things about the design of the Balios S wheels.
First, the two front wheels can swivel. This kind of guarantees easy steering and agility and is perfect for negotiating especially tight corners or weaving through crowds. When traveling on slightly bumpy terrain, you can lock the two wheels and prevent them from swiveling so as to achieve stability/ steadiness.
Secondly, the wheels come with a brilliant suspension system. The system acts as a shock absorber cushioning the baby against shocks. It makes riding on this stroller a comfortable experience even when the stroller is rolling over gravel, grass, cobbled streets, or cracked pavement.
The parking brake
Like all other strollers, this one too comes with a parking brake. The brake is conveniently located on the center of the stroller’s rear axle. The location makes it easy to apply.
The brake can be engaged or released when wearing any type of shoes.
The center position parking brake
The storage basket
The Cybex Balios S is fitted with a truly big and spacious storage basket underneath the toddler seat. The basket can accommodate a fully packed diaper bag. You can also use it to carry a fairly packed shopping bag because the toddler seat is positioned high on the frame providing lots of headroom. However, although the basket is spacious, it has a maximum weight limit of eleven pounds, which means you cannot carry many heavy things in it.
The Cybex Balios S storage basket
The size and weight of the stroller
I really like the fact that this is not a heavy or bulky stroller. It weighs just 24 pounds. For a stroller that is as strong and as multifunctional as it is, 24 pounds is pretty light.
Its lightweightness makes it agile and easy to maneuver.
It also makes it easy to lift into a car trunk or to carry it upstairs.
In terms of dimensions, this stroller is pretty compact. It can pretty much fit through tight corners and even narrow sidewalks.
Folding
Folding the Balios S is a breeze. You can do it one-handedly and within a few moments.
To fold the stroller, you simply need to push the backrest forward and then to bend the handlebar forward. Easy peasy, right?
The baby buggy can be folded with the seat facing the front or the back.
What is so nice about this stroller’s folding process is that it leaves the stroller in such a shape that it can stand on its own. There is also a convenient carry handle on top of it that you can use to carry it between your car and your home.
When folded, this stroller becomes pretty compact. This makes it easy to accommodate even in small car trunks. It also makes it easy to store as it does not take too much space in that compact state.
How does the Cybex Balios S perform?
The superior quality Balios S stroller
In one sentence, the Balios S is a lightweight, sturdy, easy to push, and agile stroller.
You can easily navigate it over most terrain including slightly bumpy surfaces. Its brilliant suspension system makes sure of this.
It is also quite comfortable for babies to ride on.
The Pros and Cons of the Cybex Balios S stroller
The Pros The Cons Pros
Cons
The available color versions
This stroller is available in a variety of exciting color versions including dark and bright colors.
The ready-made color versions include Tropical Blue, Fancy Pink, Lavastone Black, Manhattan Grey, and Denim Blue.
Special color versions are also available. They include the Denim Collection color versions and the SCUDERIA FERRARI collection color versions.
Some of the available dark and bright 2019 Cybex Balios S color versions
- 3 IN 1 SYSTEM: The Balios S stroller frame can be used as a 3-in-1 travel system. Simply attach the matching Cot S, the matching seat unit, or one of the renowned CYBEX and gb infant car seats.
- ALL-WHEEL SUSPENSION: Contains smooth all-wheel suspension that helps you get anywhere while navigating bumpy terrain
- SAFETY FEATURES: Is equipped with a pull-out UPF50+ sun canopy that eliminates sun and wind for ultimate child protection and overall safety
- DESIGN: Contains a reversible seat that can face towards or away from parent. Parent friendly design involves an extendable handle for 4 different positions and a 1-hand-operated recliner to adjust for the most comfortable experience
- INCLUDES: Includes stroller and rain cover for CYBEX car seat
The different color versions mentioned above go for different prices. So check all the prices of the different color versions to find the lowest priced one if you are on a tight budget.
The Cybex Balios S Accessories
Cybex accessories that you can buy and use with this stroller include a parent organizer, a rain cover, a standing board, the Cybex foot muff, the Cybex newborn cocoon, and the Cybex Cot S.
- The Parent Organizer
- This insulated cup holder and essentials stroller caddy stretches to hold bottles and coffee cups securely, while providing easy access to your most important items.
- Fitting most stroller bars and handles, this universal stroller organizer bag includes a detachable wristlet for errands and a headphone port for hands-free calls.
- Insulated cup holders stretch to fit most cup and bottles
- Stroller organizer folds easily with umbrella strollers
- Zippered pockets to hold valuables and detachable wristlet for errands on-the-go
In my humble opinion, it is a shame that this stroller Cybex does not automatically come with a parent organizer. However, that said, you can buy this really premium-looking organizer at a cheap price from Amazon, Pish Posh Baby, or the company’s official website.
Why buy it? Because it is roomy and perfect for carrying important essentials such as wipes, keys, cards, your phone, and so on.
- The rain cover
- Cybex Iris M-Air and Balios M Stroller Rain Cover is a handy stroller accessory that's perfect for shielding your child from wind and precipitation when the weather turns ugly during strolling jaunts with your little one
- Designed for use on Cybex Iris M-Air and Balios M city strollers
- Comes with a side ventilation and roll-up window
- See-through protective material allows a clear view of the surroundings
- Easy to install and remove
If it rains frequently in your city or town, you must get this accessory to shield your baby against the weather. It is pretty affordable and provides maximum cover.
- The standing board
If you have a second child who is slightly older, you can get this footmuff to let him or her hop on for a ride when you are strolling your youngest one. The board is steady, compatible with the Balios S, and a fun way to also entertain your older child.
- The Cybex footmuff
The Cybex footmuff is a useful stroller accessory especially for those who live in cities or areas with cold climates. This is because it is warm and cozy and protects the baby against wintry conditions. It is also waterproof.
- The Cybex Cot S
- The deluxe soft foam mattress covered in cozy fabric is perfect for baby's first months
- The extra-large UV50+ canopy with additional flip out panel provides optimal protection from the sun
- A matching cover for the foot end of the Carry Cot easily snaps on and off depending on your individual needs
- The rotating adapter easily connects to the M-Strollers and allows for use with either the Carry Cot M or CYBEX Infant Car Seats, without ever having to take the adapter off the stroller
- The deluxe soft foam mattress covered in cozy fabric isperfect for baby's first months.
The Cot S is a bassinet. It is the accessory you need to buy if you want to use the Cybex Balios S from birth. It is a premium, safe, spacious, and comfortable bassinet for the baby.
- The Cybex newborn cocoon
- Two-in -one climate function helps keep little ones warm in colder temperatures, but also breathes to help keep baby cooler when it's warm outside
- Cushioned head and neck support provide a cozy place for your baby to sleep or watch the world go by
- Compatible with the CYBEX Ballios S and Easy S Twist strollers
The Cybex newborn cocoon is an alternative to getting the Cot S bassinet. It is cheaper, lighter, and easier to use. You can attach it to the seat of the Balios S to carry your baby. It will provide him or her with the support they need to protect their back and their spine.
Cybex Balios S 2019
The 2019 version of the Balios S is almost being released. It is expected to have minor upgrades from this one. But if you like this version, I would advise you to buy it instead of waiting for the new version because I can almost guarantee that the new version will be pricier than this one.
What to think about before buying this stroller
You should keep in mind that although this is a compact stroller and it is relatively light, some parents, especially petite moms, will find it challenging to lift it and carry it around.
It is also somewhat pricey compared to other baby buggies in its class.
Why buy this stroller?
- It is a great stroller that has multiple seating and sleeping options for newborn babies and toddlers.
- It comes with features such as an extendable handlebar, a big storage basket, and all-terrain tires that make it convenient to use.
- It comes with a pretty sizeable canopy. In fact, dare I say, it is one of the biggest canopies I have ever seen on a stroller. The canopy will provide near 100% cover and protection for the baby.
- 3 IN 1 SYSTEM: The Balios S stroller frame can be used as a 3-in-1 travel system. Simply attach the matching Cot S, the matching seat unit, or one of the renowned CYBEX and gb infant car seats.
- ALL-WHEEL SUSPENSION: Contains smooth all-wheel suspension that helps you get anywhere while navigating bumpy terrain
- SAFETY FEATURES: Is equipped with a pull-out UPF50+ sun canopy that eliminates sun and wind for ultimate child protection and overall safety
- DESIGN: Contains a reversible seat that can face towards or away from parent. Parent friendly design involves an extendable handle for 4 different positions and a 1-hand-operated recliner to adjust for the most comfortable experience
- INCLUDES: Includes stroller and rain cover for CYBEX car seat
I’m Jessica Wills, most of my friends just call me Jess. I have 2 kids Astor who is 5, and Cody who is 3. I love writing and found a small passion in writing product reviews from a moms stand.
Let me know in the comments below if you have any questions, i’ll love to answer.
Last update on 2020-09-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API