This is a one of a kind stroller. Quite frankly, I believed I had seen every innovative feature when it comes to strollers. However, when I saw this stroller and started researching it, I discovered something I had never seen before – a reversible handlebar. This feature made me want to know more about this stroller and so I did my research. And I discovered that the reversible handlebar is quite a convenient feature. I also discovered that this stroller also comes with a host of other brilliant features including an oversized canopy and four swiveling wheels easy steering.
In this review, I will share with you everything you need to know about the Ergobaby 180. I will share with you everything there is to love about it, my favorite features, and the things that are not so great about it. By the end of this review, you will know for sure if it is something you should get or ignore.
Here is the ultimate Ergobaby 180 review!
- REVERSIBLE, ADJUSTABLE HANDLEBAR: Baby can face the world or you with the flip of the handlebar. Handlebar adjusts between 39" and 42" high.
- ONE HAND FOLD AND LIGHTWEIGHT - A full featured stroller weighing under 20 lbs. You can hold your baby in one arm & fold the stroller with the other.
- X-LARGE STORAGE BASKET - Big storage basket can fit large diaper bags and your Ergobaby carrier. Seat depth is 11 inches
- HUGE SUN CANOPY, MESH SIDEWALLS AND RECLINING SEAT - Keep baby comfortable on the go with the ability to adjust for heat, chill or the unexpected nap.
- TRAVEL SYSTEM READY: Compatible with Chicco, Cybex/Nuna, Britax and most Chicco Car Seats with Car Seat Adapter (sold separately).
Key features of the Ergobaby 180
- It is a lightweight stroller
- It is a reversible stroller
- It has a reclinable seat for napping
- It can be converted into a travel system with the use of a compatible car seat
- It has a handlebar that is height-adjustable and can be used by parents of all heights
- It has got features that make it perfect for use in hot climates like Florida
- It has a generous storage basket that can fit a diaper bag and then some
- It has got four swiveling wheels that make it easy to steer
- It is designed in such a way that it can be used from birth
The Ergobaby 180 stroller review
Ergobaby is a brand particularly known for making brilliant baby carriers. This is their first stroller on the market and it is a brilliant product just like the brand’s baby carriers.
The Ergobaby 180 is primarily a lightweight single stroller. It is well-designed to accommodate one child and can carry that child for a long time until he or she grows to 50 lbs.
With the use of an infant car seat, you can turn this stroller into a travel system. More details about this and other features of the Ergobaby 180 in the sections below.
Ergobaby 180 toddler seat
The toddler seat on this stroller can recline to an almost flat position. With the addition of the Ergobaby comfort cushion, you can use the toddler seat from birth because the cushion provides the body and neck support newborns need.
The thing I love the most about this toddler seat is the fact that you can recline it with just one hand. There is a buckle behind the seat that you simply squeeze to recline it. However, while reclining the seat can be done with just one hand, lifting it requires both hands. In my opinion, this is not a big issue because almost all reclinable strollers on the market require two hands to lift them back to position.
Some parents think that the buckle reclining system on this stroller is a bit old school. They believe that a lever system instead of the buckle system could have been the better option. However, I think the buckle works just fine and is not an issue.
One of the unique things about this stroller seat is that it comes with a vented seat top. This top ensures the baby does not get overheated especially during summer by ensuring air flows freely in the canopy and around the baby’s head. The top can be closed during chilly or cold days to keep the baby feeling warm and comfy.
The stroller is perfect for summer strolling
In addition to the above-mentioned features, the Ergobaby 180 toddler seat also includes a footrest. Although this footrest is non-adjustable, it still offers more comfort compared to strollers that have no footrest. Most parents would obviously prefer a stroller with an adjustable footrest. However, most parents actually consider whether a footrest is adjustable or not to be a non-issue. So, in my opinion, the fact that this stroller’s footrest is non-adjustable is something you should have in mind but it should not stop you from getting it if it is not so big of a deal for you.
I really love this toddler seat’s padding. It is quite thick, and comfy. If your baby loves napping (which baby doesn’t?), he or she will certainly love napping in this stroller.
A baby facing the world in the Ergobaby 180 stroller
In terms of safety, this stroller comes with a five-point safety harness. The harness will strap your baby in and prevent them from falling off or flying out of the stroller. The harness is easy for parents to operate but difficult for babies to try and open. So it is very safe. It is key to note that the straps of the harness are easy to adjust. This means you can make them more secure and comfortable.
Lastly, about this seat, it is designed to be compatible with the special Ergobaby snack tray. This snack tray can be bought separately and it is something you can use to keep snacks and a drink within your baby’s close reach.
Ergobaby 180 compatibility with infant car seat
This stroller is compatible with various infant car seats including Britax, Chicco, and Graco car seats. It is also compatible with newer infant car seats such as NUNA and Cybex car seats.
The Ergobaby 180 with a Cybex infant car seat
The Ergobaby 180 canopy
The design of the canopy on this stroller is one of the things that makes it one of the best baby carriages for summer. The canopy is large and extendable. This allows it to provide a nice and extensive shade especially when it is fully extended. Under this canopy, your baby will feel no sun and will experience no strong winds; he or she will be fully protected. The canopy good cover even when the seat is completely reclined. So if you are looking for a stroller with a great canopy, then you should strongly consider the Ergobaby 180.
Your little one should be able to nap or even sleep comfortably underneath the canopy of this stroller as it will keep all the sun out. Moreover, the canopy is made in such a way that it also blocks harmful UV rays. So when you step out of the house with your baby in this stroller, you can rest assured that they are protected from the direct sun and from harmful UV rays. From the statements above about this canopy, I am sure you will agree when I say this stroller is perfect for the California and Florida climates. It is a great summer stroller.
In addition to providing great protection against the sun, the canopy on this stroller also comes with a viewing window that allows you to closely monitor your baby. The window has a silent magnetic closure instead of the commonly used noisy Velcro closure.
- REVERSIBLE, ADJUSTABLE HANDLEBAR: Baby can face the world or you with the flip of the handlebar. Handlebar adjusts between 39" and 42" high.
- ONE HAND FOLD AND LIGHTWEIGHT - A full featured stroller weighing under 20 lbs. You can hold your baby in one arm & fold the stroller with the other.
- X-LARGE STORAGE BASKET - Big storage basket can fit large diaper bags and your Ergobaby carrier. Seat depth is 11 inches
- HUGE SUN CANOPY, MESH SIDEWALLS AND RECLINING SEAT - Keep baby comfortable on the go with the ability to adjust for heat, chill or the unexpected nap.
- TRAVEL SYSTEM READY: Compatible with Chicco, Cybex/Nuna, Britax and most Chicco Car Seats with Car Seat Adapter (sold separately).
Ergobaby 180 handlebar
The Ergobaby 180 has perhaps the most innovative handlebar on the market. According to many parents, this handlebar is the most unique and exciting feature of this stroller. The thing that separates this handlebar from the rest is the fact that it is a reversible handlebar. This means you can flip it from one side of the stroller to the other. So if your baby is facing you and you want them to face forward, you can simply flip the handlebar to the other side and start pushing the stroller from behind them. This is fantastic because it means you can change the direction your baby is facing without needing to detach, lift, and reattach the seat they are sitting on.
To reverse this handlebar, you just need to pull special levers on the sides of it, and voila! It is something that is very easy to do.
I believe the reversibility of this stroller makes it very convenient to use.
In addition to being reversible, the handlebar on this stroller is also height-extendable. You can adjust its height to anything between 39 and 42 inches above the ground. This means any parent between approximately 5 feet and 6 feet 3 can adjust it to the perfect height for them to push. So if you are short, you can set the handlebar to a height that allows you to push the stroller without experiencing wrist fatigue. And if you are tall, you can set it to a height that allows you to push it without kicking into the axle or the wheels. The height extendibility is just brilliant!
Ergobaby 180 wheels and brakes
The Ergobaby 180 wheels are not the biggest wheels you will see on a stroller. However, considering the fact that this is a lightweight urban stroller and not an all-terrain buggy, this is acceptable.
The wheels are foam-filled to cushion against bumps and shocks. However, they are not supported by a suspension system as is the case with other strollers. So you should avoid pushing this stroller on rough or uneven terrain as your baby will feel the shocks.
The best thing about the wheels of this stroller is that they can all swivel and they can all be locked.
If you unlock all the wheels and let them all swivel, it makes this stroller very easy to steer and maneuver especially in crowded places or when navigating tight corners. When on uneven terrain, you can simply lock all the wheels to prevent them from swiveling and, therefore, increase stability to easily steer on such terrain. In short, what I am trying to say is that this stroller has very innovative wheels that allow you easily steer it in different settings.
With regards to brakes, each wheel on this stroller has a parking brake. The brakes are easy to engage and to disengage. However, it is a bit difficult to disengage them when wearing sandals or flip flops.
Ergobaby 180 storage space
I love the storage basket on this stroller. The reason why is that it is very generously sized. It is big enough to accommodate a diaper bag, a blanket, a towel, and a jacket at the same time. You can also use it to carry a fairly heavy shopping bag.
The Ergobaby 180 storage basket
The sidewalls of this storage basket are quite low. This means you can access the storage basket and retrieve from it anything you want from the side of the stroller. Unfortunately, it also means that some loose items in the storage basket could fall out. So this is something you have to keep in mind when packing stuff into this stroller’s storage basket.
In addition to this storage basket, this stroller also comes with additional storage space in the form of a storage pouch behind the toddler seat. The pouch is big and you can use it to carry snacks, a drink, your wallet, and your phone at the same time. In other words, you can use it to keep essential stuff within close reach.
- REVERSIBLE, ADJUSTABLE HANDLEBAR: Baby can face the world or you with the flip of the handlebar. Handlebar adjusts between 39" and 42" high.
- ONE HAND FOLD AND LIGHTWEIGHT - A full featured stroller weighing under 20 lbs. You can hold your baby in one arm & fold the stroller with the other.
- X-LARGE STORAGE BASKET - Big storage basket can fit large diaper bags and your Ergobaby carrier. Seat depth is 11 inches
- HUGE SUN CANOPY, MESH SIDEWALLS AND RECLINING SEAT - Keep baby comfortable on the go with the ability to adjust for heat, chill or the unexpected nap.
- TRAVEL SYSTEM READY: Compatible with Chicco, Cybex/Nuna, Britax and most Chicco Car Seats with Car Seat Adapter (sold separately).
The Ergobaby 180 folding
Folding this stroller is a piece of cake. It is something you can literally do very easily and very quickly. There is a lever close to the seat that you need to pull and the stroller will collapse in half. You can literally fold this stroller with just one hand. When properly folded, this stroller automatically locks itself and can self-stand. These two things make this stroller quite convenient to use for most parents. However, I must point out that for this stroller to self-stand, you have to push the handlebar into the folded unit.
The Ergobaby 180 is easy to fold and can self-stand when folded
While am a fan of how easy it is to fold this stroller, I have several issues with the Ergobaby 180 fold. First of all, although it is compact, it does not actually look compact. It is kind of bulky and, therefore, carrying it can be a challenge. Second, when the stroller is folded, it does not really protect the fabric. It leaves the fabric out which means the fabric is exposed and it can get dirty pretty quickly. Lastly, when this stroller is folded it can self-stand as mentioned a few moments ago. However, when it self-stands, it stands on the wheels and the handlebar. And considering the fact that the handlebar is made of a foam cover, it can tear quickly and leave the handlebar bare.
However, with all these things said, the Ergobaby fold size is indeed compact and can easily fit into any car trunk or get a storage space in a small apartment.
While this stroller is easy to fold, it is not the easiest to unfold. Nevertheless, with a bit of practice, you can quickly learn how to unfold this stroller. To unfold it, you need to unlock it first and then to unfold the push bar or handlebar. It is at this point when you can open the rest stroller.
It is difficult to open this stroller with just one hand. However, it is not impossible. When you unfold this stroller, you need to attach the toddler seat to use it. This is not hard as the toddler seat will just snap in place. Besides, the stroller has got an indicator that shows if you have attached the seat correctly and safely for strolling. In my opinion, this is an absolutely brilliant feature.
Ergobaby 180 size and weight
Although this stroller is not what you would exactly describe as an umbrella stroller, it is pretty lightweight. It weighs only 20 pounds! This is brilliant considering that it is a convertible stroller and especially when you compare it with competitor convertible strollers such as the Chicco Bravo Trio, the Britax B-Free, and the UPPAbaby VISTA.
This reversible baby buggy is just 23.5 inches wide. This means you will have no problems going through elevators and doorways with it
Ergobaby 180 pros and cons
Pros
- It comes with a plushy and comfortable toddler seat
- Its toddler seat can be deeply reclined
- Its toddler seat can be reversed
- It is brilliant for hot weather as both the canopy and the seat are designed for max. airflow
- It comes with a viewing window featuring a silent magnetic closure instead of Velcro
- It can be converted into a travel system as it is compatible with many infant car seats
- It comes with an adjustable handlebar
- It is much easier to steer compared to other strollers on the market
- It comes with a generous storage basket and an additional storage pocket
- It can be folded with just one hand
- It is super lightweight for a convertible stroller
Cons
- It is difficult to unfold
- It has no suspension system and, therefore, does not absorb shocks
- It has a non-adjust footrest
What other moms and dads think about this stroller
I read the reviews penned by verified purchasers on the official website of this stroller, on Amazon and on several other platforms. I did this to discover what other parents were saying about this Ergobaby stroller. From reading the reviews I read, I discovered that many parents loved quite a number of this stroller’s features.
Some of the key features I saw many parents praising in the reviews include its big storage basket, its big viewing window with a silent closure, and its height-adjustable handlebar.
Many parents also wrote in the reviews that they were impressed by the lightweightness of the Ergobaby 180 and that this aspect of the stroller made it very convenient for them to use it.
- REVERSIBLE, ADJUSTABLE HANDLEBAR: Baby can face the world or you with the flip of the handlebar. Handlebar adjusts between 39" and 42" high.
- ONE HAND FOLD AND LIGHTWEIGHT - A full featured stroller weighing under 20 lbs. You can hold your baby in one arm & fold the stroller with the other.
- X-LARGE STORAGE BASKET - Big storage basket can fit large diaper bags and your Ergobaby carrier. Seat depth is 11 inches
- HUGE SUN CANOPY, MESH SIDEWALLS AND RECLINING SEAT - Keep baby comfortable on the go with the ability to adjust for heat, chill or the unexpected nap.
- TRAVEL SYSTEM READY: Compatible with Chicco, Cybex/Nuna, Britax and most Chicco Car Seats with Car Seat Adapter (sold separately).
I also did see some parents saying that this stroller is easy to use in crowded places like malls and when shopping because it is easier to maneuver. So, as you can see from the statements above, many parents are impressed with the various features and aspects of this baby carriage.
I think it will be fair for me to note that I also did see some critical reviews about the Ergobaby 180. Among the critical reviews against this stroller, the most common one was that it is a bit difficult to steer this stroller at first until one gets hang of it. To me, this is not really a drawback. It is just a statement of fact. There is a bit of a learning curve with this stroller but after that, it is totally worth it in my opinion.
Another common criticism I noted was the lack of an adjustable footrest. Many parents seemed disappointed by the fact that the footrest on this stroller is static and non-adjustable. Many were also disappointed by the fact that they have to purchase a snack tray separately. The difficulty in unfolding the Ergobaby 180 was also noted by parents with many of them wondering how something that is so easy to fold with one hand could be so difficult to unfold. But again, just as is the case with maneuvering this stroller, I also believe there is a learning curve with unfolding this stroller. Once you master the process, it becomes very easy.
Therefore, as you can see from the statements above, there are both positive and negative reviews online about this stroller. The majority are positive but there are some negative ones too. It is important to note both to be completely aware of what to expect.
Ergobaby 180 specs
Type of stroller | Convertible stroller |
Weight | 20 pounds |
Max. seat weight capacity | 55 pounds |
Stroller fold size | 30 by 23.5 by 14 inches |
Handlebar adjustable height | 39 to 42 inches (from the ground) |
Max. head height | 24 inches |
Ergobaby 180 available color options
This stroller is available in five color options. In all the five color options, the seat and the frame are in black. It is the color of the canopy that changes. The color options include Red, Black, Graphite, Misty Blue, and Teal. You should, however, note that the different color options vary in prices and that some colors are not usually available all the time.
All the five available color options
In addition to these five available color options, Ergobaby recently released a limited edition Marigold color option. This stroller is a thing of beauty and it is the result of cooperation between Ergobaby and the legendary Baby Tula Company. Being a limited edition model, you are unlikely to easily find it on the market. However, I felt obligated to let you know of its existence just to make sure you won’t be surprised when you see it in the streets (LOL!).
The limited-edition Ergobaby 180
Ergobaby 180 accessories
The only accessory that this stroller comes with is a cup holder. The others have to be bought separately. Check out which ones you may want to buy below:
This is a comfort cushion. It is a body pillow you can add to the Ergobaby 180’s toddler seat to make it support your baby’s neck and spine better. It is brilliant for infants and toddlers under 1 year. Find it on amazon | |
This is a weather shield. It is a protective cover you can add to your stroller to protect your baby against strong winds, the snow, or the rain without affecting airflow. It makes it possible to use the Ergobaby 180 all year round and it is perfect for those leaving in wet or snowy cities. Find it on amazon | |
This is a snack tray. It is a tray you can use to keep snacks and a drink within the close reach of your baby. I literally see no reason why any parent shouldn’t buy this. Find it on amazon | |
These are infant car seat adapters for Cybex and NUNA car seats. They allow you to attach Cybex Aton car seats and Nuna Pipa car seats on the Ergobaby 180. | |
These are infant car seat adapters for Britax car seats. They allow you to attach the Britax B-safe car seats on the Ergobaby 180. Find it on amazon | |
These are infant car seat adapters for Chicco and Graco car seats. They allow you to attach Chicco car seats and Graco car seats on the Ergobaby 180. Compatible Chicco car seats include the KeyFit and the KeyFit30 while compatible Graco car seats include most Graco Snugride Click Connect car seats. |
What to consider before purchasing this stroller
The most important thing to note before purchasing this stroller is that you cannot attach a bassinet on it. However, this is not completely disappointing as the manufacturer of this stroller says that its main seat can be used from birth instead of a bassinet. You just need to buy the Ergobaby comfort cushion to provide your little one with extra neck and back support. Nevertheless, I say it is up to you to decide if the main seat of this stroller is okay to use from birth. Personally, I would only use it from three months onward and not straight from birth. I believe from birth, a baby needs a comfy bassinet. But it is really up to you to decide what to do.
Why buy this stroller
Three reasons:
- Because it is a brilliant stroller for summer. This is because it has a generous canopy that provides great shade and it is well-ventilated to prevent overheating.
- Because it has a telescopic and reversible handlebar that allows you to push the stroller at the height and on the side you prefer.
- Because it has a four-wheel steering system that enables exceptional maneuvering especially in crowded areas and around tight corners.
- REVERSIBLE, ADJUSTABLE HANDLEBAR: Baby can face the world or you with the flip of the handlebar. Handlebar adjusts between 39" and 42" high.
- ONE HAND FOLD AND LIGHTWEIGHT - A full featured stroller weighing under 20 lbs. You can hold your baby in one arm & fold the stroller with the other.
- X-LARGE STORAGE BASKET - Big storage basket can fit large diaper bags and your Ergobaby carrier. Seat depth is 11 inches
- HUGE SUN CANOPY, MESH SIDEWALLS AND RECLINING SEAT - Keep baby comfortable on the go with the ability to adjust for heat, chill or the unexpected nap.
- TRAVEL SYSTEM READY: Compatible with Chicco, Cybex/Nuna, Britax and most Chicco Car Seats with Car Seat Adapter (sold separately).
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 2020-09-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API