Ergobaby Metro Plus: The Ultimate Compact City Stroller
Introduction
The Ergobaby Metro Plus has become a popular choice for parents seeking a compact, travel-friendly stroller that doesn’t compromise on comfort or functionality. As an evolution of the original Metro model, the Metro Plus offers several upgrades while maintaining the brand’s commitment to ergonomic design. This review explores the features, benefits, and potential drawbacks of this compact city stroller to help you determine if it’s the right choice for your family’s on-the-go lifestyle.
Product Specifications
Key Features:
– Compact fold design (fits in many airline overhead compartments)
– Suitable from newborn to toddler (weight capacity approximately 50 lbs)
– Multi-position recline including near-flat position
– Adjustable leg rest
– Extra-padded seat with ergonomic design
– Spring suspension system
– Extendable UPF 50+ sun canopy
– Storage basket underneath
– One-hand fold mechanism
– Compatible with infant car seats (with adapters)
– Available in multiple color options
Technical Specifications:
– Weight: Approximately 14-16 lbs (varies by configuration)
– Folded dimensions: Compact enough for overhead compartments on many airlines
– Unfolded dimensions: Suitable for average-sized children while maintaining a small footprint
– Materials: Durable fabric with plush padding
Metro vs. Metro Plus: What’s Different?
The Metro Plus represents an evolution from the original Metro model with several notable improvements:
1. Enhanced comfort padding in the seat
2. Improved suspension system for a smoother ride
3. More robust wheels for better handling on varied terrain
4. Refined fold mechanism
5. Expanded storage options
6. Additional accessories available (some sold separately)
Many users note that while the original Metro was already a solid product, the Plus version addresses several pain points and offers meaningful upgrades that justify the price difference for those who plan to use the stroller frequently.
Pros: What Parents Love
Exceptional Portability
The Metro Plus truly shines in the travel and portability department. Multiple users report successfully bringing it as a carry-on for flights, fitting it into overhead compartments on many (though not all) airlines. The compact fold makes it ideal for small car trunks, public transportation, and navigating crowded urban environments.
Comfort-Focused Design
Unlike many compact strollers that sacrifice comfort for portability, the Metro Plus features plush padding and ergonomic design. Parents particularly appreciate the multi-position recline and adjustable leg rest, which allow children to nap comfortably on the go.
Smooth Maneuverability
The spring suspension system and improved wheels on the Plus model provide a noticeably smoother ride compared to many competitors in the travel stroller category. Parents report easy one-handed steering and good performance on various surfaces including city sidewalks, mall floors, and light gravel paths.
Thoughtful Features
The generous sun canopy, accessible storage basket, and compatibility with car seats (with adapters) make this a practical choice for everyday use beyond just travel. Parents appreciate the attention to details like the peekaboo window in the canopy and the adjustable handlebar height.
Durability
Several reviewers mention being impressed with the build quality and durability of the Metro Plus, noting that it feels more substantial than other lightweight strollers while still maintaining a reasonable weight.
Cons: Potential Drawbacks
Learning Curve for Folding
While the fold is compact and can be done with one hand once mastered, multiple users mention there is a learning curve. Some report that the fold mechanism can be tricky at first and requires practice to execute smoothly.
Price Point
The Metro Plus sits in the higher price range for compact strollers. While many parents feel the quality justifies the cost, others question whether the upgrades from the base Metro model are worth the additional investment.
Storage Limitations
Though improved from the original Metro, the storage basket is still relatively small compared to full-sized strollers. Parents needing to carry substantial gear may find the capacity limiting for all-day outings.
Not All-Terrain
Despite improvements to the wheels and suspension, this remains primarily a city stroller. Some users report challenges on rough terrain, beach sand, or extensive off-pavement use.
Additional Accessories Cost Extra
To maximize functionality, parents may want to purchase additional accessories like the weather shield, car seat adapters, or travel bag—all sold separately, which increases the overall investment.
Comparison with Competitors
Ergobaby Metro Plus vs. UPPAbaby MINU
The UPPAbaby MINU is often mentioned as a direct competitor. Based on user feedback, the Metro Plus offers comparable quality with potentially better padding and comfort features. The MINU may have slightly better maneuverability and a more intuitive fold, while the Metro Plus generally receives higher marks for compact fold size and overall comfort. Price points are similar, making this largely a matter of preference for specific features.
Metro Plus vs. Metro Plus Deluxe
The Deluxe version adds premium features and materials, which some parents find worth the upgrade for extended use. However, many users report being perfectly satisfied with the standard Metro Plus, suggesting the Deluxe may be unnecessary unless specific features appeal to your needs.
Comparison with Budget Options
When compared to more budget-friendly travel strollers like the GB Pockit (mentioned by one user), the Metro Plus offers significantly better comfort, durability, and features—though at a much higher price point. The value proposition depends on how frequently you’ll use the stroller and how important comfort features are to your child.
Real-World Performance
Parents consistently report that the Metro Plus excels in real-world situations where compact size and quick folding are crucial:
– Airport travel and flying
– Public transportation
– Small car trunks
– Navigating crowded stores
– Quick errands
– Urban living with limited storage space
The stroller receives particularly positive feedback from families who travel frequently or live in urban environments where space is at a premium.
Verdict: Is the Ergobaby Metro Plus Worth It?
The Ergobaby Metro Plus represents an excellent balance of portability and comfort in the compact stroller category. While not the cheapest option, it delivers on its promises of being travel-friendly while still providing a comfortable ride for children.
Recommended for:
– Frequent travelers who need a reliable, comfortable travel stroller
– Urban parents navigating public transportation and small spaces
– Families seeking a secondary, more portable stroller to complement their full-size model
– Parents who prioritize child comfort and don’t want to sacrifice padding for portability
Consider alternatives if:
– You need extensive off-road capabilities
– Budget is your primary concern
– You require very large storage capacity
– You rarely travel or have ample storage space at home
For most parents seeking a well-designed compact stroller that doesn’t compromise on essential features, the Metro Plus delivers excellent value despite its premium price point. The positive user experiences across multiple review sources suggest this is a reliable choice that successfully balances the competing demands of comfort, portability, and functionality.