Joolz Aer+ Stroller Review: The Compact Travel Companion
When it comes to travel strollers, parents are often forced to choose between convenience and comfort. The Joolz Aer+ aims to bridge this gap with its compact design and premium features. As a lightweight stroller that promises not to compromise on quality, the Joolz Aer+ has gained significant attention in the parenting community. But is it worth the investment? This comprehensive review explores everything you need to know about the Joolz Aer+ stroller to help you make an informed decision.
Key Specifications of the Joolz Aer+
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Weight | 13.4 lbs (6.1 kg) |
| Folded Dimensions | 21″ x 17.7″ x 8.5″ (53.3 x 45 x 21.6 cm) |
| Weight Capacity | Up to 50 lbs (22.7 kg) |
| Age Range | Birth (with newborn pack) to 4 years |
| Recline | Multiple positions including near-flat |
| Canopy | UPF 50+ sun protection with extension |
| Storage Basket | 11 lbs (5 kg) capacity |
| Wheels | All-wheel suspension |
| Fold Type | One-handed compact fold |
| Travel System Compatibility | Yes, with adapters |
Pros and Cons of the Joolz Aer+
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Exceptionally lightweight at just 13.4 lbs | Premium price point compared to other travel strollers |
| Ultra-compact one-handed fold | Storage basket is smaller than full-sized strollers |
| Can fold with carrycot attached (unique feature) | Accessories sold separately add to overall cost |
| Premium quality materials and construction | May feel less sturdy on very rough terrain |
| Comfortable suspension for smooth rides | Handlebar is not adjustable |
| Near-flat recline suitable for naps | Rain cover not included in base package |
| Usable from birth with appropriate accessories | Two-handed recline adjustment |
| Excellent maneuverability in tight spaces | Learning curve to master the fold mechanism |
Design and Build Quality
The Joolz Aer+ immediately stands out for its sleek, minimalist design that doesn’t sacrifice functionality. Unlike some travel strollers that feel flimsy, the Aer+ features a solid aluminum frame that provides stability while maintaining its lightweight nature. The fabrics used are premium quality, with a luxurious feel that’s both soft to the touch and durable enough to withstand daily use.
One parent commented in an online review, “It doesn’t feel cheap like some travel strollers do,” and this sentiment is echoed across multiple user experiences. The stroller’s construction exudes quality, from the stitching on the seat to the smooth operation of the fold mechanism.
Folding Mechanism
The one-handed folding system is one of the Joolz Aer+’s standout features. With a simple twist and pull motion, the stroller collapses into a compact package that’s easy to carry with the attached strap. The fold is truly compact at just 21″ x 17.7″ x 8.5″, making it ideal for storing in overhead compartments on planes or in the trunk of a small car.
What truly sets the Aer+ apart from competitors is its ability to fold with the carrycot attached—a feature rarely found in travel strollers. This eliminates the need to remove and store the carrycot separately when transitioning from car to stroller, a convenience that parents of newborns will particularly appreciate.
Comfort and Usability
Seat Comfort
The Joolz Aer+ features a padded seat with multiple recline positions, including a near-flat option that’s suitable for naps on the go. The seat is wider than many travel strollers, accommodating growing toddlers comfortably. The five-point harness is secure yet easy to adjust, with padding at key points to prevent chafing.
For newborns, the Aer+ offers compatibility with a specially designed carrycot or newborn pack, extending its usability from birth through the toddler years. This versatility makes it a potential candidate for use as a primary stroller, not just for travel.
Canopy and Weather Protection
The extendable UPF 50+ canopy provides excellent sun protection, with a peek-a-boo window that allows you to check on your child without disturbing them. While the canopy offers good coverage, the rain cover is sold separately, which is disappointing considering the premium price point of the stroller.
Maneuverability and Suspension
The Joolz Aer+ features all-wheel suspension that delivers a remarkably smooth ride for a lightweight stroller. It handles urban environments with ease, gliding over sidewalk cracks and minor bumps without jostling your little one. The front wheels can be locked for stability on uneven surfaces or left to swivel for tight turns in crowded spaces.
While it’s primarily designed for urban use, the Aer+ performs adequately on smooth park paths and gravel. However, it’s not intended for off-road adventures or very rough terrain, where its lightweight nature becomes a limitation rather than an advantage.
Practical Features
Storage and Accessories
The underseat basket can hold up to 11 pounds of essentials, which is respectable for a travel stroller though smaller than what you’d find on full-sized models. It’s accessible from both the front and back of the stroller, making it easy to retrieve items without disturbing your child.
Additional accessories available for the Joolz Aer+ include:
- Carrycot for newborns
- Newborn pack (a more compact alternative to the carrycot)
- Car seat adapters for various brands
- Rain cover
- Travel bag
- Cup holder
- Footmuff for colder weather
While these accessories enhance the stroller’s functionality, they also add to the overall cost, which is worth considering when budgeting for your purchase.
Travel-Friendly Features
Beyond its compact fold, the Joolz Aer+ includes a carrying strap that makes it easy to transport when not in use. At 13.4 pounds, it’s light enough to carry over the shoulder while managing other luggage or holding your child’s hand.
The stroller is also designed to stand when folded, a small but significant feature that keeps it clean and accessible when stored temporarily in restaurants or other public spaces.
Performance Ratings
| Category | Rating (out of 5) | Comments |
|---|---|---|
| Ease of Use | 4.5 | Intuitive design with minor learning curve for folding |
| Maneuverability | 4.5 | Excellent in urban settings, good on smooth paths |
| Comfort | 4.0 | Well-padded seat with good recline options |
| Build Quality | 4.8 | Premium materials and solid construction |
| Compactness | 5.0 | Among the most compact when folded |
| Storage | 3.5 | Adequate for essentials but limited compared to full-size strollers |
| Value for Money | 3.8 | Premium price justified by quality, but accessories add cost |
| Overall | 4.3 | An excellent travel stroller with potential as a daily driver |
Joolz Aer+ as a Primary Stroller
A common question among parents is whether the Joolz Aer+ can serve as a primary stroller rather than just for travel. Based on user experiences and the stroller’s features, the answer is conditionally yes.
The Aer+ offers many features of a full-sized stroller in a more compact package: comfortable seating, good suspension, adequate storage, and compatibility from birth with appropriate accessories. For urban parents who navigate public transportation, small apartments, or crowded spaces, the Aer+ could indeed function as an everyday stroller.
As one Reddit user in the r/Buyingforbaby community noted, “Would like to baby wear as much as possible in newborn stage. Stroller would mostly be used for walks around the neighborhood and occasional travel.” For this use case, the Aer+ is more than sufficient.
However, families who frequently traverse rough terrain, need maximum storage space, or prefer a more robust stroller with features like an adjustable handlebar might find the Aer+ limiting as their only stroller.
Comparison with Competitors
| Feature | Joolz Aer+ | Babyzen YOYO2 | Bugaboo Butterfly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 13.4 lbs | 13.6 lbs | 16.1 lbs |
| Folded Dimensions | 21″ x 17.7″ x 8.5″ | 20.5″ x 17.3″ x 7.1″ | 23″ x 16.5″ x 9″ |
| Weight Capacity | 50 lbs | 48.5 lbs | 50 lbs |
| Newborn Compatible | Yes, with accessories | Yes, with accessories | Yes, with accessories |
| One-Hand Fold | Yes | No (two-step process) | Yes |
| Fold with Carrycot | Yes | No | No |
| Recline | Multiple positions | Multiple positions | Multiple positions |
| Price Range | $449-$499 | $499-$549 | $429-$479 |
| Standout Feature | Folds with carrycot | Ultra-compact fold | Large storage basket |
While all three strollers are premium travel options, the Joolz Aer+ distinguishes itself with the ability to fold with the carrycot attached. The Babyzen YOYO2 offers a slightly more compact fold but requires a two-step folding process. The Bugaboo Butterfly provides more storage space but is heavier than both alternatives.
Who Should Buy the Joolz Aer+?
Ideal for:
- Frequent Travelers: The compact fold and lightweight design make it perfect for families who fly or travel often.
- Urban Parents: Those navigating city life will appreciate its maneuverability in tight spaces and on public transportation.
- Quality-Conscious Consumers: Parents who prioritize premium materials and construction will find the Aer+ meets their standards.
- Parents of Newborns: With the appropriate accessories, the Aer+ can accommodate infants from birth, with the unique advantage of folding with the carrycot attached.
- Space-Constrained Homes: The compact fold makes storage easy in small apartments or homes with limited space.
Less suitable for:
- Off-Road Enthusiasts: Families who frequently hike or traverse rough terrain would be better served by a more robust all-terrain stroller.
- Budget-Conscious Shoppers: The premium price point may be prohibitive for those seeking a more economical option.
- Heavy Packers: Parents who need to carry substantial gear might find the storage basket limiting.
The Verdict: Is the Joolz Aer+ Worth It?
The Joolz Aer+ represents a thoughtful balance between portability and functionality. It successfully addresses many of the compromises typically associated with travel strollers, offering a genuinely comfortable ride in a package that’s convenient for on-the-go families.
At its premium price point, the Aer+ delivers quality construction and innovative features that justify the investment for frequent travelers or urban parents seeking a compact yet capable stroller. The ability to fold with the carrycot attached is a standout feature that sets it apart from competitors and adds significant convenience for parents of newborns.
While it may not replace a full-featured stroller for every family, particularly those who need maximum storage or frequently tackle rough terrain, the Joolz Aer+ excels at what it was designed to do: provide a premium, portable strolling experience without compromising too much on comfort and functionality.
For parents who value quality, convenience, and design—and are willing to pay for these attributes—the Joolz Aer+ represents a worthwhile investment that will likely serve your family well through multiple children or years of use.
Final Rating: 4.3/5
The Joolz Aer+ earns its reputation as one of the top premium travel strollers on the market. With its exceptional build quality, innovative features, and thoughtful design, it successfully bridges the gap between travel convenience and everyday usability, making it a compelling option for modern parents on the move.