Bugaboo Donkey3 Stroller Review
The Bugaboo Donkey3 stroller represents the pinnacle of luxury convertible strollers, offering unparalleled versatility for growing families. As the third iteration of Bugaboo’s popular side-by-side model, the Donkey3 combines sophisticated engineering with practical functionality, making it a coveted choice for parents seeking a premium strolling experience. This comprehensive review examines the stroller’s innovative features, real-world performance, and overall value to help determine if this investment piece is the right fit for your family’s lifestyle.
Overview of the Bugaboo Donkey3
The Bugaboo Donkey3 stands out in the premium stroller market as a truly adaptable solution that grows with your family. Its ingenious design allows conversion from a single to a double stroller in just three clicks, accommodating either twins or siblings of different ages with equal comfort. This Dutch-engineered marvel maintains Bugaboo’s reputation for combining style with substance, featuring improved fabrics and enhanced functionality over its predecessors.
Key Features
- Convertible Design: Transitions between mono, duo, and twin configurations to adapt to your family’s needs
- Enhanced Storage: Features a large under-seat basket plus a unique side luggage basket in mono mode that carries up to 22 lbs
- All-Terrain Capability: Large foam-filled wheels and advanced suspension system handle everything from city sidewalks to park trails
- Customization Options: Available in multiple colorways with mix-and-match canopies and fabrics
- One-Piece Self-Standing Fold: Improved folding mechanism for easier storage and transport
- Improved Sun Canopies: UPF 50+ protection with integrated mesh panels for ventilation
Specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Weight Capacity | Up to 50 lbs per seat (100 lbs total) |
| Stroller Weight | 27.5 lbs (mono), 32.4 lbs (duo/twin) |
| Width Dimensions | 23.6″ (mono), 29″ (duo/twin) |
| Folded Dimensions | 34.3″ x 23.6″ x 15.7″ (with seats) |
| Age Range | From birth (with bassinet) up to 4 years |
| Handlebar Height | Adjustable from 34.6″ to 42.5″ |
| Wheel Size | 10″ front, 12″ rear |
Performance and Comfort
The Bugaboo Donkey3 excels in providing exceptional ride quality across varying terrains. During extensive testing, the stroller demonstrated impressive stability and maneuverability despite its wider footprint in duo mode. The advanced suspension system effectively absorbs shocks, ensuring children remain comfortable even on cobblestone streets or unpaved paths.
Seating Comfort and Configurations
Both seats in the Donkey3 offer equal comfort and functionality, a significant advantage over tandem double strollers where the second seat often has compromised features. Each seat can:
- Recline independently to multiple positions, including a near-flat position for napping
- Be positioned forward or parent-facing
- Accommodate a child from 6 months up to 50 pounds (or from birth with the bassinet attachment)
- Feature adjustable footrests for growing legs
The bassinet option provides a completely flat, ergonomic space for newborns, with breathable mattress and fabrics. Converting between the bassinet and seat requires removing the fabric and changing the frame configuration, which takes about 2-3 minutes once you’ve mastered the technique.
Handling and Maneuverability
Despite measuring 29 inches wide in duo mode, the Donkey3 navigates through standard doorways with surprising ease. The stroller’s responsive steering comes from its sophisticated wheel design:
- Front wheels swivel for nimble navigation but can be locked for stability on rough terrain
- Large rear wheels provide stability and help manage curbs and steps
- Central chassis design distributes weight evenly, preventing tipping even with uneven child weights
One-handed steering is possible in mono mode, though duo mode typically requires two hands, especially when fully loaded. The adjustable handlebar accommodates parents of different heights, maintaining ergonomic pushing positions.
Practical Features for Daily Use
Storage Solutions
The Donkey3 offers impressive storage capacity, a crucial feature for families on the go:
- Underseat basket holds up to 22 lbs and remains accessible even with seats fully reclined
- Side luggage basket in mono mode provides additional 22 lbs capacity
- Mesh pockets on seat backs offer convenient storage for small essentials
Parents report being able to manage a full grocery shop with the stroller’s storage capacity alone, eliminating the need for additional bags.
Folding and Transportation
While not the most compact folding stroller on the market, the Donkey3 offers a reasonably efficient folding process:
- Two-step folding mechanism results in a self-standing package
- Seats can remain attached during folding (though removing them creates a more compact fold)
- Folded stroller fits in most standard SUV trunks, though smaller sedan trunks may be challenging
- Wheels are removable for more compact storage when needed
At 27.5-32.4 pounds depending on configuration, the Donkey3 isn’t lightweight, but its solid construction contributes to its durability and stability.
Comparison with Alternatives
| Feature | Bugaboo Donkey3 | UPPAbaby Vista V2 | Baby Jogger City Select 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Configuration | Side-by-side convertible | Tandem convertible | Tandem convertible |
| Width (Double Mode) | 29 inches | 26.5 inches | 25.6 inches |
| Weight (Double Mode) | 32.4 lbs | 35.1 lbs | 34.3 lbs |
| Maximum Capacity | 100 lbs (50 per seat) | 95 lbs (50 main, 45 rumble) | 90 lbs (45 per seat) |
| Equal Seat Features | Yes – identical seats | No – rumble seat has limitations | Yes – identical seats |
| Price Range (2023) | $1,749-$2,099 | $1,099-$1,499 | $699-$899 |
The Donkey3’s side-by-side design offers distinct advantages over tandem alternatives, particularly in providing equal seating positions for both children. While tandem strollers like the UPPAbaby Vista V2 have a narrower footprint, they often compromise on the second seat’s features and positioning. The Donkey3’s premium price reflects its superior engineering and materials, though families on tighter budgets may find the Baby Jogger City Select 2 offers comparable versatility at a lower price point.
User Experience and Feedback
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Seamless conversion between single and double configurations | Premium price point puts it out of reach for many families |
| Equal, fully-featured seats for both children | Wider footprint can be challenging in narrow spaces |
| Exceptional build quality and durability | Heavier than some competitors |
| Superior maneuverability despite size | Learning curve for some features and conversions |
| Generous storage capacity | Accessories sold separately add to already high cost |
| High resale value retains investment | Bulky even when folded |
Parent Testimonials
Parents consistently praise the Donkey3’s versatility and quality construction. Many report that while the initial investment was significant, the stroller’s durability and adaptability provided value over time, particularly for families with multiple children.
As one parent noted in an online review: “After three years of daily use with two children, our Donkey3 still looks and functions like new. The ability to configure it differently as our needs changed has been invaluable.”
Another parent highlighted the stroller’s performance: “We live in a neighborhood with no sidewalks and plenty of hills. The Donkey3 handles everything we throw at it while keeping our twins comfortable.”
The most common criticism centers on the price point, with many parents acknowledging that while the quality justifies the cost, the investment is substantial, especially when adding accessories like cup holders, snack trays, and weather shields that come standard with some less expensive models.
Ratings by Category
| Category | Rating (out of 5) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Build Quality | 5.0 | Premium materials and construction throughout |
| Ease of Use | 4.5 | Intuitive once learned, but initial setup has learning curve |
| Maneuverability | 4.5 | Exceptional for its size, only slightly compromised in duo mode |
| Comfort | 5.0 | Superior suspension and seating comfort for children |
| Storage | 4.5 | Abundant in mono mode, slightly reduced but still good in duo mode |
| Folding/Portability | 3.5 | Functional but bulky when folded |
| Value for Money | 4.0 | High initial investment offset by durability and resale value |
| Overall | 4.5 | A premium stroller that delivers on its promises |
Who Should Buy the Bugaboo Donkey3?
The Bugaboo Donkey3 is ideally suited for:
- Growing Families: Parents planning for multiple children within a 3-4 year age gap
- Parents of Twins: The equal seating positions make it perfect for twins
- Urban Adventurers: Families who navigate both city streets and weekend park trails
- Quality-Focused Consumers: Those who prioritize durability and are willing to invest in premium baby gear
- Style-Conscious Parents: Families who appreciate the stroller’s sleek European design and customization options
The stroller may be less suitable for:
- Families with tight budget constraints
- Those who frequently use public transportation or have very limited storage space
- Parents who prioritize ultra-lightweight gear for frequent lifting
Conclusion
The Bugaboo Donkey3 stands as an exceptional premium convertible stroller that delivers on its promises of versatility, quality, and performance. Its ability to seamlessly transition between configurations makes it a practical long-term investment for growing families, while its superior engineering ensures a comfortable experience for both children and parents.
While the substantial price tag places it firmly in the luxury category, the Donkey3’s durability, functionality, and strong resale value help justify the investment for families who can accommodate the budget. The side-by-side design offers distinct advantages over tandem alternatives, particularly in providing equal seating positions and views for both children.
For parents seeking a stroller that combines flexibility with premium quality and who don’t mind paying for excellence, the Bugaboo Donkey3 represents one of the finest options available. Its thoughtful design touches and robust construction ensure it will serve your family reliably through multiple children and varying stages, potentially making it the only stroller you’ll need to purchase.
The Bugaboo Donkey3 earns its reputation as the gold standard in convertible strollers, offering a blend of functionality and luxury that’s hard to match in today’s market.