If experience taught me one thing about mid-range baby equipment, it's the fact that it doesn't withstand the everyday wear and tear.
That's why high-end models like UPPABaby Vista V2 have stayed popular for years, despite the ambitious price.
If you're a skeptic like me, wondering whether this model lived up to the hype, I have two quick hints for you:
- If you're looking for a stroller that will genuinely last through multiple kids, it's the right model for you.
- If you're willing to pay for the quality, again, this is the right model for you.
Now, let's see why this stroller scores so high, what the practical features I love are, and what needs improvement in my in-depth UPPABaby Vista v2 stroller review.
Sneak Peek
UPPAbaby Vista v2 is a luxurious single-to-double stroller, highly rated and known for its flawless design and advanced suspension system.
1. Value for Money: 5/5
It's well-built with premium materials, provides a smooth ride, the wheels are not wobbly, and it lasts through multiple kids, so you certainly get your money's worth.
2. Maneuverability: 5/5
Due to a spring-supported advanced suspension system, it behaves excellent on the turns, the handle is comfortable, and you can adjust the height, so it's easy to maneuver.
3. Portability: 2/5
The stroller itself is very heavy, it has a slim fold, but still, I wouldn't say that it's travel-friendly. You can't fit in smaller trunks.
4. Convertibility: 4/5
The strollers convert from a single to double, and even a triple if you buy the Piggyback. However, the adapters and second seat are sold separately, so it demands additional cost.
The price: From $750 Up
- Excellent suspension system
- Supports up to three kids
- Three-panel extended canopy
- Soft tires
- Slim fold
- Massive basket
- Durable structure
- Multi-brand compatibility
- Heavy
- The second seat has small capacity
- No handles for carrying
- Not great for twins
- Pricey
Overall Rating
This is a high-end single-to-double stroller that has remained one of the most popular models on the market for years.
It's an upgrade of the famous UPPAbaby Vista from 2018, coming with a new three-panel canopy, spring-supported suspension system, front-wheel lock indicator, and a huge basket.
The offer includes the frame, a bassinet, and a toddler seat. You can additionally buy a rumble seat or a Piggyback to convert it into a triple stroller.
It's compatible with all renowned infant seat brands, and we love it because it genuinely provides a smooth ride and lasts for years.
- BASSINET - suitable from birth up to 20lbs or until infant can push up on hands and knees, whichever comes first; TODDLER SEAT - suitable from 3 months up to 50lbs
- Includes Bassinet and full size forward or parent-facing toddler seat with one-handed, multi-position recline.; Performance travel system compatible with MESA Infant Car seat - direct attachment, no...
- Extended canopies on the toddler seat and RumbleSeat accessory include zip out fabric that provide even more shade from the sun; Mesh panels also make it easy to peek in while adding airflow.
- A higher back and deeper foot rest on the toddler seat provide added comfort for growing children
- With a sliding shoulder adjustment, the entire harness system can be tightened or loosened in a singular motion for a precise fit for growing babies.
Why Do So Many Parents Choose Vista V2?
The first time I went for a stroll with Vista V2, I realized how well built this model is.
Not just that it has an honestly durable design, but it's equipped with a supreme suspension system and soft tires that glide over the surface.
No more tricky turns and wobbly swivel wheels; this stroller really enabled us to walk almost everywhere.
The original 2018 Vista had an amazing suspension system too, but the tires are now even larger with better support.
This stroller includes an aluminum/magnesium frame.
It can expand to a double and support two kids, but if you add a Piggyback, you can even ride three kids at the same time.
From my experience, it is not the best stroller to use as a double, but we'll get to that point later.
In comparison to the original Vista, I noticed a subtle difference in the seat.
Namely, Vista V2 has a wider seat, measuring 20 inches, while the original model measures 19 inches, and the footrest is 2.5 inches wide, while the original has a 2-inch footrest.
Now, one detail that has made the accommodation notably easier for us is the no-rethread harness.
The sliding shoulder adjustment allows me to find the right position for my child in one step only, which used to be a pain in my back.
Now, if you know UPPAbaby Vista strollers, I don't have to discuss the undeniable quality.
But one specific feature that, to my mind, is the best upgrade that Vista V2 brought is the canopy.
In contrast to the old sunshade that was tucked in but, in truth, wobbly, this model has a three-panel canopy.
When you unzip it, it extends, and it even includes a mesh window for better ventilation.
New canopy
Source: Baby Accessories
Old canopy
Source: BumpsNBabiesStore
Another upgrade is the front wheel lock indicator.
It's a small change, but I really love it because It does happen to me that I forget to unlock the wheels, so it's nice that UPPAbaby follows the user experience.
1. Safety
When it comes to safety, I have nothing to complain about.
The toddler seat includes a five-point harness, multiple reclining positions, and a footrest. As I already mentioned, the harness has never been easier to adjust, so it was fairly easy for me to buckle up my child safely.
Also, I noticed that the extended canopy provides better coverage than the usual sunshade, so I'd say the UPF protection is at its highest.
2. Convertibility
If you use it with an infant seat, this stroller is suitable for children from day one up until they weigh around 50 pounds.
Without the infant seat, your child needs to be at least three months old to use it.
What you get for the price are the frame, bassinet, and toddler seat.
The bassinet has proven safe for sleeping if you use it with a stand.
You could use it for sleeping in a stroller, but I noticed mothers complaining that their children got used to it and only slept in the stroller from that point on. And you don't want to deal with that.
The bassinet stand, of course, is sold separately, and so is the rumble seat (UPPA as well).
But, I don't like that this seat is way smaller than the toddler seat. Namely, the toddler seat has a max capacity of 50 pounds, while the rumble seat has a capacity of 35 pounds.
Plus, to attach it, you'll need to buy the adapters. And if you want to make both of your kids comfortable, you'll need to get the upper adapters too to provide more legroom for both kids, and that's all additional cost.
If you have twins, UPPAbaby Vista V2 is not your stroller to go. That's why I said it's not the best double.
As I mentioned, the rumble seat is smaller, so one of your kids will outgrow it fast. You can solve this by buying a Piggyback when the kids get bigger, but I'm not a big fan of it.
Also, since the smaller seat is installed at the front, the smaller child will be farther from you, and usually, the smaller kid needs constant attention.
All in all, it's very versatile, great for two kids with an age gap between them, but not for twins.
3. Infant Car Seat Compatibility
Without the adapters, UPPAbaby Vista V2 supports Mesa infant car seat. It's one of the best-rated infant car seats on the market, with high safety standards and a durable structure.
What I personally love about it are the infant inserts.
I cannot stress enough how important these inserts are when you need to ride with your newborn.
They offer proper neck support and maintain the best position for the child. You can find out more about it in a detailed review of it HERE.
Another reason why I like this stroller is that it doesn't support infant car seats from their brand only. With the adapters I mentioned earlier, you can install:
Maxi Cosi: City, Cabrio, CabrioFix
Peg Perego: Primo Viaggio 4-35, 4-35 Nido
Nuna: Pipa, Pipa Lite, Lite LX
Chicco: KeyFit, KeyFit 30, Fit 2
etc.
And all these infant seats are the most popular models on the market, so it's really practical.
4. Portability
To be entirely honest, this stroller is a bit bulky.
It weighs around 27 pounds and even more if you use it with Mesa infant car seats. So, it's not really a stroller that you'll get in and out of your car with ease every day.
What I do like, though, is the fold. It has a very slim fold, and it's not too complex.
First, you need to align the seat with the frame bars, then fully extend the handlebar, pull up the two triggers on both sides of the frame, and the stroller will fold down. Then you press down the footrest, and the stroller can stand on its own.
As you can see on the image, it definitely has a slimmer fold than the Mockingbird.
Source: Youtube
The Outstanding Features I Love
At first, I also thought this was another overpriced stroller on the market, but it's not.
From what I know, the Mockingbird, which is the main competitor of UPPA Baby Vista V2, doesn't take the bumps very well, and the canopy closes on itself frequently.
These are exactly the points where Vista V2 shines. It has a spring-action all-wheel suspension system that gets it pretty close to BOB strollers, which, in case you didn't know, are the best strollers for jogging.
And I already talked about the fantastic canopy.
One must-know information I simply can't omit is the massiveness of the basket.
You won't find a forum where the UPPAbaby Vista V2's basket is not praised. It holds up to 30 pounds, and I love it. You can even use it for groceries.
One annoying feature it has, though, is the horizontal bar in the middle of the basket.
It limits usability, and you need to reorganize stuff to use the full capacity. But other than that, it's fantastic.
Source: Youtube
The luxurious design is definitely one of the reasons why you'll see this stroller on the streets of NYC so often.
Perforated leather handlebar, chic outlook, and subtle colors definitely give this stroller a unique shine.
But the real reason why I would buy it again is its longevity and functionality more than fashionable design.
What UPPABaby Vista V2 Lacks From My Point of View
It's time to get real.
The first reason why one might not buy this stroller is evidently the price.
Paying a thousand dollars for a stroller does not fit into everyone's budget, especially when you have great alternatives such as Mockingbird or Evenflo for half the price.
Don't get me wrong, this stroller is worth it, but if you can't afford it, don't stress over it. Alternatives are also great; we'll discuss them later.
The second thing I don't like is that it's not the best option for twins. I already explained why, so I wouldn't repeat myself.
Another point I don't like is the weight. I wish this stroller was a bit more travel-friendly because despite paying such a high price, I had to buy an umbrella stroller for vacations.
For example, while this is a smoother and more versatile stroller than Vista, Cruz is just as well-built but lighter and more portable. So I'd rather go with Cruz if portability is the standard to judge it by.
Cruz also includes more accessories. With Vista v2, everything is sold separately, so that's another minor drawback.
One specific complaint I found was that there are no handles to carry the stroller once folded, and one mom even reported she constantly pinched her fingers when folding down the UPPAbaby Vista. And I agree, this is inconvenient because you can't carry it comfortably.
When should you not buy the Vista v2?
- If you have twins
- If you need a stroller that is travel-friendly
- If the price is too much for your budget
What are good alternatives in that case? Keep reading to find out.
Alternatives to UPPABaby Vista V2
1. Mockingbird
Mockingbird is a great alternative to UPPAbaby Vista for those who can't afford it. It's around $300, and judging by the outlook, both models look almost the same.
Both strollers have wide canopies, leather handles, and they convert from a single to double. Both models even have the same weight and functionalities.
Mockingbird, to my mind, is better for families with twins.
Both seats can support children up to 45 pounds, and the second toddler seat can be placed forward-facing or sibling-facing. In fact, the toddler seat you get with the stroller also supports multiple configurations.
The fold is also more straightforward on the Mockingbird, as it features a one-step system.
Also, I mentioned that I find the horizontal bar in the basket on the UPPAbaby Vista annoying. Well, the Mockingbird doesn't have it. But the capacity is five pounds lower.
It's compatible with Britax, Maxi Cosi, Chicco, Evenflo, Graco, Nuna, Cybex, and even UPPAbaby car seat, so it's very versatile.
However, the handle is more complex to expand. You need to press the trigger, then move the handlebar back and front until it extends, while on Vista V2, you press the trigger and pull up.
Also, the leather is not perforated as on the UPPAbaby Vista.
All in all, while it does have its advantages, the wheels suspension system is not nearly as good as the UPPAbaby Vista, so it's still my second choice.
2. UPPAbaby Vista Cruz V2
Now we'll look at one alternative from the same brand. While many people believe that Vista V2 is a larger version of Cruz V2, it's not really like that.
Yes, Cruz V2 is lighter than Vista V2, weighing 25.5 pounds. It also has an all-wheel suspension, extendable canopy, reclining system, and it's car seat compatible.
The Cruz V2, though, is around $300 cheaper than Vista. Why?
Well, Cruz V2 is not convertible from a single to a double stroller. It doesn't come with a bassinet, but it does include a Piggyback.
In addition to this, Vista has larger wheels, hence a better suspension system.
But Cruz comes with a toddler seat rain shield, and you can choose up to four complimentary swatches. So while there are many UPPAbaby Vista colors to choose from, Cruz is more customizable.
Now, the most notable difference is in the fold.
Cruz V2 folds down to the size around three inches slimmer than Vista. So it's better for small trunks and traveling.
But all in all, it all comes down to whether you're planning a second child or not, because if you are, Vista V2 is definitely a better choice. On the contrary, if you're not, go with Cruz.
- INCLUDED TODDLER SEAT: The full size, reversible Toddler Seat allows your growing child to ride forwards, backwards, completely upright, reclined, and anywhere in between.
- ONE-HANDED RECLINE: The multi-position recline on the Toddler Seat allows your child to lie comfortably for naps or sit upright to take in the sights, offering the flexibility your busy...
- EXTENDABLE, UPF 50+ CANOPY: The zip-out canopy on the Toddler Seat extends for additional sun protection, plush the mesh panels make it easy to peek in while adding airflow.
- EXTRA-LARGE, EASY-ACCESS BASKET: The extra-large opening means it’s easier to reach your diaper bag, toys, and whatever else you pick up along the way, up to 30 lbs!
- STROLL IN STYLE: Choose from a variety of luxurious fabrics and premium full-grain leather details like our adjustable, telescoping handlebar which extends for parents of varying heights. Our leather...
3. Comparison Table
Criteria | UPPABaby Vista V2 | UPPABaby Cruz V2 | Mockingbird |
|---|---|---|---|
Price | $$$$ | $$$ | $$ |
Convertibility | Single to Double | Single | Single to Double |
Weight | 27 pounds | 25 pounds | 27 pounds |
Portability | Slim fold | Ultra-slim fold | Slim fold |
Suspension | Fantastic | Good | Needs improvement |
Folding System | Few steps | Few steps | One-step fold |
Durability | Excellent | Excellent | Could be better |
Over Rank | 1st | 2nd | 3rd |
Final Verdict:
UPPABaby Vista V2: The Best Model for Two Kids Close in Age. Overall rating: 4.9/5
Mockingbird: The Best for Twins. Overall rating: 4.8/5
Evenflo Pivot Modular Travel System: The Best Double for the Price. Overall rating: 4.7/5
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the UPPAbaby Vista v2 heavy?
If we put it in perspective with all the strollers on the market, yes, UPPAbaby Vista is on the heavier side, especially with a car seat.
It weighs around 27 pounds, so if we take into consideration the umbrella strollers that weigh around 10-15 pounds, this one is huge.
However, such a comparison is not quite fair because this is a double stroller.
Double strollers weigh somewhere between 30 and 60 pounds, so basically, this model is a lighter version in this category. Think about that.
It also depends on the infant seat you will be using. High-quality infant seats are pretty heavy, so it all adds up.
Source: Youtube
Why is UPPAbaby Vista so expensive?
This is probably the hottest question about this stroller.
The reason why UPPAbaby Vista is so expensive is the quality. With so many low-quality offers on the market, it's expected from the buyers to pay the cost of greatness.
This stroller is honestly robust, it has soft wheels, a sturdy frame, and a comfy seat, so you're really paying for the high-end materials and advanced engineering.
If you compare the frame, the tires, and the fabric of this stroller with some cheaper alternatives, everything will be clear.
Can you jog with the UPPAbaby Vista v2?
I am not advising you to jog with anything other than jogging strollers.
They have a specifically built suspension system that behaves well on the turns, sudden stops, and can follow your speed.
Usually, these strollers have bicycle tires, static front wheels, and sturdier frames, so they differ from standard strollers on many points.
However, I did say that this stroller has the closest suspension to BOB strollers you'll find. So it allows smooth rides and easy steering, and, I must admit, it's not the worst choice for jogging.
Still, it's not recommended by the manufacturer for that purpose, so don't take your chances.
What's the difference between the UPPAbaby Cruz and Vista?
I talked about this in-depth in the UPPAbaby Vista V2 review above.
The biggest difference is that Cruz doesn't convert from a single to a double stroller.
Also, it is lighter than Vista V2 and folds down to the size three inches narrower than the Vista V2.
You can also combine it with a car seat, and it comes with a Piggyback so you can ride another child in the back.
Another difference is in the price. It's somewhere around $300 cheaper than the Vista, but it doesn't include a bassinet, which Vista does.
How long can you use UPPAbaby Vista?
If you do research on the matter, you'll see that strollers do not have an expiration date. With that in mind, you can use it for as long as it follows the federal safety requirements.
For how long it will last depends on the maintenance.
Personally, this is the second year I'm using it, and it's in excellent shape. And I saw parents commenting that they have been using it for years.
So I suppose that if you take good care of it, it will last for a couple of years.
Read more —
Best Lightweight Stroller For Disney World: Double & Stroller Rental For The Ultimate Fun!
Final Thoughts
I am not sure what else I can add at this point.
Since I am a fan of this brand, there will be UPPAbaby strollers reviews in the future, so if you liked this one, check out what else I have written for you guys.
To sum it all up, I personally love this stroller.
It definitely isn't overpriced, and it retains the same quality and functionality as the years pass by.
It's excellent for everyday use, very smooth and comfortable, but don't expect to use it for traveling, as it weighs a lot.
If you do like UPPAbaby Vista V2, buy it through my affiliate link and support me for more content like this since it adds no additional cost to you.
- BASSINET - suitable from birth up to 20lbs or until infant can push up on hands and knees, whichever comes first; TODDLER SEAT - suitable from 3 months up to 50lbs
- Includes Bassinet and full size forward or parent-facing toddler seat with one-handed, multi-position recline.; Performance travel system compatible with MESA Infant Car seat - direct attachment, no...
- Extended canopies on the toddler seat and RumbleSeat accessory include zip out fabric that provide even more shade from the sun; Mesh panels also make it easy to peek in while adding airflow.
- A higher back and deeper foot rest on the toddler seat provide added comfort for growing children
- With a sliding shoulder adjustment, the entire harness system can be tightened or loosened in a singular motion for a precise fit for growing babies.
