Strolling Around In Style

Here in NYC, transportation is key. And I don't just mean transportation with a car, but with a stroller. For NYC mothers, our strollers have to be able to stand the test of time. They must endure spills, bumpy sidewalks, and crowded streets. They must also fit bags, toys, and sippy cups in them, all while making the kid feel cozy enough to relax and take a nap when deemed necessary.

Aiden is 3-years-old. But we still need his stroller because, let's face it, lifting a toddler, his bag and my bags up and down subway stairs is no fun. At all. And if he falls asleep, he feels extra heavy and I'm stuck carrying him I have to carry him, which is just dreadful.

That's why I was pretty excited to try out the Maclaren Triumph. I've always known that Maclaren lightweight strollers are stellar for younger toddlers, but was super curious as to how it would fare with an older, rambunctious toddler like Aiden.

I've worked with Maclaren before and I've reviewed Maclaren products before. It's a brand that I know and trust. And I must say, the Maclaren Triumph did not disappoint.

It arrived ready to use -- all I had to do was clip on the hood and we were set. Aiden was so excited and exclaimed, "This is so nice!" Love at first site? I think so!

Our first few days, we took it all over NYC with us. We were strolling in style. Smooth and comfortable.

I like that the Maclaren Triumph is narrow enough to fit easily in subway cars without getting in other people's way and pissing them off each time they try to make a run for it when leaving one train and trying to catch another train across the platform. It's not a pretty site when a stroller gets in the way of an aggressive passenger. Believe me, I've been there. I know.

While there is a strap that helps to lift the folded stroller, when taking the subway, I found that it was easier for me to lift the stroller using either the handle bars or one of the side bars instead. Wearing the straps on my shoulders just did not work as well for me, possibly because I'm short and the stroller is almost the same size as me. But hey...

On our trip to the supermarket, I was able to fit two grocery bags in the strollers' storage basket, but not without asking Aiden to lean forward first. Once I placed the bags in the storage basket, he was able to sit comfortably and all was well in Toddler World. I am happy to report that even with the two grocery bags in the storage basket, and my bags on the handle bars, the Triumph still rode smoothly.

By the way... I'm pretty sure the handle bars are not supposed to be used to carry a supermarket shopping cart, but what's a single mom to do?

As you know, we recently took a little trip to Disney World, and we brought along our Maclaren Triumph. Throughout our trip, Aiden napped in his stroller, and by the look of it, he was quite comfortable and content.

And when he was awake, the fun was on! Big time!

All in all, we have been very pleased with our latest mode of transportation. It pretty much has everything that we need. And this is how we roll, baby!

Here are some more key features of the Maclaren Triumph:

• compact umbrella fold
• 5-point harness 
• washable seat -- after multiple spills and accidents, this is definitely a MUST!
• rain cover included
• water resistant hood
• weighs 11.5 pounds
• can be used from birth and carries up to 55 pounds -- that's well over 3-years-old!
• multiple-position recline -- nice touch for a tot who naps!

Visit the Maclaren website for information on all other baby gear that they carry. Also, "like" Maclaren on Facebook or follow Maclaren on Twitter to keep abreast with their latest and greatest products.

Disclaimer: I was provided with the Maclaren Triumph for the purpose of this review. All opinions expressed herein are my own.

Smooches,