Baby Jogger City Mini 2 Review

With a desire to jog with their little ones, new parents started the Baby Jogger company when they couldn't find a jogging stroller to meet their new parent needs. Since 1984, the company has created more than just joggers with a complete lineup that includes full-size strollers and some top-ranked double strollers. Newell Rubbermaid purchased Baby Jogger in 2015.

Performance Comparison

Ease of Use

The Mini 2 is easier to use than some of the competition, but it isn't much better than average, with some features requiring two hands to operate.

Fold and Unfold

The City Mini has a straightforward, no-nonsense fold with snap frame locks and a quick-release pull handle. The stroller auto-locks and has a carry handle.

Brakes

The Mini 2 has a plastic pedal for the single-action brakes near the rear axle. It is a press to set and lift to release mechanism that works smoothly but is not friendly to sandaled feet as it isn't the friendliest feeling pedal.

Storage

The storage bin has a maximum weight limit of 10 lbs with additional storage on the seatback. The bin is relatively large, but it isn't as easy to access as it could be. It now has front access and some side access, but the back is hindered by a bar that was not part of the previous version. It's a far cry from a contender, like the UPPABaby Vista v2, that has an easily accessible, extra-large storage bin with a maximum capacity of 30 lbs.

Sunshade

The 50 SPF canopy on the Mini 2 is large and has two peek-a-boo windows for good sightlines no matter where you stand. The canopy covers everything and more and can rotate forward for more coverage.

Harness

The Mini 2 harness has many of the same issues as the previous version. It has the same poorly designed rethread height adjustment that requires the strap to move through two layers of fabric and padding. Where the straps connect in the back is also hard to get to as you need to slide your hand in a thin pocket, and you can't see what you are doing. Adjusting the harness to fit is easier, and the buckle works well if a bit stiff.

Seat

The Mini 2 seat reclines back for comfort, lying almost flat. It moves with a toggle that holds straps from each side to adjust the angle. This mechanism requires two hands if you want to do it easily. The leg rest on the new Mini can be propped up for cozier napping or access to storage from the front. It is an improvement over the previous stationary leg rest, but it isn't as nice as those with angle options.

Car Seat Compatibility

The Mini 2 is compatible with all baby Jogger infant car seats and many seats from other brands with the purchase of adapters. Other compatible brands and seats include (but are not limited to) the Britax B-Safe 35, Chicco KeyFit 30, Cybex Aton 2, Graco Snugride Snuglock 35 Elite, Maxi Cosi, Nuna Pipa, Peg-Perego Primo Viaggio 4-35, Uppababy Mesa, and the Clek Liing.

Ease of Setup

The City Mini is easy to set up with very few parts to assemble and takes around 4 minutes to finish.

The manual is easy to follow, and no tools are required; the canopy and wheels snap on easily and could likely be attached without the manual.

Maneuverability

The dual front wheel on the City Mini 2 is still a design flaw, in our opinion, as it negatively impacts maneuverability. The double wheel can more easily get hung up on bumps and uneven surfaces, making it more difficult to push over any surface. This stroller works smoothly over flat surfaces and can turn tightly in small spaces. It struggles somewhat over grass and gravel, and while it can go over a short greenbelt or similar, it isn't a good choice for off-roading or significant time on bumpy surfaces.

Weight and Folded Size

Historically, the City Mini has been small and lightweight, giving parents a great option for double duty as full-size and a favorite umbrella stroller. However, the new model is both heavier and larger than the previous version, which is a shame as this was a big plus for the City Mini. This version weighs 19.3 lbs compared to the old 17.5. It measures 8,472 cubic inches when folded than the previous size of only 6,840.

Quality

While the City Mini 2 is a nice basic stroller, the quality is really only on par with the price. The overall look and feel are better than the average stroller, but the fit and finish can't compete side-by-side with the higher-priced competition. The wheels are foam-filled plastic and work well, but rubber would be better for maneuverability and looks. The frame shape is better than the old City Mini, and the fabric fits the tubing better. The fabric is a heavy canvas and nicer than its predecessor, and it seems both cleanable and breathable.

Should You Buy the Baby Jogger City Mini 2?

There's a reason why this stroller ranks well compared to others. It's lightweight, compact when folded, and offers enough features for daily walks around the neighborhood with your little one. Plus, its price is attractive, and we think it's a great deal for most families.

What Other Full-Size Strollers Should You Consider?

If you're frequently off-roading, we think you should consider the Thule Spring or Thule Urban Glide 2. They are more expensive than the Baby Jogger City Mini 2, but we believe their prices are justified given how effortless they are to push and use. The Urban Glide 2 is also one of the best jogging strollers.

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