Is Mockingbird the Best Stroller Under $500?

The Mockingbird Stroller may very well be one of the best options for parents on a budget. We’re familiar with brands like Bugaboo, UPPAbaby, Nuna, and others going for upwards of $1,000 for a travel system or even the stroller alone. 

The Mockingbird stroller looks luxury and feels premium, but it only runs you about $350. This puts it on par with brands like Britax and Chicco, but it’s still able to maintain a premium aesthetic that’s similar to my main go-to, the UPPAbaby Vista. Now, unlike the Vista, Mockingbird doesn’t come with a bassinet or a couple of other extras, like a mosquito net or a rain cover. You don’t need all those things, but luckily, you can buy all those extras online. After adding all the same accessories, you’re still under $500.

Features and Aesthetics 

Handlebar

The handlebar rocks the nice penny leather look, which comes in black and brown. The buttons on the side allow you to adjust the handle level, similar to the Bumbleride Speed and the Britax B-Free. In the middle, there are levers that engage the one-handed fold, a super convenient feature that I’m a fan of. Both the fold and the open are simple motions to get used to. Some folds can be complex, but that’s not the case with the Mockingbird. 

Canopy

The water-resistant canopy comes in three color options, including sky blue. On top, there’s a magnetic peep window, or you can unzip the canopy from the rear to reveal a mesh opening for a wider view and increased airflow. 

Aluminum Frame

The frame is made of strong aluminum. It weighs about 26 pounds, which puts it at the level of the Vista, but it can’t expand to a double like the UPPAbaby Cruz. However, I don’t think they would’ve built such a sturdy frame without plans for double expansion down the line. If I were to make a bet, I would say they’re working on adapters right now, but that’s merely speculation. 

Nylon Seat and Bumper Bar

The nylon seat accommodates a toddler very nicely, and it allows you to reverse the seat, either rear or front facing. On the back, there’s a handy pocket ideal for your phone. It also has a one-handed recline with a full range of motion. The Mockingbird has a nice leather detail along the bumper bar, which complements the leather on the handle.

Magnetic Sunshade

My favorite part about the seat is the magnetic sunshade. It’s pretty unique in that it offers full coverage, including your child’s legs. Mockingbird designed it to maintain airflow, so it doesn’t overheat. When it’s time to take it off, the magnets make for a simple peel-away.

Compatibility Options

The stroller is newborn compatible with the addition of their infant insert, the bassinet, or the car seat adapter. Their adapters can accommodate a number of brands, including Nuna, Britax, Cybex, and Maxi-Cosi, but check out their site just to be sure. 

Basket, Brake, and Suspension

The basket is one of my favorites of any stroller. It’s huge and perfect while shopping for groceries or carrying larger diaper bags and more. 

The brake is on the rear, which only needs one foot to engage. That’s always a good thing. The foam wheels will never go flat. It’s got a nice feel and pushes smoothly. The front wheels can lock out if needed, and to round it out, it’s got great suspension, so it can handle some good bump if it needs to. 

Final Thoughts

So, all that said, why is this so inexpensive? Is the build quality sketchy? No, it’s pretty legitimate. It’s JPMA-certified among other things. I think it boils down to their sales model. Much like how Dollar Shave Club and Harry’s shook up the razor business by selling direct-to-consumer, Mockingbird functions similarly and isn’t sold through a wholesaler like Buy Buy Baby. In fact, Mockingbird was actually started by a Harry’s alum. It’s pretty cool to see these New York startups challenging these Boston powerhouses because New York has struggled against Boston for quite some time. 

I love the Mockingbird stroller. It’s about time something like this finally came along. 

Buy the Mockingbird stroller here.