Every parent knows that having a stroller and a car seat is of essential importance. But did you know that you can buy these things together? Stroller/car seat combo systems are now provided by most manufacturers of juvenile equipment, and one of them is Baby Trend.
Their EZ Ride 5 is among the least expensive combos available and comes with convenient features such as overall comfort, adjustable canopy, one-hand fold, 5-point harness system, high weight capability, as well as some additional traits. The model is undoubtedly well-packed with features, especially when we consider its fairly reasonable price.
This low cost, however, is probably the best thing about the Baby Trend EZ 5 travel system. Buying a stroller and an infant vehicle seat separately is typically a lot more expensive, which is precisely why this combo is such a tempting offer. It includes both items which can be clicked together and used as one system, and comes at a price that won’t disrupt your budgetary plans.
For that matter, we’ve decided to take a more in-depth look at it and analyze all of its features in more detail. If you’re in a market for an inexpensive stroller/car seat combo, keep reading:
Specifications:
- Stroller weight – Stroller 17.6lbs, Car Seat 8lbs
- Weight limit – Stroller 50lbs, Car Seat 30lbs
- Folded dimensions – 35″ x 24″ x 18″
- Gender – Unisex
- Material – Metal, plastic
- Front Wheel Swivel – Yes
Features
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Flex-Loc System
One of the most interesting features of this combo is the fact that it comes with the Flex-Loc technology, which is typically present on most of the newest infant car chairs. Graco’s name for this technology, for example, is Click Connect.
The car seat included in this combo comes with a base that is installed by using the LATCH system. To successfully install it into the vehicle, one only has to “click” the chair into the base. As you can guess, this is exceptionally easy and allows the parent to keep the base inside the vehicle and prevents the chore of going through installation before every single car trip.
In the same manner, the car seat can be easily disconnected from the base and connected to the stroller. Typically, this can be done for as long as the child is small – once the baby grows up, it will be much more comfortable for him or her to use just the stroller, without the seat.
While using the seat in the stroller, the baby is facing the parent who is pushing the stroller, allowing the parent to keep an eye out on the child. Placing the kid in the stroller itself (that is, without the car seat) will have the baby face away from the parent. Fortunately, the model’s canopy has a peek-a-boo window.
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Fold
To fold the Baby Trend EZ Ride 5, one has to look for a button that’s located on the model’s handlebar. There is a particular locking mechanism in it that has to be slid, unlocked, and squeezed. Once this is done, you have to lift the stroller, and it will start to fold.
One of the best things about this is that it can be done with just one hand. However, to make sure that it’s fully collapsed, you’ll have to use your other hand and pull the tray towards you. Once you’ve done that, all that it’s left to do is clipping the red lock to lock the buggy in the folded position.
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Seat
Recline of the model’s seat can be adjusted to different positions. Once it’s tailored to sit up, it achieves the angle of 80 degrees, providing a toddler with a comfortable sitting position and letting him observe the environment.
On the other hand, the maximum downward recline position is at around 45 degrees, which means that the seat can’t be reclined to a fully flat position. It can accommodate toddlers that are no heavier than 50 pounds, giving the parent a lot of time to get good use out of it.
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Handlebar
The handlebar of this buggy is, fortunately, completely adjustable. There are four positions in total, allowing parents of all heights to use this pushchair in the most comfortable way possible. The fourth or the lowest position makes the handlebar look like its dangling down, making this combo system a perfect choice for the petite moms.
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Trays
A parent tray is located on the handle and comes with a covered container and two cup holders. Unfortunately, the container is not large enough to accommodate larger smartphones, such as Samsung Galaxy Note 9. However, you can use it for keys, coins, and similar smaller items.
The child’s tray also sports two cup holders as well as the snack area, which is the surface between the holders. It is entirely flat and probably won’t stop the snacks from falling down, so it’s better just to keep them in the cup holders.
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The Canopy
The canopy of Baby Trend EZ Ride 5 Travel System provides decent coverage and has a convenient peek-a-boo window. A good thing here is that the window sports mesh netting – leave it open if your little one needs some extra ventilation.
What’s wrong with the product?
– Somewhat hard to maneuver
Even though the model’s front wheel swivels, it is quite small and can make handling this stroller somewhat challenging. To avoid frustration, make sure to use the model only on flat, smooth surfaces.
– Car seat rear-facing only
The model included in the system is rear-facing only and can’t be converted to a forward-facing position. In other words, you probably won’t be able to get more than one year’s use out of it.
Conclusion
In our opinion, this combo is one of the best “economy” solutions available on the market. The fact that it’s so inexpensive does not have an adverse effect on its quality or convenience – both the stroller itself and the car seat are quite comfortable and easy to install/use.
Those looking for a system that’s basic and affordable, but also very practical and versatile will find the Baby Trend EZ Ride 5 Travel System to be a great bargain.
