Our Review of the Valco Tri Mode stroller
In terms of storage space, rider comfort, car seat compatibility, and unique features, the Valco Runabout Tri-Mode Stroller is as good as they come. Unique options offered by the Runabout Tri-Mode set it apart from the ever-increasing selection of swivel wheel strollers, and as result it has garnered plenty of public attention through a wealth of celebrity endorsements and general sense of high regard amongst the competition. While the Runabout Tri-Mode is definitely on the higher end of the price spectrum for swivel wheel strollers, a laundry list of parent-oriented conveniences make up the difference . . . providing value equivalent to the price tag.
Standout Features of the Valco Tri-Mode Stroller
- Removable zippered diaper bag
- Tri-Mode swivel wheel settings (fixed, 45-degree, and swivel)
- AIRGO Airflow system to keep baby cool on summer days
- One touch seat recline
- Zippered basket access in rear
- One touch brake
- Perforated footplate
- Reflective Harness Webbing
- Comes complete with rain cover, tire pump, and Head Hugger infant seat insert
What parent-oriented features set the Valco Runabout Tri-Mode apart from other, similar swivel wheel strollers?
The Valco Runabout Tri-Mode has a number of imaginative features, oriented toward convenience for parents and comfort for the child rider, that give it a "wheel-up" on the competition. There is a TON of storage space, including and extra large underside storage basket with zipper access at the rear. There is also a new footplate that is perforated so that water and grime from the little one's shoes won't pool up, and the plate can be easily rinsed clean. A one-touch seat recline, similar to Baby Joggers "pinch and slide" mechanism makes dropping or raising the seat a snap. Valco has a range of car seat adaptors available that make the Runabout Tri-mode compatible with Graco, Peg Perego, Combi, and Britax infant car seats.
One of the coolest additions is the zip off rear storage pocket (located on the back of the harness seat) that either works as a shoulder-slung diaper bag or can hang off the handles of the Runabout for easy access. This feature (almost) eliminates the need to purchase a separate diaper bag; it's great for short trips out, but if you plan to carry a large assortment of parental goods Valco also offers a larger diaper bag in colors that match the strollers. Additional stand out features are the adjustable handlebar, super compact fold, one touch brake system, included tire pump, and a zipper section on the canopy that allows you to attach the optional UV-protecting sun and insect net. Valco's optional, one-of-a-kind toddler seat accessory allows you to add an extra rider, much like the Phil & Teds e3 Explorer. The 2007 Valco Runabout Tri-Mode is also two pounds lighter than the 2006 model.
Why is this stroller called the "Tri-Mode"?
Valco has devised a unique swivel wheel system that can be set to three separate modes. The first is full 360-degree orientation for total maneuverability in tight spaces, like department stores or busy sidewalks. The second mode is 45-degrees of forward mobility, which allows for tighter tracking on long walks where tight turns are not as common. The third mode fixes the front wheel forward for better control on trails and rugged terrain.
What about the rider comfort factor?
For the passenger, the Valco Runabout Tri-Mode has plenty to offer as well. Kids love the removable padded front bumper bar, and the AIRGO airflow system allows a cool breeze to flow right through the canopy. The 5-point harness straps are thickly padded, and a head-hugger insert supports an infant's head and neck. A mesh window in the canopy allows mom or dad to peek in on the little one while they're strapped safely into the seat.
The Bottom Line: This upper-echelon stroller has much to offer, though the price is certainly high. With the Toddler Seat Attachment The Valco Runabout Tri-Mode functions as a double stroller, so after you have a second child it will retain its value . . . and that's just the beginning of the list of benefits to owning one of these well-designed Valcos. If you're looking for a sturdy, convenience loaded stroller that can be used over many years, you've sniffed it out. The price may be a deterrent, but there is real value here.
Compatible Car Seats for the Valco Runabout Tri-Mode-
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- Scarlet
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- Pistachio
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- Plum
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- Stone
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- TriMode with Sunshade
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- Tri Mode with Bassinet (sold separately)
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- Tri Mode with Toddler Seat and Hood (seat and hood sold separately)
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- Black EX
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- Stone EX
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- Arctic
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- Arctic with sunhood extended
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- Arctic side view
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- Candy Apple
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- Candy Apple with sunhood extended
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- Candy Apple side view
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- Hot Chocolate
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- Hot Chocolate with sunhood extended
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- Hot Chocolate side view
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- Raven
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- Raven with sunhood extended
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- Raven side view
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Specs
- Capacity
- 1 Child
- Maximum Seat Capacity
- 45 lbs.
- Stroller Weight
- 23 lbs.
- Front Wheel Size
- 12"
Dimensions
- Width
- 26"
- Ground to Handle
- 30â?? to 44"
- Stroller Length
- 36"
- Seat Back
- 19"
- Hip to Knee
- 9"
- Knee to Foot
- 14"
- Folded Dimensions
- 26"W x 29"L x 18"H
- Folded Dimensions w/out wheels
- 21"W x 26"L x 15.5"H
Infant Car Seat Compatibility
- Fits Britax Companion
- Fits Graco Infant Safe Seat (Step 1)
- Fits Graco Snugride
- Fits Peg Perego Primo Viaggio
- New Tri- Mode front swivel system incorporating 3 wheel functions. Full swivel, Fully fixed and 45º swivel (best for use with the toddler seat).
- Front footplate
- Reflective harness webbing
- Quik Fix™ mounting system for the front bar and optional toddler seat and bassinet.
- Sun cap in hood
- Extended AIRGO™ airflow system allows complete airflow through the entire stroller via the rear hood flap.
- Zip off rear hood storage pocket which converts to a diaper bag that hooks onto the stroller.
- One Touch Seat Recline
- Super Round Hood system with "no tool" mountings provides extra head room for your child.
- 2 Pounds Lighter than previous Valco strollers!
- Zipper access to the basket
- Side basket pockets for even more easy- access storage
- Inside hood zipper for optional UV protective insect net (net available for ALL Tri-Mode models!)
- One touch Brake System with suspension
- Extra cushiony newborn 'headhugger' included
- Harness strap covers are padded for your baby's comfort
- 'Super Quick Release' Wheels snap on and off with the push of a button
- 'Peek a boo' mesh window, allows you to keep an eye on your baby at all times
- Extra-Large storage basket with rear access
- Aluminum rim wheels for rust protection
- 5 point safety harness
- Super compact fold with or without wheels
- Stain resistant, removable fabrics for easy clean up
- Tire pump included with all styles
- Car seat adaptor, compatible with most Peg Perego, Graco, Britax, and Combi car seats
- Front bar is removable and adjustable
- Adjustable handle
Valco Tri Mode stroller Reviews
All Customer Reviews
- Average Rating:
- Highest Rating:
- Lowest Rating:
- Number of Reviews:
- 15
smooth ride
Straps Too Short
Valco w/Toddler Seat
The Valco Hitch Hiker
Great Jogging Stroller
Great looking stroller
space for feet under the toddler seat
Tri Mode with Toddler Seat
i love/hate my strollers!
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