I’ve seen a lot of baby equipment come through the P&N office, but I can honestly say that Chariot Carriers’ Cougar 2 is one piece of gear that can change your life. Well, at least your lifestyle.
The versatile chassis is sold by itself, and add-on kits are available for strolling, jogging, biking, hiking and cross-country skiing. The Cougar 2 is built to accommodate one or two children with a 100-lb. weight limit; look for the Cougar 1 to carry one child only. Either carrier is a smart investment to get you moving and introduce your little ones to the outdoors.
Usability
Although the Cougar 2 looks large (and it is wider than some doorways when assembled), it maneuvers very easily. The aluminum frame and bicycle-like wheels make the Cougar 2 feel amazingly lightweight while you’re strolling, jogging or biking. The high-quality fabrics and poly-urethane windows are durable and easy to wipe clean. Some initial assembly is required with the jogging and biking kits (the strolling wheels are very easy to attach), but then daily transitions are quite straightforward; the front and rear wheels attach and detach easily. Once the wheels are removed, the chassis folds down for storage. The wheels and hitch attach firmly so you can be sure your little one is safe and protected. The parking break is firm and easy to use, but—because it’s foot-activated—more comfortable to use with closed-toe shoes.
Comfort factor
For your little ones, the carrier seat, back and straps are comfortably padded but breathable. Five-point seat belts provide safety and security. Optional add-ons make baby rides even cozier: the Baby Bivy for strolling (6-18 lbs.), Infant Sling for strolling and jogging (1-10 months), Baby Supporter (3-18 months), and All Season Baby Bunting. The Infant Sling is especially unique; it gives baby lateral support—important for a baby that can’t sit up yet—while still harnessing her in for safety.
Features:
• 2-height adjustable handlebars
• Large storage bag
• Outside mesh pocket for personal items and 2 interior pockets for the little ones
• Removable full 2-in-1 weather cover: mesh and poly-urethane
• Roll-back sun shade
• 2 roll-back interior windows
• Adjustable suspension
• 2 harnesses that can be removed and repositioned
• Washable mesh, padded seat
• Wrist strap for jogging
Price: $675 (chassis only)
Buy it: REI
