
Our Verdict
Our Analysis and Test Results
UPPAbaby is a family-run, American company with more than a decade of experience in the juvenile product realm. UPPAbaby makes award-winning strollers and car seats of different types.
Ease of Use
The Vista is so easy to use, we found ourselves falling in love at every turn.
Fold and Unfold
The Vista requires two hands to initiate the straightforward fold. Releasing the lock via trigger loops on either side of the stroller is easy, and the rest of the fold is intuitive. With the handlebars in the shortest position, it will self-stand and can be rolled like luggage. To unfold, simply unlock the latch, pull the stroller upwards, and give it a little shake to return it to its original ready-to-use position.
Storage
The Vista 3 has an immense storage bin with a maximum capacity of 30 lbs. The amount of available storage here really rises to the occasion for grocery runs and carrying all your children's supplies. It fit our extra-large diaper bag and our medium diaper bag, which both slid into the space under the seat with ease.
A bar runs through the middle, dividing the basket compartment, but this does not hinder its capacity. At the end of the basket wall, there are two small and one larger pocket for smaller items like wallets or keys.
Harness
The five-point harness has a unique magnetic closure system that took a second to figure out, but within minutes, we could operate it easily with two hands. The adjustable straps feature washable pads for comfort, and thanks to their soft web-like material, they slide easily for rapid height adjustment.
Brakes
The Vista v3 brakes are single-action and color-coded, so you will never have to wonder if the brake is fully engaged. The red pedal includes a color-changing window that displays when the brake is engaged or released. The pedal is simple to press and foot-friendly because it does not require lifting from underneath the pedal.
Car Seat Compatibility
The Vista v3 is compatible with all UPPAbaby car seats, and adapters are available to enable some other brands to work, including, but not limited to, Chicco, Maxi-Cosi, Peg Perego, Nuna, Cybex, and Clek.
Ease of Setup
The Vista v3 setup takes about 15 minutes, partially due to an impressive amount of protective padding and cardboard that needs to be removed from each item. The extra time is worth it to avoid any potential damage during shipping. The instructions were straightforward and include attaching the wheels (a simple snap-in process), the seat, and popping on the safety belly bar.
Maneuverability
We were wowed by the Vista v3's performance compared to the competition in responsive handling, maneuvering around obstacles, and navigating a variety of terrains.
This stroller shines for ease of movement and off-road usage.
The Vista has four foam-filled tires, a wider rear axle, and larger back tires than the front to assist with overall handling. Despite its larger size, the agile Vista handles like a smaller stroller and can cruise over a variety of terrains, remaining well-balanced thanks to shock absorbers.
We successfully tested it on carpet, wood, concrete, grass of all lengths, sand, and mulch. Some of the off-road terrains required locking the front wheels for stability and more stable traction, but we were impressed with how easily it still pushed with one hand. There is a color-coded indicator that lets you know if the wheels are locked or unlocked.
The adjustable handlebars help when lifting up or down while navigating thresholds and curbs.
Transporting and Storing
The Vista can accommodate up to three children, making it perfect for growing or larger families.
It is bigger than most other single full-size strollers but smaller than most double-seaters due to the placement of the second seat in front instead of side-by-side.
The Vista v3 weighs a substantial 27.9 lbs., which is heavy for a full-size option, and more comparable to other two-seat full-size or jogging strollers. Adding extra seating increases this weight.
The Vista v3 folds down to 13,618 cubic square inches. Families worried about storage issues will appreciate that it is on the smaller side for the group, with about half measuring larger.
Quality
The designers of the higher-priced Vista v3 went all out when it came to choosing top-quality materials, focusing on an impressive design that doesn't disappoint.
The Vista seat features premium, easy-to-clean, durable fabrics and full-grain certified leather details. The fabric has a softer canvas feel, the harness material is smooth, and it features pads for comfort. The v3 offers a new removable all-weather comfort seat insert that converts to mesh during the hotter months of summer for comfortable travel regardless of the weather. The full-coverage canopy is robust, sturdy, and fits tightly to the frame.
The high-quality, foam-filled plastic tires eliminate any concerns about flat tires. Reflective trim on the wheels and the basket enhances visibility and is a welcome safety addition. The all-wheel suspension, front locking wheels, and the wide stance deliver a steady, comfortable ride.
The sturdy aluminum frame features upgraded suspension for this version of the Vista and has no observable flex, clunky hinges, or weak points. The attention to detail demonstrates the obvious goal of creating a simple and highly functional design.
Kid's Comfort
The Vista v3 offers an array of easy-to-operate features designed to achieve the most comfortable stroller experience possible for everyone.
The back of the seat reclines from almost completely upright to lying horizontal with minimal effort by pressing one button. No more pulling tabs or squeezing finicky control levers while dealing with excess fabric. The leg rest is also adjustable with three set positions to accommodate size or preference. The deep, padded, sling-style seat supports a smooth travel experience.
The water-repellant canopy is one of the largest, with a protective SPF 50+ rating. The height is adjustable to accommodate your growing child, and it tilts with the seat, but still provides excellent coverage.
There is a peek-a-boo window with a cover flap that can be flipped up to view your passenger and zip-out fabric, plus mesh panels with a covering for any weather.
Should You Buy the UPPAbaby Vista v3?
The Vista v3 is a top recommendation that is beautifully crafted and easy to use, but it is more expensive than the others we reviewed. The up-to-three-seat versatility includes a 2-car seat potential, bassinet, and a piggy-back riding board. We love the easy fold and extremely large storage basket, and think most growing families would be more than satisfied with the maneuverability and versatility for outings. However, if you only plan on having one child, this is bigger and more expensive than you need.
What Other Full-Size Strollers Should You Consider?
If you love the look of Vista v3 but only have one child, the UPPAbaby Cruz v2 is a better choice. The Cruz is smaller, lighter, and has a lower price tag, but keeps the big storage bin and similar seat and canopy. If you don't desire a dual-purpose jogger, the Cruz is the perfect choice for transporting only one child, with all the amazing qualities of the Vista.