Thursday, January 9, 2014

Graco FastAction Fold Click Connect Travel System {Review}

Graco logo
When it comes to enjoying the great outdoors, Mother Nature just seemed so much more accessible prior to having kids, didn't she? Any time you wanted to go for a hike or a jog or simply for a walk around the block, all that it took was finding your shoes and heading out the door.

Once you've had a baby, however, going just about anywhere with your little one in tow can turn into a multi-step, elaborately-planned event, what with the extra diapers, wipes, clothing, bottles, food and much, much more.

But, what happens when you finally have your bag packed and ready and you look at your stroller and realize that the combination of the tiny wheels and the clunky frame are going to make the whole trip even more difficult? Who wants to have to deal with the hassle? Not to mention removing your sleeping baby from their car seat to move them into the stroller?

All of those questions (and more) is why Graco debuted the FastAction Fold Jogger Click Connect Travel System!

FastAction Fold Jogger Click Connect Travel System

Designed as the ultimate crossover stroller, the FastAction Fold Click Connect Travel System combines everything you and your baby need from birth to 50lbs. The combination of the comfort and convenience of a traditional stroller with the performance and maneuverability of an all-terrain jogger is the perfect complement to the unique, one-second fold and the secure one-step attachment to all Graco Click Connect infant car seats.

Add in ample storage, a handy snack tray, a great parent tray, air-filled rubber tires, a speedy transition from daily strolling to jogging, and it is clear that this stroller was built for easy use by moms and dads on the go.

Considering the positive experiences I have had with Graco since long before both of my own children were even born, I was anxious to put this travel system to the test to see if it would meet my high expectations.

Graco stroller

As I began removing the various parts from the box, I could already tell that it wasn't going to take much time to assemble them.

Graco stroller assembly

I love that Graco knows that parents are busy and don't have hours to spend constructing their products, proven by the five minutes that it took for me to follow their simple instructions to snap the frame open and click the wheels into place.

When I stepped back to see this high quality travel system fully assembled and ready to go, I was already impressed!

Graco FastAction Fold Click Connect Travel System

Any consumer knows that being able to purchase one product and have it last through multiple years (and life stages) makes sense, so I was immediately pleased with the ease in which the FastAction Fold Click Connect can adjust for infants up to preschoolers.

For the youngest riders, this travel system includes the SnugRide Click Connect 35 Infant Car Seat, top rated by leading consumer magazines and publications. This safe, comfortable seat has not only been rigorously crash tested to meet or exceed U.S. safety standards, but it has also been side-impact tested for an extra level of security.

Graco SnugRide

Graco has long been known for their high quality infant car seats and this one is clearly no exception, providing parents peace of mind for rear-facing babies between 4-35 pounds (and up to 32"). Even better, the SnugRide Click Connect 35 comes with a stay-in-car base that features a 6-position dial adjustment for easy installation and, of course, the Click Connect technology that provides a one-step secure attachment to all Graco Click Connect strollers.

Whether in your car or attached to the stroller, this safe and stylish car seat eliminates the need to purchase a separate piece of baby gear (and the wonder of whether or not it will be compatible). Instead, you have an instant travel system that fits right into any parent's lifestyle!

Graco Click Connect Travel System

When using the FastAction Fold Click Connect on its own, children are able to ride just as comfortably. With three seat recline options, your little one can sit upright, lounge or lay back quickly and easily with the simple, one-hand squeeze of the handle right on the back.

I love simplicity, especially if it is going to make naptime on-the-go more happy and convenient for everyone!

Graco stroller recline

At the same time, the adjustable canopy provides plenty of protection from the elements when you're out for a stroll...

Graco stroller canopy

...while also making it possible for very little ones to stay fully secluded for privacy and quiet.

Graco Travel System

During times when everyone is awake, the child snack tray provides a perfect place for finger foods as well as two removable cup holders (easy cleaning!) and Graco didn't skimp on features for parents as well.

The deluxe parent's tray features includes two large cup holders for drinks, as well as a covered storage compartment just right for stashing keys or a credit card, and a unique smartphone cradle unlike one that I've seen before. By using the adjustable clasp, you're able to secure your phone or mp3 player horizontally or vertically right into place, removing any worry that it might get jostled or fall during a jog or on uneven surfaces.

Graco FastAction Fold Parent Tray

While I adore Graco's creativity with this aspect of the parent tray, I was disappointed to find that even though the cradle states that it adjusts to fit any smartphone, my iPhone 5 didn't fit in either direction. Maybe if I removed the case? Unfortunately that's not something that I would do each time before using my stroller, so hopefully Graco will reconsider the dimensions of this feature in the future.

In terms of use, however, this is one stroller that is extremely easy as well as convenient.

One of the features that is used most often with any stroller, the storage basket, does not disappoint in its extra-large size or open accessibility. Along with having plenty of room to store your belongings and bags, the angle of the opening makes it easy to access everything no matter what level the seat is reclined.

Graco stroller storage basket

When it comes to heading out on the trails (whether paved or not), the Graco FastAction provides a smooth, sturdy ride for everyone involved.

The large, air-filled rubber tires offer suspension as they glide along even the most uneven surfaces and the front wheel can be left unlocked to swivel for day to day use or locked into place to provide stability and maneuverability needed for a good brisk walk or an invigorating run.

Graco stroller wheels

While I love all of the features and ways that Graco included to ensure the FastAction Fold Click Connect Travel System provides a comfortable and smooth ride for everyone, I appreciate that didn't mean that safety was ignored.

The foot-activated, dual-rear brakes make it simple to keep this stroller from rolling when you've parked it and the convertible 3- or 5-point harness is easily adjustable to grow with your child.

As a great bonus, this travel system includes a fast, one-hand fold and a unique free-standing design so that not only does it fold up quickly (one second!) and easily, but it stands upright on its own. I love the space-saving ability as well as not having to worry about another piece of baby/child gear that lays across the floor to be stepped over!

Graco FastAction Fold

Retailing for $319.99, the FastAction Fold Click Connect Travel System does it all. Instead of purchasing multiple strollers and car seats for different aspects of your life, this single piece of equipment can allow you to get outdoors to spend quality time with your child quickly and easily.

When it comes to a fast, convenient, durable stroller that is made to last from birth throughout many years of childhood (the stroller holds up to 50 lbs!), the FastAction Fold Click Connect has proven that Graco knows how to take safety and security and make it fast, accommodating and user-friendly. Whether you are a dedicated jogger or are just looking for a way to make life easier with your baby, this is the stroller and car seat combo to do it!

Find out much more about this and all of Graco's high quality products by visiting GracoBaby.com and connecting with them on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.

Other than the FastAction Fold Click Connect Travel System I was provided by Graco in order to facilitate my review, I was not compensated or enticed to do this post in any way. This review is solely my honest opinion about this company and this product.

4 comments:

Unknown said...

Graco is a great product. We had them when my son was of the age.

momo said...

(Graco Stroller Review)They have some really nice strollers for the little one's here. My grandson has one and he love's taking his walks in it.

slehan said...

Where was this great product 40 years ago when I could have used it? I like that you can close it with one hand and stand it up.
Thanks for the contest.

slehan at juno dot com

Lisa R said...

I always liked graco when my kids were little. I would love something like this for my sister who is due in June

sibabe64 at ptd dot net