Mia Moda Energi

The roomy seat and all-terrain maneuverability of the Mia Moda Energi win raves from experts and owners alike, especially taller parents who find its cable brake system and adjustable handlebar very comfortable for pushing. The Energi also accommodates the Viva infant car seat to convert to a travel system. Although the Energi isn't a jogging stroller, at least one reviewer gives it high marks as a "light jogger." And while it's great for taller parents, it's not so ideal for taller kids. The seatback is rather short with a net at the top to securely hold an infant, which shortens the headroom for an older baby. In addition, because the seat doesn't sit fully upright, toddlers may be leaned back so far that they can't reach the snack tray. Several owners say their older children use the tray as a footrest.

Overall, the Energi and the Mia Moda brand in general get better ratings from experts than owners because of durability issues that seem to turn up after long-term use. One respected product review source expresses concern about the longevity of all Mia Moda strollers. Another downside is that the brand isn't widely available in stores, making it difficult for parents to test a stroller in person before purchasing -- an important consideration when paying a few hundred dollars. Given the unknowns and possible quality issues, the similar but well-reviewed Jeep Liberty Limited (*Est. $150) may be a good alternative. 

The best reviews of the Mia Moda Energi come from Hollie Shultz at RatedByMom.com, a division of BabyGizmo.com, which puts strollers through their paces with children of different ages. "Baby Bargains," the book of baby product reviews by Denise and Alan Fields, has a good summary of the Mia Moda brand and mentions the Energi. While we found few owner reviews, perhaps because of the Energi's inaccessibility in stores, there's enough user feedback at Amazon.com and Buzzillions.com to evaluate how the stroller performs over the long term.