The Stokke Yoyo stroller is one of the most visible models on the streets and in public transport. Several generations have succeeded each other, from the original Yoyo (designed by Babyzen) to the recent YOYO⁵ marketed under the Stokke brand. But beyond its notoriety, what do independent tests and user feedback reveal about its actual performance in an urban environment?
Yoyo Stroller: Behavior on Rough Surfaces and Limits of the Ultra-Compact
Promotional articles emphasize the urban maneuverability of the Yoyo. Independent tests provide a more nuanced perspective. BabyGearLab reports a only average maneuverability on cobblestones and soft surfaces, with a tendency to bounce and become less controllable on uneven terrain.
This point deserves attention for parents who navigate daily on poorly maintained sidewalks or cobbled streets. The compactness of the chassis and the small diameter of the wheels, which are advantages in transport, become physical constraints here.
The brake also raises questions. According to the same test, the brake pedal is small and close to the chassis, making it difficult to activate with bulky shoes or from an awkward position. A detail that goes unnoticed in-store but can be frustrating in daily use, especially in winter.
For a detailed guide on the features and style of this model, the Yoyo stroller on Petits Bambins offers a comprehensive overview of the strengths of the range.
YOYO³ and YOYO⁵: Accessory Compatibility and Real Cost
The transition from YOYO³ to YOYO⁵ is not just a simple version change. The YOYO⁵ introduces a break in compatibility for several key elements: seat, newborn elements, car seat adapters, and protective bar are specific to this new generation.
On the other hand, some strolling accessories like the wheeled board or transport bag generally remain compatible between the two versions. This detail has a direct impact on the budget of families considering an upgrade or a second-hand purchase.
| Item | Compatible YOYO³ → YOYO⁵ |
|---|---|
| Seat (6+ pack) | No, specific to each version |
| Newborn pack | No, specific to each version |
| Car seat adapter | No, specific to each version |
| Protective bar | No, specific to each version |
| Wheeled board | Yes, generally compatible |
| Transport bag | Yes, generally compatible |
This table shows that the investment in the Yoyo ecosystem does not fully transfer from one generation to the next. A parent selling a YOYO³ to switch to a YOYO⁵ must plan to replace most of the accessories related to the chassis.
Yoyo Stroller on a Plane: Cabin Size is Not a Guarantee
One of the most frequently cited selling points is the cabin compatibility of the Yoyo once folded. The compact folding is real and designed to fit within the standard dimensions of luggage compartments. However, cabin acceptance depends on each airline.
Allowed dimensions vary from carrier to carrier, and some airlines may require stowing the stroller even if it meets the theoretical size. Before a flight, checking directly with the airline remains the only reliable precaution.
This point is rarely specified in product sheets. It does not undermine the advantage of compact folding for travel, but it tempers the promise of systematic cabin boarding.
Stokke Compact Stroller: For What Type of Parent
The Yoyo range clearly targets urban travel and trips. The quick folding, reduced size, and lightweight chassis meet specific constraints:
- Daily use in public transport (subway, bus, tram) where floor space is limited and quick folding saves time
- Frequent travel by plane or train, where the volume of the folded stroller determines ease of movement in stations and airports
- Urban housing without elevators or with narrow hallways, where a bulky stroller becomes a permanent obstacle
On the other hand, parents who mainly travel on dirt paths, very damaged sidewalks, or mixed terrains (parks, forests, gravel) will find the limits of the Yoyo sooner than expected. The compact compromise comes at the cost of stability and ride comfort on uneven surfaces.
Bassinet or Newborn Pack: A Structuring Choice
The Yoyo offers two configurations for the first months: the rigid bassinet and the newborn pack with hammock. The choice between the two depends on the primary use. The bassinet provides a flat sleeping surface, recommended for long naps during walks. The newborn pack is more compact when folded, making it more suitable for frequent travel.
Neither option is interchangeable between YOYO³ and YOYO⁵, which reinforces the importance of choosing your version before investing in accessories.
Yoyo Chassis and Resale: What the Second-Hand Market Reveals
The Yoyo retains a resale value higher than most compact strollers. This high rating in the second-hand market is explained by sustained demand and the model’s notoriety. The break in compatibility between generations can, however, affect the value of accessory lots sold separately.
A YOYO³ chassis with a complete pack can still be resold at a significant price. Conversely, YOYO³ accessories sold alone lose appeal for buyers equipped with a YOYO⁵. The resale value is therefore linked as much to the complete lot as to the generation of the product.
The Yoyo stroller remains a coherent choice for intensive urban use and frequent travel. The limits on rough surfaces and conditional cabin compatibility deserve to be considered before purchase, alongside the real cost of moving from one generation to another.
