If you’re looking for a compact, light and portable stroller for your toddler, you have probably come across ZOE lightweight strollers at some point. There are three single models that have been very popular for the last couple of years: ZOE XL1 BEST v2, ZOE XLC BEST v2 and ZOE XLT DELUXE.
Parents often wonder what are the differences between these single ZOE strollers as they look very similar. In fact, they differ in many ways.
Are you curious which stroller is better? Read my full review and comparison of ZOE XLC BEST v2, ZOE XL1 BEST v2 and ZOE XLT DELUXE and find out which one will be the best for you and your baby.
All these single strollers by ZOE are very light and easy to carry and don’t take up much space at home, which is a big plus. ZOE XLT DELUXE weighs 16 lbs so it is a lightweight stroller that you can easily lift to the car trunk or carry down the stairs. ZOE XL1 BEST v2 and ZOE XLC BEST v2 weigh even less – only 11 lbs and they are examples of an umbrella stroller.
Although these models are so light, they have many awesome features that full-sized strollers usually have. Thanks to these functions ZOE strollers are very convenient for both parents and kids.
| LATEST INFO: ZOE XLT DELUXE has been discontinued by the manufacturer. |
ZOE XLC BEST v2, ZOE XL1 BEST v2 and ZOE XLT DELUXE Review – Functions
Here I will show you the main features that you can find on these 3 strollers: the newest version of ZOE XLC BEST (v2), ZOE XL1 BEST (v2) and ZOE XLT DELUXE. I will also point out the similarities and differences between these models.
Seat
All three strollers have different seats. ZOE XLC BEST (v2) is the smallest and most compact single ZOE stroller (at least when I’m writing it) and it has the smallest seat among these three ZOE strollers. It is 11.75″ wide, 9.5″ deep and the backrest is only 16.5″ tall (but there are about 10 more inches of the head room).
It’s suitable from 3 months and it can hold a passenger up to 50 pounds, which is impressive as for such a tiny and lightweight stroller.
The seat on ZOE XL1 BEST v2 is 12.5″ wide, 9.25″ deep and 18″ long. From the bottom of the seat to the canopy there are about 26″. This seat is suitable from 3 months up to 50 lbs.
ZOE XLT DELUXE has bigger seat: 15.25″ wide, 10″ deep and 18.25″ long (with 27″ from the bottom of the seat to the canopy). However, this seat is suitable from 6 months. The weight capacity is the same – 50 lbs.
Another difference between those three seats is the recline angle. The backrest of XL1 BEST v2 stroller reclines to 165 degrees.
ZOE XLC BEST (v2) offers smaller recline – up to 150 degrees. I think it’s still pretty good, and more generous than on many other lightweight strollers.
The backrest of XLT stroller reclines even further – up to 175 degrees. It’s not fully flat position therefore it’s not newborn-ready, but it’s still very deep and comfy for naps.
To recline the seat (on both strollers) you need to use a strap with a buckle. In my opinion raising and lowering is doable with one hand, but more easy and convenient to do with two hands.
| Keep in mind that none of single ZOE strollers is usable from birth and none of them is compatible with infant car seats! |
There is also a vented top on each stroller – which you can use when the backrest is reclined. On hot days you can roll up the rear shade, that covers the top of the seat, and use the hook and loop to keep the shade rolled up. You can see how it works in the video below.
Moreover, ZOE XLT DELUXE seat has a full leg rest and footrest. The leg rest is adjustable – you can lift it all the way up so it could serve as an extension of the seat which is very useful as it provides bigger and comfy space for toddlers who like to nap on the go. You can also use the near-flat recline and flat leg rest for changing a diaper.
ZOE XL1 BEST v2 has only a short calf rest (it supports the back of the knees) and separate footrest – both are non-adjustable.
What’s really interesting, despite being the smallest strollers here, ZOE XLC BEST v2 has adjustable calf rest. So you can lift it up to provide more space and comfort your napping infant or toddler. It’s really a rare thing among strollers that weigh 11 lbs and cost less than $200!
The calf rest is separated from the footrest (which is non-adjustable).
What I really like about ZOE XLT DELUXE seat (apart from the deep recline) is the additional, removable padding, that provides better comfort and support for baby’s back and head.
Neither ZOE XL1 BEST v2, nor ZOE XLC BEST v2 has this additional pillow (it should be available for separate purchase but I couldn’t find in on ZOE website so it may be sold out right now or something). On a positive note, both these strollers have rich and deep padding on the seat anyway, and even without an additional insert your child will feel comfy sitting in it.
Canopy
All three single ZOE strollers have large extendable sunshades. There are 3 panels (one opens with a zipper) and a flip-out sun visor. Honestly, these are probably the best canopies that you can find on lightweight strollers!
ZOE XLT DELUXE has more roomy canopy, however the canopy on ZOE XL1 BEST v2 goes down a bit further. Nevertheless, both hoods are really awesome and provide excellent shade from the sun. They keep the sun rays out of baby’s eyes and cover the passenger’s torso.
ZOE XLC BEST v2 has the smallest canopy among these three lightweight ZOE strollers, but it’s still very impressive and provides good amount of shade. When the backrest is in most upright position, the canopy covers baby’s torso. When the seat is reclined, the amount of shade is smaller, but the sun visor still keeps the sun rays out of baby’s eyes.
This canopy provides better protection against the sun than BJ City Tour, GB Pockit or Pockit Plus!
Each canopy on ZOE single strollers is equipped with mesh peek-a-boo window that gives extra air-flow. The window closes with silent magnets which is of course awesome, because you can check on your baby at any time without disturbing their nap time.
No matter which stroller you choose I’m sure you’ll be really satisfied with the canopy and able to enjoy summer strolls without worrying about the sunburns.
In my opinion, the canopy on ZOE XL1 BEST v2 is the best one (and this is probably my favorite single ZOE stroller).
Handlebar
The handlebars look the same on these three strollers, however they have different heights. ZOE XL1 and ZOE XLC BEST v2 have handlebars set at 40.25″ from the ground, while ZOE XLT DELUXE handlebar is 39″ from the ground.
Additionally, each stroller has recessed rear axle to provide more space behind the stroller for tall parents. Thanks to this feature people who are over 6ft tall don’t kick the rear axle or wheels while walking.
Keep in mind that these handlebars are non-adjustable therefore if you’re very short or very tall you may experience wrist fatigue after long-distance strolls.
I’ve read in some customer reviews that these strollers are easy to steer with one hand thanks to single handlebar, instead of two short handles.
Wheels
All three ZOE strollers have small, single, polymer wheels recommended mainly for flat terrain. ZOE XL1 BEST v2 has 6.25″ rear wheels and 5.38″ front wheels. The same wheels we can find on ZOE XLC BEST v2. ZOE XLT DELUXE has a bit bigger wheels: 7.75″ in the back and 6.5″ in front.
Front wheels are pivoting which makes the stroller easier to steer and turn, but you can also lock them to increase stroller sturdiness (for example when you go over slightly harsh terrain).
According to other parents who have been using these strollers, they work best on pavement and smooth surfaces, but also can handle average cracked sidewalk. However the short wheelbase and small wheels are not great for cobblestone, dirt unpaved roads or rocky terrain. ZOE XLT DELUXE has bigger wheels which can also handle short even grass.
Each stroller has front wheel suspension which absorbs shocks a little bit. The ride is not cushioned as in joggers, but still it’s quite smooth. If you hit bigger bump the child will probably feel it and the stroller might wiggle on very uneven terrain (similar to other lightweight strollers).
The best application of ZOE lightweight strollers is: strolling on pavements, asphalt, sidewalks and indoor use (at the mall or airport).
Brake
Among these three ZOE stroller I think XLC model has the best parking brake. There is a one-touch pedal in the middle of rear axle. It’s easy to reach and works very smoothly when you press it and lift it (both doable while wearing sandals).
ZOE XL1 BEST v2 has dual action brakes so you have to press or lift two pedals to engage or disengage the brake. I’ve noticed that some parents complain about this type of brake as it’s less convenience and user-friendly. Moreover the pedals are difficult to release if you’re wearing open toe shoes.
I definitely prefer the brake on ZOE XLT DELUXE – there is a single one-touch bar. It is very easy to set and release and it’s even flip flop friendly.
Storage Basket
Both ZOE XL1 BEST v2 and ZOE XLC BEST v2 have mesh basket. The storage space is not huge, but it’s decent – you can fit there baby’s backpack or a small diaper bag and a blanket.
However even the bottom of the basket is made of mesh which is not very stiff. I wouldn’t put there anything heavy.
ZOE XL1 allow you to access the basket only from the back – there is an elastic mesh. ZOE XLC offers you access from the back and from the front, if you lift up the calf rest.
ZOE XLT DELUXE has upgraded basket with more solid bottom made of the same fabric as the rest of the stroller. It’s also more durable and stiff. The back and sides of the storage basket are made of mesh and they are elastic so you could have easy access to your necessities, even when the seat is fully reclined. You can take your stuff in and out from the back and both sides.
And this basket is more capacious. You will be able to fit there you medium-sized diaper bag.
Size & Weight
This is the most noticeable difference between ZOE XL1 BEST v2, ZOE XLC BEST v2, and ZOE XLT DELUXE. XL1 and XLC model are not only smaller but also lighter than XLT stroller.
ZOE XLC BEST v2 is the smallest model among these three strollers. It’s 40.25″ high, 17″ wide and 28.5″ long. You can see that XLC model is really, really compact.
ZOE XL1 BEST v2 is 40.25″ high, 20.5″ wide and 31″ long, while ZOE XLT DELUXE is 42.5″ high, 24.5″ wide and 36.5″ long.
Moreover, ZOE XL1 BEST v2 and ZOE XLC BEST v2 weigh only 11 lbs each, which is 5 lbs less than ZOE XLT DELUXE weighs!
All three ZOE strollers are lightweight and you can easily lift them to the trunk or carry up and down the stairs without too much effort.
You can buy additional Travel Backpack & Storage Bag for easier transportation and storage. It’s a very useful accessory especially for parents who travel with older kid who can walk, but sometimes likes to ride in a stroller, especially on longer distances. When the stroller is not in use you can carry it as a backpack without any problems!
Differences in size and weighs cause the difference in other features. Thanks to bigger, stronger and more robust frame and different center of gravity ZOE XLT DELUXE has for example deeper, near-flat recline.
Fold
To fold XL1 and XLT strollers you just need to pull the strap located in the middle of the seat and they collapse immediately. I only wish these strollers folded inwards – here the fabrics are more prone to get dirty or damage.
Below you can see how to fold ZOE XL1 BEST v2 and how small it is when closed!
What’s noteworthy, ZOE XLC BEST v2 has a different folding mechanism – called double trigger fold. You need to pull two triggers located on both sides of the handlebar and press the stroller down. It closes into a small package, similar for example to BABYZEN YOYO+ or Baby Jogger City Tour 2.
See how it works in the video below.
Both models are space-savers – perfect choice for parents who live in a small apartment and/or drive a small car. They take up little space after folding and fit probably in every type of the car trunk.
These single ZOE strollers have different fold size – ZOE XLC BEST v2 is of course the smallest one.
Its dimensions are: 22″ x 17.5″ x 6″. According to the brand’s official website, it fits in overhead bins on airplanes. I recommend you to check it with the airline you are flying with anyway.
XL1 BEST v2 is slightly bigger, but still very compact. Its dimensions are: 26” x 20.25″ x 6.5″.
ZOE XLT DELUXE has the biggest fold: 28.5″ x 24.5″ x 9.5″, but it’s still definitely more compact than many other everyday strollers have.
Which stroller is better: ZOE XLC BEST vs or ZOE XL1 BEST v2 or ZOE XLT DELUXE?
All these single lightweight strollers are awesome and perfect space-savers. But there are some differences – some features make ZOE XL1 BEST v2 better, some functions may encourage you to buy ZOE XLC BEST v2, while other features can make you prefer ZOE XLT DELUXE.
Here is my quick comparison of three ZOE strollers – I hope it will help you to decide which model is better for you and your baby.
| ZOE XLC BEST v2 | ZOE XL1 BEST v2 | ZOE XLT DELUXE | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 11 lbs | 11 lbs | 16 lbs |
| Size | 40.25" x 17" x 28.5" | 40.25" x 20.5" x 31" | 42.5" x 24.5" x 36.5" |
| Fold Size | 22" x 17.5" x 6" | 26" x 20.25" x 6.5" | 28.5" x 24.5" x 9.5" |
| Seat | Smallest seat with recline up to 150 degrees, short & adjustable calf rest | Small seat with recline up to 165 degrees, and short non-adjustable calf rest | More roomy seat, with deeper recline (up to 175 degrees) and adjustable leg rest |
| Canopy | Smallest & shortest canopy, but it shades baby’s head even when the seat is reclined | Big canopy, extends really far down (passes the child tray) | Roomy and long canopy that goes up to the child tray |
| Wheels | 6.25" rear wheels and 5.37" front wheels | 6.25" rear wheels and 5.37" front wheels | 7.75" rear wheels and 6.5" front wheels |
| Brake | One-touch brake | Double-action brake that requires engaging two pedals | Easy to use single-action brake |
| Storage Basket | Small basket with mesh bottom | Small basket with mesh bottom | Bigger storage basket with more stiff bottom |
| What's Included | Harness Pad/ Covers | Child Snack Cup and Child Cup Holder, Parent Cup Holder, Belly Bar, Harness Pad/ Covers | Child Snack Cup and Child Cup Holder, Parent Cup Holder, Belly Bar with Integrated Child Cup Holder, Additional Seat Pad/ Pillow, Harness Pad/ Covers |
As you can see these 3 strollers have some advantages and disadvantages and for one parent ZOE XL1 BEST v2 would work perfectly, while for other parents ZOE XLC BEST v2 may be a better choice.
Please note that ZOE XLT DELUXE has been discontinued and it’s no longer available on the market. It was a really good full-sized stroller with a weight of a lightweight stroller.
| Should you choose ZOE XL1 BEST v2 or ZOE XLC BEST v2? – My advice Both these strollers are perfect option if you want to have an ultra-light and compact stroller that you could carry effortlessly. The basic question is: What are the most important features for you: larger canopy, deeper recline and accessories included (cup holders and snack cup) or adjustable footrest, one-touch brake and more compact fold that fits in overhead bins on some airplanes? If you live in hot climate and/or love summer strolls then I recommend you ZOE XL1 BEST (v2) because it has more generous canopy that protects baby from sunburns better. If you are looking for really small stroller that offers very compact fold, and/or if you travel a lot by car/train/place then ZOE XLC BEST (v2) would be more convenient for you. I think that ZOE XL1 BEST v2 works better as everyday stroller, while ZOE XLC BEST v2 is more suitable as travel stroller. |
What other parents think about ZOE Strollers?
All lightweight strollers by ZOE have a lot of positive customer reviews on Amazon. You can check the current number of reviews and overall rating on your own, but keep in mind it refers to few different ZOE strollers: ZOE XL1 BEST v2 and v1, ZOE XLT DELUXE and ZOE XL2 BEST v2 and v1.
I looked through the reviews of ZOE XLC BEST v2, ZOE XL1 BEST v2 and ZOE XLT DELUXE and here are the advantages and disadvantages that customers mention most often.
Parent love the deep recline and big canopy on each stroller. Another assets are: smooth, one-hand steering and easy fold. Moreover each stroller is lightweight and effortless to carry. Parents also like the included accessories (on ZOE XL1 and ZOE XLT) and adjustable leg rest (on ZOE XLC and ZOE XLT). According to many customers these strollers are extremely high quality for such a low price.
According to customers ZOE XLC BEST v2 and ZOE XL1 BEST v2 are perfect choices for parents who often travel.
Parents also mention a few disadvantages: the wheels are very small so these stroller are not easy to maneuver and push on bumpy ground.
Specification
| Stroller | ZOE XLC BEST v2 | ZOE XL1 BEST v2 | ZOE XLT DELUXE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stroller Type | Lightweight | Lightweight | Lightweight |
| Stroller Weight | 11 lbs | 11 lbs | 16 lbs |
| Weight Limit | 50 lbs | 50 lbs | 50 lbs |
| Stroller Dimensions | 40.25" x 17" x 28.5" (HxWxD) | 40.25" x 20.5" x 31" (HxWxD) | 42.5" x 24.5" x 36.5" (HxWxD) |
| Fold Dimensions | 22" x 17.5" x 6" | 26" x 20.5" x 6.5" | 28.5" x 24.5" x 9.5" |
| Handlebar Height | 40.25" | 40.25" | 39" |
| Wheels Size | 6.25" rear wheels and 5.37" front wheels | 6.25" rear wheels and 5.37" front wheels | 7.75" rear wheels and 6.5" front wheels |
Colors
When I’m writing this review (March ’19) ZOE XLC BEST v2 has 8 color versions: Black, Eloise Plum, London Navy, Red, Aqua, Noah Grey, Lime Green, Indiana Camo. The choice is really vast so you’ll definitely find something that suits your personal style.
ZOE XL1 BEST v2 comes in the same colors, except for Indiana Camo. In the picture below you can see 7 available versions.
Before you decide to buy one of ZOE strollers, make sure to check which color versions are currently available and compare their prices.
ZOE XLT DELUXE is no longer available.
Accessories
ZOE XL1 BEST v2 comes with a few accessories. It includes the Child Cup Holder and Snack Cup, Parent Cup Holder, Belly Bar and Harness Pad/Covers. You can also buy these pads in different colors separately, as well as the Seat Pad/Pillow and DELUXE Canopy.
Another optional accessories are: Tandem Seat (that allows to turn this stroller into a double), Parent Console, Travel Backpack & Storage Bag, Carry Straps, Ventilated Rain & Snow Weather Cover and Belly Bar Cover.
ZOE XLC BEST v2 comes only with Harness Pad/Covers. Other accessories like Parent Console, Child Console, Travel Backpack, Carry Straps Comfort Pillow are sold separately.
Keep in mind
ZOE XL1 BEST v2 and ZOE XLC BEST v2 are small and ultra-light umbrella strollers, not suitable for uneven terrain.
If you’re choosing between those two strollers you have to decide what’s more important for you: smaller size and fold or larger canopy and deeper recline.
Also, keep in mind that none of these two strollers can be used from birth as the recline is not fully flat and they are not compatible with infant car seats.
ZOE XLT DELUXE has been discontinued!
3 Reasons Why You Will Love ZOE XL1 BEST v2 and ZOE XLC BEST v2
| 1. Both strollers have very compact fold which is easy to store even in a small apartment and transport in a small car. 2. Although these strollers weigh so little, they offer nice deep recline which provides comfy and cozy place for naps. 3. These stroller are really well-equipped, yet they are inexpensive. |
If these strollers are not good enough for you, check my full ranking of the best lightweight strollers this year.
All pictures belong to ZOE Strollers. Source: https://www.zoestrollers.com
Hello Moms! I am Zooey. I am a wife and a mother of three amazing kids: almost 5-year-old Haley and 2-year-old twins Jesse and Matthew. I am a jogger, cooker and blogger.If you have a question or a comment, do not hesitate to write to me! 🙂