Libelle strollers are so popular that you are sure to see one around town in Japan. I have purchased a Libelle and will explain it thoroughly!
Basic info
| Weight | 5.9kg |
| Size | H 102cm × W 52cm × L 71cm |
| Folding size | H 48cm × W 32cm × L 20cm |
| Max weight | 22kg |
| Seat size | H 49cm × W 29cm × L 19cm |
| Reclining | 110-135° |
Features of LIBELLE
① Compact size
✔︎It folds up very compact. It is small enough to hand carry onboard an airplane and can fit in the basket of a bicycle!
✔︎It is also compact in size when deployed, so it takes up little space on trains and buses.
✖️However, at 6kg, it is a bit heavy and does not have a handle for quick carrying, so it is not suitable for hand-carrying for long periods of time.
✖️Deployment requires two hands, although is easy once you get used to it.
② Less stress when driving
✔︎The frame is strong + single tire + the tire coating is hard, so you can hold it with one hand (in the middle of the frame) and it runs smoothly.
✔︎The brake can be operated with one foot easily.
✖️The tires are small + there is no suspension on the rear wheel, so there is no shock absorption.
③ Comfortable seat
✔︎Recline down (135°), open the leg rests and pull down the sunshade for a comfortable nap.
✔︎Comfortable back rest height and seat width for larger children (2.5 years old in photo)
✖️It cannot be flattened and the sunshade is short, but it makes sense given the folding size!
④ Other functions are also good
✔︎The belt is easily adjustable by removing the shoulder pads! Excess belt is fastened with cord binding tape. The crotch belt is also adjustable. (Model 2022)
✔︎The luggage compartment is not large (about 20L). Luggage can also be hung over the handlebars, so overall it can carry a lot of luggage.
✖️You cannot put too much weight on the footrest. However, a child can put his or her feet on it when sitting down.
Tricks to improve children’s posture
Due to the folding structure of the Libelle, the board reclines loosely in the lumbar support area, resulting in a rounded posture when the child sits on it.
✔︎The cargo belt (blue belt in the photo) can be attached to the frame to ensure that the recliner can be raised securely.
✖️However, the stroller cannot be folded without loosening the cargo belt.
Q&A
Q. Regret buying it?
I do not regret buying it. The only complaint I have about the Libelle is that it does not recline flat.
However, for the low 20,000 yen (taking into account points), only Libelle offers a smooth ride, 110-135° reclining, a luggage compartment that can hold about 20 L, and compactness after folding.
Q. Comparison of 2022 and 2023?
There are four main differences.
① Shoulder belt height
The shoulder belt attachment point is 3.5 cm higher on the 2023 model than on the 2022 model. This allows the belt to fit taller children.
② One-pull harness
The 2023 model has a one-pull harness, a one-touch belt fit.
③ Sea Shell Beige Color
In the 2022 model, the color was almost off-white; in the 2023 model, it is a light beige.
④ Price
As of January 2024, the 2022 model costs 19,800 yen and the 2023 model costs 27,500 yen.
Q. 2022 or 2023 is recommended.
In terms of shoulder belt height, the 2023 model is recommended.
As for the one-pull harness, while more functional, it weighs 300g more. In addition, the seat structure has become more complex, which may make it more difficult to remove the seat for maintenance.
As for the price, there is not that much difference when converted to points on the RakutenIchiba.
Q. Is a bumper bar necessary?
I don’t think it is necessary. There are two reasons. First, because it is squishy. It is soft and will bend if you put weight on it, so it is not that secure as a bumper bar.
Another reason is that it cannot be folded while it is attached. I don’t use it anymore because it is a hassle to put it on and take it off every time I open and close it.
However, I think it is useful when you want to use it with luggage on the seat area (so that the luggage does not fall out) or when you want to hang a blanket on it.
Q. How about a used one in Libelle?
The used price of a Libelle is about 18,000 yen for a 2022 model and more than 20,000 yen for a 2023 model. So, rather than buying used, it is better to buy new and sell it after you no longer need it.
Libelle’s Competition
Considering its foldable size, running performance, and price, the Libelle is a worthwhile product to buy in the “stroller in the 20,000 yen range,” “a little outing in the neighborhood,” and “second stroller” genres.
However, I have consolidated different strollers for people who may be dissatisfied with the reclining angle or the need for two hands to fold the Libelle up.
- Cybex coya
✔︎Full-flat, Cushioned and luxurious seats
✖️Expensive - Cybex orfeo
✔︎Full-flat, Foldable with one hand (takes some getting used to), With shoulder strap
✖️Nearly twice the price of LIBELLE, sitting area contorts like a hammock - Bugaboo buttefly
✔︎Can open/close with one hand, With shoulder strap, Large luggage compartment
✖️7.3kg, not Full-flat, Expensive
Summary of Libelles Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| ・Folds compactly ・Low Price ・Runs smoothly ・Compact size that takes up little space on trains, etc. | ・Cannot be used unless the sitting position is stable because it does not lie fully flat. ・Not a face-to-face stroller ・Cannot be folded with bumper bar. ・Impossible to open/close with one hand |
It is recommended to have two strollers, one full-size or a face-to-face stroller that can make up for the shortcomings of the Libelle, and use them in different situations.
It is also suitable for people who usually use a car or bicycle and occasionally use a stroller.
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