Chicco

Chicco (pronounced KEY-ko) has a 65-year history as one of Europe’s major juvenile products makers. Along with Peg Perego, Chicco is one of Europe’s biggest baby gear brands. One difference between the two: Chicco strollers are made in China; Peg strollers are made in Italy.

Chicco was started by Pietro Catelli in Como, Italy in 1958 and is named after his son, Enrico. His nickname was Chicco.

Castelli first sold diapers in Italy before selling rubber pacifiers (Chicco's first product). Chicco is part of the Artsana Group, which was founded by Catelli in 1946 as a seller of syringes and thermometers. Artsana also owns the baby gear brands Boppy and Recaro.

Chicco divides its strollers into five categories: full-size, lightweight, jogging, double and frame strollers.

Flagship model: Mini Bravo Plus

Chicco is probably best known for its lightweight strollers, including the flagship model Mini Bravo Plus (19.6 lbs).

This lightweight stroller can hold any Chicco infant car seat and features ventilated/extended canopy. The one-hand quick fold is a key feature. The Mini Bravo Plus stands when folded and has a three-position reclining seat. The weight capacity is 50 lbs.

Other Lightweight Models: Liteway, Presto

The Liteway is Chicco's entry level ligthweight stroller. The Liteway (17 lbs.) features two handles, rear wheel suspension, padded five-point harness, cup holder and a full recline. We liked the boot that tucks away when not in use. Over time, Chicco dropped the price and simplified the design a bit. FYI: the Lightway still isn’t car seat compatible.

By contrast, the Presto (16.5 lbs) is car-seat compatible and features an extended canopy, two cup holders and one-hand standing fold. It is priced similar to the Mini Bravo Plus. The Presto holds any Chicco infant car seat without the need for adapters.