Ergobaby Metro 3 Compact Stroller review

Navigating bustling streets or jet-setting abroad with a little one in tow requires a travel stroller that's both compact and comfortable. Enter the Ergobaby Metro 3 - a thoughtfully designed stroller that combines portability with premium features.

Building upon the strengths of its predecessors (Metro+ Compact and Metro Deluxe), this one also features one-handed strolling and folding, but comes with a 4-wheel suspension - basically, it glides! It's lighter than the Metro Deluxe model (7.8kg), coming in at 7.6kg and for those who like to travel, it's carry-on approved so no need to fork out for another lighter model, making it the ideal piece of hand luggage.

Scroll down to find out how mum-of-two Holly got on when testing out the Metro 3 for herself.

Testing the Ergobaby Metro 3

My first impressions of the Ergobaby Metro 3 were very positive. I liked the look and feel of the product, the styling and the fact that it folds down so small. The material feels soft and comfortable, and although small in stature, the system is sturdy with a strong chassis.

We tested the Ergobaby Metro 3 on a variety of different surfaces from tarmac, to stones, grass and even on the sand (which was...interesting). For its size, the suspension is really very good, allowing for a smooth stroll and easy control on most surfaces. On particularly bumpy terrain, the Metro 3 struggles a bit to lift over larger bumps/ tree roots. The wheels are relatively small; I guess this is a compromise to maintain its lightweight and compact nature.

This stroller is very easy to fold up and down and can be done with one hand. You simply press and unclip at the top. Being able to fold the stroller one-handed without setting Oakley down or holding up a line is incredibly practical. It folds down compactly enough to carry around with you like a small suitcase, which is ideal for overhead storage or stowing it quickly in tight spaces. The folded pram even stands up on its own, which is an added bonus.

We recently went to the beach for the first time as a family of four (five including our dog!) and I was amazed at how much stuff we wanted to take. The smaller pram size meant that we were still able to pack all our other bits for the day too.

As with most strollers, sand was impossible, but thanks to its compact fold and carry handle, we simply carried the stroller over the beach. Oakley had a smooth ride in all urban settings and looked very comfortable in the suitably padded seat.

The hood provides a large amount of cover from the sun, both in the sitting up and reclining positions. Oakley is nicely protected from any dazzling rays. There is a visor at the top so you can peek through and check on your little one, which is an easy-open and close flap. As this is a forward-facing pram this visor is a great feature, and allows me to interact easily with Oakley as we are going along, or check on him whilst he naps.

The Ergobaby Metro 3 is forward-facing only and has a strap and pull system on the back of the seat to enable it to recline. I have found this really good when Oakley nods off, as it is easy to gently pull the strap and lower him into a flat position for a comfortable on-the-go sleep. It is worth noting that the chair doesn’t seem to allow a child to sit completely upright, but more at a subtle incline. Oakley sometimes finds this a little frustrating as he prefers to be fully upright to see everything that is going on around him.

The brake on the Metro 3 is just a small foot-operated pedal located next to the back right wheel. The brake is easy to apply, and it seems strong and secure; it is quite hard to move the chair without releasing the pedal beforehand. A red visual indicator on the lock gives peace of mind for parents. I did have some experience with the pedal being a little stiff to flip off, depending on my footwear.

For a compact stroller, the under-seat storage basket is generous enough. It also comes with add-ons like a rain cover, adjustable sun canopy and optional accessories like a ride-on board for older siblings.

Unlike flimsier travel strollers that feel wobbly or wear out quickly, the Metro 3 has a sturdy build that handles frequent folding, daily outings, and growing children without losing stability. It’s solid enough to feel dependable, yet light enough to carry or lift with ease which is an amazing combination.

There was only one con I found with the Metro 3, and that was the ease of the adjustable 5-point harness. With a wiggly 1-year-old, the clasp buckling system is not the easiest or quickest system, causing an everyday battle when it came to fastening the restraints. I think the product would benefit from a magnetised buckle system to enhance its ethos of ease and convenience.

Final verdict

Flexible and trendy, the Metro 3 is a great travel stroller. The system really focuses on the comfort of the child with a padded seat, reclining back rest, extendable canopy, and superior suspension for smooth travel.

Easy to put together, sturdy and comfortable, I would highly recommend this product to all parents who are looking for a stroller to take for a quick trip to the city or on their travels.  We have an upcoming holiday to Menorca in August, Oakley and I are excited to see this travel system really put on a performance then!

Emily Gilbert is the Features & Reviews Editor for Mother&Baby. With a background in both print and digital journalism, she has written extensively on pregnancy, fertility, perinatal mental health, and the best in baby and parenting products. A first-time mum to Theodore, Emily combines her professional expertise with personal experience, offering readers trusted advice and relatable insight. Specialising in product and travel reviews, she stays ahead of the curve on the latest parenting trends and is passionate about showing that life with a little one can still be full of adventure.