The Nuna Pipa vs. Pipa Lite: Which One Should I Get?

A Bit About Nuna


Nuna is a fairly new brand having launched in 2007 with their first product, the ZAAZ highchair. Since then, Nuna now has strollers, car seats, cribs, and more all created with not only the child, but the parent in mind as well. For a fairly new brand, they’re already leading the industry by making the lightest car seat on the market - the Pipa Lite - at only 5.3 lbs. 


The Nuna Pipa Lite


Besides being the lightest car seat (which is already amazing), what else makes the Pipa Lite so great? Installation in the car is only 2 steps and can literally be completed in less than five seconds. It also has an extendable canopy that has UPF 50+ and a flip out eyeshade. There’s side impact protection, a five point harness, and a memory foam headrest to provide your baby maximum comfort! With all these awesome features already seen, is there much stopping you from getting a Pipa Lite?


 

Drawbacks of the Pipa Lite


Well, there could be a few depending on your preferences and lifestyle. The Pipa Lite needs to always be installed with the base. That being said, if you’re travelling, hopping in an Uber or cab, or switching cars, you need to bring the base with you. For some this can be a hassle, for others they might not mind - all depends on what your lifestyle is! Another thing is that the Pipa Lite holds a baby for only 22 lbs, versus most mainstream car seats that can hold a baby up to 30 or 35 lbs. Since rear-facing is the safest position for a baby to be in, some might consider getting a car seat that can hold them for a bit longer. 


The Nuna Pipa


If any of the above seemed like problems you might face with the Pipa Lite, the Pipa might be the car seat for you. With the Pipa, you don’t need the base if you’re hopping in an Uber or cab, which can be more convenient for some. As well, it has a full coverage canopy that comes with a peek-a-boo window. Unlike the Pipa Lite, the Pipa will hold your baby for up to 35 lbs, which is quite a substantial difference. If you’re worried about this one being much heavier than the Pipa Lite put your fears aside because the Pipa is only 7.9 lbs. With all the added benefits, this car seat could be for you if you’re willing to put up with about an extra 2 lbs. 

 

Drawbacks of the Pipa


You’re probably thinking “This is it. The Pipa is the car seat for me. What could possibly be wrong with it?” Well, there’s actually not much when it comes to downfalls with this car seat. Compared to other car seats, it holds a baby for about the same amount of time as most infant car seats (35 lbs or 32 in - whichever comes first). Two downfalls might be that it doesn’t come with an anti-rebound bar, which is an extra bar added in the front in case of a crash. As well, it doesn’t have a load leg (in Canada), which helps with extra stability. However, load legs are not super common in Canada yet, and not all have an anti-rebound bar. Another thing you might want to consider with Nuna is that they are made in China. This being said though, many other car seats, including big brands like UPPAbaby, are also made in China. Concerning price, the Pipa comes in at $399.99, and the Pipa Lite comes in at $449.99. Compared to other car seats such as the UPPAbaby MESA, or the Clek Liing, which are $500+, the price is quite fair. Not only that, Nuna has made their car seats compatible with several strollers which is definitely an extra bonus. 

Stroller Compatibility

The great thing about getting a Nuna car seat is it’s stroller compatibility. Besides just being compatible with Nuna strollers, there are many others it will work with (using adpaters)  including:

  • UPPAbaby Vista, Cruz, or Minu
  • Bugaboo Fox
  • Bugaboo Donkey
  • Bugaboo Cameleon
  • Bugaboo Bee
  • Bugaboo Ant (Pipa Lite only)
  • Stokke Xplory
  • Mima Xari
  • Thule Sleek
  • Babyzen YOYO
  • Silver Cross Wave

 

… and about a half dozen more! Overall, the Pipa Lite is an excellent performing car seat even while being just over 5 lbs. It’s definitely an option to consider if you feel you’ll be unable to carry a heavy car seat all the time, or if you’re having a C-section. The Pipa Lite might be able to make you life just a little bit easier. If any of the drawbacks of the Lite bother you (i.e. always needing a base, not holding the baby as long), then the Pipa might be for you! A full-function, yet stylish and affordable car seat. If you have any questions or concerns, or would like to see and test these car seats in person, drop by our baby store in Mississauga and take a look for yourself! We’ll be happy to demonstrate them and help you make the best decision for you and your baby.  

 

Loving the Nuna Pipa? Or do you have your eyes set on the Nuna Pipa Lite? Click the links to learn more or purchase from your favourite Little Canadian baby store! 

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