A guide to the Bugaboo THERMOLITE® performance footmuff

When the seasons change and the air turns crisp, pushchair walks can feel less inviting. But with the right gear, cold weather doesn’t have to mean staying indoors. The Bugaboo THERMOLITE® performance footmuff performance footmuff is designed to make winter outings comfortable for your little one. Crafted from high-performance, responsibly sourced THERMOLITE® insulation and water-repellent materials, it lets your baby stay warm and dry — no matter the weather.​ 

Why use a pushchair footmuff?

A footmuff is essentially a wearable cocoon for your baby, similar to a sleeping bag designed for pushchair use. It lets your baby stay warm and insulated from the cold without bulky layering, while giving them freedom of movement as it's less restrictive than many coats.   

In cold climates, a high-quality pushchair footmuff becomes less of a "nice-to-have" and more of a dependable necessity, especially as babies are less able to regulate their body heat. 

When is a footmuff ideal?

Footmuffs are ideal for cold-weather walks or running errands on a chilly day, especially when temperatures dip below comfortable ranges, or if you'd rather avoid piling on too many layers of clothing on your baby. It's also a great choice for longer pushchair rides when it's important to keep your baby's temperature comfortable and consistent. 

What makes the Bugaboo THERMOLITE® performance footmuff special?

1. High-performance, eco-friendly insulation insert

The THERMOLITE® insulation material in the footmuff keeps your baby warm, dry, and cosy even in below-freezing temperatures, up to roughly -20 °C. Designed with long-lasting thermal performance, it's faster-drying, prevents outdoor-causing bacteria, and can retain insulating properties when damp. On milder days, the insert is removable to prevent overheating.

To reduce its impact on our planet, the footmuff’s high-performance insulation is made with a responsibly sourced vegan-down alternative, while the filling is consciously crafted with 100% recycled textile waste and PET bottles.

2. Cold weather protection

A soft, breathable fleece lining ensures all-day comfort, while the water-repellent outer shell and waterproof zippers guard your baby against wind, light rain, or snow. Two-way zippers allow you to ventilate from top or bottom, making it easier to get the baby in and out without fully unzipping. An integrated, adjustable hood shields your toddler from the worst of the cold. Reflective details enhance visibility in low-light conditions for safer, more enjoyable strolls. 

3. Designed for convenience

The built-in shoe shield ensures dirt or debris from shoes doesn’t soil the interior — after playtime, you can easily wipe it clean with a cloth. The footmuff adapts effortlessly to changing weather, is machine-washable, and dries faster than traditional down filling. You’re always set for your next outing, even after a rainy day out. 

4. Compatibility and fit

The Bugaboo THERMOLITE® footmuff is made to work seamlessly with all Bugaboo pushchairs, with harness openings that line up for a safe and secure fit. Thanks to its flexible design, it grows with your child and can keep both babies and toddlers comfortable through multiple seasons.

How to use a footmuff

Installation and safety tips

1. Hook the footmuff over both the top of the pushchair seat and the bottom of the footrest, so it stays in place. 

2. Thread the pushchair’s harness through the footmuff’s designated slots. This makes sure your baby is secured by the pushchair's straps, not the footmuff itself. 

3. Adjust the hood so it frames the face without blocking your baby's face.

4. Use the two-way zippers to vent if needed.

5. Always check your baby’s temperature by feeling their chest and back rather than relying solely on ambient conditions.

6. Give the footmuff a quick check every now and then to make sure it’s still attached securely, especially as your child grows and their position in the pushchair shifts.

What to dress your baby underneath

Since the footmuff adds the bulk of thermal insulation, in very cold conditions, you can add the following to keep your baby extra warm:

• A comfortable base layer (onesie or lightweight thermal top and pants)

• A hat covering their ears

• Mittens or gloves

• Optional light outer layer (e.g. fleece jacket) if very cold

You generally should not use heavy coats or blankets inside the footmuff, as too many layers can lead to overheating or restrict movement.

Frequently asked questions

Can a 2-year-old use the Bugaboo THERMOLITE® performance footmuff?

Yes, the Bugaboo THERMOLITE® performance footmuff is suitable for toddlers when they start using the seat configuration on your pushchair at around 6 months. Its spacious design accommodates growing children, including 2-year-olds.

Can I use the Bugaboo THERMOLITE® performance footmuff on other pushchairs?

Our Bugaboo accessories are designed to work in perfect harmony with Bugaboo pushchairs. We do not recommend using accessories designed by other brands with your Bugaboo footmuff, as they haven't been tested against our safety standards. 

Final thoughts

The Bugaboo THERMOLITE® performance footmuff is a must-have for parents who want to keep their children warm and cozy while looking for an ethical, sustainable, and high-performance option. With its innovative materials and weather-resistant design, it takes the stress out of cold-weather outings so you can focus on enjoying time outdoors with your little one.