Strollers are an essential item you’ll need as a new parent. They allow you to easily take your little one on outings, whether it’s a walk around the block or a trip to the store.
But with so many different types of strollers available, it can be tough to know which one is right for you and your lifestyle.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the different types of strollers and their features and benefits!
Follow @mommy.labornurse on Instagram to join our community of over 640k for education, tips, and solidarity on all things pregnancy, birth, and postpartum!
How to choose a stroller
- Assess your lifestyle: Consider your daily activities, such as city strolling, outdoor adventures, or frequent travel, to determine the stroller type that suits your lifestyle best
- Identify must-have features: Make a list of essential features you desire, such as recline positions, adjustable handles, large storage baskets, and compatibility with infant car seats
- Evaluate stroller types: Research various stroller types, including full-size strollers, lightweight strollers, jogging strollers, and travel system strollers, to understand their functionalities and benefits
- Consider terrain and wheels: Determine the terrain you’ll most often encounter, such as smooth pavements or bumpy trails, and choose strollers with suitable wheel types (e.g. all-terrain or air-filled tires) for optimal maneuverability
- Test drive in stores: Visit baby stores to test-drive strollers, assessing their ease of use, comfort for your baby, and your own comfort while pushing and steering
- Check safety and stability: Ensure the strollers meet safety standards, have secure harness systems, and feature a stable base to provide a safe and smooth ride for your little one
- Examine folding and storage: Evaluate the stroller’s folding mechanism and compactness for easy storage and transportation, especially if you have limited space at home or frequently use public transportation. You want your stroller to actually fit in your car too!
- Seek longevity: Look for strollers that grow with your child, offering adjustable features that accommodate your baby’s growth from infancy to toddlerhood
- Read reviews and recommendations: Find online reviews and ask for recommendations from other parents to gather real-life insights into the strollers you’re considering
- Set a budget: Establish a budget range for your stroller purchase, considering the features you need most and exploring options across different price points
Types of strollers
Travel systems
A travel system is an infant car seat, car seat base, and stroller all wrapped into one! These strollers are designed to work with an infant car seat, making it easy to move your baby from the car to the stroller without having to unbuckle them or disturb their sleep.
Pros
- Convenience: With a travel system, you can easily move your baby from the car to the stroller without disturbing their sleep, which can be a lifesaver when you’re out and about
- Versatility: Most travel systems can be used as a traditional stroller once your baby outgrows their infant car seat, making them a great long-term investment
- Compatibility: Travel systems are designed to work with specific infant car seats, so you can be sure that your car seat and stroller will work together seamlessly
Cons
- Cost: Travel system strollers can be more expensive than traditional strollers or infant car seats alone, which may not fit everyone’s budget
- Size and weight: Travel systems can be bulkier and heavier than other types of strollers, which can make them more difficult to maneuver and store
- Limits options: You’ll have to purchase the same brand car seat and stroller (or buy an adapter) to make it work
Questions to consider when choosing a travel system:
- How often will I be using the travel system?
- What type of terrain will I be using the travel system on (sidewalks, trails, beaches, etc.)?
- Will I be using the travel system for jogging or running?
- How much storage space do I have in my car and at home for the travel system?
- Do I want a travel system that can accommodate multiple children (a double stroller option)?
- How much weight can I comfortably lift and carry when folding and storing the travel system?
- How long do I plan on using the travel system (will I need it for just a few months, or several years)?
- Do I want a travel system with additional features, such as a reversible seat, adjustable handlebars, cupholders, etc.?
- Do I prefer a travel system with a sleek and modern look, or one with a more classic and traditional appearance?
Umbrella strollers (Lightweight strollers)
Umbrella strollers are a lightweight and compact option that’s perfect for quick trips and travel. They’re easy to maneuver and store, making them a great choice for parents on the go.
Pros
- Lightweight and compact: Umbrella strollers are designed to be lightweight and easy to fold, making them a great option for travel or quick trips – great to just always have in the trunk!
- Easy to maneuver: With their small size and swiveling wheels, umbrella strollers are easy to maneuver through tight spaces and crowds
- Affordable: Umbrella strollers are often less expensive than other types of strollers, making them a budget-friendly choice
Cons
- Limited features: Umbrella strollers typically don’t come with the same features as other strollers, such as adjustable handles or a large storage basket
- Less comfortable: Because of their compact size, umbrella strollers may not be as comfortable for your child, and it’s definitely a bumpier ride!
- Limited weight capacity: Umbrella strollers usually have a lower weight capacity than other strollers, which may not be suitable for larger or older babies
Double strollers
Double strollers are a must-have for parents of multiples or for those with a baby and toddler. They allow you to easily transport two children at once, whether you’re out for a walk or running errands.
Side-by-side double strollers
- Better visibility: With both children sitting next to each other, it’s easier for them to interact and see the world around them
- Equal weight distribution: With the weight of the children evenly distributed, it can be easier to maneuver and steer the stroller
- Wide frame: Side-by-side strollers can have a wider frame, which may make them more difficult to navigate through narrow doorways or aisles
Tandem double strollers
- Narrow frame: Tandem strollers have a narrower frame, which can make them easier to navigate through tight spaces and crowds
- Different seating options: With a tandem stroller, you can often configure it in different ways to have your little ones facing in their preferred direction
- Unequal weight distribution: With the weight of the children distributed unevenly, it can be more difficult to steer and maneuver the stroller
Questions to ask yourself about side-by-side options:
- Will I be mostly using the stroller for walking outside or going to parks where there is more space to maneuver?
- Do my children enjoy interacting with each other and will they benefit from sitting side-by-side?
- Do I have a vehicle that can accommodate a wider stroller frame?
- Do I have enough storage space at home to store a wider stroller frame?
- Am I comfortable with a stroller that has a wider turning radius?
Questions to ask yourself about tandem design options:
- Will I be using the stroller in tight spaces, such as in stores or on public transportation?
- Will my children prefer sitting in different positions, such as facing forward or backward?
- Do I have a smaller vehicle or limited storage space at home?
- Am I comfortable with a stroller that may be more difficult to steer due to uneven weight distribution?
Jogging strollers
If you enjoy running or jogging, a jogging stroller can be a great investment for keeping up with your fitness routine while spending quality time with your little one.
These strollers are designed with three sturdy wheels, all-terrain tires, and a suspension system to provide a smooth ride for your child, even on bumpy surfaces.
Questions to ask yourself before choosing a jogging stroller:
- What type of terrain will I be running on (e.g. pavement, dirt trails, or a mix)?
- How often do I plan on using the jogging stroller for running or jogging?
- Will I be using the jogging stroller for other activities, such as walking or hiking?
- Do I want a jogging stroller that can also be used as an everyday stroller?
- How easy is the jogging stroller to maneuver and steer while running?
- How much storage space do I have in my car and at home for the jogging stroller?
- How much does the jogging stroller weigh, and can I comfortably lift it?
- Is the jogging stroller compatible with my child’s car seat, or do I need to purchase a separate one?
- Does the jogging stroller have a hand brake for added safety?
- Is the jogging stroller easy to fold and store when not in use?
- Do I prefer a jogging stroller with a fixed or swivel front wheel?
Wrapping up
Choosing the perfect stroller for your little one is a significant decision that can greatly impact your daily adventures together.
By following our expert tips on assessing your lifestyle, identifying must-have features, and exploring various stroller types, you’re well on your way to finding the ideal ride for your baby.
I know the world of strollers can be overwhelming, with countless options to consider. That’s why we created our FREE Baby Registry Guide that covers all the baby gear essentials (including strollers!) with our top picks at different price points.
Accessing our guide is like having a trusted friend by your side, offering expert advice and handpicked recommendations.
Grab our FREE Baby Registry Guide now for even more support with choosing a stroller and everything else you need for your baby too!
