Apr . 17, 2024 15:04 Back to list

Stroller Buying Guide

What type of stroller should I choose?

Strollers come in a variety of styles: You’ll find traditional single strollers that are ideal for long walks in the park and lightweight umbrella strollers that travel nimbly from errand to errand; car-seat strollers and car-seat carriers that make smooth work of transferring a sleeping baby in and out of the car; and double strollers that help you transport two little ones with ease.

What's the difference among the types of single strollers?

Our "traditional stroller" category includes a range of single stroller styles, each with its own appeal. Here’s how to distinguish among them.

Traditional strollers: These all-purpose strollers are a smart long-term investment. Many work well on busy sidewalks, on paved streets, in parks, and on trails. Some have fully reclining seats that allow infants to ride safely, some are compatible with infant car seats, and quite a few do both. They can be heavier or lighter, which may factor into your decision depending on whether you need to get the stroller up and down stairs or in and out of a car.
Umbrella strollers: These are lightweight strollers that fold compactly and are easy to transport. They’re ideal for travel or quick trips around town with your child. Most tested models have curved handles, which give the category its name: They look a little like umbrellas when folded. They’re lighter on features than traditional strollers—for instance, an umbrella stroller’s storage options are likely to be more limited.
Jogging strollers: These usually have three large air-filled tires, including a front wheel that can both swivel and be locked into a straight-ahead position when you want to take your child on a run. The air-filled tires allow for an especially smooth ride, though you’ll need to check the air and refill them as needed. These strollers aren’t appropriate for infants under 6 months, though: CR recommends not running with children under 1 year old, and to check with your pediatrician before you do.
Combination strollers: Also known as modular strollers, these adapt the stroller to suit the changing needs of a growing child. Many can recline all the way to accommodate infants under 6 months old, and some can even convert into bassinets so that you can use it from the first day of your child’s life. You’ll also find models that accept car seats and ones whose seats are reversible.
Car-seat strollers: In these strollers, a car seat is fully integrated with a stroller frame, so you can push it on a stroll. To use it as a car seat, the stroller frame folds under the seat, allowing it to be installed in a separate vehicle base for car trips. These strollers can save space because they combine a stroller and a car seat, and they make for seamless transitions in and out of the car. That said, they may be a little heavy or bulky to lift, and their handles may not be as comfortable to push.
Car-seat carrier strollers: These lightweight frames lack a seat, so you attach your own compatible infant car seat. Some work with more than one brand and model of infant car seat. They’re typically compact and lightweight, and because you use it with a car seat, you can transition your child undisturbed from stroller frame to car. The downside is that the stroller frame won’t be usable once your child outgrows the car seat.

What kind of stroller is right for my child’s age?

For a newborn up to 6 months old, you’ll need a stroller seat that reclines to a near-flat position or one that can accept an infant car seat—or one that does both. Some strollers even convert into bassinets. Another option? Choose a car-seat carrier to safely support your strapped-in infant until they develop neck and head control and can sit up on their own. We note in the full view of our stroller ratings which models are suitable for infants 6 months and younger. A stroller that comes with a car seat, or one that’s compatible with one you already own, can make traveling a lot easier.

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How do I choose the right stroller weight and size?

Stroller weights can vary greatly, depending on the style you choose and the kinds of features it has. Umbrella strollers are generally much lighter than traditional strollers, for instance, and most double strollers will be heavier than the average single stroller. Elements like storage baskets, the material of the handles, and the style and size of the wheels are among the many factors that can add to a stroller’s weight.

Whatever stroller you choose, you should be able to lift your stroller as needed—to navigate over a steep curb, up and down steps, and to get it into or out of a car trunk. In our stroller tests, we lift models in and out of a trunk to see how manageable they are.

The stroller’s width also matters in terms of maneuvering the stroller through narrow passages and in crowded areas. You should also check the stroller’s folded size to make sure it can fit in your car and inside whatever storage space you use at home.

What other factors should I consider?

If you rely on subways, buses, and taxis, you’ll need a lightweight, compact stroller that’s sturdy and folds easily and quickly. For taxis and ride shares, a car-seat carrier frame would work well until your child reaches about 1 year old. For public transportation, you might consider an umbrella stroller. We note in our stroller ratings how much each stroller weighs.

If you plan on taking long strolls with your child and going to neighborhood playgrounds, a traditional stroller with helpful features—like a canopy, ample storage, a snack tray, and cup holders—is a great option.

If you’ll be in and out of the car a lot, a travel system or a car-seat-compatible stroller would be a good choice, especially for long walks. (Just check that the stroller fits easily into the trunk or back seat of your car.)

Some parents buy a heavier stroller with more features for strolling near home, plus a lightweight stroller for errands, traveling, or local trips to, say, a museum or zoo.

What makes a stroller safe?

Quality materials and easy maneuverability make for a safe ride, but an effective restraint system and good brakes are key.

Restraint system. A five-point harness is the safest option and is found on most strollers. Securing your baby at or above the shoulders, at the waist, and between the legs, this system keeps children from sliding or falling out if the stroller tips, or from climbing out if you happen to turn away. Check to make sure the buckles are simple for adults to operate but difficult for little ones to unfasten. The straps should be easily adjustable for proper fit and be securely anchored.

Brakes. Most strollers have parking brakes that are foot-activated. Some of these are one-touch or linked brakes that you activate with a single stroke of your foot on a bar at the rear of the stroller frame, while others have a brake pedal above each rear wheel. Some models have a single hand-operated lever that activates both rear-wheel brakes.

How much should I spend on a stroller?

Your ideal stroller has features that fit your child and lifestyle at a price that matches your budget. You can spend less than $100 or well over $1,000. Styling, lightweight materials, and added features increase the price. While many models on our list of recommended traditional single strollers cost several hundred dollars, a few can be had for around $200 or less while still offering a variety of features, such as one-hand foldability and car-seat attachment. Though umbrella strollers offer only basic features and typically can’t be used for infants, many cost under $100.

How to Choose a Safe Baby Stroller