Stroller Buying Guide

Stroller Types, which is right for you?

The first step in narrowing down the hundreds of choices in strollers is determining which ‘type’ of stroller will best suit the needs of you and baby, We’ve put together some pretty simple definitions and comparisons of stroller types below to help you get started.

Running/Jogging Strollers

As the names implies, these strollers are designed for folks who like to tear up the streets. By design, a jogging stroller has a sleek frame and three bicycle-style tires, one in the front and two in the rear. These tires should be a minimum of 16-inches in diameter. Unlike other strollers, it has a fixed-front wheel, which ensures stability when pushed at a rapid pace.

Upside:
A jogging stroller moves with minimum rolling resistance. This allows you to concentrate more on running and less on pushing.

Downside:
Running strollers tend to be bulky and don’t fold as compactly as other strollers. This makes them more difficult to transport.

All-terrain Strollers

Think of these strollers as a hybrid between jogging and standard strollers. The category evolved after manufacturers discovered people were using their jogging strollers for more than just running. The reason: The air-filled tires allowed parents to power over curbs, pot holes and other unexpected bumps in the road better than they could with plastic tires typical of standard and lightweight strollers. But they still weren’t all that practical because a jogging stroller can be rather bulky and difficult to maneuver. So designers began tinkering with the design. Over time, they replaced the fixed-front wheel with one that could swivel. Though not ideal for running, this innovation made maneuvering easier. Another change: They shrunk the wheels. Again, not as good for running, but great for running errands because it could now be stored more compactly.

Upside:
If you live in an area with rough weather, an all-terrain stroller can be a godsend. It powers through mud puddles, ice slicks and whatever else Mother Nature can dish out. It’s also perfect for strolling on dirt roads and hiking paths. And all-terrain strollers tend to come with more convenience features than a true jogging stroller.

Downside:
If you’re a serious runner, an all-terrain stroller may hinder your performance. Weekend warriors, on the other hand, can certainly get a cardio workout while pushing one of these puppies. Also, although more compact than a running stroller, these strollers can still be quite heavy.

Bicycle Trailers

A bike trailer is essentially a stroller with a hitch so that it can be attached to a bicycle. Instead of pushing it as you walk, you pull it while pedaling. The key to a good bike trailer is to find one that can be attached and detached quickly. Most can also double as a walking stroller. A few even convert to jogging strollers. This generally requires a few minor adjustments, and a few extra bucks.

Upside:
Every bike trailer featured on JoggingStroller.com can be converted into a jogging or walking stroller. This allows you to enjoy two activities for the price of one. And, even better, it means one less baby product to store.

Downside:
Bike trailers can be extremely bulky, which makes them difficult to transport and tough to own if you’re short on storage space. Also, with some exceptions, bike trailers offer few frills when operating in stroller mode.

Buying for first child

If you’re purchasing a stroller for a child less than three months, it’s imperative that you find a model that reclines to at least 45 degrees. That’s because baby’s neck muscles are still too weak to support that adorable little head. But you can get around this problem by investing in a stroller that allows you to secure an infant car seat, or bassinet to the frame. This is helpful in two ways. First off, you no longer have to worry about how far the stroller reclines. And second, you are able to move your child from stroller to house to car without disturbing her. Keep in mind that not all car seats are compatible with all strollers. (See compatibility chart)

If your stroller doesn’t come with an infant insert, you’ll want to purchase one after-market. This clever device helps support your newborn’s head so it doesn’t slump to one side. And, by the way, if you’re planning on running with your baby, you’ll want to wait until he’s outgrown this device. The consensus among children’s health professionals is that until your baby can hold his head up independently, running with him is not a great idea. In fact, some pediatricians even suggest waiting until your child can sit up independently, which doesn’t happen until around six months. So check with your doctor before bringing a young baby along for a run. One last point, if you hope to use this stroller to carry future children, consider a gender-neutral fabric.

Buying for multiple children

Whether you’re expecting more than one child, or merely planning to grow the family, purchasing a stroller built for two, or even three, is a worthwhile investment. And it’s practically a necessity if you plan to take siblings out on your own. As with single strollers, you’ll find models to fit a variety of lifestyle needs.

Side-by-Side Strollers

These models tend to be lighter and easier to push. However, because of their wide berth, they can be difficult to navigate through tight spaces. If you hope to breeze through a standard doorway, you’ll want to choose a stroller with a width of 32 inches or less.

Upside:
They tend to fold quicker and more compactly than tandem strollers.

Downside:
If you frequent small boutiques, you may feel like a bull in a China shop pushing this wide load. Also, if you want a car seat compatible stroller, you won’t have as many options as you would with a tandem stroller.

Tandem Strollers

With a tandem stroller children sit one in front of the other. This makes it easier to navigate narrow passageways. But because of the way the weight is configured, turning it takes a bit of muscle.

Upside:
If you’re trying to get the kids to nap in their stroller, positioning them so they can’t see or interact with one another can be quite helpful. And when it comes to car seat compatibility, you’ll have more choices than you would in a side-by-side stroller.
Downside:
Once your kids are old enough to talk, you may hear a lot of whining about who gets to sit in the front seat.

Toddler Seats and Convertible Strollers

This feature, available on select model strollers, allows your single stroller to function as a double stroller. A seat, offered for an additional cost by several manufacturers, clamps on to the stroller’s frame. Then, voila, you’ve got room for two on a single stroller.

Upside:
Investing in a toddler seat is easier on the wallet than springing for yet another stroller.

Downside:
A toddler seat cannot be used until a child can sit up on his own, which doesn’t happen until around six months of age. Also, it doesn’t offer the same back support you’d get on a traditional stroller seat.

Buggy Board

This platform on wheels can be hooked to the back of most single strollers. One child sits, the other stands. And, of course, you do the pushing.

Upside:
It’s perfect for preschoolers who tire quickly, but insist that strollers are for babies.

Downside:
Standing is less tiring than walking. But if you’re taking a long stroll you’re bound to put up with some complaining.

Breaking it down

Size

A large stroller takes up a lot of room. If you’re thinking about investing in a Big Bertha, be sure you have ample space to store it in your home. If you plan to travel with it, make sure it won’t overwhelm your trunk. Also, when looking at multiple occupancy strollers, take special note of the stroller’s width. If it’s wider than 32 inches, you may have trouble squeezing it through standard doorways.
Weight

Strollers come in all shapes and sizes. Some weigh less than 10 pounds, others more than 45 pounds. Buying one that’s too heavy can be problematic. However, how much weight is too much depends a lot on lifestyle. If conquering steep steps is part of your day-to-day routine, you need to choose a stroller that you can comfortably lift on your own. Wrestling with an unwieldy stroller isn’t safe for you or your passenger. On the other hand, if you don’t own a car and you live in an elevator building then stroller weight is a moot point because you won’t be lifting it.

Collapsibility

Fortunately, stroller technology has improved to the point that no stroller on the market is difficult to fold. That said: Some are easier to close than others. Also, keep in mind that just because two strollers are the same size while functioning, doesn’t mean they will be equally compact when collapsed.

Car Seat Compatibility

Ever hear the expression let sleeping babies lie? If you’ve ever tangled with a cranky infant you’ll quickly recognize the soundness of this advice. It can be challenging to transfer a sleeping baby from her car seat to her stroller. Fortunately, you can avoid unnecessary hysteria by choosing a stroller that allows you to secure your car seat directly to the frame. Be aware that not every car seat will work with every stroller. (See compatibility chart) And some are simpler to attach than others. Best-case scenario: The car seat will work with your stroller without any additional parts to set up. But if you can’t swing that, look for a stroller with a universal adapter bar or strap to secure the car seat. Keep in mind that, in some cases, the stroller may not collapse when the adapter is attached.

Shocks / Suspension

Shocks and suspension are really only helpful to people who plan to take their stroller over uneven surfaces. What they do is absorb the energy created by bumps in the road. If you’re on trails this is a huge benefit. If you’re mainly scooting around the mall, it probably isn’t worth it.

Storage

Nearly every stroller comes with some sort of storage compartment. If your diaper bag contains little more than a spare nappy and some wipes, don’t sweat this detail. But if you tend not to travel light, an extra large storage basket may be something to consider. It can also come in handy for shopping expeditions. And if you’re a coffee addict, you’ll want a place to lodge your latte. But if this feature isn’t offered on the stroller you choose, don’t sweat it. You can buy an after-market drink holder that can be attached to most handlebars.
Bumper Bar / Snack Tray

Every stroller has either a three or five point safety harness, but some strollers also offer a bar to help corral your child. A few models even design their bumper bars to double as a snack tray. Oh, and by the way, the bumper bar is also a good place to tether your baby’s toys. You need only lose a few teethers before you recognize that objects not battened down will go overboard. But, keep in mind, that a bumper bar is a secondary safety mechanism. The only way to be sure your child stays put is to buckle her in with the safety harness.

Adjustable Handlebar

Taller than average adults may find that the standard handle bar height is a little low for their liking. And, if you’re running with an ill-fitting stroller, you could really wreak havoc on your back. Important note Fortunately, some strollers come with a handle bar that can be adjusted to accommodate people of varying heights. (FYI: If you purchase a jogging stroller with adjustable handlebars, you need to know it may not hold up as well as the non-adjustable variety. The reason: The only way to turn a jogging stroller is to pop a wheelie and pivot. This puts repeated pressure on the adjustable handlebar’s ratchet mechanism. The manufacturers claim they’ve corrected this problem. But only time will tell if they’ve succeeded.) Some handlebars can also be reversed. This feature is quite handy for a baby with separation anxiety because in this mode you and baby stroll face-to-face.
Important note To be sure the model you’re considering is appropriately sized, stand up straight and bend your elbows and so that your forearms are parallel to the ground. From this position, measure the distance from your arm to the floor. This is your ergonomically-correct handle height. Folks who plan to use the stroller for in-line skating, should add and inch or so to compensate for wheel height.

Bassinets / Carry Cots

An old-fashioned buggy is romantic, but not very practical for modern-day parents. But several manufacturers have solved the problem by allowing parents to convert their standard stroller into a pram by offering a snap-in carry cot, also known as a portable bassinet. Basically, it turns your stroller into a bed on wheels. But, unlike traditional prams, the bed is removable. The benefit: If baby falls asleep in the stroller, he can be moved indoors without being disturbed.

Fixed vs. Swivel Wheels

Three-wheeled strollers come with either a fixed front wheel or swiveling front wheel. For a jogging stroller a fixed front wheel is a must because it assures the stroller tracks straight. A swiveling wheel offers better maneuvering. Many swivel wheel strollers now offer an option that allows you to lock the wheel in place. This is a huge improvement over earlier designs. However, a locked swivel wheel will still not be as stable as a true fixed-front wheel; it also increases road resistance. Important note
Important note The one exception to this rule is the BOB Revolution. It was dubbed the “revolution” because it features the first and only locking mechanism that keeps the stroller as stable as a permanently fixed-front wheel stroller.

Wheels

Stroller wheels come in a variety of sizes ranging from a six-inch diameter to a whopping 20-inches. But bigger isn’t necessarily better. It all depends on your needs. In a nutshell, the larger the wheel the better it is for running and/or barreling over uneven terrain. And the smaller the wheel the easier it is to turn. Wider tires and thicker treads make it easier to power over off-road obstacles. Conversely, narrow, slick or semi-slick tires will quicken your pace.

Brakes

Every stroller features an emergency break that prevents a parked stroller from rolling away. But some also offer a hand break to keep your stroller from picking up excessive speed while strolling. Runners will appreciate this option. But if you’re an in-line skater and you want to include baby in on the fun, consider it a necessity.

Weather Protection

If neither rain, nor snow, nor heat or gloom of night will keep you from the completion of your appointed rounds, you best shield baby from the elements. An oversized canopy will protect her from the sun. A rain shield fits over the entire stroller and keeps her dry. Likewise, a mesh cover keeps insects at bay, and may also afford extra UV protection. And for cold weather journeys, a boot can be snapped on to envelop baby in a cozy pouch. If, however, you fall in love with a stroller that doesn’t have the soft goods you desire, never fear. Often, these items can be purchased aftermarket.

Fabrics

Of course, even baby products have the potential to be dowdy or stylish. And for some, looks can be as important as performance. Like your favorite handbag, this stroller will be with you often. Consider this when choosing a pattern. And because your stroller will see a lot of action, you’ll also want to be sure you choose a fabric that is durable and easily spot cleaned. If you’re a clean freak (no judgment, by the way, just an expression) look for a stroller with padding that can be easily removed and tossed in the washer. And if you live in an especially warm climate you may also want to consider a stroller made with a fabric that wicks heat and moisture away from baby’s skin.