When choosing a stroller, the first thing you will need to do is identify your lifestyle type. Are you an outdoorsy type who likes to take long trail walks or jogs with your child? Do you plan to take your child on shopping trips where you will be loading up on shopping bags? Will you be taking your child on multiple trips in and out of the car each day? How about air travel or trips to restaurants?
Once you have thought through how and where you will be using your stroller, you can decide what type of stroller is best suited for you. If you found yourself saying yes to all of the above, then you will probably want to buy two models to satisfy your diverse lifestyle. On the other hand, if you don’t require as much versatility, then one well designed stroller may satisfy your needs quite well.
Strollers can generally be classified into two model types:
Umbrella
Standard
Other variations include:
Jogging
Travel System
Multi-Child
Pram
The lightweight or umbrella stroller (so named for handles like those on an umbrella) is inexpensive, lightweight, and has a compact fold for easy storage even in an overhead compartment or beside a restaurant table. However, the lightweight design means they have limited room, amenities and storage capacity. Also, since most lightweight - umbrella stroller models do not include a recline feature; they are generally not appropriate for infants under six months.
Standard strollers are larger and heavier with roomier seats, larger wheels and more storage space. They also often come equipped with many bells and whistles, ranging from built in music systems to ergonomic handles and toy rods. The extra space and amenities are great for shopping trips, but take up more space in the trunk, and make the stroller more difficult to heft in and out of a vehicle or up a flight of stairs.
Jogging strollers come with large sturdy tires, hand grip brakes, and advanced suspension. Unfortunately, the jogging stroller model generally does not fold as compact as some of the lightweight umbrella strollers. A jogging stroller is not recommended for infants under 6 months.
Travel systems are a standard stroller with car seat snap in. This makes it fast and easy to transfer your baby from the car to the stroller and back. This can be a godsend for individuals making frequent trips in and out of the car. However, this added convenience does make the unit heavy and bulky.
Multiple child strollers come in two styles; tandem (front to back) and side by side. You may also choose for either a two seated model or one seated child and space for one child to stand and ride. Another great option is to clip two strollers together which allows for each to be used individually when needed. Multi child strollers come in the standard, lightweight or jogging versions.
Pram strollers are specially designed for infants under 4 months. Pram strollers offered an unparalleled smooth and comforting ride for your newborn.
Now that you have decided on the stroller type, there are a number of features and amenities that you will want to consider before choosing the specific stroller to purchase. Look for stability, easy folding, removable padded seats and washable seat fabric. In general, larger wheels are better. Also consider these points:
Harness- a five-point harness is generally recommended. However, a three-point harness could be satisfactory for short occasional trips. A five point is critical for jogging strollers.
Handles- adjustable height handles are recommended for taller individuals.
There is an array of amenities to consider. Depending on your needs and budget constraints you might want to consider a model that includes additional features such as the following:
Under Basket
Organization Trays
Drink Holders
Rain Hoods
Toy Bars
Many of these features are available as separate accessories. Therefore, if you find a stroller that fits your budget and the majority of your needs, don’t be discouraged by the lack of one these features.
As you very well know, your stroller purchase is one of the most important buying decisions you will make as a parent. Don’t compromise safety for style and think through what features you will need most to make a wise investment.