If you are a new or soon to be parent, it’s hard to believe that you have not started looking for the best stroller for your newborn baby. Every parent wants the best for their child, and when it comes to the stroller, the vehicle you will be carrying your child in, you cannot simply purchase one without doing extensive research. With numerous brands dominating the stroller market, it becomes quite overwhelming for new parents to choose the best stroller for their baby.
We understand that as a new parent, you have a lot on your list, that is why to save you the trouble, we did the research for you, and we came up with a complete buying guide to help you make a confident buying decision. In this guide, you will find comprehensive reviews of our top picks of the best strollers available on the market, along with the factors you should keep in mind before making any decision.
But before we dive headfirst into our list of best baby strollers, let’s learn about different categories of baby strollers.
When shopping for the right stroller, you need to keep in mind your family’s needs. The best type of stroller is the one that best suits your lifestyle. Following are the different stroller types to choose from:
1. Full-size or standard strollers
The standard-sized strollers are the most common type of them all. These strollers can accommodate babies of all sizes; however, they are ideal for newborns. A full-size stroller means that there is sufficient storage to accommodate your baby as well as all of your baby’s gear. Apart from plenty of storage space, these strollers also offer comfortable seats, and they are generally easy to stroll around. The majority of standard strollers are also travel systems, which means that you can conveniently transition from stroller to car and vice versa.
2.Lightweight umbrella strollers:
Most of the parents prefer lightweight strollers so that the movement is easier and less stressful. An umbrella stroller would mean wheeling around with your little friend with less fuss. These strollers are also called the umbrella strollers because they can easily fold up like an umbrella, which makes them very portable and convenient for travel. Folding them and loading them onto your car will take only a couple of minutes.
The downside is that these strollers are not known for their strength and durability. If you are choosing an umbrella stroller, you would have to say goodbye to fancy features such as snack trays, parent consoles, and storage baskets. In other words, you are getting portability in exchange for comfort. Fortunately, these strollers are not very expensive.
3.Jogging strollers:
If you are a fitness freak who loves to jog early in the morning, then you might want to consider getting a jogging stroller for your early morning adventures with your toddler. True to their name, these strollers offer increased shock absorption and stability, which will allow you to run with the stroller while your baby enjoys a safe and uninterrupted nap inside. With air-filled or foam tires, these strollers can be a little cumbersome than a full-size stroller. These strollers are generally pricey, but they are worth the extra money for parents who want to stay fit even after children.
4.Side by side double strollers:
A double stroller can be a lifesaver for parents with two babies. These strollers will offer each baby their very own seat along with a storage compartment to stash away their essentials. Whether you have twins or two babies with close age, a side by side double stroller is an ideal option to take everyone on the go. Double strollers have two different seating arrangements for your kids. You can either choose the side-by-side or tandem seats. With the side-by-side seats, both the kids will be facing out, and the stroller will become wider than any other stroller, which will be stressful to walk through door frames. On the other hand, with the tandem seats, one child will be seated behind the other. Because of its enormous size, a double stroller is generally more expensive than a standard stroller.
5.Travel system:
A travel system will allow you to securely transport your infant from the stroller to your car and vice versa. The benefit of a travel system is that you will be able to use the same base of the stroller throughout the toddlerhood. This means that a travel system is a one-time investment. Firstly, you are required to choose a car seat that best fits your needs and fits your vehicle as well. After choosing a car seat, you can match it with a compatible travel system.
If you want the bang for your buck, then your stroller should come with the following features:
Most of the strollers come with a telescoping handlebar, which can be adjusted to fit the varying heights of the parents.
You might want a stroller that has a reversible seat so that you could position your baby in both forward-facing or rear-facing. The latter option is best suited for a newborn while the former option is better once your baby gets older and starts to engage with his environment.
You can never overlook the importance of large storage space. Whenever you head out with your baby, you will need to carry some baby essentials, and sufficient under-carriage storage will definitely come in handy.
As a parent, it is your duty to ensure the well being of your child. You must make arrangements to save them from the harmful rays of the sun and from wild winds. That is why it is essential to have a large, well-designed canopy to protect your baby.
UPPAbaby Cruz V2 is our top pick as the best overall stroller. This stroller has everything to offer. It is compact and quite straightforward to use. Its streamlined design will allow you to stroll down the streets without weighing you down. Don’t be fooled by its compact design; you can stash in your baby’s essentials and groceries comfortably. Apart from this, a perfect combination of aluminum and magnesium is used throughout the stroller, making it quite light in weight without compromising on its strength. The stroller can accommodate a 3-month-old baby to a growing toddler. In addition, this stroller is compatible with an infant car seat. Apart from this, the seat canopy is made out of fabric that provides extra sun protection while its mesh panels make it easy for the baby to explore the surroundings.
The downside of this stroller is that its wheels are comparatively small, making it difficult to stroll through rough surfaces. However, when it comes down to smooth surfaces, nothing beats the UPPAbaby Cruz V2. This stroller may be a little expensive, but when we consider the versatility and quality it brings to the table, we can say that it is worth your bucks. And that is the reason why the UPPAbaby Cruz V2 has rightfully earned our Editors’ Choice award.
If you have been reading the best-reversible-stroller-reviews over the internet, it’s hard to believe that you are not familiar with this stroller. The Vista V2 comes with numerous styles of seating configurations, which means that it can be used parent-facing, forward-facing, and reclined.
The Vista V2 is a little bulky, but for its size, it moves pretty well. Apart from this, it offers features such as an adjustable handlebar and massive under-carriage storage with a weight capacity of 30 pounds; these features will be a definite plus point for the majority of parents. The stroller also comes with foam-filled tires that can handle wet surfaces, gravel, and even snow.
Its bulky size and the price tag can be a dealbreaker for most parents who are on a budget. However, if you are a parent looking for a stroller that can be used for your newborn and throughout the toddlerhood, then it’s worth spending your hard-earned money on the UPPAbaby Vista V2.
The features of this stroller do not end here. The Thule Urban Glide 2 comes with a huge multi-position canopy that will not only protect your child from the harmful sun rays but will also ensure ventilation for your child’s comfort. Apart from this, the stroller also offers plenty of room to store most of the baby’s essential as well as some grocery items, all thanks to its large cargo basket, two mesh compartments along with rear mesh pocket.
When compared to its competitors, this stroller is quite budget-friendly, and it is even cheaper than most of the standard-size strollers out there. All in all, the Thule Urban Glide 2 is a very versatile stroller for any parent who wishes to head out for a regular hike or a jog. However, if you do not intend to go for any kind of adventure, then it is not recommended to get this bulky and pricey stroller. You can easily find some better options on this list that can best suit your needs.
The front swivel wheel offers smooth maneuverability. However, it can easily be locked in order to provide added stability. On the other hand, the rear wheels are huge, which means that this stroller can handle dirt paths, gravel trails, and sandy boardwalks better than any other stroller on the market, making it one of the best-strollers-for-gravel-roads. The stroller comes with a handlebar that can be adjusted in nine different positions so that the parent has the liberty to choose the perfect position that best suits them. The best part about this stroller is that it is well-equipped with rear drum brakes that are hand-activated, this braking system will come handy to control the speed down the hilly track. Another plus is the large cargo basket that comes with the stroller, making it very convenient for the parents to stash essential baby gears like toys, diapers, etc.
The downside of this product is that it can get cumbersome and bulky when folded; however, it is reasonably lighter than other jogging strollers. Considering its price and its versatility, the BOB Revolution PRO is an excellent option for any parent who has an adventure in mind.
It comes with a 12-inch front swivel wheel and 16-inch rear spoked wheels, along with dual FlexCore suspension, that will provide a smooth strolling experience for you and your baby. The Chicco TRE offers unmatched convenience by adding a parent control console that makes it super easy to operate the stroller. There is also a deceleration brake added on the console that will also act as a fixed parking brake. The adjustable push handle is fully padded to provide extra comfort for the parent. Apart from this, there is also a parent tray added on the console with two cup holders along with a huge storage basket to provide convenience.
The TRE also accepts most of the infant car seats that can be very effective to accommodate smaller babies into the stroller. To provide extra comfort for your baby, the TRE comes with water repellent, extra durable fabric along with an extendable full-coverage canopy that has tinted mesh windows.
The Chicco TRE is one of the best options for active families who are on a budget; that is why it deserves to be on our list.
It is well-equipped with an ergonomic adjustable handlebar, rear-wheel suspension, and handbrake that are some features which are non-negotiable for dedicated runners. The fabric on the stroller feels breathable and durable. The credit to its sleek design goes to its beautiful aluminum frame. Another plus is that this stroller has ample storage space that will allow you to store toys, snacks, diapers, and other baby essentials quite conveniently.
The Glide 2 comes with a 16-inch fixed front wheel and 18-inch rear wheels; the sizeable air-filled rubber tires will provide a comfortable and smooth ride for its passenger. The stroller can handle various terrains very easily, making it perfect equipment for an outdoor adventure. The only downside is that the fixed wheel design, when compared to the swivel wheel, can take more energy to turn and navigate through narrow spaces. The fixed front wheel, along with its longer length, can be a dealbreaker for the majority of parents out there. To sum up, the Thule Glide 2 is a reasonable option for serious runners who have a spare stroller available for everyday use.
The frame of the stroller can be used in six different modes, and that includes a reversible mode that allows the baby to face the parent or the outside world. The seat can also be converted as a travel system, carriage and frame stroller modes. The travel system also comes with a safe-zone base, blanket boot, large storage basket, and a large canopy, which adds significant value to the overall deal. Apart from this, its armbars are completely removable, making it easier to transfer your baby into the car. The travel system has a very slim and sleek profile, which will allow you to squeeze it into tight spaces once folded.
Overall, the Evenflo Pivot Modular Travel System seems to be quite versatile; however, most reviewers have complained that the wheels are not suited for uneven terrain.
The reclining stroller’s seat can be used for older babies. The stroller is well-equipped with a child tray along with two baby cup holders. There is also a giant adjustable canopy on the stroller that guarantees sun protection for your little one. On the other hand, for younger babies, it is suggested to simply attach the infant car seat onto the stroller.
The best part is that you are not supposed to detach the stroller seat in order to attach the carrier. Similarly, the stroller seat along with the canopy can easily be detached for you to attach the car seat on the empty frame. This is what makes it one of the easiest assembly travel systems. Apart from this, the stroller is armed with front swivels and full suspension, which are the perfect ingredients for a smooth ride. Another plus is that the stroller also comes with a convenient parent tray that has 2 cup holders and a spacious storage compartment to store your wallet or mobile phone.
Some reviewers have shown their dislike for the stroller seat, which only faces outwards. A lot of them would prefer to have a parent-facing option as well. However, the majority of reviewers online really enjoyed this product, primarily because of the hassle-free assembly process that you can buy at a great value.
The Expedition has an extra-wide, ergonomically shaped, and completely padded push handle. The canopy is adjustable to provide the much-needed sun protection for your kid. Apart from this, you and your little one will get their separate trays along with cup holders. Not only that, but you will also get a large storage basket to store your baby’s gear.
This jogger is not armed with a suspension, making it a poor option for dedicated runners. The travel system is also cumbersome to carry and store in limited spaces. However, considering the price, it is still a smart purchase.
In order to accommodate the umbrella design, the manufacturers have not compromised on its features. It has all the features parents could ask for in a small travel-friendly stroller. It is a little expensive compared to other travel-friendly options, so it won’t be an ideal option for parents on a budget; however, it’s premium quality materials will convince most of the parents to spend their money on this stroller.
The Net is one of the best reclining umbrella strollers on the planet. It is armed with a two-position recline, which will allow your baby to take a pleasant and comfortable nap. The fabrics used for the seat also feels very breathable. Apart from this, the stroller is equipped with a four-panel canopy, which is a non-negotiable feature that will help your baby stay cool during hot days. The canopy is made from UPF 50+ rated material, which will not only protect your child from harmful sun rays but will also ensure maximum airflow for the passenger.
The Net also comes with a spacious storage basket along with a cup holder that will provide maximum convenience for parents. Talking about convenience, the Net also features a shoulder strap, which is very practical to transport the stroller when not in use.
All in all, the Inglesina Net is a bang for the buck. It is an ideal option for parents who are on a budget, looking for a compact and travel-friendly stroller.
The first thing you will notice about this stroller is an enormous canopy that will cover you, baby, quite easily. It is not very common to get an oversized sunshade with a compact stroller. The overall weight of this product is only 11 pounds, and it can easily fit in tight spaces, which is exactly why people buy umbrella strollers. The Zoe XL1 also comes with a cup and snack holder for the baby along with a detachable cup holder for the parent. Not only that, but you will also get a storage basket, which again is not very commonly found in a lightweight stroller. Despite being so light in weight, this stroller is surprisingly stable, which means that it won’t tip backward if you put some pressure on its handle.
The Expedition Double features pneumatic rubber tires that will allow you to move through all types of terrains easily. The lockable front swivel wheel will be appropriate for jogging. This stroller is well-equipped with a handy parent’s tray, under-carriage storage, and an extensive canopy; these features are highly rated by most parents.
Unfortunately, the stroller lacks suspension, so it is not an ideal option for dedicated runners. However, if you want a pocket-friendly double stroller that is not only travel-friendly but will also allow you to jog occasionally, then the Baby Trend Expedition Double is a smart buy.
As mentioned above, strollers come in various styles. These include standard-size strollers, umbrella strollers, double strollers, jogging strollers, travel systems. The right stroller for your baby will depend on the features that your family needs.
Typically with wheels, you can either choose a three-wheel or four-wheel option. Regardless of which type you choose, you would want wheels that are easy to move and turn.
Some strollers feature a suspension system that will allow you to move through uneven surfaces with ease. However, a stroller with no suspension will also work for you if you are going to use your stroller on smooth surfaces.
The stroller’s weight limit will tell you whether the stroller is best-suited for a newborn or a grown-up baby. The majority of strollers have a weight capacity of 45 to 65 pounds.
When you have a baby, a stroller becomes everyday baby equipment. That is why for most of the parents, having accessories such as cup holders, parent and baby trays, and storage compartments become non-negotiable.
You should also look for flexibility in your stroller. A recline stroller seat usually means that your baby can enjoy a comfortable sleep. Similarly, you should consider other features such as adjustable canopies, rotating seats and leg rests for extra comfort.
You don’t want to fight with your stroller, especially when you are in a hurry. That is why you should choose the model while are easy to assemble or fold. These features are readily available on umbrella strollers.
You need to make sure that your stroller comes with a proper braking system. This feature becomes vital if you are opting for a jogging stroller. Foot brakes are commonly used, which will allow you to slow down your stroller with a gentle tap, just like in cars. Hand brakes, on the other hand, are not so commonly used. But they are conveniently located on the handle, which gets very easy to operate for the parent.
Price do matter; however, there is no predefined rule which says that an expensive stroller is the best stroller. Yes, an expensive stroller will often come with premium features, but why pay extra money for features that you are not going to need? Similarly, you will get extremely affordable strollers on the market, which offers more or less the same features provided by an expensive one.
The top priority of every parent out there is the safety of their child. That is why it becomes essential to pay close attention to the harness system offered by the stroller to make sure that your baby is completely safe and secure. If you are shopping for a stroller for your newborn, then you might want to get one that has a five-point harness, which is the most secure and robust restraint system. Some of the strollers are also equipped with three-point harnesses, but these are not very commonly found on strollers these days.
Safety is not the only priority. As a parent, you are supposed to ensure that your baby’s safe while staying comfortable. That is why you have to consider the type of seat that’s offered by a stroller. For a cushy and comfortable ride, you should make sure that the seat is sufficiently padded. And if your toddler is in the habit of spilling milk, then you should make sure that the stroller is offering a removable and washable seat.
You will be carrying a lot of baby stuff while going out for a stroll with your toddler. You need a stroller with spacious storage space to stash in the diaper bag, toys, snacks, and even your mobile phone and wallet. That is why it makes sense to get a stroller that offers plenty of storage compartments for your convenience.
A stroller will utilize plenty of space when not in use. That is why you should get a stroller that folds up easily to fit in the trunk of your car or in the back of a closet. Sometimes when you are holding a baby in one hand, you are unable to wrestle with the stroller to assemble it. For this reason, a majority of strollers nowadays are well-equipped with a one-handed folding mechanism. This folding mechanism is generally found in umbrella strollers. Some of these strollers fold so compactly that they can fit into the overhead storage bin found on commercial aircrafts.
The majority of strollers are designed to accommodate more than three months old babies. However, if you wish to head out with your newborn, you would want to buy a stroller that is safe for little babies. While there are plenty of options available that are explicitly designed for newborns, you can easily purchase an infant car seat or a carrier that gets attached to a standard stroller. This will allow you to use a full-size stroller for your newborn and throughout its toddlerhood. Thus, you should make sure that the stroller you are buying can accommodate a car seat for your infant.
As discussed before, safety has always been the top priority for parents. They want a stroller they can trust. This is why it is vital to check for the type of warranty that is offered by various manufacturers. One thing is certain; you will get what you have paid for. A budget-friendly stroller will definitely not provide a warranty for more than six months or a year. So, if you are planning to use your stroller for a long time, then you might want to increase your budget in order to get a stroller that offers three to five years of warranty. Keep in mind that regular wear and tear, along with damages caused by your negligence, are not covered. But it is still essential to get a few years of warranty for your peace of mind.
Certifications are a sign of safety. Make sure that your stroller has the JPMA (Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association) certification. You can also visit the website of JPMA and check for the stroller brands that are certified. This certification generally means that the stroller’s brakes, stability, and locking mechanism are carefully tested.
The stroller frame is what makes a stroller light or heavyweight. If the frame is bulky, the stroller will become heavy. That is why search for a frame that is made from light materials that do not compromise on the overall durability.
A canopy should be large enough to protect your baby from the wind, dirt, and harmful sunrays. Apart from this, the canopy should also have excellent ventilation so that it is breathable and pleasant for the baby.
1. Do I need a stroller?
You only need a stroller if you go outside very often. If you are planning to go outside for running, or even for grocery shopping, you can take your baby with you on a stroller. Most parents also use their strollers to help their babies fall asleep. Babies just love movement and fresh air.
2. When can I use a stroller?
Typically, you can start using a stroller once your baby has neck control and has learned to sit. However, many strollers can host an infant car seat or can recline flat, which means that you can use your stroller from birth. A stroller is considered as a good investment because a lot of strollers can hold babies until they are around 50 pounds.
3. Can one stroller do it all? Or is there a perfect stroller?
No, each type of stroller comes with a unique set of features. None of the strollers can do everything. A perfect stroller just does not exist. However, some strollers like the UPPAbaby Cruz V2 check most of the boxes, and that’s why we consider it to be the best overall stroller.
4. Can a jogging stroller work for everyday use?
Yes, a jogger can work for everyday use. Some jogging strollers feature plenty of storage along with a lockable swivel front wheel, which allows these strollers to function like any other standard stroller. According to reviewers, a jogger works fine for daily outings as it does for jogging.
5. Should I use a standard or an umbrella stroller?
The answer will depend on your strolling plans. If you travel frequently, you might want to spend your bucks in getting a lightweight umbrella stroller because of their travel-friendly nature. However, you should choose a standard-size stroller if you do not have recurring travel plans.
6. Are the double strollers better for twins?
Yes, a double stroller is an ideal option for twins. However, you can use a double stroller for babies of close ages as well.
7. When can a baby sit in a stroller without an infant car seat?
Newborns lack the neck strength to sit up, that is why you need a stroller with a fully reclining seat, or you can use an infant car seat. At around three to six months, your baby will have control over its neck and have learned how to sit up. This is when your baby is ready to sir on your stroller without an infant car seat.
8. Should I choose a stroller first and then a compatible car seat, or is it the other way around?
It is suggested to choose a car seat first and then search for a compatible stroller. This is because you can easily find a lot of stroller companies making adapters that can connect popular brands of infant car seats, which will allow you to link the two products together.
In this era, strollers have become essential gear for any parent. However, choosing the best option for your family will depend on your family’s need, not on the price tag. Search for features in a stroller that are convenient for you and comfortable for your baby. The best stroller is the one that stays consistent and continuously grows with your baby.
Happy shopping.