A new baby means getting yourself another set of wheels, and we don't mean a car! The best strollers will make your life much easier, and getting out of the house with your new addition will be a less stressful experience!
A stroller offers a convenient and comfortable place for your little one and the mountains of baby items you'll undoubtedly carry with you! They're perfect if you're on the go a lot.
However, with the sheer amount flooding the market, how do you know which one to pick? Your budget, the terrain you'll be walking on, and accessories are all factors you need to think about.
If it's making your brain hurt trying to decide, don't worry. We've taken the guesswork out of it and put together this useful buyers guide. We've picked out the top 5 best strollers and what to look out for when buying one.
So without further ado, let's take a look at the importance of stroller safety and what to look out for!
The importance of stroller safety
In recent years, stroller designs have not only become more advanced, but so have their extra features. Some of these features will improve the safety of your baby's ride and make it more comfortable for them.
Other features such as shopping baskets or coffee cup holders are meant for parents. An important thing to remember is the age of your baby.
If you're buying a new stroller for your newborn, it needs to be a model that can recline. Since newborns aren't strong enough to sit up or hold their heads up, a stroller with an upright seat would be pretty dangerous.
Luckily, many strollers recline all the way or are compatible with a bassinet or an infant car seat, making them versatile. If you're a keen runner, take note, a jogging stroller isn't designed to recline so they're only suitable for babies age six months.
Another tip is to look at strollers that have sturdy frames that are easy to steer. The stroller should also have at least one parking brake and a five-point harness to ensure your child is fully secured.
Things to look out for in a stroller
Searching for the best strollers can be an infuriating task. Which type is best for a new baby? Which features should you look for? Which ones are portable? All of these questions can be overwhelming for a new parent.
To make it easier, we've outlined some important things to consider when you're looking for your new stroller. Check them out below!
Type of stroller:
The type of stroller you buy is very important. The main types include:
- Full-size strollers: These are the most commonly used and are bigger, stronger, and more durable. If you're looking for a stroller that will carry your little one from birth through to their toddler years, this is the one for you.
- Travel system: A travel system is a stroller with an attachment for an infant car seat. These are popular because you can use them from birth. Travel systems also allow you to transfer your little one from the stroller to the car seat and back without disturbing them.
- Lightweight strollers: Also called travel strollers, this model does exactly what it says on the packet; lightweight strollers weigh much less than full-size models. Ideal if you need a stroller that's easy to fold up and down, e.g. for apartment living or travelling a lot.
- Double strollers: A double stroller can accommodate two children. Perfect for twins or if you have kids that are close in age. They come in two different seating configurations - side by side or in-line (back to front).
- Jogging strollers: If you're a keen jogger, you'll be pleased to know that these strollers can tackle challenging terrain and feature enhanced suspension systems for a smooth ride.
- Stroller frames: This is just the frame of the stroller, handle, wheels, and storage basket. It becomes a complete stroller when you add an infant car seat.
Weight limit
Next, think about how much weight the stroller can carry. Even older children need an occasional rest from walking, but which weight should you choose?
An 8-pound newborn baby isn't going to affect the stroller's weight as much as a 40-pound 4-year-old. For older children, lightweight or umbrella strollers are ideal, as the stroller only weighs around 13 pounds and can carry up to 50 pounds.
Jogging strollers are the hardiest, and some even carry up to 75 pounds, making them the perfect choice for parents with older children. Don't worry; being a jogger isn't a prerequisite to owning a jogging stroller!
Durability
A durable stroller is essential. Being parents is hard enough; the last thing you need is a flimsy stroller that makes your life even harder. Look for a model with a strong frame that's easy to push along.
This will also create a more comfortable ride for your baby. The larger full-size strollers tend to be the most durable, and many of them can be used from birth up to 3 years of age, making them a wise investment.
Additional features
It's a good idea to look for a stroller set that has additional features. A canopy is a must-have in hot weather or adverse weather conditions. Reverse canopies can protect your baby from both sun and high winds from behind or in front.
Some even have a clear plastic window on top so you can watch your little one as you walk along. An adjustable handlebar is also a useful extra to have. This is ideal if you and your partner take turns pushing the stroller.
Good storage space is also a convenient feature to have. Every parent knows taking kids out for a walk requires a mountain of essentials, making you feel like a pack mule! An undercarriage storage basket will allow you to keep your belongings safe and ready to go.
Portability
This is an important factor to think about if you're going to be out and about lots, or if you'll take your stroller on public transport. If you have a big car, then a travel system is the ideal choice as you can transfer your sleeping baby from the car seat stroller to the vehicle with minimal fuss.
However, if you have a smaller car, a travel system or a full-size stroller may be too cumbersome. In that case, a lightweight stroller would be better. These fold up tightly and will fit easily into small spaces.
Although double strollers are handy for twins or similarly aged kids, they're not very portable. However, this would only be an issue if you have to transport the stroller. If you'll be using it for walks only, it's a great choice for a bigger family!
The best strollers
Now let's take a look at our top 5 best strollers on the market! There are different model types, all at varying prices to suit all budgets, so you're sure to find one you love.
Thule Urban Glide 2 Jogging Stroller
If you want to stay active after your little one arrives, the Thule Urban Glide 2 is perfect. It has many features for everyday use and extras, including a huge canopy and covered storage space to help you in different weathers.
It's also compatible with many different infant car seats if you buy the adapter as well. Because it's a stroller meant for constant movement, you can lock the front wheel, meaning you won't have to worry about it going off the path. It's also capable of handling different terrains and surfaces, from paved sidewalks to dirt tracks. You don't need to be into running either; this model is ideal for any parents who want to be on the move.
Pros:
- Sturdy and high-quality build
- Can cope with different surfaces
- Lightweight and easy to push
Cons:
- It doesn't include a parent console.
Uppababy Vista
If you want an everyday stroller, that will accommodate your growing child for longer; the Uppababy Vista will do just that. For a newborn, the Uppababy vista has a bassinet attachment to transport your baby, which will support the little one until they reach around 20 pounds.
The Uppababy Vista also gives you the option to change to the toddler seat, which should last until your child reaches the maximum weight capacity of 50 pounds.
Pros:
- It can accommodate a wide age range, making it versatile
- A large storage basket can carry up to 30 pounds
- Seat is reversible
Cons:
- It may be too big for some parents.
Babyzen YOYO
Super lightweight and easy to transport, the YOYO is perfect for parents on the go. It's been designed to fit in the overhead compartment on a plane. It boasts an integrated strap so you can effortlessly carry it over your shoulder when you're not using it.
If you buy the newborn pack, you can also use it from birth and into their toddler years as it's compatible with many different car seat models. As a cool extra feature, you can also swap out the seat fabric for another color whenever you want!
Pros:
- Super lightweight and portable
- Customizable seat fabrics
- The newborn pack can be used with different car seats
Cons:
- Premium price tag
Baby Jogger City Mini GT Double
Next up, we have the Baby Jogger City Mini double stroller. An updated design, the City Mini stroller features rubber forever air tires and an all-wheel suspension system for perfect agility on even the trickiest terrain.
The exclusive one-step in-seat lets you fold this lightweight double model quickly and effortlessly. Both seats feature adjustable calf support and a nearly flat recline, allowing you to find the most comfortable position for your little one. Handy extras include an adjustable handlebar, hand-operated brake, and an extra-large basket to keep your belongings tidy.
Pros:
- Full coverage canopy
- Wheel suspension
- Reclining seat
- Easy folding mechanism
Cons:
- It doesn't come in many different colors
Uppababy Cruz
If you're looking to splash the cash on a city stroller, check out the Uppababy Cruz. The higher price will provide a smoother and more comfortable ride for your little one, even capable of tackling uneven city streets.
Perfect for grocery shopping, the extra-large shopping basket means you'll no longer run out of hands! Featuring four small but robust wheels, this model offers reverse seating so your baby can see you if they're feeling unsettled.
Compatible with different car seat brands, the Cruz makes transferring your little one from car to home an easy and stress-free process.
Pros:
- Sleek and smart design
- Reverse seating option
- It can be used with different car seats
Cons:
- Due to its size, it requires two hands to unfold it.
Find the best stroller with Your Baby Club USA
Here on Your Baby Club, you'll find many useful articles on all aspects of child care, newborn baby tips, and general advice for expectant parents. If you're looking for the perfect stroller for your new addition, this guide has some awesome tips and advice.
From car seat recommendations to traveling systems, you'll find it all on Your Baby Club. With many bloggers and experts in all areas of motherhood and baby care, it'll become your go-to place for handy tips and advice.
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FAQs
Which brand stroller is the best?
All of the strollers featured in our top 5 are from amazing brands, but the Uppababy range has proven very popular.
This brand has created some incredibly functional and practical strollers with advanced features such as wheel suspension and reverse seating.
What is the best stroller of 2020?
With its new and improved design, the City Mini stroller is one of the best on the market. With positive reviews and lots of great features, this model is perfect for a growing family.
Equally as good is the Thule Urban Glide 2. Capable of handling rough terrain, this is the ideal everyday stroller. The lightweight but sturdy frame is easy to maneuver, making it perfect for that busy parent life!
What is the safest baby stroller?
All of the models on our list have super safe designs and safety features, including robust footrests, parking brakes, and harnesses so your little one is secured well.
The Urban Glide 2 even has a lockable front wheel for extra safety, as well as a huge canopy to protect your little one from the harsh sun or high winds.
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