Strollers- Which Kind Is Best?

There are so many different types of strollers out there it is hard to know what kind is right. Do you get something lightweight or heavier, an umbrella stroller or a jogging stroller? Well, here is a basic list of the different types of baby strollers.

Umbrella Stroller

An umbrella stroller has curved double handles and they fold up easily and compactly, like an umbrella; hence the name. These are the smallest and lightest baby strollers available. They can have a cloth or vinyl seat on a basic frame with swivel wheels. Some offer features such as a canopy and a storage basket. This is a great stroller for short trips where you don't need to bring a lot of stuff with you. But beware; they are not as sturdy as other strollers and don't offer the same safety features. They are also not meant for children less than 6 months or children unable to sit unassisted in an upright position.

Lightweight Strollers

Lightweight strollers are mid-sized strollers that can be very basic or come with many features. There is an abundant selection of lightweight strollers, so make sure you know what your needs are before you begin to shop around. Lightweight strollers are meant for basic baby transportation like shopping, walking on paved sidewalks, etc. They are not meant for all terrain, running, or jogging. These strollers are more comfortable and practical than umbrella strollers and there is a huge selection of models and styles. There are lots of them that come with many different practical features such as a canopy, cup holders and extra storage space. Many of them may work with an infant car seat, meaning you can put the car seat in the stroller and they have good durability.

Travel System Stroller

Stroller travel systems are the ultimate in convenience for a parent with a newborn because they include the car seat, stroller, and a car seat base. They are the combination of a good-sized stroller, with an infant carrier that buckles in and out. If you are planning on only buying one stroller, this would be great because they work from birth to toddlerhood. They also have many features available like a cup holder and extra storage space. However, be aware that the weight is considered too heavy by some and the lower quality of some of these may lead you to buy something else after your baby has outgrown their infant car seat. They are also not suitable for rough terrain, running, or jogging.

Jogging and All-Terrain Strollers

These strollers are heavy duty strollers that can come with many features. More and more parents are using jogging strollers to get out of the house and exercise. A true jogging stroller is meant for serious running and has 3 large inflatable tires, with a fixed front tire. Jogging strollers are built for speed, not handling. Trying to use them for other activities such as shopping may lead to frustration and disappointment.

All-Terrain Strollers, which are also called sport strollers or sport utility strollers, are great for walking on or off paved roads. They are very durable and can handle most terrains. They also can fit through most doorways and are pretty easy to use. They can be difficult to turn if the front wheel doesn't swivel, so you may want one with a front wheel that has the ability to turn.

Double Strollers

These strollers are great for multiple kids.  Depending on the type of double stroller you get, some can accommodate an infant car seat. They can have many features and the high quality ones are pretty easy to maneuver. On the other hand, they are quite bulky and harder to carry around.

You just need to decide what you will be using the stroller for most and what features you would like. I would make a list of the most important things that you want in a stroller and go from there. You also have to realize that you might not be able to get a stroller with all the features that you want, so decide what is most important to you and your family.