Consider the circumstances which you will be using your stroller. Walks in the park or maneuvering through busy city streets? Shopping in the mall or exercising? There are many strollers available that are hybrids of the stroller types we outline below. That means, for example, you might find a model that is a Full Sized, All Terrain capable Travel System that includes a Pram (Carriage) and is as lightweight as some of the smallest strollers. Look at the categories below as a basic guideline, but select your stroller based on its own unique features. This will ensure you enjoy all the conveniences a quality stroller can offer.
TYPES OF STROLLERS
- FULL SIZED STROLLER: A full sized stroller will include a bassinet (sometimes called a Pram) or a fully reclining seat which allows your newborn to lie flat. This is the recommended position for newborns until they are able to properly support their head and neck. Some styles allow you to remove the Pram/Bassinet and the full sized stroller will accommodate children up to toddler age, around 40lbs (models may vary).
Some Full Sized strollers may be more difficult to transport due to their size. Although this is a heavier and bulkier model, better full sized strollers may have an aluminum frame, making it lighter weight. Full sized strollers provide a very comfortable ride for baby. Fancier models will have lots of bells and whistles like extra padding, shock absorbers, and adjustable handles too.
- UMBRELLA STROLLERS: An umbrella stroller is a perfect choice for quick trips in the car and even for travel. They are lightweight, compact and will generally fold easily. Babies will need full head and neck control to ride in an Umbrella Stroller, therefore it is best suited for children that are 6 months or older. They will accommodate children up to toddler size, around 40 lbs or 4 years old (models may vary). This is a great choice as a second stroller. Better models can include a lightweight frame, have hand level opening triggers and stand upright when folded for easier access and less bending.
- TRAVEL SYSTEMS: A travel system combines an Infant Car Seat and stroller in one. It will include the Infant Car Seat, Car Seat Base and the Stroller. This style will accommodate newborns through toddlers (models may vary). The joy of this model is you won't need to wake your sleeping baby to take them from the car to the stroller... just snap the car seat into the stroller. Travel Systems will generally fold and store easily as well. Once your baby outgrows the Infant Car Seat, just use it as a stroller alone, without the car seat. At this point you will need to purchase the age appropriate car seat for your child.
- JOGGING STROLLERS: If you're an active parent that likes to exercise and wants to take baby along, then this is just what you need. A Jogger is equipped with 3 rugged pneumatic (air filled) big wheels, a hand break and a safety strap or tether to keep you and the stroller always together. Its large size wheels may even include shock absorbers to make for a more comfortable ride for baby. And since most of these strollers usually don't fully recline, they will be best for children who are at least 6 months old, though models may vary. Some can accommodate children up to 50 lbs or 5 years old too. The front wheel of a Jogger is fixed in place, though this is harder to maneuver, it's ideal for keeping you on course when jogging or walking for fitness. Look for models that allow you to unlock the front wheel for better maneuverability when not exercising.
ALL TERRAIN STROLLERS are designed much like a Jogger. Their front tire swivels (unlike the jogger), offering better maneuverability and handling on all types of terrain, both off road and pavement. - DOUBLE STROLLERS: If you have more than one child, you will enjoy the convenience of a double stroller. Available either side by side or tandem (one in front of the other). Tandem models will be narrower and allow you to maneuver through aisles and small spaces a little easier. Generally, doubles will offer fully reclining seats for newborns and accommodate up to toddlers, approximately 4 yrs old or 40 lbs (models may vary). Some styles may include a universal car seat carrier as well. If you have an older child, you will enjoy models that have a rear stand on platform, while smaller babies ride in the stroller seat... the ultimate solution to help you keep track of everyone.
- INFANT CAR SEAT CARRIER: A simple lightweight frame that is portable and compact for easy travel. No need to wake baby. Just take the car seat from the car and snap it into the frame. This style is only used for newborns up to approximately 6 months.
IMPORTANT FEATURES
- Harness/Safety Belts to keep baby safe and secure. A five point harness will offer the utmost security.
- Reversible Seat. Allows you to place baby in the stroller either facing you or facing the world.
- Adjustable Reclining Positions & Footrest. Strollers that accommodate newborns will recline all the way flat so they can rest comfortably. As baby gets older, look for strollers with multiple recline positions and adjustable footrests for your growing baby's comfort.
- Washable, Removable Cover offers the added ease of use and care.
- One Handed Folding Mechanism. Found on some strollers, makes folding and unfolding easy, even when your hands are full.
- Fold and Stand. Once folded, the stroller will stand upright, rather than lay on the ground. Less bending and it won't get dirty just laying around.
- Adjustable Handlebars make pushing the stroller more comfortable. If you're taller, just make the handle longer so the stroller is farther away from you. Then you won't kick the stroller as you walk.
- Baskets, Storage & Pockets. A place for all your stuff will always be helpful. From larger baskets underneath to small convenient pockets for your cell phone.
- Locking Wheel Brakes put your stroller in "park" when you come to a stop.
- Smooth Ride. From shock absorbers to large all terrain wheels, everyone will benefit from a more comfortable ride. Give the strollers a trial push to feel the difference.
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