Choosing a Stroller That's Right For You
A stroller is an often collapsible four-wheeled chairlike carriage which small children can be pushed in. It's a great way to go for a leisurely walk or run.
Push Chairs And Prams offers a variety of single and double strollers. Our store best sellers include the Peg Perego Primo Viaggio 3-in-1 Convertible Car Seat/Stroller.
Selecting a Stroller
Strollers can be a parent's best friend. They let parents easily transport their children around town, discover the outdoors or stroll through busy shopping malls. It's important to choose the right stroller that suits your child and family. Think about where and how often you'll use the stroller before selecting one that is appropriate for you. Will it need to take on tough terrains or fit into a compact car trunk, or navigate narrow doorways? Also, consider whether you'll want to stroll with it in the city or out in the woods. After you've decided on the kind of stroller and features you want, you can test drive various models.
Begin by taking some laps around the parking area to familiarize yourself with the way it handles and maneuvers. If you're planning to use it for jogging, test the tires for durability and see how they move over bumps and uneven sidewalks. Decide if you want a basket to store your essentials or a reclining seat for infants. Also, make sure the handlebars are an appropriate height to allow you to walk comfortably and that there's enough space in the seat to hold a child your size.
Next, if you're planning on having more kids in the near future, think about investing in one stroller that converts into a double or allows you to add a stroller board (for toddlers). Babylist parents tell us one of their biggest regrets with strollers is not purchasing a convertible model when they had the opportunity.
If you're planning to use the stroller during rain or other inclement weather, look for accessories like sun canopies and rain covers that can be quickly and easily connected. Don't forget to think about safety. Make sure you have a five-point harness system that is easy to buckle and unlock and secure seating and strong brakes. Also, check the hinges to ensure there aren't sharp edges or places where a small finger could get stuck. Check that the stroller meets the safety standards of the state and local authorities. Then, test it with your child to ensure that you're both at ease.
Strollers for One Child
It is possible that you only need one stroller if you have a single child. They are typically smaller than full-sized models and have the same safety features that larger strollers have that include a large canopy to protect your baby from wind and sun. These strollers are also more maneuverable, and have fewer components to break.
If your child is in an infant car seat, a stroller with an infant carrier included might be a good choice. These strollers feature sturdy frames that can hold multiple seats, or even an additional infant car seat attached to the base. They are usually easier to use and cost less upfront than convertible or double strollers.
A stroller that's all-in one can be a great option for older children. They come with a big and spacious basket that can store your child's belongings and will fit most infant diaper bags. They're also easy to steer and are narrow enough to fit through a doorway or bathroom stall. They can be folded and put away in a car's back or closet for easy transportation.
If you're seeking a stroller that will grow with your family, consider a convertible model. They come with a base frame which can accommodate up to two toddler seats or even a bassinet for a baby. (Adapters and carriers are sold separately). These strollers are typically more expensive than single-seaters however they are a great investment when you're looking to take your kids on a short journey and have flexibility in seating. The UPPAbaby vista V2 is a stroller that can be converted with top features that can hold up to three children (age-dependent).
Strollers for Two Children
A double stroller will assist you in transporting two children at the same time if you have more than one. There are a variety of options including tandems, side-by sides, and wagons. Many of the dual-strollers that we tested can accommodate the second child's seat or a third one if you include a piggyback board (sold separately). Tandem strollers have more configurations for different age groups and stages than side-by-side models, but they are also typically larger in size and heavier in weight.
Parents of twins will want a double stroller with the same seating arrangement as their children. They will also likely require one that can fit two infant car seats simultaneously which is something only a handful of our best-rated double strollers offer. Twins who are close in age or capability may be better off using a tandem stroller, but the type of seating will also depend on how far apart they are in terms of age and what features they each prefer.
In our tests, we observed that all the tandem strollers we tested were easy to maneuver and had a an ample turning radius. However, they did not turn as smoothly as a single stroller in small areas and could be difficult to maneuver around curbs. The majority of the strollers we tested fit through most standard doors, but they may have a more narrow aisle than a single stroller.
Some of the side-by-sides that we tested had a second toddler's seat, but you couldn't switch them out and in. This could be beneficial if your kids are at different age ranges. The UPPAbaby V2 Double is the exception to this rule. It lets you easily change between single and double mode by converting its frame.
Side-by-side strollers are the most popular model in our double stroller category, and we've tested some of the best options that are available. They offer the convenience of keeping both children within reach at all times, and come with plenty of storage space for your items. Some come with parent consoles to help you keep on top of your child's desires and needs. Some are priced at the same rate as our top single strollers, while others are more expensive.
Strollers for three children
You'll need the perfect stroller for your children when you have three (or two older twins and a singleton). It's a significant purchase, so you'll need to shop around to find a model that is suitable for your family size, lifestyle and budget.
Try the Graco Ready2GrowLX three stroller if you want a stroller that can grow with your kids. It comes with a front seat that can accommodate bassinets or infant car seats, and a rear bench seat that converts to a toddler's seat for children up to six months old. The seat can be used as an elevated platform for toddlers, and you can use the included parent tray with cup holders and storage compartments.
Another fantastic triple stroller is the Joovy Big Caboose. It has two car-seat-compatible, forward-facing reclined seats that can accommodate children who are 32 inches or more tall. You can then add the rear seat accessory to convert it into a triple tandem stroller, with a third standard seat for your child's oldest. This model is perfect for twins or siblings who are close in age. The older child will sit on the front seat, and the younger child will be in the rear.
Many parents opt for quad strollers, which is essentially double stroller that has an additional seat in the back. These models aren't as maneuverable but they offer more seating options compared to a regular double. One option is the Foundations Trio Sport 4-Passenger Stroller, which is relatively affordable and has excellent reviews from parents who have used it.
Strollers can be used to transport your children around and provide them with a safe and comfortable spot to relax while you're out. When it's time to buy a new stroller, it is important to know the differences between double and single strollers to choose the best model for your family. No matter which model you pick, it is important to choose a stroller with ergonomic handlebars that are comfortable to steer and push for long durations.