There are a LOT of baby stroller options on the market. So we understand how confusing it can be to choose the one that’s right for your family. Not only are there a variety of brands, but a variety of strollers that serve different purposes.
There are a few types of strollers on the market:
- Full-sized stroller
- Lightweight or umbrella stroller
- Jogging stroller
- Double stroller
- Car seat carrier
Full-sized baby stroller
Full-sized strollers are large strollers that are typically designed for a variety of purposes that cover a lot of basics and have a lot of bells and whistles. These are the “standard” option for families that are in the market for a stroller.
These strollers for baby often offer things like a seat recline, forward or rear facing seat, car seat adaptability, and roomy storage baskets. Some full-size strollers will also convert to a multi-child option as your family grows.
The downside of full-size strollers? They are bulky and heavy. Even the designs that boast of lightweight frames can still be tricky to fold up and lift into a vehicle. Additionally, they are on the larger side which makes it difficult to take into smaller spaces or into homes with limited storage.
Jogging stroller
Jogging strollers are designed with larger wheels (usually in the form of rubber like a bike tire you can inflate) and good suspension to withstand the bumps from alternate terrain and running.
If you’re an active family, jogging strollers are a great option because you can walk, jog, in some cases even hike with your baby securely in a stroller.
The downsides of a jogging stroller are that they are heavy and large. These strollers are typically a little wider than full-size strollers because they need to support parent and baby through rougher terrain. Additionally, many jogging strollers aren’t car seat compatible and don’t always support newborn through toddler.
Double stroller
Double stroller is for those of you with twins in tow or an older sibling who isn’t ready to give up their stroller time. Doubles come in two formats: tandem (where one child sits behind the other) or side-by-side.
Double strollers are obviously a great option for families with multiple children. However, they are big, bulky, and heavy. You’ll want to consider how well the double stroller will fit your needs like going through doors, moving easily, and maybe even car seat compatibility.
Car seat carrier
Car seat carriers are very simple wheeled frames that are built to transform your infant car seat into a infant stroller with a quick click in. While compact and lightweight, these strollers don’t tend to be a good, ergonomic option for parents. They usually sit pretty low and require a lot of leaning and bending. They also don’t come with additional features like cup holders or storage.
What is a compact stroller?
Compact strollers, sometimes referred to as umbrella strollers, are exactly what its name claims—compact. It’s compact when it’s folded and when it’s in use. It’s small enough so you can walk up and down store aisles and hallways or push in and out of elevators without taking up the entire space. Plus, being so lightweight and portable, there’s no hassle taking one traveling. You won’t need to buy a gym membership and take up weightlifting before buying a compact stroller. It’s also convenient to store. You can fold it up and stick it in your coat closet, garage, or the trunk of your car and still be able to fit everything else in those areas you need.
Benefits of a Compact Stroller:
- Lightweight, or umbrella, or compact strollers typically weigh under 15 lbs.
- They are built to fold quickly and compactly
- Easy to travel with or take with you on-the-go
Downsides:
- Most compact strollers are not newborn compatible (but not all of them…we’ll get to that in a minute).
- Most do not have a convertible option for multiple kids.
Why do I need a compact stroller?
Why do I need a compact stroller?Unfortunately, most compact strollers on the market are flimsy, poorly made, and not comfortable for baby and parent. And many are not newborn friendly. That’s where Metro+ comes in.
Our Metro+ Strollers take compact comfort to the next level. And while they do boast of compact features, they also offer some of the benefits of full-size strollers like car-seat adaptability, newborn to toddler ready, spacious storage and more!
- Ultra-compact and lightweight — Its folded dimensions are 20.8 x 16.9 x 9 inches, and it only weighs 14 pounds. These numbers simply mean this compact stroller is easy to steer (Even with one hand!) and store.
- One-hand fold — Hold your newborn or a wild toddler all while folding up the stroller. And unlike many compact strollers, you don’t have to reach underneath the stroller to fold it up.
- Smooth ride suspension — With its spring suspension and large back tires, your baby won’t wake up when you walk over curbs, sidewalk cracks, or bumpy trails.
- Ergonomic comfort — Like our baby carriers, your baby will experience ergonomic comfort in this stroller. The cushy padded seat supports your baby’s head, neck, back, bottom, and legs, while the deep recline and adjustable leg rest help your child kick back and relax into a long snooze.
- Spacious storage spaces — You don’t just get a large storage basket under the stroller; you also get a hidden seatback pocket to hold everything you and baby need on your day-to-day adventures.
- Removable seat pad — We know how messy life with kids gets. That’s why we made our seat pad removable, so you can throw it in your washing machine after every spilled milk, smashed crackers, and blowout fiasco.
- All-season accessories — The stroller’s materials and large UV-50 sun canopy with a peek-a-boo window allow you to use it through every season. It’s also compatible with our Weather Shield for a rainy or windy day.
- Ready from day one — Start using from the day your baby is born up until he’s 40 pounds with newborn nest mode or car seat adaptors.
For families who are often on the go whether it’s around town or traveling, Metro+ is a must. It’s even backed by science.
Metro+ vs Other Premium Compact Strollers
Metro+ vs Metro+ Deluxe
Both versions of our Metro+ stroller feature next-level comfort in a compact package. Deluxe takes that compact comfort and elevates it to the next level with additional features and luxury materials.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers About Using Baby Strollers
Along with wondering about the different types of strollers, many new parents have questions about when they can start using a stroller and if they need a certain stroller for their newborn or toddler. If you’re one of those parents, here are the answers to some of those commonly asked stroller questions.
What age can baby go in a stroller?
A baby can safely sit in a stroller when they’re able to support their head and neck and can sit up on their own. Each child develops differently, but on average, most babies can safely ride in a stroller between 4-6 months old.
Along with their age, you also want to ensure that the stroller safely supports your baby’s weight and height.
What kind of stroller is best for a newborn?
Since newborns can’t support their own head and neck or sit up on their own, they need to ride in a stroller that fully reclines. You can either use an infant bassinet stroller where a newborn can safely lie down flat or a travel system, where a newborn rides in an infant car seat, which you then securely click into a compatible stroller.
The two main concerns with a newborn are keeping the baby safely supported and comfortable. So choosing the best stroller for your newborn means finding one that has comfy seat, safely supports your baby’s entire body, and has enough suspension to absorb bounces so your newborn isn’t being jostled around.
What is a good stroller for a 1 year old?
A good stroller for a 1 year old is one that best fits your toddler and your family’s needs for the stroller. Here are four great options for a toddler:
- Umbrella stroller – An umbrella stroller is lightweight, portable, and compactly folds down so it’s easy to store in a car or at home. It’s a must-have for on-the-go families, especially those who travel through airports, run lots of errands, and spend time in crowds.
- Full-size stroller – Many families opt for a full-size stroller. They grow with your baby from the newborn to toddler stages, as they’re compatible with an infant car seat or bassinet depending on the model. They are comfortable, roomy, and have plenty of storage space. A full-size stroller is also easy to steer with two smaller front wheels, while its two larger back wheels offer the stability you’d want in a stroller. Some can even become a double stroller if you buy a second seat.
- Jogging stroller – With three air-filled tires, added suspension, and great maneuverability, a jogging stroller is a perfect companion for anyone who enjoys running and exploring the great outdoors with their toddler.
- Double stroller – A double stroller is nice to have if you have twin toddlers or are growing your family. Some have two permanent seats, while others have one seat that can transform into a bench seat and/or a standing platform.
Do newborns need a special stroller?
Yes. Not all strollers are suitable or safe for newborns. Because newborn babies don’t have head and neck strength or control, they need to either be lying flat in a stroller or buckled in an infant car seat that clips into a stroller. Special strollers for newborns include:
- A bassinet stroller
- A stroller that has a bassinet attachment
- A stroller that can fully recline to a flat surface
- A stroller that lets you attach a safety-approved infant car seat to it.
More Stroller Resources for Parents:
Stroller Hacks Every Parent Should Know
