There are baby items for everything, and that certainly includes strollers! When it comes to baby accessories, strollers are certainly available in a wide selection of shapes, sizes, features, and benefits. When narrowing down your ideal baby stroller, first consider the type of baby transport you need. Maybe you have something in mind to transport the baby, and all that equipment, like a traditional stroller. You may even find that owning more than one stroller is a smart move.
We will go over some basic strollers to consider. As mentioned above, there really is no limit to the many features, and price tags, for baby strollers on the market today!
Strollers with seat frame
These models are made for newborns who cannot sit up on their own yet. For that reason, this type of stroller is not equipped with an adjustable seat. In fact, there is not a seat! It lays flat and is designed to carry a newborn car seat for any ride you want to take. No need to wake the baby either. Simply transport the car seat directly to the stroller and go!
Combined strollers
“Combos” – they are a carriage and a stroller in one. This type of design can be used with a newborn. They are designed to carry your baby lying down in a car seat or bassinet.
In theory, you will be able to use this type of stroller from birth to the first years of life. (Supports about 40 lbs.) And when the baby grows, you can use the adjustable seat to sit correctly. However, these strollers can be quite expensive, coming in at $900. But for this hefty price, you get plenty of options, like extra storage space for extra baby gear and large canopies to keep out the sun and rain.
Travel System Strollers
For mobility these units are awesome! Babies who are unable to sit up can be moved directly into the car seat, which is securely attached to the stroller. When it’s time to head back to the car, simply lift the stroller seat up and into the car’s seat belt system. Very convenient!
old fashioned baby carriages
These ‘old school’ stroller models are still seen today. They usually have spoked wheels and plenty of room for baby and all that baby gear. The strollers are perfect for newborns and some models have removable ‘carrycots’.
The not-so-good news is that the wagons are quite large, cumbersome, and not very maneuverable. They are particularly awkward to use in crowded city environments where you will find quite a few obstacles to deal with. Still, if ‘old fashion’ appeals to you, these strollers are big and roomy and provide a touch of nostalgia for the past.
traditional baby carriages
Traditional strollers are in the ‘everything including the kitchen sink’ class. Traditional strollers range from lightweight designs to massive, industrial-strength models.
The ‘ironman’ models are made with deep compartments and plenty of space. They have built-in shock absorbers on all 4 wheels and are built to take a lot of punishment. But they are bulky. Yes, they are firm and stable, but quite massive.
There are several features found in traditional strollers, such as snack trays, plenty of room to store baby items, one-hand fold capabilities, and adjustable seats. Some are actually all-in-one models and may be designed to work with bassinets and car seats. But they tend to be a bit heavy, so traveling with them is more of a chore.
umbrella strollers
Umbrella strollers are aptly named because of their handles that resemble those of an umbrella. These strollers are extraordinarily light and very comfortable to travel with. Most umbrella strollers fold up easily, but the ride tends to be a bit rough (depending on the terrain). Umbrellas make a great replacement stroller and are very reasonably priced.
All Terrain Strollers
Speaking of terrain, we like to take our babies EVERYWHERE we usually go! SUV included. This may be where an all-terrain stroller makes its living.
These strollers are tough and can take the punishment of oversized bike-like tires. And yes, they are inflatable! And these strollers are equipped with 3 of them. Bicycle type tires give baby a smoother ride. Plus, they’re capable of handling heavier loads, making them ideal for “bigger” babies and also when you’re carrying extra baby gear.
jogging strollers
Since we include our babies in many of our activities, we need a stroller that is as mobile as we are. You can find strollers specially designed for active parents who want to include their little ones in their outings.
A stroller designed for jogging is a three-wheeled device with oversized air-filled tires. These strollers have extra long handles that position the stroller slightly in front of the jogger so that the running legs have ample room to move and are not hampered by the frame of the stroller.
Safety features of this type of stroller include a front brake and a wrist strap so that everything is under control at all times. This being extremely important. Its rugged design allows the stroller to go off the beaten path as an all-terrain stroller.
There are a number of baby stroller features to suit your active lifestyle. From traditional strollers, all-in-one travel units, lightweight umbrella strollers and extra-sturdy strollers for active families, you’re sure to find the perfect baby stroller to complement your individual preferences and baby transport needs.