With All the Stroller Options Out There, Which Is Right For You?
Little did you know that having a baby would require so much decision making. Baby names and nursery colors feel like the easy stuff once you move on curating your baby registry (if it involved spreadsheets, you wouldn’t be the first). And when the time comes to make decisions about essential items— like choosing a stroller—the options seem endless. Just when you think you’ve picked a favorite, you catch a glimpse of an all-terrain jogger and you’re back on the “stroller coaster.”
We get it. A stroller is a big-ticket item that you’ll have for many years, so finding the one that’s the best fit for your family is understandably a little daunting. We’re here to break it down for you.
Before you Begin
Here is what you know for sure: a stroller is a must-have for life on the go with your baby. But to narrow down your options, you’ll need to ask yourself a few key questions, like:
- Where are you going to use it most?
- Where are you going to store it?
- How many children will be using it?
- What features matter to you?
- What is your budget?
A basic lightweight stroller that’s easy to fold and steer with one hand (this is important – parents rarely have two free hands!) makes travel and storage easy. (That’s why most parents will inevitably purchase a lightweight travel stroller as secondary option.) If you’re looking for a double stroller, knowing how you’ll be using it most, whether strolling to the park or running errands, will help you decide between a tandem model, where one child sits behind the other, or side-by-side seating. Many parents will tell you that tandems are easier to maneuver in stores, while side-by-side offer seating that’s more equal (no choosing favorites!).
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends parents look for a stroller that includes easy-to-use brakes, a five-point safety harness, and a wide base for stability. And one last tip: look for strollers with lots of storage. You’ll need it!
Travel Systems: A Stroller + Car Seat Combo
If don’t have an infant car seat yet, a travel system may solve two problems at once. A travel system includes an infant car seat, base, and a stroller—all in one convenient package!
Most infant car seats are designed specifically for use with little ones 4 - 35 pounds. While the car seat will always be rear facing in the car, it can be removed from the base easily (keep the base in the car) and transferred to the stroller for outdoor exploring. The infant seat is also lightweight, so you'll be able to transport your baby from one place to another without causing a disturbance.
Stroller features vary depending on the travel system you choose, but go for one with large storage, a quick and easy compact fold, large cruiser tires, and comfort options for both you and your baby. Travel systems like the Evenflo Pivot Xpand transition in seconds from a single to a double stroller—perfect for a growing family or visits from a niece or nephew. The Evenflo Pivot Travel System includes a toddler seat that converts to carriage mode, giving smaller babies a flat spot to stretch out. While the Pivot Travel System is made for only one child, it's flexible and can be used in 6 versatile modes out of the box, making it the ideal choice for families looking for options in how they stroll.
Everyday Full-Sized Strollers
If you currently own an infant car seat, or your baby has outgrown this phase, look to a standalone stroller that can wheel you through your toddler years. Modular strollers offer any number of configurations and conveniences (think sippy cup holder) that make life-on-the-go easier. Evenflo provides everyday strolling options at a variety of price points including strollers with rider boards, modular strollers that offer numerous configurations, and single-to-double strollers that grow as your family grows.
Joggers and Crossovers
If you’re ready to hit the ground running again, a jogging stroller is a great way to squeeze in some exercise while watching your child.
Joggers and crossover strollers are designed to provide a minimum amount of resistance and are typically fitted with three air-filled wheels, which make for an
easy push, excellent maneuverability, and a smooth ride for your child. Joggers can be heavy, so check the weight before you buy. And for safety’s sake, make sure your jogger comes with a safety strap.
Joggers come as single or doubles. Some are fitted for car seats as well, which makes it useful for walks from day one. Keep in mind that you can’t run or jog with your child until he or she is 12 months old. Until then, your child lacks the strength to keep his or her head and neck stable under the impact of jolts and bounces.
The Evenflo Folio3™ Stroll & Jog Travel System is the best of all worlds. Fully featured and lightweight for everyday strolls, it has the added benefit of large, air-filled tires, and a lockable front wheel for all-terrain jogging. Or check out the Evenflo Victory Plus Compact Fold Jogger if you’re looking for a jogging stroller without a car seat.
Single-to-Double Travel Systems and Strollers
A convertible stroller is a growing family’s best friend. Great from birth until your little one is well past the toddler years, single-to-double travel systems and strollers adapt to your family's changing needs over time. You can attach a second stroller seat, infant car seat, or even a bassinet to transform a single stroller into a ride for two. Most convertible strollers offer multiple seat configurations so that your kids can face you, face the world, or face each other. After all, there is an art to keeping two kids happy at the same time.
For even more riding options, you can also add a for an extra passenger—or to give your child a way to quickly hop on and off when little legs need a break.
The Evenflo Pivot Xpand™ Modular Stroller is a modular stroller that’s quick to convert from a single to a double without any additional parts or tools. Large cruiser tires with front-wheel swivel and rear-wheel suspension provide a smooth ride and superior maneuverability. And here’s a bonus you’ll love: the extra-large, back- and front-access storage basket expands to more than two feet in length! Diaper bag, toys, blankets … throw it all in there.
Travel Strollers
While convertible strollers and joggers are convenient for everyday use, you may want to consider investing in a small, lightweight stroller for travel or quick trips as well. A travel stroller, also sometimes called an umbrella stroller because of its folding mechanism, is essential if you’re flying—you’ll want a stroller you can bring to the gate with you. (Consider purchasing a stroller travel or gate check bag unless you have a cabin baggage approved stroller.) Go for one that’s lightweight, easy to collapse, offers UPF sun protection, and has storage.
The Evenflo Gold Otto Self-Folding Lightweight Travel Stroller features a compact fold that is quick to use and fits into smaller spaces, making it perfect for outings and day trips. Simply use one hand to activate the automatic folding operation. The bumper bar doubles as a carry handle when the stroller is folded, making it easy to lift up and take along with you.
All-Terrain Strollers and Stroller Wagons
When it comes to parenthood, the road isn’t always smooth—literally. All-terrain strollers and stroller wagons like our Evenflo Pivot Xplore Stroller Wagon can handle the ground beneath your feet including sidewalks, grass, or dirt paths. These strollers have larger wheels that are air-filled or made of urethane, which help make it easier to push and allow more comfort for the rider.
While all the above may feel like a lot to consider, once you’ve made your choice, it’s smooth strolling from here on out.
If you're still unsure of what stroller is the perfect fit, take our car seat and stroller recommender quiz to help you through the selection process. Ready to buy the stroller that's right for your family? Shop Evenflo Strollers and Travel Systems now!