Best Stroller Brands
There are so many different types and styles of strollers that it can be overwhelming for parents to determine which one is right for them. They might even feel compelled to buy multiple strollers to meet their different needs. Fortunately, there are many strollers that have multiple functions, eliminating the need to spend a lot of money on several strollers. When choosing a stroller, think about how you plan on using it, whether you have the space to store it, how long you want the stroller to last and whether or not the stroller is easy for the driver to handle.
Compare Reviews for Top Stroller Brands | |||
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| Bugaboo Strollers | The Dutch company Bugaboo offers unique, durable strollers that adapt easily, making them a flexible option for parents and caregivers, especially those who will use their stroller for multiple children. Prices start at $719. |  | |
| Graco Strollers | Founded in the 1950s, Graco’s lineup features three types of strollers: lightweight, three-wheel and double strollers. Many strollers are compatible with Graco’s Click Connect car seats. Prices start at $79.99. |  | |
| UPPAbaby | UPPA Baby is an American company built by two parents who use their real-world experience to design durable, functional and stylish strollers. They have strollers for single and multiple children, with prices starting around $160. |  | |
| Baby Trend Strollers | Baby Trend is an Ontario-based baby product manufacturer. It has won many awards for its strollers, including the Sit-n-Stand and Snap-N-Go. Its single, double and three-wheel strollers range from around $45 to $170. |  | |
| Baby Jogger | Founded in 1984, Baby Jogger is known for selling jogging strollers that hold children ages six months to five years old. They also sell everyday strollers that can handle all types of terrain. Prices start around $180. |  | |
| Maclaren Strollers | Maclaren revolutionized strollers in 1965 with the Baby Buggy®, which was the first stroller to collapse like an umbrella. Current models are still easy to fold and come in a range of colors and styles. Prices start at $150. |  | |
| Cosco Strollers | Cosco strollers are designed to be simple to use while still having all the major features parents and caregivers need out of a stroller. They sell travel systems and umbrella strollers, starting at $19. |  | |
| Evenflo Strollers | With roots going back to 1920, Evenflo manufactures durable gear for infants and children. Their stroller lineup includes jogging strollers and easy-fold strollers that are ideal for families on the go. Prices start at $99. |  | |
| Chicco Strollers | Chicco is a European manufacturer that sells car seats, strollers and more in over 120 countries. It makes full-sized, jogging, lightweight and double strollers ranging from $80 to $300 and also offers travel systems. |  | |
| Britax Strollers | Known for their car seats, Britax also manufactures strollers. Their lineup includes travel strollers, double strollers and customizable options. Accessories are available to adapt strollers as needed. Prices start at $269.99. |  | |
| BOBgear Strollers | BOB Gear was founded in 1994 when it introduced a lightweight single track bike trailer to the market. They have since expanded their lineup to include IRONMAN and sport utility strollers. Prices start at $389.99. |  |
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What features matter most when purchasing a stroller?
Purpose
How you intend to use the stroller will play a major factor in the one you choose. You may find that you need to buy more than one stroller to meet all your different needs, or you might find one that can work for all occasions.
- Regular commuting: If you regularly walk around town with your child, you will want a stroller that is durable and has the option to add weather accessories. You will likely want to find a stroller that is easy to maneuver, particularly if you will be walking on crowded city streets. If you are getting on and off subway trains or buses, look for a lightweight stroller that can fold quickly and easily.
- Infrequent trips: If you want a stroller that you can toss in the trunk of your car for those few times when you need it, a stroller that’s easy to fold, such as an umbrella stroller, might do the trick if your child is older. Many other types of strollers are easy to fold and tuck away, so you can always have one with you without it being in your way.
- Running/jogging: Parents and caregivers who want to take their child(ren) running with them will want to spend additional money on a jogging stroller. These strollers are specifically designed for jogging, with additional safety features other non-jogging strollers lack. Do not use any other type of stroller for jogging.
- Transporting multiple kids: Many parents enjoy taking their children on hikes or walks on trails instead of flat pavement. If this describes your purpose, look for an all terrain stroller. These strollers have high impact wheels and tires designed for rugged terrain.
Reliability
No matter your purpose for using one, you need your stroller to be reliable and durable. Take some time to test out different types of strollers in retail stores to get a feel for how they handle walking, turning and stopping.
- Weight: Add weight to the stroller in the form of a heavy object (your diaper bag could work, or another object in the store) when you’re testing out a stroller. See if the weight difference makes it harder to handle.
- Expensive versus cheap: In the case of strollers, you do, in many cases, get what you pay for. But not necessarily because lower priced strollers aren’t designed well or made from good materials. Cheaper models aren’t necessarily designed to be used every day. Basic umbrella strollers, for instance, aren’t designed for everyday commuting, so they will wear out faster than a stroller with a sturdier design.
- Warranty: Strollers generally come with manufacturer, and often retailer, warranties that cover damage due to poor workmanship or factory flaws. They don’t usually cover damage that is the result of excessive use or accidents.
Price
Strollers come in a wide range of prices, from under $20 to over $1,000. Several factors play into how much a stroller will cost, including its features, manufacturing material and durability.
- Priced under $20-$100: You can find a decent umbrella stroller for under $20, and they can be a great option for parents in many situations. They can also be useful for grandparents and other caregivers to keep around for surprise visits. These strollers are very basic. They do not have storage capacity, and they often do not have large canopies. The price is low because there are no bells and whistles attached.
- Priced $100-$500: The majority of strollers used for infants in America fall into this price range. These strollers are stroller systems, meaning they have added features like cargo storage space, a tray for snacks, cupholders, a speaker system and more. If you are expecting a baby, expect to pay somewhere in this price range for a nice stroller that will keep your child safe and grow with her.
- Priced $500-over $1,000: These strollers generally have a specific purpose, and they are ideal for people who use strollers for hours every day. Strollers for doubles and triples also tend to land in this price range, since they are essentially two strollers in one.
Age/weight limit
Kids of different ages and sizes have different safety and support needs depending on how old they are and, perhaps more importantly, how much they weigh. Many strollers adapt from newborn all the way up to five years old, while others are geared for kids in specific age and weight ranges.
- Newborns and infants: Newborns and infants under six months old and/or who cannot yet hold their head up without help need to be in a stroller that reclines. Many strollers have a bassinet that allows babies to lie down flat, while others have the option to attach a car seat so your infant can easily transfer from car to stroller without being disturbed.
- Toddlers: Toddlers want to see everything going on around them when they’re in a stroller, so they will want to be in a stroller that is upright. If you think your toddler will nap, you may want to look at a stroller that also reclines for added comfort. Keep in mind that toddlers may not want to be strapped into a stroller, so a three- or five-point harness is essential for this age group.
- 4-5-year-olds: Older kids tend to use strollers less frequently than infants and toddlers. They might use them for longer periods of time, however, such as a long day at the zoo or an amusement park. This means you will want a stroller that is easy for you to maneuver and that has space for cargo. Also keep an eye on weight restrictions, as some five year olds might weigh more than is safe in a particular stroller.
Safety features
Keeping your child safe is always a priority, especially when you are transporting them from one place to another. There are several safety features available on strollers that apply to different situations.
- Recline: Any stroller used by an infant who cannot yet hold his head up without help should either mostly or fully recline. This design protects the child’s head.
- Safety harness: Strollers for toddlers come equipped with either a three- or five-point safety harness. Both should keep your child safe and restrained while the stroller is moving. Five-point safety harnesses are found on baby joggers and cross terrain strollers.
- Brakes: Brakes are an essential part of any stroller system, and they should be easy for you to access and use. They should be well out of reach of the child using the stroller. Make sure to use the brake any time the stroller is stopped.
- Weight guidelines: Weight guidelines are established by manufacturers to ensure the safety of the stroller passenger. Ignoring or disregarding these guidelines can endanger a child and risk breaking the stroller.
Additional features
Strollers have many additional features and accessories available that make life easier and more fun for parents and kids alike. Some features are included with a stroller, and some need to be purchased and assembled separately.
- Speakers: Many strollers (especially jogging strollers) have speakers and an outlet to connect an MP3 player. This is convenient to use while running, and they can also be used to play soothing music when you are taking your child on a walk to calm him/her down.
- Weather gear: If you plan on using your stroller in all weather, you will want to buy accessories to protect your child. Rain covers, blankets and sun canopies (some with UV protection) can all keep your child comfortable in any type of weather.
- Organizers and storage space: Having storage space and/or organizers on your stroller can make it easy to always be ready to go. Use your organizer to store diapers, wipes, snacks and anything else you will frequently use while you are out on the town with your child.
What are different types of strollers?
Umbrella
Umbrella strollers are lightweight, compact strollers intended for older children. They are easy to fold, store and transport. Their compact size means they do not have added features, including room for cargo, and they are the least expensive option out of all the stroller types.
Travel system
A travel system combines a stroller with a car seat, making transitioning from the car to the stroller (and vice versa) smooth and simple. These are often sold as sets, and many companies have a variety of compatible options, allowing parents and caregivers the option to mix and match their car seat and stroller.
Double or triple
Parents and caregivers with multiple children who need to use a stroller will want to look for one that is made for two or three children. These vary in configuration and weight capacity. Your choice will depend on the age of your children, whether they are twins or children of different ages and your purpose. Strollers of most types are available in double options. Select strollers are available for three children.
Jogging strollers
Jogging strollers are specifically designed to absorb the shock that comes from running. These have a three-wheel configuration and a five-point safety harness to protect the child during the run. Use only a jogging stroller to go on runs with your child, as the other types of strollers are not designed for moving at speeds faster than walking.
All terrain strollers
All terrain strollers have tires and wheels specifically designed to handle terrain other than flat pavement. These strollers provide a smooth ride on trails and are ideal for families who frequently take off-roading adventures with their stroller.
Who's it for?
Parents/caregivers with limited space
Parents who have limited storage space in their vehicle and/or home will want a stroller that folds easily. When you are shopping for strollers, ask if you can take the test model out to your vehicle to see how it fits inside the back or trunk. There are many safe and durable stroller options that become compact when folded.
Parents/caregivers of multiples
Parents with more than one child may want a stroller that can fit two or three children at a time. These strollers are more expensive than single strollers, but they can make it significantly easier to go places.
Active parents/caregivers
Parents and caregivers who are active and plan to hike or run with their child will want a baby jogger and/or an all-terrain stroller, based on the activities they enjoy. These types of strollers are specifically designed for active lifestyles and have safety features in place to ensure the child enjoys a fun, smooth ride.
Urban families
Families who live in an urban center, who frequently walk and/or take their stroller on public transportation, will want a stroller that is durable and easy to maneuver. A lightweight stroller will make it easier to take on and off a subway or bus. These parents will likely use their stroller every single day, so it is worth buying one that has additional features and is made from dependable materials.
Company reviews
Bugaboo is a Dutch company that was founded in 1999. The original design of a modular stroller that can be used and taken anywhere remains the core of their business. Find Bugaboo strollers at major retailers around the world and online.
Cosco was founded over 70 years ago, as the Columbus Specialty Company. They make all types of baby gear, including car seats, play yards, high chairs and strollers. Their travel systems and umbrella strollers are available at several major retailers in store and online.
Graco became a household name in the 1950s when they introduced the first baby swing. They continue to innovate, revolutionizing the baby gear market with products like the pack and play and travel stroller. Today they make three-wheel, lightweight and double strollers, which can be found at major retailers around the world.
Evenflo has been around since 1920, when they specialized in baby feeding products. Today, the company specializes in larger infant and child gear, including car seats, booster seats, cribs and strollers.
Britax has been a leader in manufacturing child safety products for over 70 years. They specialize in car seats and also make baby carriers, travel systems and strollers.
Maclaren revolutionized strollers in 1965 with the invention of the umbrella stroller. Known for their stylish design and lightweight convenience, Maclaren’s luxury strollers are popular among parents around the world.
Baby jogger was founded in 1984 and delivered jogging strollers to active parents who wanted to jog with their toddlers. The company now offers several different types of strollers, all with the same fundamental purpose of allowing parents to take their children with them anywhere they go.
Run by two parents who use their first-hand experience with strollers and baby gear as inspiration for their products, UPPA Baby is an American company that offers parents several stroller options for babies and toddlers.
Founded in 1994, BOB’s first product was a bike trailer. They added jogging strollers to their lineup a few years later, most famously with their IRONMAN stroller which debuted in 2003. The company was acquired by Britax in 2011.
Information in this guide is general in nature and is intended for informational purposes only; it is not legal, health, investment or tax advice. ConsumerAffairs.com makes no representation as to the accuracy of the information provided and assumes no liability for any damages or loss arising from its use.
The ConsumerAffairs Research Team believes everyone deserves to make smart decisions. We aim to provide readers with the most up-to-date information available about today's consumer products and services.
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