Strollers Buying Tips - ConsumerGuru
What to Look for When Buying Strollers
GURU says this about buying a Stroller!The stroller market is filled with options of varying price ranges and amenities. The first step in purchasing a stroller is to determine needs in terms of lifestyle, space, budget, and features. There are basically four types of strollers to select from: travel systems, full size, lightweight, and jogging. Prices vary greatly among models in each category and premium models typically have an innovative design and big price tag. Mid range priced models are usually popular with durability and convenient features.
Travel Systems
Travel systems come with a stroller and infant car seat that fits the stroller. The stroller can be used with the infant carrier until the child outgrows the car seat and then the stroller functions on its own. A travel system offers the convenience of not having to remove the child from the car seat to sit in a stroller. Most travel systems offer lots of features since they receive heavy use with infants during the first year.
Features to look for are 5-point harness system, good underneath storage, cup holders, snack trays, swivel wheels, canopy with peek-a-boo window, multi-position recline, adjustable handlebar height, foot brakes, and one-hand fold. Travel system strollers typically have a weight limit of 40lbs. and 4 years.
Full Size
Full size strollers tend to be heavier and bigger than travel system strollers. Some full size strollers have a weight limit up to 65lbs. They typically offer a full recline which is a great convenience for sleeping children and can be used from infancy up to 4 years.
The full size stroller market has lots of premium models with innovative designs featuring suspension systems, oversized, inflatable wheels, front and rear facing seating, bassinet compatibility, good storage, deluxe fabrics, and aluminum frames. A full size stroller is something to consider if a travel system is not necessary.
Lightweight
Lightweight strollers feature the umbrella design and are used for portability. Typically they weigh less than 17lbs. and are suitable for six months and up. They do not provide the neck and back support required for an infant. They are useful for travel, errands, and storing in the car. Some have a high weight limit of 55lbs. but 40lbs. is typical and are used up to 4 years.
They come in a wide range of prices but the more durable models come with a higher price tag and have good longevity. Features to look for in a lightweight stroller are sun canopy, cup holders, storage basket, 5-point harness (although some come with 3-point harness only), multi-position recline, and carrying strap.
Jogging
Jogging strollers are designed for off road use and are suitable for runners along with every day use. They offer a comfortable ride with large wheels up to 20-inches for a comfortable, smooth ride. The three-wheel design comes in a fixed or swivel wheel option. The swivel wheel is easier to turn and usually has a locking feature which fixes the wheel for serious runners.
Jogging strollers are suitable at 6 months and older since they do not provide the appropriate head and neck support for an infant. Joggers have good longevity with a weight limit as high as 75lbs. Features to look for in a jogging stroller are multi-position recline, sun canopy, hand and foot brake, 5-point harness, easy-fold system, organizer tray, cup holder, underneath storage, and good shock absorption. Some jogging strollers also offer a car seat adapter bar allowing it to accept an infant carrier and function as a travel system.
Jogging strollers vary in price with the higher priced models featuring a more durable construction, shock absorption and overall performance. For serious off road use and runners, a jogging stroller is a wise purchase.