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If you’re looking for a stroller you can use from the newborn months on, a lightweight high-view stroller won’t do. While a few models can safely carry newborns with car seat adapters or bassinet attachments, most umbrella strollers are designed for babies 6 months or older.
Most lightweight strollers do not have a convertible option, which means if you end up having a second (or third) baby within a few years of your first, you'll likely need to purchase a second stroller.
Options to consider: See our roundup of the best lightweight umbrella strollers.
Jogging stroller
What it is: On the run — literally? Then a jogging stroller might be a good option. Jogging strollers typically have larger, sturdier wheels and better suspension to take bumps and alternate terrain in stride.
Jogging stroller benefits:
Superior suspension lets you walk, jog or hike and keep baby in comfort while on and off the trail.
Many jogging strollers come with a front wheel that can swivel (for flexibility) or be fixed (for stability at higher speeds).
Depending on the model, other benefits may include compatibility with a car seat (for use from newborn through toddler stages), deep reclining seats, telescoping handlebars and generous storage baskets. A hand brake, five-point harness and wrist strap are key safety features, so don’t go jogging with a stroller that doesn’t include these.
Jogging stroller downsides:
A jogging stroller can be a bit heavier and challenging to assemble.
If space is tight, a jogging stroller usually can't fold up as small as an umbrella stroller.
Jogging strollers are typically wider than even many full-size strollers, which means maneuvering them through tight spaces can be challenging.
Keep in mind that while most three-wheeled strollers are referred to as “joggers,” not all three-wheelers are actually optimized for runners. Some of the most popular three-wheelers are “hybrid” strollers that lack hand brakes and other safety features, and therefore, aren’t intended to be used for jogging with baby. Serious runners will want to do a test drive to make sure their jogging stroller has the appropriate safety features and functionality.
Options to consider: See our roundup of the best portable pocket stroller.
Double stroller
What it is: If you’ve got twins in tow — or a toddler who’s not ready to give up their stroller days — then a double stroller is the way to go. Doubles come in two formats: tandem, where one child sits behind the other, or side-by-side seating.
Double stroller benefits:
With multiple children, this option enables you to swiftly manage only one stroller.
Because these models are on the bigger side, there's usually ample storage space.
Double stroller downsides:
Strollers for two tend to be bigger and bulkier, weighing in at up to 40 pounds and with a much larger footprint.
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