Types of Strollers

There are dozens of strollers on the market today.

Some have plastic wheels others rubber, some are tandem while others are featherweight.

How do you know which is best for you?

Below you'll find a description of some of the more common types of stroller to help you decide which may best suite your needs.

Conventional Strollers

We've all seen a conventional stroller. It's the standard stroller you can buy with well padded interiors, durable frames and a storage compartment located handily below the seats. A conventional stroller is a good selection for a parent that wants a sturdy and efficient stroller but doesn't need all the bells and whistles of some fancier versions.

Most conventional strollers are perfect for both infants and toddlers. Look for a seat that fully reclines if you plan to use it for your infant. Many allow you to snap you an infant carrier for easy use. If you select one of these models, you'll want to make sure your car seat fits the stroller. Some strollers only allow certain models of infant carrier, while others allow virtually all models.

Most conventional strollers are capable of holding a toddler up to 45 pounds. Be sure to look for one with sturdy frames if you plan to carry your toddler around.

The only disadvantage of a conventional stroller? They tend to be heavy, awkward and a bit bulky at times. Many weight 20 pounds or more in addition to the weight of your baby or toddler.

Many moms see this as a good excuse however to burn more fat while walking with their baby! If you plan to make several short trips however, you may consider a more lightweight model or an additional 'banana' or mini stroller and reserve your conventional stroller for walks through the park.

Twin and Tandem Strollers

Several models of stroller are available to accommodate two babies. Whether you have twins or two young ones close in age, a twin stroller might offer more convenience than two conventional ones (particularly if you won't have help pushing!). Most double strollers can accommodate two infants or an infant and a toddler.

There are two different kinds of twin strollers, side by side models and front to back models. While many mothers prefer the side by side models, these can be a bit awkward to fit through small isles or doors if you plan to use them when shopping. While front to back models appear bulky and awkward, they actually are easier to maneuver through store isles. Many include a raised back seat and provide dual canopies so both babies are shielded from the sun. Side by side models also tend to generally work better when both riders are roughly the same size and weight.

If you plan to buy a twin stroller for an infant and a toddler, make sure at least one of the seats recline so your infant can ride safely. In most front to back models the rear seat reclines. If you have two infants you'll need to make sure that both seats recline. Keep this in mind when shopping, as many front to back versions have only one reclining seat. You'll also need to check to see whether the model will accommodate two infant carriers if you plan on using these.

While some report double strollers are awkward and even heavier than their conventional counterparts, many parents are more than happy to accept this because the stroller is incredibly convenient for transporting two children. You can even get quad versions of these strollers for traveling with 4 babies!

Lightweight

If you do have concerns about the weight of a stroller or maneuverability, fortunately you do have another option! Lightweight models of all stroller types are usually available. These strollers offer exceptional value and convenience for parents that need to travel frequently with their children. Most models that fall into this category weigh 15 pounds or less. Many featherweight strollers cost less than their heavier counterparts as well, making them even more appealing.

Umbrella Strollers

An umbrella stroller is an ultra lightweight version of a conventional stroller. An umbrella stroller is nothing more than a small and compact stroller that you can fold much like you would an umbrella. These stroller are by far the most inexpensive strollers you can find on the market today. Many parents elect to buy an umbrella stroller in addition to their conventional stroller so they have a quick and easy transportation device when grocery shopping or running quick errands.

The only downside of an umbrella stroller is the seats do not recline. You can usually use these for toddlers or infants that are sitting up and have good head control, but they are not suited for infants. Umbrella strollers are also ideal as travel strollers if you plan to fly with your children.

Exercise Strollers

Exercise strollers, sometimes called jogging strollers, are the ideal stroller for parents that want to engage in a little cardiovascular activity while entertaining their children. These strollers have many accessories including large and highly maneuverable wheels to accommodate gravel paths and other harsh terrain.

If you plan to shop for a jogger stroller, keep in mind that many have a front wheel that is fixed, thus the stroller is more difficult to turn. If you need extra maneuverability this may not be the best stroller for you.

Jogging strollers have many benefits over traditional strollers. Many moms use them to help get back to their pre pregnancy weight after having a baby. If you plan to buy an exercise stroller, there are some added features that may interest you. Consider a stroller with the following:

• Canopy that adjusts 360 degrees so you can alter its location based on the direction you are jogging.
• Hand brake that allows you to easily stop if moving too quickly.
• Simple one step folding mechanism.
• Seating area with lots of padding to help with shock absorption.
• Breathable fabric to help cool your child on long walks or jogs.
• Wrist strap that attaches stroller to you in case you lose control so stroller stays put.
• Extra cup or bottle holders so you can tote plenty of water or your favorite sports drink.
• Reflective materials in case you plan to job during dusk or in the dark.
• Small pockets for you to place key items including a house key.
• Foot Brake you can use to park the stroller if motionless.
• Lightweight aluminum frame to reduce the amount of weight you'll
• Pivoting wheel to enable maximum maneuverability.
• Built in shock absorbers to help extend the life of the stroller and improve the ride for your children.

Many parents opt for an exercise stroller because they simply prefer these added accessories. If you know someone that has a jogging stroller, you might ask them to try it out for a day or two. You may be surprised to find you prefer this model stroller to a conventional one.

Bassinet Strollers

Bassinet strollers look like old fashioned carriages. You may think of an old British movies when you consider these fashionable buggies. Keep in mind that bassinet strollers are not for those that plan to exercise frequently with their baby. Most buggy like strollers are more for short walks and are more stylish than they are functional. They will work well for your newborn infant, but most babies outgrow these strollers in a few short months. If you do have one of these strollers be sure to check the carrying capacity to make sure you don't use the stroller after your baby outgrows it!

You should also keep in mind that this type of stroller usually will not fold, so you'll have to have plenty of storage space to house your buggy! That said, if you get one as a gift, you might as well enjoy it! You can often use the stroller as a traveling bassinet for your baby to rest in from room to room of your home.

Didn't find what you were looking for? Enter your search here!

	Web 1st-Baby-Carriers.com