What are good baby stroller brands?

A full-size stroller needs to do—and be—many things.

It must safely and comfortably transport a child from point A to point B for several years, while also seamlessly supporting a family’s day-to-day activities.

Depending on where you live and what your day-to-day life looks like, you may rely on your stroller to be a cargo carrier for groceries and extended outings.

You may need a stroller that you can easily fold and carry with one hand—say, to regularly toss in the back of your trunk, to carry onto public transportation, or to lug up several flights of stairs.

Or maybe you want a stroller that facilitates a regular jogging routine or is built to handle a walk off the beaten path.

Best Overall Baby Stroller

UPPAbaby Cruz v2

REASONS TO BUY

High-quality

Great features

Works great with an infant car seat

REASONS TO AVOID

Expensive

SPECIFICATIONS

If we picked a single option for friends concerned with product quality, it would be the UPPAbaby Cruz v2 . No question. The Cruz v2 is lightweight (though not as lightweight as the original), easy to use, and uses high-quality materials that feel durable. Plus, the Cruz v2 works well with infant car seats , including a few of our favorites, like UPPAbaby car seats and the Chicco KeyFit 35 . We love the vast storage basket with a 30 lb weight limit, the super large canopy, and the addition of suspension on the v2, making the new Cruz better than any full-size competitor.

The wheels on the Cruz are relatively small, and their disappointing size makes it more challenging to traverse uneven surfaces than the larger tires on joggers. However, the Cruz offers excellent maneuverability on smooth surfaces, making it highly suitable for running errands and visiting public venues. While the Cruz v2 is more expensive than most of the best full-size strollers and jogging competitors, many users feel its higher quality and easy-to-use features more than justify the higher cost. If you need a similar option but plan to grow your family, the UPPAbaby Vista v2 can hold up to three little ones of different ages and abilities.

Read more: UPPAbaby Cruz v2 review

The UPPAbaby Cruz v2 is an impressive full-size stroller with some of the best test results.

Credit: Matt Lighthart

Best Luxury on a Smaller Budget Stroller

Cybex Balios S Lux

REASONS TO BUY

Quality materials

Comfortable seating

Better storage

REASONS TO AVOID

Not expandable

Not compatible w/ Chicco car seats

SPECIFICATIONS

The Cybex Balios S Lux is a sleek-looking full-size option that uses quality materials put together in a thoughtful design with no manufacturer flaws we could find. It has one of the larger storage bins with a higher limit of 22 lbs and one of the best harnesses in the business with easy adjustments, skin-friendly webbing, and comfort padding.

The Cybex is less expensive than other top contenders and can be a real money saver if it is on sale. If not, there might be other budget options in the lineup that work for tighter budgets, like the Evenflo Xpand Pivot. It also is only a one-seater and cannot be expanded, which is fine if you don't plan to push more than one. If your family is growing and you need more than one seat, the UPPAbaby Vista v2 is our favorite choice. However, the Cybex is a compelling option with a lot going for it and few flaws to speak of.

Read more: Cybex Balios S Lux review

The Cybex Balios Lux is a high-ranking full-size stroller that might save you some money over the top contender depending on sales and your infant car seat goals.

Credit: Matt Lighthart

Best Compact Stroller

Britax B-Free

REASONS TO BUY

Uber-compact & lightweight

Easy to carry

Swift fold

REASONS TO AVOID

Not as easy to push and turn

Limited kid's comfort features

SPECIFICATIONS

The Britax B-Free is a compact full-size stroller with one of the smallest folds in the group. It is fairly lightweight for a full-size, and its quick one-hand fold makes it a shoo-in for those looking for a suitable travel or city-living stroller. We love the big canopy, front access storage, and better-than-average quality and maneuverability.

The Britax isn't as easy to use as some competitors, and the recline adjustment requires two hands. The UPPAbaby Cruz v2 is easier to use but it is also larger and costs more. While it is one of the smallest in the full-size lineup, it isn't as small as a dedicated traveler, and something like the BabyZen Yoyo2 might be a better choice that is lighter and smaller. Overall, if you want a double-duty option that can work for travel or tight public places, the B-Free is one to consider.

Read more: Britax B-Free review

The Britax B-Free can do double duty as a full-size stroller and a compact option suitable for travel and life in a busy city taking public transportation.

Credit: Matt Lighthart

Best High-end Stroller

UPPAbaby Vista v2

REASONS TO BUY

High-quality

Expands for three children

Excellent storage

REASONS TO AVOID

Stiff price tag

Heavier

SPECIFICATIONS

The UPPAbaby Vista v2 is a fantastic high-end choice we recommend for parents who want a little more of everything and aren't worried about the price tag that comes with it. The Vista v2 is one of the best double strollers as it can grow with your family, carrying up to three little ones with ease (age-dependent). The Vista v2 is stylish, easy to use, and includes quality parts and attention to detail. This product has various seating configurations and consists of a toddler seat and bassinet in the original purchase. The Vista v2 works with two toddler seats, two infant carriers (seats and adapters purchased separately), two bassinets, or any combination of seating facing forward or backward. It features a giant storage bin and canopy with a nap-worthy seat recline. The Vista v2 delivers high functionality, a lower price tag, and unusually lower weight than similar competitors. The Vista v2 moves well for its size, and we think parents will enjoy its adjustable handlebar and giant under-seat storage bin with an unheard-of 30 lb max allowance.

The Vista v2 has one of the highest prices in our reviews, making it a potential no-go for families on a tight budget. The Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double is a similarly styled stroller with a lower price, but the lower price also comes with lower quality than the Vista, in our opinion. Also, it is not suitable for running. However, it's tough to beat the Vista v2, especially for families with multiple children or plans to grow if your budget allows. If the price tag is not in your wheelhouse or a double option isn't necessary, then the less spendy, smaller, and lighter UPPAbaby Cruz v2 should make your list instead.

Read more: UPPAbaby Vista v2 review

We tested the Vista v2 on a trip to Australia, where we carried kids aged 1 and 4, sand toys, snacks, and occasionally a 5-year-old castaway.

Credit: Chris McNamara

Big City Taxi Suitable Stroller

Doona Combo

REASONS TO BUY

Unique combo with car seat

Excels at city life

Easy to use

REASONS TO AVOID

Heavy car seat

Relatively higher price

SPECIFICATIONS

The Doona Combo is a unique car seat included in our best car seat review. This strolling combo combines a simple stroller with an infant car seat for a useful combination for city dwellers. This cool mash-up makes the Doona a ridiculously easy-to-use product that is good for those who frequent public transportation and sidewalks. This combo lets parents push their baby from place to place, from home to a day on the town, including public transportation. The car seat is easy to use, installs quickly without the base, and fills a niche for parents who live in the city and may otherwise choose to forgo a car seat for convenience.

The Doona Combo may not be ideal for every family, thanks to its relatively higher price, heavy carrying weight, and limited lifespan. If you want to stroll with your car seat carrier but need a budget-friendly solution, pair a Chicco brand seat with a frame stroller like the Chicco Keyfit Caddy. This could be a smarter solution than the Doona Combo. Still, you can't beat it for city families that may otherwise legally skip using a car seat because they are a pain to carry or require a strolling companion. We think this is the easiest way to get your baby from an apartment to an Uber to strolling with ease and enviable style, making it a must-have for parents on the go and those who frequent public transportation. However, if you want the best car seat, the Doona can't compare to our favorite infant car seats.

Read more: Doona Combo review

The Doona is a car seat and stroller in one product. The design is unique and can be useful for those who frequently stroll and use public transportation.

Credit: Abriah Wofford

Top Umbrella Stroller

BabyZen Yoyo2

REASONS TO BUY

High-quality

Sleek design

Easy to push

REASONS TO AVOID

Expensive for an umbrella

Harder to nap in

SPECIFICATIONS

The BabyZen Yoyo2 is a lightweight umbrella stroller with a compact fold (though not as small and lightweight as the original. This high-end, lighter product has many features parents want in a small package that is good for travel. While the Yoyo2 is more expensive than most secondary travel-friendly competitors, it is also a high-quality choice with excellent materials that function well. The Yoyo2 is easy to push and turn (a rarity in the umbrella world); plus, it is stylish and sleek.

While it is harder to push and a wee bit heavier than the smallest product, it is easier to use and earned a higher score for quality than most of the best umbrella strollers we tested. It is also more expensive than similar choices, so it isn't the best option for families on a tight budget or parents needing a travel option for a single event. If budget isn't a concern, and you want the absolute best in a lightweight product, the BabyZen Yoyo2 stands out in its field. If budget is a top consideration, then the Zoe Traveler offers more for a lower price.

Read more: BabyZen Yoyo2 review

The Yoyo2 is an impressive lightweight stroller with more features than the standard fare.

Credit: Abriah Wofford

Best Lightweight Budget Stroller

Zoe Traveler

REASONS TO BUY

Price

More features than traditional umbrella

Easy to use

REASONS TO AVOID

Slightly lower quality

Low off-road performance

SPECIFICATIONS

The Zoe Traveler is a budget-friendly, lightweight option that folds compactly into thirds (though the GB Pockit is one of the smallest). This feature-filled product is an excellent option for traveling and city life with an adjustable leg rest, reclining seat, and practical storage features. We like the larger canopy and features for passenger comfort and think parents will appreciate the reasonable price tag compared to higher-end strollers like the UPPAbaby Minu

This option is harder to push and turn off flat surfaces and may not be the best choice for heading off the beaten path. Also, it isn't a good substitution for a full-size choice as the storage features are limited. However, if a travel-friendly product is what you seek, this option has everything you need for shorter trips or commuting for a price your wallet will appreciate.

Read more: Zoe Traveler review

If you stick to flat surfaces the Traveler is fairly easy to push and has tighter turns thanks to a storter wheelbase.

Credit: Abriah Wofford

Best Jogging Stroller

Thule Urban Glide 2

REASONS TO BUY

High quality

Great runner

Easy to use

REASONS TO AVOID

Longer

Larger fold

SPECIFICATIONS

The Thule Urban Glide 2 is a great jogger that is easy to use, super maneuverable, and relatively lightweight (you know, for a jogger). This jogger works as well for serious runners as it does for casual errands with covered storage, tight turning radius, and comfortable seating for longer trips. These features make the Urban Glide 2 a product we recommend for families who want an option for double duty or dedicated runners who don't want to miss a step once their baby is old enough to go. The Urban Glide 2 is our favorite jogging stroller, out-maneuvering the competition with adjustable straight-moving tracking, excellent suspension, a locking swivel front wheel, and an adjustable handlebar. These features are similar to the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0

The Urban Glide 2 is not a good choice if you don't intend to run or go hiking off-road. The added weight and bulk make it harder to lift and stow, so you can avoid this hassle if jogging isn't your thing. However, we love that the Urban Glide 2 is so functional and thoughtfully designed that parents can use it for almost any outing. With a price tag lower than some of the competition and cheaper than many full-size options that offer less, this cool jogger is an excellent buy that fills multiple needs and saves you money in an enjoyable package. The Thule Urban Glide 2 also works with various infant car seats by purchasing an adapter, making it an option that fills three niches simultaneously. However, if your budget is smaller, then the Baby Trend Expedition might be a better option with a lighter weight and lower price.

Read more: Thule Urban Glide 2 review

New Version
There is now a Thule Urban Glide 3 jogging stroller we plan to test soon. The stroller has some upgrades and changes, but we anticipate it performing very similarly to the Urban Glide 2. Stay Tuned!

The Urban Glide 2 handles our daily errands and is an exceptional jogging stroller.

Credit: Abriah Wofford

Because younger infants lack the muscle strength or control to adequately absorb the jarring experience generated by running in a jogging stroller , parents should wait until their baby is a minimum of 8 to 12 months old before moving fast with any stroller.

Inexpensive, Casual Jogger

Baby Trend Expedition

REASONS TO BUY

Inexpensive

Easy to maneuver and push

Lots of features

REASONS TO AVOID

Lower quality

Not an ideal serious runner stroller

SPECIFICATIONS

The Baby Trend Expedition is an inexpensive jogging stroller that is easy to push and turn with pneumatic rubber tires and a locking swivel front wheel. This budget-friendly product is good on uneven terrain, has under-seat storage, and has a three-wheel design that is easy to turn in tight spaces. With a low list price, this jogger is less than half the price of most joggers, proving you can have an excellent moving product that is easy to push without the sticker shock. These features helped the Expedition win kudos for strong bang-for-your-buck in our Jogging Review.

This jogger lacks suspension and tracking adjustment, making it a poor choice for serious runners. This makes strollers like the Thule Urban Glide 2 a better fit. It is also heavy and large if you hope to travel or have limited space. We would still recommend this product to a friend who wants a jogging look with large rubber tires (for greenbelt traversing) but may not really be interested in serious or regular jogging.

Read more: Baby Trend Expedition review

The Expedition is a good choice for an easy-to-push full-size stroller that you can occasionally jog with.

Credit: BabyGearLab Staff

Best Wagon Fun

Evenflo Pivot Xplore Wagon

REASONS TO BUY

Inexpensive

Kid-friendly amenities

Easy fold

REASONS TO AVOID

Few comfort features

Bulky fold

Harder to push/pull

SPECIFICATIONS

The Evenflo Pivot Xplore is a push-or-pull wagon that seats 2 and has a hanging storage container, dual canopies, and a footwell. It has a fairly quick fold, and one side dips down to help little ones climb on or get off on their own. The Xplore has a family-friendly price compared to other wagons and could be good for park adventures or visiting places with wider paths that don't require shocks or other comfort features.

Wagons are harder to push and turn than some of the competition, and the fold can be harder to fit in some trunks or smaller spaces (though the Veer Cruiser folds flat and is easier to stow). While we liked this stroller and think it is a good fit for those who want a wagon and nothing else will do, we do think some parents might be happier with a jogger or bike trailer like the Burley D'Lite for outdoor adventures and more rugged terrain.

Read more: Evenflo Pivot Xplore review

The Xplore folds into a relatively compact package in less than 30 seconds.

Credit: Abriah Wofford

Best Double Stroller

Thule Urban Glide 2 Double

REASONS TO BUY

Great turning and easy pushing

Good for all-terrain

Great jogger

REASONS TO AVOID

Bulky when folded

Only accepts one infant car seat

SPECIFICATIONS

The Thule Urban Glide 2 Double is an excellent jogging crossover for multiple passengers and works as an everyday option for two. We think this is perfect for parents who want to spend as much time outdoors as they need to run errands or go shopping with two kids. This relatively lightweight and economical choice (compared to double competitors) is easy to push, turn, and use. It has some of the nicest features: large canopies, nap-worthy seating, and ample under-seat storage. Earning a top rating, the Urban Glide 2 Double proves it has what it takes to work for everyday adventures and regular jogging for daily runners. The Urban Glide 2 Double is one of the cheapest of the top double strollers we tested, making it the highest overall scorer and a great deal for budget seekers. Theis similar, with a slightly lower price and a more utilitarian feel.

This double option isn't the best for travel as it is large and heavy compared to umbrella competitors with small, lightweight designs. An option like the UPPAbaby Vista v2 is better if lightweight and compact (relative to the Thule) are your priorities. However, it is tough to beat for any other kind of use and should be on the shortlist of any parent with more than one child.

Read more: Thule Urban Glide 2 Double review

The Thule Urban Glide 2 Double is an impressive double stroller you can jog with.

Credit: Abriah Wofford

New Version Alert
There is now a Thule Urban Glide Double 3! This is exciting news, and we plan to test the new version soon. The double includes changes, but we suspect it is similar enough to the Double 2 that many of our test results still apply.

Economical 3-Wheel Double

Baby Trend Expedition Double

REASONS TO BUY

Inexpensive

Good on uneven terrain

Can occasionally jog

REASONS TO AVOID

Not great for serious runners

Not good for babies under eight months

SPECIFICATIONS

The Baby Trend Expedition Double is a budget-friendly stroller for two that you can occasionally use for jogging. It's great if you want the jogger look and feel without the price tag that comes with a more traditional jogger. The Expedition Double sports pneumatic rubber wheels that work well on various terrains, and a locking swivel front wheel makes it suitable for jogging. Even if you don't jog, the features make it one of the better choices for moving over uneven terrains like grass and gravel, unlike strollers like the plastic wheeledthat might struggle. With identical seating, including stow pockets and canopy, and a helpful parent's tray and under-seat storage, this inexpensive product has features that make daily use easy and convenient, which helped it win an award.

Unfortunately, the Expedition Double lacks tracking and suspension, so you won't want to run with it regularly. Still, the ability to take it on a quick run makes it more versatile compared to traditional double products. A more expensive but cheaper than the Thule Urban Glide 2 Double stroller is the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 Duallie, which will give you the extra features you might want. It is also bulky and heavy compared to lightweight options, so it isn't suitable for travel. However, this economical choice is one to consider if you want a double with rubber tires and a three-wheel design for better maneuverability.

Read more: Baby Trend Expedition Double review

The Expedition impressed us with its low price and maneuverability performance.

Credit: BabyGearLab Staff

Best Double Stroller for Small Budgets

Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double

REASONS TO BUY

Similar toddler seats

Good for twins

Inexpensive

REASONS TO AVOID

Turning and pushing a bit hard

Heavier

SPECIFICATIONS

The Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double is an inline double stroller similar to higher-priced and higher-end options we've reviewed but with a budget-friendly price tag for two. The Pivot Xpand has two toddler seats and is compatible with some infant car seats, making it a potential contender for families with twins. The seats offer various forward and backward combinations, creating a versatile stroller that children like. We like that both toddler seats provide similar features to avoid sibling rivalry and include the ability to recline for cozy napping with great canopies for protection from the elements. This option is easy to use compared to the competition, and the quality fits the price with a single seating option in the Evenflo Pivot Xpand if you only need to seat one.

Given the longer front-to-back length, the Xpand is harder to push and turn than some competitors. It isn't the best at moving off-road, but it isn't the worst. Overall, we think it is suitable for growing families on a budget looking for features and functionality similar to the more expensive options. If you'd rather have a side-by-side stroller that folds fairly flat and is lightweight with useful features, the Joovy ScooterX2 with Tray might be one to consider.

Read more: Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double review

The Evenflo Pivot Xpand is a budget option for those longing for versatility and future family growth without breaking the bank.

Credit: Matt Lighthart

Full-size Stroller Winner
The Xpand also won a Best Value award in our review of full-size strollers as a one-seater.

Budget Travel Two-Seater

Delta Children LX Side by Side

REASONS TO BUY

Lightweight

Compact fold

Competitive price

REASONS TO AVOID

Lower push and turning scores

Fewer features

Lower quality

SPECIFICATIONS

The Delta Children LX Side by Side is among the lightest two-seaters. This double umbrella stroller has a traditional umbrella fold and is relatively compact compared to the competition for two. It has a fantastic price for what you get and could make a great travel choice or second product for tourist adventures or airport endeavors.

The Delta is not the best quality, with smaller everything that feels flimsy and toy-like. It is also harder to push on any surface that isn't flat, though most umbrella products we've seen lack masterful maneuverability. Despite these flaws, we think this is a contender for parents who need the occasional lightweight option for travel, have less concern for features and functionality than price, and need something easy to carry and stow. If you want more and have the budget to spend, the Mountain Buggy Nano Duo or the Zoe Twin+ might be better options that offer more features and cause less frustration, given their higher quality and functionality.

Read more: Delta Children LX Side by Side review

The Delta was one of our tests' lighter and more compact high-performing umbrella strollers.

Credit: Abriah Wofford

Best Stroller for Infant Twins

Joovy TwinRoo+

REASONS TO BUY

Accepts two infant car seats

Ample storage space

Folds up compactly and light

REASONS TO AVOID

More resistance when pushing and turning than others

Limited lifespan

The Joovy Twin Roo+ is a lightweight double-frame stroller that is easy to fold, fits almost anywhere, and works with nearly every infant car seat combination. With ample under-seat storage and the ability to install the seats facing either side, this economic infant car seat holder focuses on convenience and ease of use. The Joovy Twin Roo+ also has a cheaper price tag that can help you save money in babies' first nine months while determining what kind of double stroller will be your ideal in the long run. As a result, you'll have fewer limitations than choosing from the few double options that work with two car seats attached. We think this consideration alone makes the Twin Roo+ a no-brainer for parents of twins.

This Joovy isn't a smooth mover over all terrains, so you won't want to take it off-road (you shouldn't jostle young babies off-road anyway); you'll need a jogger for this like the Baby Trend Expedition Double. The Twin Roo+ also has a nine-month lifespan, so you'll be back to the drawing board looking for something new, while something like the UPPAbaby Vista v2 can get you through all your strolling years. The Twin Roo+ is a cost-effective way to transport two babies at once without hassle or disturbing them. While not winning any awards, we think this product is excellent for new parents to transport twins without disruption.

Read more: Joovy Twin Roo+ review

The Joovy Twin Roo + is an excellent choice for families with infant twins. This affordable, lightweight frame stroller will transport two babies with plenty of storage and flexible seating options.

Credit: Abriah Wofford

We purchased and tested every stroller hands-on, comparing performance and test results to determine award winners.

Credit: Matt Lighthart

How We Test Strollers

Our testing protocol for strollers is extensive; we've conducted more than 9,200 individual tests to evaluate the more than 190 strollers we've tested since 2013. Our tests prove that strollers vary widely in their performance and best application.

We purchase and test each stroller in our reviews for a myriad of performance metrics for a side-by-side comparison to determine winners.

Credit: Matt Lighthart

To help you find the perfect stroller for your needs, we buy each stroller ourselves, accepting no freebies from manufacturers to ensure complete independence. Then, we perform a barrage of 50 scientific tests on each model.

Our GearLab testers, hard at work, folding strollers

Credit: Abriah Wofford

Our testing of strollers is divided into four rating metrics with weightings that vary depending on the stroller type:

• Ease of Use
• Maneuverability
• Transporting and Storing
• Quality
• Kid's Comfort

Our test passengers seemed to enjoy the Xplore wagon

Credit: Abriah Wofford

Each rating metric's contribution to the overall score is weighted based on how important we believe it is for most people. Weights vary from one category to the next since, for example, for an umbrella stroller, Weight and Folded size are much more important considerations than for a full-size stroller. This exhaustive testing and rating process puts us in a unique position to help you find the right stroller for your needs.

Professional runner, Carrie Vickers, helped BabyGearLab test each jogging stroller.

Credit: Abriah Wofford

Jogging strollers get 8 additional scientific tests to determine their Run Ability score, the most heavily weighted rating metric in our review for the top-ranked jogging strollers. Rolling resistance and straight-line tracking are the key features we evaluate. In addition, we test ergonomics and running performance.

The Spring has some useful features but suffered during testing being harder to push and turn.

Credit: Abriah Wofford

Why You Should Trust Us

Since 2013, BabyGearLab has purchased and tested more than 190 top strollers across every strolling category, including joggers, full-size, doubles, and umbrella products. Dr. Juliet Spurrier, founder and board-certified pediatrician, leads our selection process, considering quality, performance, and ease of use when making competitor selections.

Bob Wofford, our Senior Review Analyst, heads the in-house testing process by putting each piece through a series of specific tests comparing one to another in a side-by-side process unlike any other on Earth. Bob has led the strolling product testing since 2013, arguably laying hands on more products than virtually anyone else on the planet. Our impressive stroller test team includes Graham Faulknor. Graham is a doting dad to one toddler and a Senior Research Analyst at GearLab. Graham tested our full-size competitors from beginning to end. He attended the University of Colorado, graduating with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Graham has spent more than 15 years building, creating, and testing consumer goods and more. Senior Review Editor and mom to two, Wendy Schmitz, began working in the strolling realm in 2014. Running, strolling, folding, and lifting each contender gives Wendy a unique perspective to assess and comment on ease of use and other features in our final gear reviews for readers. The strolling team also includes Senior Review Editor Abriah Wofford, who joined in the fun in 2016, leading the charge starting in 2020.

How to Choose a Stroller

All of our joggers were assessed and tested by , our professional running expert, Carrie Vickers . With her background as a running biomechanics consultant and experience as a national-class runner, Carrie provides insight into each product's run-ability to ensure that serious and casual runners alike will be happy with our award winners.

How do you decide which stroller(s) is the best for your family? Narrowing down the extensive competition by key considerations is the best way to determine what kind of product and specific products will fit your needs. The following questions will help provide a laser focus on what you need and want to make a good decision on which gear to add to your family.

Strollers can be expensive. Price is a great reason to put them on your registry and cross your fingers that someone chooses one as your baby gift . For some new parents, this piece of gear can be cost-prohibitive. However, it might be doable for a relative or friend, or co-workers to go in on one as a group present.

Whether you need one or three strollers, finding the right one can save you money and frustration.

Credit: Matt Lighthart

How Many Strollers Do I Need?

How many products you will need varies from one family to another. Some families may not even need one. Alternatively, you might like using different options designed for specific activities. If this applies to you, you might easily find yourself with three or more different products over the years; these could include a full-size choice for everyday use, a jogger for outdoor adventures, a travel-ready option, or a best bike trailer for kids.

Babywearing is a great way to go sans stroller. With new carriers offering more holding options and hands-free designs, it is hard to go wrong with these instant baby soothers.

Credit: Abriah Wofford

Wearing your baby in a top-rated baby carrier is an excellent alternative to strolling, especially with young infants. Holding your newborn and younger infant close to your heart is a great way to increase bonding, and in our experience, it is an excellent way to calm and soothe your baby. Most modern-day carriers are comfortable and safe, keeping your baby close while freeing your hands for other activities. You can do so much, from getting groceries to doing laundry while wearing your baby. Starting this practice early could develop a habit where you don't need a strolling option at all! This baby-friendly solution can save money, space, and frustration from purchasing and managing a space-consuming strolling apparatus.

The Zoe Traveler is a lightweight stroller with more features than a standard umbrella option.

Credit: Abriah Wofford

Can One Stroller Do It All?

Wouldn't it be blissfully wonderful if a single product could fulfill all your strolling dreams and needs? We are sad to say that none of them can do everything, not a single one. However, some products cross the lines of type and could meet your needs in different areas, depending on what you want. For example, some full-size options are relatively light and small enough to be considered lightweight or umbrella products. They often have adequate running errands and napping features, but they quickly fold and fit in smaller spaces. If you want to jog, then you're still on the hunt.

The Flex works just as well for sidewalk strolling as it does for dirt trail running.

Credit: BabyGearLab Staff

Can a Jogging Stroller be a Full-size?

Yes, it can, and maybe it should! It turns out that many people find a jogger works just as well for daily outings as it does for running, but there are trade-offs you'll need to consider. Some joggers have ample storage and a locking swivel front wheel, allowing them to function well as a full-size product. If your vehicle has adequate space to transport it, you don't have trouble lifting around 25 lbs, and you don't frequent crowded locations, you could be all set. Because many jogging products have swivel front wheels, they also offer good maneuverability in small spaces (like freaky good!). Their rubber tires mean they can easily push and turn on uneven surfaces (can you say easy breezy?). Our top joggers have practical storage, comfy passenger seats, deep recline angles for napping, nice suspension, and large canopies. Many joggers are even similar in weight to some full-size competitors. Also, many joggers work with infant car seat carriers, so they can combine with a car seat, even if they are larger and heavy. These features mean joggers could potentially do the job of three products (jogger, full-size, and car seat carrier). Will a jogger ever be an excellent travel companion? Nope. They are too darn large to meet travel needs. But does it matter if you don't travel or need to stroll when you do? We don't think so.

The Yoyo2 has more features for comfort and convenience than a traditional umbrella stroller.

Credit: Abriah Wofford

Travel or Full-size Stroller?

This answer depends on your strolling plans. If you frequently commute or travel with your baby, you might benefit from a lightweight or compact stroller, making an umbrella stroller your best choice. While traditionally, they have fewer features and can be harder to push, the lighter weight and smaller size make them superior at traveling or navigating crowded city streets. If your travel days are long, your baby might need to nap, or you'll need extra supplies, you'll require more features, and not all lightweight options fit this bill. This means you need to make a thoughtful decision based on available features. Alternatively, if you want to invest in a single product that can "do both" (with a few compromises), then a few lightweight options with extra features or full-size choices weigh less and fold up small.

We see the appeal of wagons for outdoor outings, but they are not our favorite kind of strolling method.

Credit: Abriah Wofford

What About Wagons?

Nowadays, you can't throw a sippy cup without hitting a wagon designed for hauling little ones about. It seems like the "cool parent" thing to have is a wagon for outdoor adventures. From days at the park to trips to get groceries, wagons are everywhere. While their popularity is rising and we see the fun in the marketing, we aren't totally convinced that a wagon is a good stroller choice for every family or that it is the right only stroller for anyone. We recognize that a wagon might have its place, but we worry that parents might be caught up in the advertising without considering the reality.

Choosing a double stroller that fits in your vehicle could be a challenge, and we suggest testing this as soon as you make your choice.

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Our tests found wagons to be more challenging to maneuver than traditional strollers, large and hard to fit in smaller trunks, and they lacked any actual useful storage. If you have gear for more than one kid, you'll have to stack supplies on the footwell between the children. Also, they are easier to pull than push, which creates the opportunity for little ones to drop or throw items from the wagon without your knowledge, and you won't know if older toddlers try to jump out on the go until they fall. We've also heard parents remark that kids getting in and out on their own is the appeal for some. Still, in practice, toddlers climbing in and out can cause tipping from side to side if they do it unassisted, and you might be lifting them in and out multiple times in one outing (workout, anyone?).

Our test on the Xplore includes pushing and pulling over surfaces inside and outdoors.

Credit: Abriah Wofford

Overall, we see why the concept is interesting, and they might be good for park visits, hauling sandbox toys, or a picnic, but overall, we think a great jogger or bike trailer might be a better fit for most families.

Like most wagons, the Veer wagon is relatively easy to break down. However, it takes up more space than most strollers and requires keeping track of an extra plastic part.

Credit: Abriah Wofford

Are All Double Strollers Suitable for Twins?

Depending on the age of your twins, there are different considerations. If your twins are infants and you hope to pair your infant car seats with a stroller, then only half of the doubles we've tested will work as many double strollers aren't compatible with two car seats simultaneously. This lack of connectivity means they are essentially useless for twin babies under six to nine months. To resolve this issue, you could consider a frame-style option as an excellent way to stroll with two infants until they outgrow their car seats. Choosing a frame stroller gives you additional time to decide which features or style you need for how you plan to stroll.

We've purchased and tested more than 185 strollers, including more than 40 double strollers, in our effort to compare performance through testing.

Credit: Abriah Wofford

Conclusion

Unfortunately, we haven't discovered one stroller that can "do it all," but luckily, you don't have to figure it all out today. You can easily baby step into the strolling world. We recommend this to many parents. Going slow helps you determine what your strolling needs are before you make an expensive potential mistake. Some possibilities include one of the best baby carriers instead of a stroller, an ultra-lightweight frame stroller, or a budget-friendly, lightweight, full-size option that can fill two niches and be all you need if you don't jog.

The strollers highlighted in this article are all top-ranking, award-winning options in their respective categories. Using our rigorous process for narrowing potential alternatives, you can better determine if you need more than one and what type of stroller will work best for your needs. Using our detailed and comparative insight, you can find the best solutions as you travel through your strolling years. We welcome you to "stroll" through the winners to find the best choice for your family and budget.