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Where to begin? Let's start with an overview of types of strollers...

Lightweight strollers, as the name implies, are not only lightweight but also typically compact and easily portable. Also called "umbrella strollers", they weigh no more than 20 lbs and have a simple frame with traditional, forward-facing seat(s) and small swiveling wheels. Lightweight strollers can have little-to-no frills or they can have great features like a multi-position recline, sun shade and wheel suspension. They are great for errands, short trips (like the zoo) and also air travel. Most lightweight strollers are not suitable for newborns, so you should check before you buy if this is a concern. Many families have a lightweight stroller as their "second" stroller, meaning it's stashed in the car for any of the aforementioned activities.
Pros: Lightweight, portable, compact
Cons: Fair ride (smaller wheels), can seem flimsy, cannot usually use an infant seat with it

A Travel System includes a standard stroller, a coordinating infant car seat and often the infant seat base for the car. The infant seat snaps into the stroller, allowing you to transport your sleepy infant from the car into the stroller without any disturbance. Then, once your child is old enough to support himself, he can enjoy the stroller without the infant seat. Travel System strollers typically weigh in the 20-30 lbs range and have a fair number of desirable features, like a sunshade, child try, comfy padded seats and wheel suspension. However these added features also mean more bulk and weight to lug around. Parents like Travel Systems for their convenience and good value.
Pros: Good value, convenience, suitable from birth and on
Cons: Fair ride (smaller wheels), can be bulky

Jogging Strollers are designed and built for runners, but many parents who are not athletes are opting for the smooth ride and maneuverability that jogging strollers offer. Whether you're walking the rough terrain of a nature trail or those bumpy city sidewalks, the air-filled tires and superb suspension will handle it with grace and ease for both baby and parent. Jogging strollers are characterized by large tires (anywhere from 12" to 20"), a sleek frame, excellent sun shades, and a seat that is more bucketed so that your little one is protected from the wind and elements. The front wheel typically swivels for everyday use and locks in the forward position for running. In general, jogging strollers are pretty bulky and heavy so they are not good for air travel or loading in and out of the car regularly.
Pros: Great ride and maneuverability,
Cons: Bulky, heavy, expensive

Standard Strollers are anything but standard! These days, the term mostly applies to any stroller that is not a lightweight/umbrella stroller or a jogging stroller. Standard Strollers are meant for everyday use and offer a huge array of features and options, which makes choosing just one a bit daunting. Many new models are offering a variety of seating options that snap into a frame- a bassinet for newborns, a standard seat for toddlers, and even an attachable ride-on board for older toddlers while a younger sibling rides in the seat.

Double Strollers are intended for two passengers. Be ready for more weight and more bulk- it's pretty unavoidable! But there are a few different configurations of double strollers that are available.

Side-by-Side means that the passengers are sitting next to each other, facing outward. Parents like that it eliminates any fights over who gets to sit in front, and they have equal access to each child. The large width can feel more difficult to maneuver, especially in and out of doorways.
Tandem means that one child is in front and one is in back. This configuration is thought to be easier to maneuver, especially in and out of doorways.
Sit & Stand strollers have a seat in front for a younger child, and a platform and bench in back so an older child can either sit or stand. The older kid thinks standing is pretty cool, and parents like it because Sit & Stand strollers are a little lighter, less bulky, and have a smaller footprint so it is easier to maneuver.
Inline strollers are single strollers that convert to a double with the addition of a second seat.  The second seat is usually attached to the lower-back of the stroller.  The Inline strollers are economical and have a small footprint.

 

Stroller specs... what do they mean to me

So we at Stroller Source have provided you with lots of "specs" for every stroller... so, what do they mean? How or why should you consider them when making your stroller buying decision?

Assembled L x W x H": The overall footprint of the stroller could affect it's maneuverability, or your ability to push it around with ease. This is more important to consider with double or triple strollers when you're dealing with extra width. A standard door opening is 30" wide, so if you plan to enter shops & restaurants with the stroller, you better make sure you will fit!

Folded L x W x H": This is important for storage and stashing the stroller in the car. If you drive a small hatchback, chances are, your double jogger will not fit into it.

Stroller Weight: If you will need to hoist the stroller up and down stairs or in and out of the car a lot, your back would thank you if you select a stroller that is lighter weight. If, however, you will keep the stroller fully assembled and sitting in the garage at all times, then go for the heavy one with all the bells and whistles!

Wheel Material: The three most prevalent materials used by stroller makers are plastic, foam, and rubber (air-filled). Plastic wheels are lightweight and low maintenance, but result in a bumpier and noisier ride. Foam tires are slightly heavier than plastic but still pretty lightweight and low maintenance, and they produce a cushier ride. Rubber, air-filled tires are heavy and prone to deflation or tearing, but they result in a super smooth, whisper-quiet ride.

Wheel Suspension: When a stroller has a suspension system, this means that it was built with a spring mechanism in the wheels or frame which absorbs the bumps you encounter, resulting in a smoother ride for your child. Strollers can have front wheel suspension, back wheel suspension, or both.

Handle Bar Adjustability: If either parent is extremely short or tall, an adjustable handle bar can be a great benefit to both parents.

Recline: If you want your little one(s) to be able to snooze in the stroller, a recline is a must. It's especially important for newborns and infants.

Storage space: Think not only quantity and size of places to stash your stuff, but also accessibility. A large cargo basket is not very helpful if it's difficult to get to!

Other tips to consider...

What time of year are you expecting your child?
If you live in a climate with cold weather seasons and you are expecting a November baby, chances are that you won't be strolling with your little one until she's 5 or 6 months old, so you can dismiss any stroller concerns related to newborns. On the other hand, if you are expecting a baby at the height of summer, you need to consider strollers that have infant seat compatibility and/or have a bassinet option.

What are your plans for expanding your family?
If you are stroller shopping for your first child and know you would like to add a sibling in the next couple of years, then consider a stroller that can accommodate your growing family with a simple add-on. Some strollers are built to handle an additional seat attachment in the front or back of the stroller, while some others have an optional ride-on board attachment.