Full-Featured Strollers: Reviews

The Graco MetroLite beats pricier strollers in tests for ease of use, safety and maneuverability. Feature-wise, reviews say it has everything most parents want -- a padded, reclining seat, peek-a-boo canopy, large storage… expandbasket, cupholders for both parent and child, and more -- all in a slim, 17.4-pound frame. It is also compatible with the Graco SnugRide and SafeSeat infant car seats. The MetroLite may not be as trendy or stylish as the UppaBaby Vista (*Est. $680) or other high-design luxury strollers, but it makes up for this with a far lower price tag. Note that older MetroLite strollers (sold prior to Dec. 2007) were recalled in Oct. 2010. However, the newer versions of the MetroLite stroller are not affected. collapse

For half the price of the Graco MetroLite (*Est. $150), the Kolcraft Contours Lite proves just as safe and maneuverable in one top test, and almost as easy to use. Like the MetroLite, the Kolcraft stands when folded and… expandhas a five-point harness and swivel-out child tray. It's even a little lighter than the MetroLite, at 15.5 pounds. However, you can't put an infant car seat in the Kolcraft, and user reviews indicate it may not be as durable as the MetroLite. collapse

Competition is fierce among $700 luxury strollers, but reviewers say the UppaBaby Vista offers a good blend of style, practicality, comfort and maneuverability. The Vista is highly configurable and adjustable: It comes… expandwith telescopic handles, a no-kick rear axle, zip-in weather and bug shields, three recline positions and interchangeable bassinet and stroller seats. There's also an optional second seat (the $130 RumbleSeat) and a running board (the $90 Piggyback) to accommodate friends and siblings, allowing you to extend the functionality of the Vista as a double stroller. You can also buy adapters (*Est. $30 to $40) for popular infant car seat models. Reviewers say the Vista is comfortable for babies and parents and exceptionally maneuverable in urban conditions (it's not an all-terrain stroller). collapse