EmailFull-featured strollers are among the largest available on the market, and they generally have the most features. This has an upside and a downside. These strollers have the sturdiest frames and wheels, which afford a smoother (and sometimes more shock-resistant) ride. They're also wider and roomier, with comfortable padded seats that fully recline, so they're appropriate for newborns (who need to lie completely flat). There is normally a large canopy, lots of storage space and sometimes front play trays and adjustable-height handles. The drawbacks are that full-featured strollers tend to be heavy (up to 30 pounds), bulky (which can be an issue if you have a small car trunk or are in a grocery aisle) and awkward to fold.
Parents are generally rebelling against the huge strollers that were popular in years past. Now the trend is toward more streamlined designs, embracing the idea that full-featured strollers don't have to look bulky or weigh 30 pounds to be functional. Most of the progress has been made in the upper end of the price scale, where companies like Bugaboo, Zooper and Inglesina have introduced stylish strollers with convenient features like one-hand fold mechanisms, car-seat adapters and lighter-weight aluminum frames.
Experts have some advice for those buying a full-featured stroller:
- Be careful if buying a used stroller. It may seem like a tempting bargain, but worn mechanisms and potential recall notices should make you wary of buying a used stroller, especially if it's a less durable brand. Imported models, like those from Maclaren, Peg Perego and Inglesina, on the other hand, are well known for longevity and have a high resale value. Be sure to give a used stroller a good once-over and check for recalls at the Consumer Product Safe Commission website.
- Five-point harnesses are best, but three-point belts are also safe. A five-point harness (around the waist, over the shoulders and between the legs) is preferable and is generally the standard for new strollers. Some manufacturers still use three-point harnesses (around the waist and between the legs). These are also acceptable, though not quite as secure.
- Better strollers have wheels made of hard nylon, rather than soft plastic, and some strollers have inflatable bicycle tires. Larger wheels mean a smoother ride but less maneuverability. Look for shock absorbers if you live in a neighborhood with rough pavement. Air-filled tires are also gaining in popularity. Parents say that they offer an improved ride, but that they need to be filled periodically with an air pump.
- Look for a balanced frame. An upholstered and padded frame offers the best support for the child. Make sure the stroller doesn't tip backward when light pressure is placed on the handlebar. Don't hang objects on the handles, as this can cause a stroller to tip.
- Infants younger than 6 months require fully reclining seats, because they can't support the weight of their heads and need to lie flat. Reclining seats also allow older babies to nap comfortably. Removable seat cushions make for easier cleaning.
- Look for a locking mechanism that prevents the stroller from collapsing accidentally, and check for hidden dangers like sharp edges, protrusions or uncovered hinges. Also, make sure the leg openings on the harness are not too wide. When in doubt, check for the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association certification sticker.
- Look for a generous canopy. In addition, a cold-weather boot (which protects a child's feet from cold and dirt) is a good idea if you plan to battle Mother Nature; otherwise they're probably a waste of money.
- Use caution when buying a stroller online. Buying a stroller cold -- without ever having handled it -- can leave you at a disadvantage. Variations in height, handling and personal preferences are difficult to consider if you don't actually give the stroller a bit of hands-on testing.