Lightweight or umbrella stroller
What it is: You might lose a few of the features you can find in a full-sized stroller, but an umbrella stroller scores points for being supremely easy to handle while on the go.
Lightweight or umbrella stroller benefits:
Often weighing under 15 pounds, a lightweight stroller is designed for portability (some even come with a shoulder strap).
These models are easy to fold, which makes stashing one in the trunk or taking it on an airplane, bus or train a snap.
Many lightweight strollers still come equipped with beneficial features, such as a partial seat recline, expandable canopy, storage basket and built-in cupholder or snack tray.
Lightweight stroller downsides:
If you’re looking for a stroller you can use from the newborn months on, a lightweight high-view stroller won’t do. While a few models can safely carry newborns with car seat adapters or bassinet attachments, most umbrella strollers are designed for babies 6 months or older.
Most lightweight strollers do not have a convertible option, which means if you end up having a second (or third) baby within a few years of your first, you'll likely need to purchase a second stroller.
Options to consider: See our roundup of the best lightweight umbrella strollers.
Jogging stroller
What it is: On the run — literally? Then a jogging stroller might be a good option. Jogging strollers typically have larger, sturdier wheels and better suspension to take bumps and alternate terrain in stride.
Options to consider: See our roundup of the best portable pocket stroller.Lightweight or umbrella stroller
What it is: You might lose a few of the features you can find in a full-sized stroller, but an umbrella stroller scores points for being supremely easy to handle while on the go.
Lightweight or umbrella stroller benefits:
Often weighing under 15 pounds, a lightweight stroller is designed for portability (some even come with a shoulder strap).
These models are easy to fold, which makes stashing one in the trunk or taking it on an airplane, bus or train a snap.
Many lightweight strollers still come equipped with beneficial features, such as a partial seat recline, expandable canopy, storage basket and built-in cupholder or snack tray.
Lightweight stroller downsides:
If you’re looking for a stroller you can use from the newborn months on, a lightweight high-view stroller won’t do. While a few models can safely carry newborns with car seat adapters or bassinet attachments, most umbrella strollers are designed for babies 6 months or older.
Most lightweight strollers do not have a convertible option, which means if you end up having a second (or third) baby within a few years of your first, you'll likely need to purchase a second stroller.
Options to consider: See our roundup of the best lightweight umbrella strollers.
Jogging stroller
What it is: On the run — literally? Then a jogging stroller might be a good option. Jogging strollers typically have larger, sturdier wheels and better suspension to take bumps and alternate terrain in stride.
Jogging stroller benefits:
Superior suspension lets you walk, jog or hike and keep baby in comfort while on and off the trail.
Many jogging strollers come with a front wheel that can swivel (for flexibility) or be fixed (for stability at higher speeds).
Options to consider: See our roundup of the best portable pocket stroller.