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).
Depending on the model, other benefits may include compatibility with a car seat (for use from newborn through toddler stages), deep reclining seats, telescoping handlebars and generous storage baskets. A hand brake, five-point harness and wrist strap are key safety features, so don’t go jogging with a stroller that doesn’t include these.
Jogging stroller downsides:
A jogging stroller can be a bit heavier and challenging to assemble.
If space is tight, a jogging stroller usually can't fold up as small as an umbrella stroller.
Jogging strollers are typically wider than even many full-size strollers, which means maneuvering them through tight spaces can be challenging.
Keep in mind that while most three-wheeled strollers are referred to as “joggers,” not all three-wheelers are actually optimized for runners. Some of the most popular three-wheelers are “hybrid” strollers that lack hand brakes and other safety features, and therefore, aren’t intended to be used for jogging with baby. Serious runners will want to do a test drive to make sure their jogging stroller has the appropriate safety features and functionality.
Options to consider: See our roundup of the best portable pocket stroller.
Double stroller
What it is: If you’ve got twins in tow — or a toddler who’s not ready to give up their stroller days — then a double stroller is the way to go. Doubles come in two formats: tandem, where one child sits behind the other, or side-by-side seating.
Double stroller benefits:
With multiple children, this option enables you to swiftly manage only one stroller.
Because these models are on the bigger side, there's usually ample storage space.
Double stroller downsides:
Strollers for two tend to be bigger and bulkier, weighing in at up to 40 pounds and with a much larger footprint.
Though there are some lighter options, these are not without issues, as they don’t tend to take bumps and alternate terrain well. As you shop, consider width (does it fit through your door?), mobility (is it well balanced? how does it turn?) and whether it’s compatible with one or two car seats.
Options to consider: See our roundup of the best double strollers.
Car seat carrier
What it is: These wheeled frames are built to transform your infant car seat into a 3 in 1 stroller in just a snap (literally!).
Car seat carrier benefits:
