The Basics: Strollers and Jogger Strollers

Every baby should come with two things: a "how-to" book and a quality stroller. For nearly any parent, grandparent or caregiver, the ability to wheel a child around in a stroller is a study in convenience. In fact, the most difficult part of owning a stroller is probably buying one.

There are more stroller styles and features than ever before. Even jogger strollers (specifically made for running or walking) are coming into their own. Many jogger strollers are trading their all-too-utilitarian designs for a touch of luxury. At Consumer Guide, we share expert reviews on strollers and joggers great for nearly any budget, taking care to point out helpful features designed to make life easier for parent and child.

Currently, a number of stroller manufacturers are rolling out new models with improved details. Some manufacturers are paying more attention to how a stroller or jogger performs, adding large pneumatic wheels and all-wheel suspension systems. Others are paying attention to parent-friendly features and adding customized storage, height-adjustable handles and even a one-hand steering option. Perhaps the trendiest feature we have seen is a stroller with an iPod pocket and built-in speakers.

Expect to pay more for a full-size stroller than a lightweight umbrella-style model. The trade-off, however, is a good one: A quality full-size stroller should be durable enough to use for several years. A jogger stroller typically won't have all the convenience features of a full-size stroller, but when it comes to getting a bit of exercise, there's no substitute.

While it can be difficult to justify spending hundreds on a stroller or jogger in the face of mounting expenses (such as your child's future college education), initially spending more can sometimes save money in the long run. Compare the expense of purchasing a quality stroller with the cost of buying two or three strollers that wear out or don't perform as promised. It adds up.

Make a few decisions before you begin shopping. If you prioritize your needs (adjustable handles, reclining seat, large canopy), it's easier to sift through the trendy "new" features. It's also important to note that "quality" doesn't always equal "costly." Thanks to a competitive juvenile products industry, careful shoppers can find an increasing number of mid-priced strollers with features once seen only on high-end models.

Expect to spend $75 to $300 or more for a full-size stroller. At the lower-end of the price spectrum, you will find only the most basic models. These are OK if you plan to use a stroller only occasionally. If a stroller will be a big part of your after-baby life, shell out a few more dollars for comfort and convenience features. It will be worth it.

Specialized strollers, such as jogger strollers, average about $200, but some cost $400 or more. Again, if you're a serious athlete planning to put a lot of mileage on a stroller, durability should be a priority. If you will just be walking around the cul-de-sac, a basic model should be fine.

For more information on strollers, check out Consumer Guide's in-depth rating system that spells out, at a glance, which strollers best suit your needs and budget.

How to Shop

Look for strollers -- also called full-size or standard strollers -- with reclining seats, sun canopies, footrests, storage compartments, snack/toy bars, larger wheels and adjustable-height handles. Some standard strollers also have lightweight aluminum frames, shock absorbers and pneumatic (air-filled) wheels. The price range for standard strollers varies from $75 to $300 or more. Some standard strollers have bassinet attachments, but expect to pay more for this option.

If you will be toting an infant, take the time to find a stroller that is infant car seat compatible. This means you can affix the car seat to the stroller to create an instant travel system. The greatest benefit? You can transfer a sleeping infant from vehicle to stroller -- or vice versa -- with ease.

Specialized strollers, such as jogger strollers, typically have a canopy, footrest and height-adjustable handles. Jogger strollers are not a good substitute for a standard stroller because they generally do not offer as many seat recline positions or convenience features as standard strollers. Jogger strollers can be heavy, bulky when folded, and difficult to fit in the trunk of a car.

Most jogger strollers have two large rear wheels and a smaller front wheel. This triangle-shaped wheel system is ideal for walking or jogging, but can make tight turns a struggle. A new generation of jogger strollers, however, offers a front wheel "swivel" option. This can dramatically tighten a jogger stroller's turning radius.

Some jogger strollers can convert from a traditional four-wheel stance (one wheel at each corner) to a tripod stance (one wheel at each rear corner and two closely spaced wheels in front that act as one). We're a little doubtful about the practicality of converting such a stroller, but it's a step in the right direction. We expect future models to further blur the line between standard stroller and jogger stroller.

Regardless of the type of stroller you choose, solid stability is not optional. Even large strollers can tip over if overloaded with items in all the wrong places. Don't use the handlebars as storage. Instead, look for roomy storage spaces under the stroller's seat that can be accessed even if the stroller seat is reclined. Other storage options include pockets for smaller items, such as cell phones, keys, bottles and pacifiers. A parent tray with cup holders is a nice addition. For children, look for built-in cup holders, snack trays and toy bars, especially if you will be using the stroller frequently.

Before you purchase a stroller, double-check the manufacturer's weight and height limits. These restrictions vary by manufacturer. We recommend a five-point harness that goes over baby's shoulders and thighs, and buckles in the center. Some strollers have a five-point harness that converts to a three-point harness. This can be handy for older children.

Check out the manufacturer's warranty, and save your receipt. If there is a manufacturer's registration card included in the product packaging, return it. This way, you can be notified if there is a recall.

Look for strollers with removable, machine washable seat covers. You will also want to be sure the seat has plenty of cushion to cradle baby as he rides. If you need to use the stroller for an infant, the stroller will need a bassinet attachment, a fully reclining seat or a car seat compatible attachment. Even with older children, a lie-flat seat is convenient for napping.

There are a couple of other features we feel deserve special mention, regardless of the type of stroller you choose: Adjustable-height handlebars and pneumatic wheels. The ability to adjust handlebar height can help prevent back strain and makes the stroller-pushing experience more comfortable. The handlebars should be easy to adjust and have heights to suit users from petite to tall. Pneumatic (air-filled) wheels provide a comfortable, cushioned ride, and are easier to push over uneven surfaces. In general, the larger the wheel's diameter, the easier it can handle uneven terrain.