Features to Look For in Your New Stroller

A stroller is something that you will use almost daily for the next three to four years. And it will be used under some of the harshest conditions. The stroller that you choose should safely and comfortably accommodate your child as he grows, and also perform well during this entire time. Following are some suggestions to keep in mind:

Use

How do you intend to use your stroller?

• Are you looking for transportation for everyday activities, such as shopping, keeping doctor appointments, walking to the playground, and just strolling?
• Or, do you really need a jogging stroller that will do double duty; one that will not only be great for everyday errands, but will also allow you to jog in neighborhoods or along pathways?
• Or are you looking for that truly specialized jogging stroller that will be used for serious jogging and running?

Be sure to check the manufacturer’s description and specifications. If you think that you would like to do some jogging in your neighborhood, make sure that you select a jogging stroller or a double duty jogging stroller.

Safety Harness

Look for a sturdy 5-point harness, one that will hold your child securely so that he cannot fall or slip out. Look for one that you can easily adjust as your child grows.

Cabin

Look for an airy, comfortable and large cabin. Most strollers will accommodate children up to 50 pounds. That means that you will want to be able to use that one stroller until your child no longer needs a stroller. Your choice of stroller should comfortably accommodate your infant as he grows to a toddler, then to a young child. Also keep in mind the bulkiness of foul weather gear and winter clothing.

Double Duty Jogging Strollers

Jogging strollers are generally designed to do double duty. Many jogging strollers have a swivel front wheel so that you can maneuver around when doing everyday activities. When you decide to jog, the front wheel is locked in place so that you get a more controlled jog. Jogging strollers have sturdier frames, and larger, stronger wheels to take the jolts and the bumps. Jogging strollers also place the child in a deeper, more secure seat.

Play it safe. Don’t put unnecessary stress on an ordinary stroller by making it a jogging stroller. Not only will you be shortening the stroller’s usable life, but you may be putting your child in danger.

Wheels

Most strollers do come with swivel wheels that provide great maneuverability. Take a good look at the construction and material of those wheels. Will they handle the use and abuse you plan to give them? Generally larger wheels are made better and out-perform a bunch of tiny wheels. Look for pneumatic tires; they not only provide a more comfortable ride for the passenger, but they will be more comfortable for you, too.

Folding and Storage

Strollers go from the house, to the auto trunk, almost on a daily basis. Easy fold is not an option; it is a necessity. Look for the “one-hand” easy fold design.

If you are afraid of getting one of those larger strollers with large wheels because you think they will take up too much room, think again. You’ll be surprised at how well and how compactly most of them fold. Usually those larger wheels are designed to snap off and on easily, making a real tight bundle. So again, check the description and read the specifications. You may be surprised.

Adjustable Handles, Shock Absorbers, etc.

These are considered extras, ones that you may want or need, depending on how you plan to use your stroller. Adjustable handles are very useful when jogging, or when people of various heights will be pushing the stroller. Shock absorbers are recommended if you will be jogging on unpaved, uneven terrain; not only do they provide a more comfortable ride, but they give you more control of the stroller on these surfaces.

With a little thought and planning, your stroller should be a good investment. It should not only serve your needs over the next few years, but it should perform well during this entire time. It should comfortably hold your child as he grows. And above all, it should be safe.