How to find the best strollers for new parents in 2023
The Stroller: The MVP of Baby Gear
When it comes to baby equipment, nothing beats the essential stroller. It's not just about wheeling your little one around—though that's crucial! You will find that you will use the stroller as a crib for sleeping, a chair for outdoor meals and as a baby gym when you are out for life's adventures. From your first walk in the park, navigating the city streets or jet-setting on family vacations, the stroller is your steadfast companion.
Combining safety, comfort, and mobility, it's no wonder search trends show new parents prioritize finding the perfect pram. In the vast realm of baby gear, the stroller truly stands out, making it a must-have item on every new parent's checklist and is why it is on the top of our checklist "Preparing for a Baby".
Now, as 2023 rolls in with new tech, styles, and choices, half of which you will probably never need, the quest remains timeless: finding that perfect stroller.
Note that strollers come in a myriad of styles and forms, each tailored to varying needs and lifestyles.
Full Size Convertible strollers shift from a bassinet to a toddler seat, offering a solution that grows with your child.
Jogging strollers are built for the active parent wanting to combine exercise with outings.
Travel strollers are lightweight and compact, ideal for jet-setting families.
Umbrella strollers, ultra-light and foldable, are perfect for quick jaunts or travel.
Given this array, the choice can seem overwhelming. But fear not! In this article, we'll be focusing specifically on what is suitable to be your primary stroller from the age of 0 - 4 years, an essential piece for most new parents, being the full size convertible stroller.
In all honesty, we know half the charm in picking baby gear often comes from looking down on the streets or peeking over the fence at what the neighbour's got or listening intently to your bestie’s latest recommendation. After all, who can resist that age-old urge of, “If she’s got it, I need it!”. Though that it is a very reasonable and legitimate choice, we hope that after a quick dive into this guide, you're feeling a touch wiser, a smidge more informed, and confident to go look at some strollers on your own. Let’s break down the stroller hunt!
The 'Non-Negotiables' - Safety and Durability
First things first! Before you should look at the color, the cup holders and the accessories, or how fabulous it'll look in your Instagram post, let's talk safety. Ensure the stroller has certified safety features and robust construction. After all, it’s about to carry your most precious cargo! Stroller safety certification will vary from country to country, however, strollers purchased in any reputable store would be certified as most countries have established standards and regulatory bodies to ensure that strollers sold within their borders are safe for use.
Growing Up Together - Comfort and Adaptability
Just like your favorite pair of jeans, you'll want a stroller that "fits" perfectly as your baby grows. Look for adjustable features, good cushioning, and whether it can adapt from newborn to toddler stages. Your baby’s comfort is key, but hey, we know you want to be comfortable pushing it too!
For the Mom-on-the-Go - Portability and Weight
Whether you're cruising the city streets, navigating the mall, or tackling travel, the weight and foldability of your stroller matters. Check if it's compact enough for tight spaces or to pop into your car's trunk without you having to get too frustrated. There will always be some frustration though as you may be put under pressure while folding it, when your toddler is screaming by your side.
Because Who Doesn't Love Perks - Extra Features
Attachments, you will (but probably never will) use? Check. Storage space for those absolutely essential (and not so essential) baby items? Double-check. A conversion to a double stroller? (Actually a Bonus!). Joking aside, it’s the little conveniences that can make all the difference during those unpredictable baby days.
Neighborly Nudge and BFFs: The Real Stroller Experts
Last, but certainly not least, if you are still split between strollers there is no fault in being persuaded by a neighborly nudge or your BFFs. Sometimes, real-world experiences are the best indicators of a product's worth and listing to the advice of other parents are usually the easiest and most effective way of finding your new stroller.
However, if you have narrowed it down to one or two strollers we do advice you to dive into a review, both good and bad, and maybe a comparison video between the two on YouTube or similar. It is much easier to find good content and reviews once you have narrowed your search for the best stroller down.
While every stroller journey is personal and unique, we'd be remiss if we didn't nudge you ever-so-gently towards certain particular gems that has impressed us lately. You might want to take a closer peek at the following strollers:
Bugaboo Fox 5 (our favorite) - Bugaboo's flagship model.
Pros: Materials and design are premium, very smooth ride in various terrains, compact fold
Cons: Pricey
Bugaboo Donkey 5 Duo – Bugaboo's double carrier. It can also be used as a spacious single stroller and extended in case of a family increase.
Pros: Versatile configuration (single and double), spacious storage
Cons: Pricey, size and weight
Joolz Day + - Joolz premium model.
Pros: Design, color and accessory options, durability
Cons: Pricey and accessibility to storage basket
EmmalJunga Sento Max Flat (only relevant if you live in Europe) – EmmalJunga new flagship model renowned for its build quality.
Pros: Terrain Versatility, durability
Cons: Weight and bulkier design
UppaBaby Vista V2 – Flagship full size stroller.
Pros: Spacious, versatile configuration (single or double carrier), durable and large storage
Cons: size and weight
Budget Option
Cybex Balios S 2-in-1 – Looks a lot like a premium stroller similar to the Bugaboo Fox.
Pros: Very easy to switch from carrycot/bassinet to seat unit, design, price, compact fold
Cons: Accessories sold separately, weight, durability/materials
The above are popular choices that many new parents have whispered about in our circles and in our opinion have a blend of safety, style and stellar reviews. But of course, this guide is meant to encourage you to make the final call, and whatever you choose - happy wheeling!