Lightweight Stroller Category Overview:
Everyone should have some sort of lightweight stroller in their kid toting' arsenal. The industry usually defines a lightweight stroller as being less than 15 pounds. Most strollers in the lightweight class are categorized as umbrella strollers. Historically umbrella strollers were used primarily as a backup, only intended for quick errands and offered minimal options. Times have changed and the stroller industry has recognized the need for ultra-portable, go-anywhere, lightweight strollers to offer more features. High end umbrella strollers like Maclaren XLR and the UPPAbaby G-LUXE, offer padded seats, 5 point harnesses, suspension, leg rests and additional options.
Most people will use lightweight strollers for quick errands or travel. Nothing beats their compact design for navigating busy malls or airports. Compact fold and low weight allow you to move quickly and store the stroller in your car or small apartment with ease.
Keep in mind that most lightweight strollers give up some features remain lightweight. The most compromised features will be storage space, tire size, stability. Because of their general smaller size, storage space is cut to a minimum making it more difficult to stuff in all your baby essentials and add anything you pick up on during your shopping trip. Tire/wheel size is generally small, making it more difficult to navigate tough terrain. Most all-terrain strollers feature large tires to handle bumps, sand and the rough stuff nature throws at you. Because light weight and compact design go hand in hadn in this category, wheel bases are usually closer together, negatively effecting overall stability. Your child alone in the stroller will be safe and stable, but don't hang bags off the handle! Most lightweight strollers don't accommodate car seats and thus shouldn't be used for children under 6 months of age, but there are ones that do. Be sure to read all reviews, as some manufactures have built their lightweight strollers from newborn on up.
Invest in a well built and brand name lightweight stroller packed with all the features. Now that many lightweight strollers are feature packed, many parents make this their children's primary ride. Be sure to read all reviews especially those from Maclaren and UPPAbaby, who offer some of the best lightweight strollers out there.
FEATURES TO CONSIDER
- Reclining Seat
- Basket
- Extra features, like cup holders
- Ease of fold
- Durability
- Comfort
- Maneuverability
- Basket
(Refer to our Glossary if you don't recognize an of these terms)
