There are six main types of strollers.
Full-size strollers: This type of stroller is what most people think of when they imagine a stroller. The best full-size strollers come equipped with a comfortable padded seat, large sun canopy, roomy storage basket, and sometimes even a reversible seat so that babies can sit either facing out or facing their parents or caregivers. They are designed to accommodate babies from a newborn in a bassinet attachment to a toddler in a reclinable seat.
Convertible strollers: Sometimes referred to as modular, these strollers go from single to double (or even triple, with the addition of a toddler ride-along board) and can be set up in a variety of ways for more than one child. Many allow you to use a combination of a car seat, a regular stroller seat, and a bassinet. They are especially popular and useful for growing families but come with added weight and bulk.
Travel strollers: Also known as lightweight, compact, or city strollers, these strollers are smaller and more minimal. This category of stroller is growing fast with brands adding features normally associated with full-size strollers, like cushy reclining seats, larger storage baskets, adjustable handlebars, car-seat compatibility, and matching bassinets or newborn attachments for parents who want the convenience of a compact stroller that is still comfortable enough to use every day. For city dwellers, this type of stroller is becoming more popular and is often used as a primary stroller from birth to 4 or 5 years of age.
Jogging strollers: These three-wheeled strollers have a special suspension system that creates a smooth ride on various terrains. They’re sturdy and safe for running with lockable front swivel wheels and hand brakes, but can be bulkier than other types of strollers. Though some parents will use them with an infant car seat while walking, they are not designed for jogging with children under 6 months of age, because the speed and jostling associated with jogging isn’t safe for babies until they have adequate neck and head strength.
Double strollers: Double strollers are designed to carry two kids who are relatively close in age either side-by-side or one in front of the other. They are handy for siblings or nanny shares, but are of course bigger than other types of strollers. There’s a fair amount of overlap between double strollers and other types of strollers. For example: double jogging strollers, lightweight double strollers, and double car-seat strollers.
Travel stroller systems: Travel systems include a stroller and a compatible infant car seat from the same brand. They are a convenient one-and-done pairing to add to a baby registry — no special car-seat adapters required. That said, it’s rare that one brand makes the very best stroller and the very best car seat for your family. So depending on your needs, the best option for you might be to mix and match.
