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Seven Things to Know Before Making Your Next Stroller Purchase

by Kelly Morse, Founder of Joggermom.com

Whether you have one, two or three children in a stroller, you will find that there are many choices out there.   I have a lot of personal experience, having had all four of my children in a stroller at one point!  I can help you find the right stroller for your lifestyle by sharing with you things to consider before you make that important purchase.

1) Swivel Wheel vs. Fixed Wheel?  Swivel wheels are easy to maneuver thru most any crowd or street.  They are great for walking, exercise or light running.  Fixed wheels on the other hand are great if you want to go straight or have lots of hills.  Pulling back on the handlebar to get up and over curbs can get a little tiring.  If you are a serious runner (3 or more miles) you will want to get a fixed wheel.

2) When can an infant go in a stroller? If your stroller has a car seat adapter you can bring your new baby out immediately.  Most stroller manufacturers recommend that you wait until your infant is 6 to 8 weeks old for any kind of walking exercise, and wait 6 months for running.  Please always check with your Pediatrician first.

3) Large Sun Hood - With the suns harmful rays you want to make sure your little one is protected from the sun.  Even on cloudy days he can get sun burned. A large sun hood is recommended.  Most stroller companies offer a separate sun shield to help block the UVA rays.

4) Adjustable Handlebar - This is for our parents of varying heights.  If your husband is tall and you are not, you will want an adjustable handle bar.  It is very hard on your back pushing a stroller that does not fit you.

5) Easy Fold - Look for a stroller that is easy to fold and store in your trunk. Getting it open should be easy as well.  You do not want a stroller that you have to take apart every time you go somewhere.  You will find it stays set up in the garage for local walks or you end up buying a new one.

6) Five-point Harness - These days most strollers have a 5-point harness.  Use the harness; it will protect your little guy from falling out of the stroller.  Children get to an age where they start undoing them by themselves.  Do your best to keep them on.  I have seen too many accidents from a quick stop or a front wheel falling off and the baby tumbles. Safety first always.

7) Why is there such a difference in price on strollers?  When you purchase a more expensive stroller you can expect it to last longer, quite simply.  When you purchase a higher end stroller you get fabrics that will not fade or tear, wheels that will move more smoothly, extra pockets, bigger baskets, easier to maneuver, generally they weigh less than your less expensive strollers, adjustable handlebars and easy fold systems.

Visit Joggermom.com to find the right stroller for your lifestyle.  We offer free same day shipping on many of our items.