How to choose a baby stroller?

To choose the best stroller for you, you need to take into account the type of stroller, as well as a number of other features (wheels and suspension, weight and dimensions, space occupied by the stroller, storage, etc.). Here are some tips to help you make the right choice.

What type of stroller should you choose?

Traditional strollers

With a traditional stroller, the seat is permanently attached to the frame, which means you can’t turn your baby to face you. However, many models feature a plastic window or netting in the sun shade that lets you keep an eye on your baby.

You can attach an infant car seat to most traditional strollers using a stage 1 car seat adapter. Unless you have a reclinable stroller, the only safe way to transport a newborn baby is to attach the car seat to the stroller, since the baby’s head must be supported. Traditional strollers range from light, compact models to larger models with roomy storage baskets.

Important note: If your stroller and car seat are from different brands, you’ll likely need to buy an adapter, if one is available. Some manufacturers sell a travel system—a stroller and compatible car seat set. Travel systems are a good deal, since a car seat alone costs $450 on average, while adapters can cost over $50.

Convertible stroller

Convertible strollers have a reversible seat so your baby can face you during your walk. These models also give you the option to replace the seat with a carry cot or infant car seat. Strollers in this category start at $400, but can cost much more. A wide variety of accessories are usually included or sold separately, and some strollers even allow you to carry a second child.

Umbrella strollers

Umbrella strollers are lightweight, compact, and very small when folded. Most entry-level umbrella strollers are non-adjustable. With some higher-end compact models, you can change the height of the footrest, adjust the handles or even make your stroller convertible (with the purchase of additional accessories).

Airlines will even accept certain models as carry-on luggage. In addition, these simple strollers are convenient for urban dwellers and frequent travellers who don’t want to lug around a large, cumbersome model. The small wheels, however, offer your child less comfort than with another type of stroller.

All-terrain strollers

Larger than traditional strollers, all-terrain models have studded, sometimes air-filled tires. They should have a solid suspension to keep your baby comfortable on bumpy, rugged trails, but there’s one notable drawback: they’re relatively heavy.

Jogging strollers

These strollers feature three large (40 cm [16 in.] or more) air-filled tires. Many have lockable front wheels to prevent them from swerving while you’re running. Extended handlebar to give you plenty of legroom. Keeps kids comfortable even at higher speeds. Extra wide and long.

Stroller features and accessories

• Wheels and suspension
  It’s not so much the number of wheels that affects how easy a stroller is to maneuver, but rather their size. The front wheels should measure at least 17.5–20 cm (7–8 in.) and the back wheels at least 22.5–25 cm (9–10 in.) to roll smoothly and comfortably on rough terrain. Larger wheels make it easier to maneuver through snow. The suspension absorbs bumps in the road and helps keep your child comfortable.
• Weight and size
  Traditional strollers range in weight from 9 kg (20 lb.) to around 13 kg (28.6 lb.). This includes the weight of the chassis, seat, wheels, and sun shade. In comparison, a compact stroller weighs around 7 or 8 kg (15.4 or 17.6 lb.).
  When shopping, consider the dimensions of the model you’re interested in. The widest are around 69 cm (27 in.) wide, making them hard to maneuver in narrow store aisles. For reference, a standard door is around 76 cm (30 in.) wide. At the other end of the spectrum, the narrowest strollers are only around 46 cm (18 in.) wide.

• Folded size
  If you have space constraints for storage in the house or car, the space the stroller occupies when closed is an important criterion. Some models are easy to disassemble (wheels and seat) and can be stored in a small space.
• Storage
  In general, storage space goes hand in hand with stroller size. Make sure your chosen stroller has a basket that can hold your diaper bag and some groceries.
• Travel system
  Many traditional strollers are sold as travel systems that come with a compatible car seat and base. These are often a more budget-friendly option, as you don’t have to purchase the stroller and car seat separately.
• Safety harness and reclining seat
  Most strollers have a five-point harness system, similar to those found in cars. Some models allow you to fasten only three straps (at the hips and crotch) without having to fasten the ones above the child’s shoulders.
  Most convertible strollers have a reclining back you can lower to different preset angles. Traditional strollers, on the other hand, allow you to freely adjust the back to any angle with cords or straps. All strollers allow you to recline the seat back to some degree, and some even allow you to recline the seat to close to 180°.
  At the store, take a moment to try out the safety harness and reclining seat, as you will be using these features regularly.
• Important accessories
  Keep in mind that your choice of stroller brand may determine the accessories available to you. In some cases, you can purchase an adapter that will allow you to attach a car seat from a different brand. However, this is not always the case for carry cots, flat-bottomed accessories that can be used to carry a child under 6 months of age in a reclining position.
  Other add-ons like snack trays, stroller boards, stroller bags, and rain covers are often only compatible with a specific brand or model. They can also be pricey, so make sure to do the math before choosing your stroller.

Things to keep in mind

• When choosing a stroller, think about your needs and how you plan to use it.
• For newborns, you’ll need a model that can fully recline or that allows you to attach a car seat.
• There are several features to consider before buying a stroller, including wheel size, suspension, weight, and dimensions (particularly relative to your storage space).

Research and copywriting: Linda Gauthier, Protégez-Vous Web adaptation:The Naître et grandir team Updated: July 2025

 Photos: GettyImages/Orbon Alija and Halfpoint