Stroller shopping: It’s all about the fold. And the weight (light, light, light). And the canopy. And the recline. It might seem like a lot of features to demand from the best umbrella stroller, but the ones full of features that are also easy to handle are out there and can make your hustle and bustle — whether for groceries or a walk down a nature path — so much easier.
Here are seven expert picks for the best umbrella stroller:
- Maclaren Mark II
The Maclaren Mark II, says Kit Li-Perry, the chief merchandising officer at baby site Giggle, “is literally the lightest stroller on the market. At 7.3 pounds, that weighs less than a newborn. It’s really amazing when you think about how light that is.” Li-Perry adds the stroller has a four-wheel suspension and impressive ergonomic brake system, along with an extra-large hood and built-in sun visor. “It’s just really easy to fold it up and tote it away,” Li-Perry says.
- Babies R Us Zobo
Babies R Us recommends its Zobo lightweight stroller, according to a spokeswoman. An exclusive to the company, the stroller costs $99 and folds nearly flat. It comes in four bright colors, has an adjustable leg rest to keep your kiddo comfy and also boasts a cup holder for mom and dad to stash their drink.
- Joovy Groove Ultralight
The Joovy Groove Ultralight has a “big canopy, tall handles, a good recline and everything that I look for in a travel stroller,” says Hollie Schultz, the founder of Baby Gizmo, a parent resource site known for its baby gear reviews. The 13.9-pound stroller also features six aesthetically pleasing colors and a strap for easy carrying.
- Baby Jogger Vue Lite
For an umbrella stroller with a reversible seat, check out the Baby Jogger Vue Lite. Schultz points out that instead of having to pop the seat up and turn it around, the seat will push forward and back in opposite directions to make it easy for you or your child to pick a preference. A convenient storage space also allows for plenty of room — Schultz, a mother of three kids, says she’s used the Vue version of the stroller for a soft-sided cooler while at the zoo.
- Summer Infant 3D Lite
For something budget-friendly, go with the Summer Infant 3D Lite. It features a reputable brand, Schultz says, nine colors, a reclinable seat and stable handles. It weighs less than 12 pounds because of its lightweight, aluminum frame, and the whole thing folds with a push of your foot on a lever. And at about $80, it boasts an attractive price for a sturdy stroller that can take a toddler up to 50 pounds.
- Uppababy G-Lite Stroller
The Uppababy G-Lite receives consistent raves from parents for its ease and features. It has a breathable mesh seat, meaning your tot is less likely to get all sweaty on a sunny day, as well as a canopy with SPF 50 protection against ultraviolet rays. It has a step brake, a cup holder and an easy fold that can be initiated by foot. Another cool feature? When it’s all folded up, it stands upright on its own.
- Chicco Echo
For a simple but functional stroller, consider the Chicco Echo umbrella stroller. Available in six colors, this pared-down ride still has a bevvy of features to keep you and your tot happy. The padded seat can be reclined into four different positions to keep him comfy whether your little one is ready to nap or take in the sights. The lightweight frame folds for easy carrying and traveling.
Here’s a top tip when hunting for the best umbrella stroller for you: Look for something lightweight, but also look for an incredible fold. “You want one that folds very easily,” Schultz says. “You don’t want to have to tic your thumb and do a knee bump and a dance to get it to fold. If you’re running through the airport, and you have to get it through TSA, you gotta be able to fold it with one hand.”
Erin Chan Ding is a freelance journalist based in the Chicago area. She has two kids and three strollers and was once caught staring at a stroller without a baby in it and had to admit she was just admiring it. Check out her work at Erin Chan Ding.
