Trying To Decide On A Stroller?

Image via WikipediaBuying your first stroller can be frustrating and scary.  Hopefully this is one piece of equipment you will
use for some time.It is easy to go into Walmart, Target or places like that and get the standard model.  Most of those models were designed to last 2 perhaps 3 years tops.  The majority of these will have short seat backs meaning your child will outgrow them quickly.

I would suggest a higher end stroller would be better for your needs.  Ask your self these questions:

First - What are you going to use it for?  Jogging, strolling, shopping, traveling, sporting events, whatever.

Second - How much do you want to pay?  The top end stroller cost much more than the lower end models but you get much more value.  You get better design, better materials and should more features/benefits.

Third - Where are you going to use it?  I have seen umbrella strollers being carried to youth sporting events over mud, tall grass and even puddles because they couldn't be pushed because of the terrain.  Get one that will go where you go.

Fourth - Make sure it fits the child and the parent.  I have seen too many 2 and 3 year old children in strollers too short for them.  And I have seen way too many parents pushing stroller that they had to bend over to push.
Most stroller designs today seem to be made for my 5' 7" grandfather to push.  My brother has one just like those and he is 6'4" and a he is real bear after a day of pushing junior around the zoo.  Not to mention the crick he gets in his back.

Fifth - Make sure you can fold it quickly and easily.  Some of these "easy folding strollers" seem to need 2 people and an instruction video to get them folded.  Make sure it will fit into the back of your car.  Just think pouring rain, busy parking lot, splashing water, teething child - you get the picture.

Sixth - Make sure it is visible, you want drives to be aware of your stroller and you want to be able to spot it in the stroller corral when at a park.  I also get creative with reflective tape on mine just to help me find it at a Theme Park.

Those 6 items should get you on your way.

P.S. make sure it is in your price range, some of these things cost more than my touring bike.

Good Luck
Strolling Mom