For new parents and parents-to-be, there are so many wonderful options to choose from in the world of baby gear. It’s amazing, but we understand that it can be overwhelming to figure out which baby products will work best for your family. These days, it seems like everyone is pushing different products, and you are hearing about things people swear you can’t live without. So how do you know what’s worth it and what’s not?
Deciding whether or not you need certain baby things is entirely personal and up to you. It’s your choice to decide what is right for your family; the best product for another family may be totally obsolete to yours. Finding a great method of transportation for your little ones is no exception, but Hazel & Fawn is here to help!
Does My Family Need a Stroller?
Whether your family is constantly on the go or you just like to be active with a neighborhood walk a few times a week, you need a safe, convenient option for transporting the baby. Babywearing is always an option, and a wagon can get the job done, but most families find that a single, double stroller or a great stroller travel system is necessary for those first few years of your baby’s life.
Wearing your little one in a structured carrier, sling, or wrap is easy and convenient, but it’s not always entirely practical. For longer adventures, like visits to theme parks or the zoo, you may find yourself having some back and shoulder pain. While short-term babywearing usually doesn’t hurt if done correctly, longer-term wear can put a strain on your body.
Wagons are fantastic, but sometimes not so much for smaller children. Wagons allow a bit of freedom for the child, giving them the ability to bring toys for playtime, change positions, and easily hop in and out. For babies and toddlers, it becomes necessary to keep them secure in their seat to ensure their safety and your sanity! Many parents think both single strollers and double strollers are life-changing.
What Should I Look for in a Single or Double Stroller?
With so many options available, it’s important to consider your family’s needs before making a large purchase.
Some of the key factors for choosing a single or double stroller are:
- Weight limits
- Parental height
- Terrain options
- Safety ratings
- Stroller bassinet options
- Travel options
Pay Attention to Stroller Weight Limits
When selecting a single or double stroller, it's essential to pay attention to maximum weight limits to avoid putting your child at risk. Most single strollers have a weight limit of around 50 pounds, but some models can hold up to 75 pounds or more. Double strollers are built differently to accommodate higher weights.
Be sure to check the weight limits of any single or double stroller you're considering to ensure it can support your child. Don’t forget to double-check accessories, like a stroller bassinet weight limit, because it might be different. If you think you’re going to use your stroller well into toddlerhood and beyond, it might be worth considering a higher weight limit to truly get your money’s worth!
Strollers for Tall vs. Short Parents
The height of parents is also an important factor to consider when selecting a stroller. If you're taller, you'll want to look for a stroller with adjustable handlebars to ensure you can push it comfortably. Likewise, if you're shorter, you'll want to look for a stroller with a lower handlebar height.
Consider your comfort level when testing out single or double strollers, and look for models with adjustable handlebars if you're sharing the stroller with a partner who has a different height. Don’t be afraid to test out different single and double strollers in stores. Since you’re going to be using this for quite some time, it’s helpful to get the feel of things before making a purchase!
Different Stroller Wheels for Varying Terrains
If you plan on taking your single or double stroller off-road, it's essential to look for a model that can handle various types of terrain. Some strollers are designed for smooth, paved surfaces, while others are designed for rugged terrain, like hiking trails or grassy fields.
Look for strollers with large, sturdy wheels and shock-absorbing suspension systems to ensure a smooth ride, even over rough surfaces. A helpful hint is that if something is advertised as a jogging stroller, it probably has great all-terrain wheels!
Ensuring Safety
Safety should be a top priority when searching for a stroller, and fortunately, there are tons of regulations and tests to ensure the quality and safety of your stroller. Look for strollers with high safety ratings and pay attention to features like five-point harnesses, parking brakes, and sturdy frames. As always, make sure you read the manufacturer’s guidelines; there are rules about stroller safety, just like with car seats!
Consider the stroller's stability and how it performs in different scenarios. Some strollers also have extra built-in safety features like reflective accents for improved visibility at night. Additionally, there are lots of stroller accessories that can help put your mind at ease when thinking about stroller safety.
Convertible Strollers and Stroller Bassinets
Some single and double strollers are designed to grow with your child, offering multiple configurations for infants, toddlers, and even older children. Some models even have the option to convert into a standing board or bench for older children who no longer need to ride in a stroller.
A favorite convertibility option for some parents is the stroller bassinet capability. If you don’t need or want your little one in their car seat all the time, a stroller bassinet might be a great option! The stroller bassinet is just what it sounds like: a flat surface for baby to sleep while being wheeled around. Stroller bassinets ensure you always have a safe sleep surface. If you’re out and about, just put your infant in a swaddle or sleep sack and lay them in their stroller bassinet for the easiest nap ever!
Traveling with Your Stroller
If you're a family that travels frequently, look for strollers that are lightweight and easy to fold up for transportation. Some strollers are designed specifically for travel, with compact, lightweight frames that can be stored in a plane's overhead compartment.
Look for strollers with a simple, one-handed fold that can be done quickly and easily, making it a cinch to navigate airports and other travel situations. Also, make sure there are other stroller accessories available to make life on the go easier, like a stroller bassinet or travel bag. Even double strollers can be easy to take along with the right stroller accessories!
3 of Our Favorite Single and Double Strollers
Whether you’re searching for a single stroller for your little one or you’re in need of a double stroller for extra passengers, we have you covered!
3 of our favorite strollers are:
- BOB Revolution Flex Duallie Double Stroller
- Stokke Scoot
- Cybex Gazelle S Stroller
BOB Double Strollers for Rugged Adventures
The BOB stroller line is designed for parents who want a stroller that can handle rugged terrain. The BOB Revolution Flex Duallie Double Stroller is a full-sized double stroller that can handle all types of terrain, from city streets to dirt trails. It has a weight capacity of 75 pounds and is suitable for babies over eight weeks old.
This double stroller features two large, comfortable child seats for your siblings or twins. It also features mountain bike suspension, ensuring a smooth ride in even the most rugged circumstances. Additionally, this double stroller is equipped with tons of extra storage for everything you need for your adventure.
Stokke Scoot Stroller
The Stokke Scoot stroller is where fashion meets functionality. The simple design makes it perfect for new parents. It also folds up to be extremely small and light, so you can store it in any trunk or closet necessary.
The Stokke Scoot stroller also features adjustable handlebars and an adjustable child seat with three modes: rest, active, and stroller bassinet. This makes it one of the only strollers on the market that is suitable for newborns without a car seat. It’s a great summer stroller, boasting a large canopy with SPF 50 to keep your little one safe from the sun!
Cybex Gazelle S for Shopping
The Cybex stroller line features a range of strollers that cater to different needs, from stroller bassinets to lightweight city strollers to full-sized strollers for more rugged terrain. The Cybex Gazelle S is a favorite for city-goers and avid shoppers because it includes a shopping basket within arm’s reach and that ever-important stroller bassinet so baby can sleep during the trip.
The Cybex Gazelle S and other Cybex strollers feature a comfortable cot for little ones, giving parents another stroller bassinet option. This stroller bassinet comes in different colors and has a large canopy to achieve the right naptime darkness. With the standard seat and the stroller bassinet option, there are over 20 configurations available!
The Cybex Gazelle S also boasts a combined 50-pound weight limit, ensuring that your little one and your groceries can ride harmoniously without any danger.
Our 3 Favorite Stroller Travel Systems
Stroller travel systems are the cream of the crop when it comes to convenience, safety, and style. Stroller travel systems offer an all-in-one product with tons of options to customize, including different car seat and stroller bassinet options.
3 of our favorite stroller travel systems include:
- Doona Infant Car Seat and Stroller with Base
- UPPAbaby VISTA V2 Stroller Travel System
- UPPAbaby CRUZ V2 Stroller Travel System
Doona Stroller Travel System
The Doona stroller travel system is a unique and innovative product that is designed to make traveling with a baby as easy and convenient as possible. Unlike traditional strollers, the Doona stroller travel system is a combination car seat and stroller that can be easily converted from one to the other with just a few simple adjustments. This means that parents can go from driving to walking without ever having to disturb the baby!
Though the Doona stroller travel system does not have a stroller bassinet, it is designed for infants from birth up to 35 pounds, making it a great option for parents who want a stroller that can be used from day one. It is also approved for airplane use, making it a great option for families who travel frequently.
UPPAbaby VISTA V2 Stroller
UPPAbaby strollers are some of the best on the market. The UPPAbaby VISTA V2 stroller travel system is designed for parents who want a versatile stroller that can grow with their family. It is a full-size stroller that can accommodate up to three children at once with appropriate UPPAbaby stroller accessories.
The UPPAbaby VISTA V2 stroller travel system comes with a stroller bassinet and a toddler seat, which can be used separately or together. The UPPAbaby stroller bassinet is suitable for infants up to six months old, while the toddler seat can be used for children up to 50 pounds. With the toddler seat and stroller bassinet together, this UPPAbaby stroller travel system is a great option for those expecting their second child.
One of the standout features of this UPPAbaby stroller travel system is its ability to convert into a double or even a triple stroller. With the addition of the UPPAbaby Stroller RumbleSeat and UPPAbaby Stroller Piggyback board, parents can easily accommodate a second or third child. This UPPAbaby stroller travel system also has a large storage basket, which can hold up to 30 pounds of gear, making it perfect for running errands or going on day trips.
UPPAbaby CRUZ V2 Stroller
The UPPababy CRUZ V2 stroller travel system is a more compact and lightweight option. This UPPAbaby stroller is designed for parents who want something that is easy to maneuver and store while still being equipped with a full stroller travel system. The UPPAbaby CRUZ V2 stroller travel system comes with a toddler seat that can be used from birth with the addition of an infant insert. The toddler seat can hold up to 50 pounds.
The UPPAbaby CRUZ V2 stroller travel system is also compatible with the UPPAbaby MESA Infant Car Seat, making it a convenient option for parents who want an all-in-one stroller travel system. The UPPAbaby CRUZ V2 stroller travel system has a smaller storage basket than the UPPAbaby VISTA V2 stroller, but it is still large enough to hold essentials like a diaper bag, snacks, and toys.
Whichever stroller feels right, you can have peace of mind knowing that Hazel & Fawn sells only the best, highest-quality products for your family. So, whether you’re looking for a single stroller to wheel your little one around town or a full stroller travel system that can carry up to three children at once, you’ll find an option that can meet your needs and make your life just a little bit easier.
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