With so many strollers on the market, it can be difficult for new parents to find the best one not only for their baby, but for themselves (because who else is going to be lugging around a stroller all day? Better find one you like!). Out of all the strollers that are available, one of the best models that you should consider would be the umbrella stroller.
Umbrella strollers have a reputation for being portable and lightweight. This makes it an essential stroller for families that travel frequently and are on-the-go. When not in use, its compact design allows it to be easily folded up and stored away until its next use.
Though you’ve narrowed down the type of stroller you should buy, this still does not solve the problem. There are still so many umbrella strollers available! Which should you choose now? Not to worry, here are some things to take into account.
First, consider the seat construction. Will it be comfortable for your baby? Next, how about the wheel design? Does it swivel easily, and on what kind of terrain can you use it on? Consider also the materials that the stroller is made of as it can be a good indicator of how durable and comfortable it will be.
If you are still struggling to pick the best umbrella stroller for your child, below we’ve compiled a list of the most popular models available today. Before purchasing, take into account all of their various features and if they fit within your budget. Once you are finished reading this article, you will no doubt be informed on what you should buy.
Mid-Range Strollers
Inglesina Swift
If you’re looking for a lightweight umbrella stroller that has excellent durability, function, and quality, then look no further than the Inglesina Swift. This stroller can carry up to 55 pounds, with itself weighing only 13 pounds.
Though the Swift doesn’t have all the fancy features a more expensive one has, it still has some excellent must-have features that all parents love. For instance, the Swift has a nifty spacious basket under the seat that can carry almost 7 pounds of items – extremely useful since your hands should be holding onto the stroller, not carrying around miscellaneous items!
Furthermore, parents can look forward to long, ergonomic handles that allows the stroller to be maneuvered superbly. Additionally, the seat can adjust between 4 positions, and most owners report that their children love the comfort it provides.
Chicco Liteway
Your child will be safe and comfortable in the Liteway, which sports a five-point safety harness as well as a five-position adjustable padded seat which includes a flat seat for newborns. For infants, the Liteway boasts a hideaway “boot” which folds into an enclosure when reclined, sheltering your child while they sleep.
Parents can have access to some cool perks, too. The Chicco Liteway features a detachable storage basket that can double as a sling tote to carry your baby’s things. Parents can also have access to a cup holder to hold your coffee and other such beverages, a feature that is unfortunately not available in many other umbrella stroller models!
UPPAbaby G-Lite
The G-Lite is indeed very “lite”, as it is the smallest model of the UPPABaby strollers. It weighs in at a tiny 8.8 pounds, yet is rated to withstand up to 50 pounds of weight, making this an excellent choice for use on most everyday errands.
Though similar models have sling seats, like the Maclaren Volo, the G-Lite features a soft, inviting seat pad that can be removed and washed. Other features include comfortable ergonomic handles and opening triggers that are hand-operated – no need to use your foot to unfold. A raised rear frame reduces the likelihood of a toe stub when walking.
High End Strollers
Maclaren Quest Sport
For on-the-go parents who are always moving, the Maclaren Quest Sport is a lightweight solution that provides the extra comfort your child needs. For instance, it features an adjustable leg support and was recently redesigned specifically for infants.
These additional features make it superior to the Triumph (how ironic), and most parents will agree that the higher price is well justified. This stroller is ideal for parents who want to have a lightweight umbrella stroller that is packed with great features.
Older Quest Sport models were inadequate because it could not accommodate a newborn due to its high recline angle. Since 2012, the Sport has been redesigned so that the seat can recline to near flat, allowing your newborn to lie comfortably. It also has great features like a viewing window as part of the sun canopy, and a leg extender designed for infants.
UPPAbaby G-Luxe
This model is highly popular for a few reasons. First, it is light at only 11 pounds with the capability to recline to 120 degrees. Second, it can carry up to 50 pounds of weight, making it an attractive option for growing babies.
The G-Luxe also sports a massive SPF50 sun canopy with a compact stand-alone fold. Many different reviews all over the web give it high scores for its maneuverability and quality.
Parents often use the G-Luxe when traveling or going on family vacations, bringing it on airplanes for faraway trips, or even storing it in the trunk of a car for everyday errands. The UPPAbaby G-Luxe has earned a solid reputation for being a dependable, quality umbrella stroller.
Peg Perego Pliko Mini
The Pliko Mini is the only umbrella stroller to grace the Peg Perego family. It weighs in at only 13 pounds and is quite compact. With that said, it still features plenty of the superb qualities that Peg Perego are known for.
For instance, the Mini has such features as a one-handed umbrella fold that can be adjusted using a centrally placed handle for quick access and ease of use. Think of the implication – you can fold the cover while still carrying your baby! Furthermore, transport is painless with an additional carrying handle on the side.
Your baby will be treated with a three-point reclining seat including an adjustable leg rest for ideal comfort during naptime. To personalize the stroller, there is a loop located on the sun canopy to allow you to attach your child’s favorite toys – this customization is a fun and enjoyable feature!
How is an umbrella stroller any different from a regular stroller?
When thinking about which stroller to purchase for your baby, be sure to consider the convenience and safety of an umbrella stroller. A high-rated umbrella stroller is superior to a regular stroller in addressing a baby’s needs. Below, I will cover some important child safety tips to help you select the best umbrella stroller.
The biggest differences between these two types of strollers is that the umbrella stroller is more compact, convenient, and ultimately more versatile to use. Many people own both kinds of strollers and favor the umbrella stroller if they are traveling or just generally need to bring the stroller somewhere.
Since umbrella strollers are usually smaller and lighter, it is much easier to fit them into places that regular strollers cannot (e.g. on the bus, in the car, in tight storage areas, etc.)
Another significant difference between these strollers is the cost. Umbrella strollers are more likely to be cheaper than traditional strollers, but they also offer the exact same features and functionality that larger strollers do.
If you want to get really fancy, a designer umbrella stroller will be pricier but will have some luxurious features that standard models lack. For instance, they may have extra storage, cup holders, more comfort, bigger footrests, or all-terrain tires.
With that said, the best umbrella stroller is the one that addresses all of your specific needs, and even the most basic models are quite satisfactory.
What kind of safety features does the umbrella stroller have?
The most common feature that umbrella strollers have are canopies. This safety feature is designed to shield the child from direct exposure to sunlight. Although sunscreen may be sufficient for protection from UV rays, having a canopy will ensure that sunlight won’t be an issue.
Another great safety measure that well-reviewed umbrella strollers have is the three-point buckle. This kind of buckle is comprised of two separate buckles that attach at a central point – hence the name.
Typically, buckles are designed such that a strap goes up the center of the child to the belly button, and then horizontal straps reaches across the lap and attaches to the middle buckle. This keeps the child safely locked-in and secured.
The best umbrella strollers takes it a step further and will feature a tray in front of the stroller which further secures the child. An additional security feature are wheel locks on the back tires to prevent sliding if the stroller needs to remain stationary (e.g. on the bus or on an inclined road).
When searching for top-rated umbrella strollers, be wary of the specific safety features that each brand is known for. There are a few umbrella strollers that can work as double strollers. Also, some strollers can have add-ons like trays to hold snacks and baby products or toys.
How to seat your child correctly
It is imperative you learn how to properly seat your child into a stroller. As children age, they develop the ability to get into a stroller by themselves. This self-sufficiency is not ideal, however, because they may not be able to do the following safety checks:
- Ensuring the wheels are locked.
- Checking to see if the stroller is opened up completely.
- Testing to see if the buckles are working properly.
Once the above steps have been performed, then your child can be safely put into the stroller. Once seated, and he or she is buckled, make sure the feet are placed firmly on the footrest and that your child is securely buckled in place.
As your child grows, expect to adjust the buckle length to accommodate the size increase. The belt should ideally be tight so as to be firm, yet not constrictive so as to cause discomfort. Also, a quality umbrella stroller should have wheels that are resilient and capable of withstanding use in even the most punishing terrain.
If the stroller is kept stationary for a long period of time, make sure the wheel locks are in place. If you forget to do this crucial step, then the stroller can still slide away and may cause your child to fall out.
What are the most appropriate ages for use of an umbrella stroller?
Even the best umbrella stroller has a rather limited weight capacity that it can support. The majority of the umbrella stroller manufacturers recommend use only for children lighter than 40 pounds.
The stroller may be capable of handling more weight, but it may not be as safe and may have a reduce life span. Some of the most highly-rated strollers boast a weight capacity of up to 60 pounds.
As such, compare strollers to find one that can suit your and your child’s needs. With such a vast selection of strollers on the market, there is sure to be one that can satisfy even the strictest requirements one may have.
Generally the age range for a sturdy umbrella stroller is six months to four years. As is common with most types of baby products, the strollers include recommended age ranges so as to ensure maximum safety.
Why can’t a newborn baby use an umbrella stroller?
Doctors recommend that the minimum age for stroller use be for children 12 months (1 year) in age or older; however, some models are designed for infants as young as six months old. This can still be a safety hazard, since infants need more stability than older babies do when being carried around.
Additionally, the buckle on an umbrella stroller is not designed for infants younger than six months of age. The most appropriate buckle for infants less than six months old is the five-point harness.
When infants are older than six months, they begin to acquire more control of their bodies and can begin to hold their heads up by themselves. When comparing umbrella strollers, look for specific weight and age requirements to determine if the stroller can meet your needs.
The best umbrella strollers will protect your child and keep him/her comfortable. Before purchasing one, keep in mind the above child safety tips to keep your child as safe as possible while maximizing your dollar.
http://www.parents.com/baby/gear/strollers/stroller-buying-guide/
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