In Depth Baby Product Reviews Led by a Pediatrician
We buy all the products we test — no freebies from companies. If you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission, which helps support our testing.
Finding the right stroller for your needs and budget can be a lifesaver when it comes to exploring the world or running errands with your child.
We have purchased and tested more than 210 strollers to find the absolute best. We use each stroller extensively and put them through a battery of practical and real-world comparison tests to determine the easiest, best-moving, and most helpful for you and your family.
The UPPAbaby Cruz v2 is an easy-to-use and push full-size stroller that folds flat and works with a variety of infant car seats. If you don't plan to head off-road or run with your stroller, it is a great main or only stroller that has potential for travel ease. If you need to push two or plan to have more children, the UPPAbaby Vista v3 is very similar but can seat two.
For those looking for a great crossover stroller, we love the Guava Roam Crossover. This small but mighty jogging stroller manages running, off-road fun, and trips to the grocery store with style, and its smaller size means it fits almost anywhere.
For adventures far from home, the UPPAbaby Minu v3 is tough to beat. This small travel stroller is loaded with features and couldn't be easier to fold fast and get stowed away. We love the ample storage and the large canopy.
For this update, we picked the top products across the full range of stroller types. We'll take you through the best of the best, from jogging strollers to full-size and lightweight travel strollers to double strollers, to help you find the right product for your family and wallet.
Editor's Note: This review was updated on September 29, 2025, with new award winners from UPPAbaby, Joolz, and more.
Who is this best for? The UPPAbaby Cruz v2 is perfect for families who plan to stroll primarily on flat and hard surfaces and those who want to run errands or take more supplies with them. The Cruz performs much better for maneuverability on flat surfaces and indoors in tight spaces than it does off-road, and the giant storage bin and optional parent console (sold separately) make it a good contender for longer outings or everyday errands. We also think it is a potential cross-over product as a frame stroller for an infant car seat carrier or bassinet, and it folds flat enough to work well for some travel destinations.
Why we love it: We love how user-friendly the Cruz is. It is clear from the ample storage bin to the seat recline adjustment and the adjustable handlebar that a person who has used a stroller in real life had a hand in creating this stroller. We love the 30 lb capacity storage basket, the super large canopy, and the suspension. As one parent tester stated, “The storage is a game changer and perfect for getting groceries.”
Should you buy it? This stroller is versatile enough to get you and your baby where you need to go from birth through the strolling years. If you don't plan to run or head off the beaten path, it is hard to beat the lightweight frame, flat fold, and easy-to-use features. While it doesn't have the ability to transport more than one child, it is an excellent choice for families with one child or those with an age gap between children.
The UPPAbaby Cruz v2 is an impressive full-size stroller with some of the best test results.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Cruz v3
UPPAbaby is on a roll with new versions of beloved favorites, and the Cruz is no exception. With the recent launch of the Cruz v3, they continue to advance their designs. We plan to test the Cruz v3 in our next stroller update but feel it is remarkably similar to the Cruz v2 and still a compelling and well-regarded choice for many families.
Who is this best for? The Cybex Balios S Lux is good for families who want a quality option without breaking the bank and have no plans for all-terrain travel. While it isn't the worst at moving on uneven terrain, it lacks the rubber tires or larger wheels that really excel off the beaten path or at higher rates of speed. Our tester reports, “The Cybex is a sharp-looking stroller we loved pushing, and our kids loved sitting in it.”
Why we love it: The Cybex is a sleek-looking stroller that works with Cybex infant car seats. Without requiring additional adapters, you can easily use the Cybex stroller frame as a car seat carrier, thereby extending its lifespan for younger infants.
Should you buy it? The Balios Lux is a stylish full-size option that uses quality materials in a thoughtful design with no manufacturer flaws. The Cybex is less expensive than other top contenders and can be a real money saver if it is on sale. If you want a good-looking, high-quality stroller with a higher storage capacity than most, the Balios is a good choice. However, if your budget is ultra-tight, it can still feel out of range.
The Cybex Balios Lux is a high-ranking full-size stroller that might save you some money over the top contender depending on sales and your infant car seat goals.
Who is this best for? The UPPAbaby Vista v3 is a high-quality choice perfect for growing families who want seating for more than one child and can manage the steeper price tag. The Vista v3 is one of the top-ranked double strollers that lets you carry up to three kiddos (age dependent), without sacrificing function. One parent noted, “The Vista v3 is an attractive option that allows me to transport all my kids easily.”
Why we love it: The Vista is constructed of premium materials and is easy to use. This stroller allows for a variety of configurations depending on your needs, including up to two forward or backward-facing infant or toddler car seats, a bassinet, and/or an additional riding board (seats and adapters are sold separately). The giant storage compartment and full-coverage canopy impress on this easy-to-use stroller.
Should you buy it? The Vista v3 more than delivers when it comes to quality and a variety of impressive features. However, if you are only planning on transporting one child, this is more of a stroller than you would need. Since the price point is higher on the Vista v3 compared to many other options, some families may be unable to reconcile the price tag with their budget. Still, if that isn't a concern, growing families will appreciate this versatile stroller that will last for years to come.
Minimum: 6 months Maximum: 60 lbs / 42 in
*car seat adaptor (sold seperately) allows for usage from 0 - 6 months
Measured Weight
28.5 lbs
Measured Folded Dimensions
28.5" x 17.4" x 15.1"
Folded Volume
7,488 cu in
Handlebar Height - Min/Max
34" - 45"
Who is this best for? The Guava Roam Crossover is a cool jogging stroller that can easily be your new full-size option. We think this is a great choice for almost any family planning to use a stroller for multiple adventures, or for those with less real estate for storing a bulky jogger.
Why we love it: This locking swivel wheel option is great for running and easy to maneuver on most surfaces with never-flat foam-filled tires and a unique handlebar locking swivel wheel mechanism. It is simply a pleasure to run with. It has a parent console for strolling with supplies and drinks and an under-seat basket with a cover to keep things contained and clean, making it as great for jogging as it is for daily adventures.
Should you buy it? Be it indoors or outside, the Guava can do it all with ease and gives you the versatility you might not even know you want. With a small, compact folded size, it can even almost fake its way as a travel stroller. While it is still pretty heavy (because it is a jogger), it is the only option we've seen that can do so much in such a small package for a reasonable price.
The Guava is an impressive little jogger that performed well in our run-ability tests despite the shorter rolling resistance measurement and no deceleration brake.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Safety Note
Because younger infants lack the muscle strength or control to adequately absorb the jarring experience generated by running in a jogging stroller, parents should wait until their baby is a minimum of 8 to 12 months old before moving fast with any stroller.
Who is this best for? The Baby Trend Expedition is an inexpensive jogging stroller that is easy to push and turn with pneumatic rubber tires and a locking swivel front wheel. This budget-friendly option performed well in our tests on uneven terrain and turns tightly indoors and in tight spaces. This jogger is best for those who plan to get off the beaten path but maybe don't jog all that much.
Why we love it: With a low list price, this jogger costs less than half of most joggers, proving you can have an excellent moving product that is easy to push without the sticker shock. These features helped the Expedition win kudos for strong bang-for-your-buck in our Jogging Review. With larger wheels and rubber tires, you get more than what you pay for, and it feels like one of the last true values in baby town.
Should you buy it? While it isn't the best quality, and it could be frustrating for serious runners, we think most outdoorsy folks who hike or stroll on grass and gravel will love the performance for the price and be grateful for the savings in their bank account. It's perfect for those who want a jogging look with large rubber tires (for greenbelt traversing) but may not really be interested in serious or regular running.
Who is this best for? The BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 is best for families that like to move off-road and at higher speeds, so they can use the extra suspension support. The larger wheels, adjustable suspension, and rugged tires help it move more smoothly off-road than most competitors. It is also the perfect choice for those who hope to use their stroller as long as possible. With a higher canopy position and a maximum capacity of 75 lbs, it is perfect for long-term use.
Why we love it: It is an impressive jogger with a sturdy build and durable design fit for all-terrain use. This was the only option in our jogging stroller review with adjustable suspension. We love that it has multiple storage options, including an under-seat basket, seat interior pockets, and a seat back mesh pocket with an elastic top opening for quick access to items like smaller water bottles or smartphones.
Should you buy it? While the Revolution isn't perfect and might not be the best crossover stroller given its bulkier folded design, we think it is a great choice for running or all-terrain adventures, especially for those who plan to push little ones for as many years as possible.
Who is this best for? The UPPAbaby Minu v3 is ideal for parents who want a premium, travel-friendly stroller without sacrificing useful features like ample storage or a giant canopy. While it isn't the lightest travel stroller, it is more compact and lighter than many full-sized models.
Why we love it: The Minu v3 feels like a compact take on a full-size stroller, offering plenty of features without sacrificing portability. It's smooth and easy to steer on flat, hard surfaces, making urban dwellers happy. The 20 lbs storage bin outshines others, the sunshade offers excellent coverage, and the seat reclines with an adjustable leg rest.
Should you buy it? If your lifestyle and strolling needs are mostly city walks, travel, or navigating tight spaces, the Minu v3 is worth a look. It offers a comfortable place for passengers and valuable features for parents. Yes, it's heavier than most travel competitors and expensive, but it could be a travel companion or a one-and-done stroller for some families.
Who is this best for? The Joolz Aer+ is best for parents who want a lightweight, compact stroller and don't mind forgoing some convenience features to remain travel-friendly. This sleek stroller is lightweight and has a compact, quick fold, and fits almost anywhere (including the overhead bin on an airplane).
Why we love it: The Joolz Aer+ feels like it was made for parents who weave through busy and tight spaces and need something easy to push and steer on sidewalks. The quick fold and unfold are easy and can be done one-handed, with a quickness. The Joolz uses high-quality materials, with a cozy seating space and a deep recline for napping. We think parents will appreciate that it's functional and practical.
Should you buy it? While this stroller may not include every feature, like a dedicated peek-a-boo window or leg rest, and you might miss these during longer outings, it's a fantastic choice if you're looking for something that's easy to use and ready for travel, making outings more convenient and enjoyable.
Who is this best for? The feature-filled Zoe Traveler is an excellent option for traveling and city life. It moves nimbly on flat surfaces and in tight places. It has an adjustable leg rest, a reclining seat, and practical storage features like an under-seat storage bin that holds up to 10 lbs. We like the larger canopy and features for passenger comfort.
Why we love it: What we love most about the Traveler is what you get for the price. It is not often that we find a good-quality stroller that also offers a reasonable price without cutting any corners. This option has everything a travel stroller would need and appears durable and functional enough to work well for several years.
Should you buy it? The Zoe is not a good choice for a size stand-in given the lack of storage features, and it doesn't perform well when moving off the beaten path. However, if you seek a travel-friendly product, the Zoe has everything you need for shorter trips or commuting for a price your wallet will appreciate.
Who is this best for? The Evenflo Pivot Xplore is best for families who enjoy short jaunts to fun places where sitting still could be hard. While the lack of comfort features means little ones might struggle to nap, if the call of the day is fun, it can bring the fun with 360 views, engagement between siblings, and toys on board, and it creates a home base while away from home.
Why we love it: This push-or-pull wagon seats two and has a hanging storage container, dual canopies, and a footwell. We love that it is fun for kids. Little ones of all ages enjoyed testing the open-air design, freedom of movement, and ability to carry toys on board. Kids in our test liked climbing in and out on their own with a spring-loaded side to dip lower. Parents liked the ability to bring more fun along to keep kids entertained.
Should you buy it? The Xplore has a family-friendly price compared to other wagons and could be good for park adventures or visiting places with wider paths that don't require shocks or other comfort features. Our tester reports, “It could be a good choice for mobile little ones who enjoy more freedom than traditional strollers offer.” While we don't think a wagon is the best only stroller a family can choose, it does fill a niche for fun outings and freedom to move.
Who is this best for? The Baby Trend Expedition Double is great if you want the jogger look and feel without the price tag that comes with a more traditional jogger. This double option has a very budget-friendly price without resulting in a frustrating product. It means that even families with a tight budget can purchase a double stroller that is easy to push and turn and comfortable for passengers.
Why we love it: We love the identical seating arrangements, including stow pockets and canopy, there is less for little ones to fight about, unlike options where the seats could offer vastly different experiences in comfort or features. It also has a parent's tray and under-seat storage; this inexpensive product has features that make daily use easy and convenient.
Should you buy it? The Expedition Double is a budget-friendly stroller for two that you can occasionally use for jogging. It sports pneumatic rubber wheels that worked well in our tests on various terrains. A locking swivel front wheel makes it easier to push over obstacles and at higher speeds. Even if you don't jog, the features make it one of the better choices for moving two children over uneven terrains like grass and gravel.
Who is this best for? The Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double is the perfect option for growing families that want an inline double stroller and plan to stick primarily to the beaten path. Its ability to accept two infant car seats makes it a great choice for twins, and the large storage bin means room for supplies for two.
Why we love it: We like that both toddler seats provide similar features to avoid sibling rivalry. The Pivot Xpand has two toddler seats and is compatible with some infant car seats. The toddler seats include the ability to recline for cozy napping and have great canopies for protection from the elements. The seats offer various forward and backward combinations, creating a versatile stroller that children like. However, the stadium-style seating will put one higher than another and the lower passenger within kicking range, which could be a problem.
Should you buy it? This option is easy to use, and the quality fits the price. It isn't the best at moving off-road, but it isn't the worst. Overall, we think the Pivot Xpand is suitable for growing families on a budget who are looking for features and functionality similar to the more expensive options.
The Evenflo Pivot Xpand is a budget option for those longing for versatility and future family growth without breaking the bank.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Full-size Stroller Winner
The Xpand also won a Best Value award in our review of full-size strollers as a one-seater.
We purchased and tested every stroller hands-on, comparing performance and test results to determine award winners.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
How We Tested
Our testing protocol for strollers is extensive; we've conducted more than 9,200 individual tests to evaluate the more than 210 strollers we've tested since 2013. Our tests prove that strollers vary widely in their performance and best application.
We purchase and test each stroller in our reviews for a myriad of performance metrics for a side-by-side comparison to determine winners.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
To help you find the perfect stroller for your needs, we buy each stroller ourselves, accepting no freebies from manufacturers to ensure complete independence. Then, we perform a barrage of 50 scientific tests on each model.
Our GearLab testers, hard at work, folding strollers
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Our testing of strollers is divided into 5 rating metrics with weightings that vary depending on the stroller type:
Ease of Use
Maneuverability
Transporting and Storing
Quality
Kid's Comfort
Our test passengers seemed to enjoy the Xplore wagon
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Each rating metric's contribution to the overall score is weighted based on how important we believe it is for most people. Weights vary from one category to the next since, for example, for a travel stroller, transporting and storage are much more important considerations than for a full-size stroller.
We weigh each and every stroller in our tests.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
This exhaustive testing and rating process puts us in a unique position to help you find the right stroller for your needs.
Every jogging stroller in our review was tested while running at least 5 miles.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Jogging strollers undergo 8 additional tests to determine their Run Ability score, the most heavily weighted rating metric in our review for the top-ranked jogging strollers. We evaluate rolling resistance and straight-line tracking, as well as ergonomics and running performance.
Every stroller in our stroller reviews goes through extensive hands-on testing in various metrics to provide details that can be compared.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Why Trust GearLab
Since 2013, BabyGearLab has purchased and tested more than 210 top strollers across every strolling category, including joggers, full-size, doubles, and travel products. Dr. Juliet Spurrier, founder and board-certified pediatrician, leads our selection process, considering quality, performance, and ease of use when making competitor selections.
Bob Wofford, our Senior Review Analyst, heads the in-house testing process by putting each piece through a series of specific tests comparing one to another in a side-by-side process unlike any other on Earth. Bob has led the strolling product testing since 2013, arguably laying hands on more products than virtually anyone else on the planet. Our impressive stroller test team includes Graham Faulknor. Graham is a doting dad to one toddler and a Senior Review Analyst at GearLab. He attended the University of Colorado, graduating with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. Graham has spent more than 15 years building, creating, and testing products. Senior Review Editor and mom to two, Wendy Schmitz, began working in the strolling realm in 2014. Running, strolling, folding, and lifting each contender gives Wendy a unique perspective to assess and comment on ease of use and other features in our final gear reviews for readers.
Jogging strollers were assessed and tested by, our professional running expert, Carrie Vickers. With her background as a running biomechanics consultant and experience as a national-class runner, Carrie provides insight into each product's runability to ensure that serious and casual runners alike will be happy with our award winners. Gena Bradshaw, Senior Review Analyst, also ran at least 5 miles with each of the jogging strollers in our current jogging stroller review.
How to Pick the Best Stroller
How do you decide which stroller(s) is the best for your family? Narrowing down the extensive competition by key considerations is the best way to determine what kind of product and specific products will fit your needs. The following questions will help provide a laser focus on what you need and want to make a good decision on which gear to add to your family.
A stroller as a gift?
Strollers can be expensive. Price is a great reason to put them on your registry and cross your fingers that someone chooses one as your baby gift. For some new parents, this piece of gear can be cost-prohibitive. However, it might be doable for a relative, friend, or co-worker to go in on one as a group present.
Types of Strollers
Being a new parent means learning many new things, and one of those things is baby gear and the many forms it can take. While you might have thought a stroller is a stroller and they only vary in size, this couldn't be further from the truth. Strollers have evolved over the years to offer something for every kind of parent and every kind of lifestyle. Whether you love a great outdoor adventure or need to make it through a grocery store in an urban city, there is a stroller for that. The following stroller types come in single or double-style options, and the choice you make could be based in part on how many kids you have or plan to have.
Full-size strollers are a traditional choice that will work well for families who are not interested in running or moving off the beaten path.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Full-Size
This is a traditional stroller designed largely for hard and flat surfaces. It typically works with infant car seats and toddler seats up to about 50 lbs (model dependent), and it offers under-seat storage baskets and other conveniences. When most people think of strollers, this is the style that comes to mind.
Key Metric Scores of Full-Size Strollers
Product
Ease of Use
Maneuverability
Transport and Storing
Kid Comfort
UPPAbaby Cruz v2
8.5
8.3
6.7
8.5
UPPAbaby Vista v3
8.9
8.4
5.6
8.8
Thule Urban Glide 3
7.7
8.9
5.9
7.4
Baby Jogger City Select 2
7.0
8.4
6.7
7.7
Baby Jogger City Sights
6.8
8.4
7.0
7.5
Cybex Balios S Lux
7.8
7.1
6.8
7.6
Mockingbird
8.1
8.3
4.0
8.1
BOB Revolution Flex 3.0
7.1
8.8
5.0
7.1
Thule Spring
8.0
4.3
8.4
6.7
Britax Brook +
7.2
6.1
7.0
6.2
UPPAbaby Ridge
8.8
6.2
4.1
7.4
BOB Alterrain Pro
8.2
8.4
3.0
6.8
GRACO Modes Nest
6.9
7.0
6.7
5.1
Baby Jogger City Mini GT2
6.8
4.9
8.2
5.5
Baby Trend Expedition Race Tec
6.5
7.8
5.4
5.4
Evenflo Pivot Xpand
8.0
5.4
4.2
7.3
Baby Trend Expedition
5.9
7.6
7.0
3.5
Full-size strollers typically have smaller plastic wheels that are less suitable for uneven terrain and surfaces off the beaten path.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
This kind of stroller can be perfect for urbanites and those who occasionally stroll or mostly stroll indoors or on cement or similar flat surfaces. These strollers typically have four wheels and sometimes have suspension and adjustable handlebars (but not always).
Jogging strollers have a 3-wheel structure with features designed for jogging and uneven surfaces.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Jogging Strollers
Jogging strollers evolved as parents desired to include little ones on more outdoor adventures, often off the beaten paths. These strollers are usually more robust in size and weight. They have a 3-wheel design and a fixed or locking swivel front wheel. These strollers have larger rubber tires and better suspension, and some offer adjustable tracking to keep the front wheel straight or adjustable handlebars for better running ergonomics.
Key Metric Scores of Jogging Strollers
Product
Run-ability
Ease of Use
Maneuverability
Transport and Storing
Guava Roam Crossover
8.3
9.0
9.3
8.2
Thule Urban Glide 3
8.7
8.0
9.5
6.5
BOB Revolution Flex 3.0
7.7
7.4
8.4
6.2
UPPAbaby Ridge
7.3
9.2
6.4
4.5
BOB Alterrain Pro
7.0
7.7
8.6
4.0
Thule Glide 2
8.0
7.0
6.8
5.3
Joovy Zoom 360 Ultralight
4.8
6.0
7.1
8.0
Baby Trend Expedition
3.9
5.8
6.7
8.1
Baby Jogger Summit X3
6.1
5.6
6.2
6.4
Baby Trend Expedition Race Tec
3.9
6.4
6.8
6.1
Jogging strollers offer so much for run-ability, off-road performance, and kid comfort, thanks to a sturdy design and useful features.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
This kind of stroller is largely about performance, but it also offers cozy pod seating with deep reclines and usually significantly larger canopies. It has storage features, but typically holds less than a full-size stroller. Fixed wheel options will be poor performers inside since they can't turn without tilting and take up significant space, but swivel wheel options are usually quite agile and easy to turn and move inside. Many modern joggers are suitable for everyday use if your vehicle or home allows for the larger size.
Travel strollers are smaller and lighter, with new versions offering better features for storage and kid comfort than strollers in the past.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Travel Strollers
In the days of yore, this stroller type was called an “umbrella stroller” because it collapsed in on itself, similar to how a full-size umbrella folds. Nowadays, this breed of stroller is lightweight, folds compactly (often in thirds), and is designed for small spaces or travel, hence the moniker. Some are ridiculously small when folded, which is cool, but they often (not always) lack impressive features like significant storage or giant canopies.
Key Metrics of Travel Strollers
Product
Transport/Storing
Ease of Use
Maneuverability
Kid Comfort
Joolz Aer+
8.3
8.2
9.0
7.6
UPPAbaby Minu v3
7.8
8.1
8.0
8.9
Nuna TRVL
6.3
7.9
9.4
7.1
BabyZen Yoyo2
7.5
7.3
8.2
6.8
Baby Jogger City Tour 2 Single
7.2
7.0
7.3
7.6
Zoe Traveler
6.9
7.2
7.3
7.6
Inglesina Quid
7.2
7.2
6.9
7.3
gb Pockit+ All City
8.4
7.8
5.8
6.2
UPPAbaby G-Luxe
4.8
7.2
6.8
7.0
Kolcraft Cloud Plus
5.9
6.2
5.4
4.7
Summer Infant 3D lite
6.6
6.0
4.4
4.3
A compact fold and lighter weight are the hallmarks of an excellent travel stroller.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Families who have smaller homes or cars or who stroll less frequently and never off-road could be happy with a travel stroller. These strollers are lightweight, easy to carry, and have enough features for a day outing, though rarely enough for groceries and never for jogging or hiking. If you live in the city or travel frequently, it could be a good fit for your family. If you plan to stroll frequently or hope for adventures off the flat and paved, then it might be a miss for your lifestyle.
The Chicco Shuttle is a good example of a car seat carrier frame stroller.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Frame Strollers
A frame stroller is the lightest and smallest in the stroller world. It is a limited-use item that works in conjunction with your infant car seat carrier. This means you can use it from birth to about 9 months old. There are a handful of frame strollers on the market, and most offer similar capabilities but vary in which car seat brands they work with. We prefer those with click-in compatibility; we worry that those with nets and straps will not be used properly over time, as parents can become complacent. They are usually bare bones with small, plastic wheels, no suspension, and limited, if any, storage. While not a long-term product, they can save you money if you aren't sure how or if you will use a stroller past 9 months. Using a frame stroller could give you time and knowledge to determine what kind of stroller is best for the rest of your strolling life, typically 3-4 years.
Double strollers seat two kids at one time and come in various shapes and sizes.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Double Strollers
A double stroller provides two seats side-by-side or in tandem and is essential with twins. A double can also work for two kids, such as a baby and an older sibling, but we think using a baby carrier and a single one is often more convenient.
Key Metric Scores of Double Strollers
Product
Ease of Use
Maneuverability
Transport/Storing
Kid Comfort
UPPAbaby Vista v2
9.1
7.8
3.0
9.8
BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 Duallie
7.4
9.2
2.8
7.3
Thule Urban Glide 2 Double
7.9
9.2
3.4
6.2
Joovy Zoom X2
6.9
8.2
4.0
5.2
Thule Chariot Cross 2
7.4
9.6
2.4
4.9
Evenflo Pivot Xpand
6.2
5.2
6.6
5.7
Baby Trend Expedition
5.7
8.2
3.8
4.4
Evenflo Pivot Xplore Wagon
6.7
6.6
5.4
3.3
Mockingbird
6.2
4.4
2.2
9.0
Bugaboo Donkey 5
5.6
6.2
1.4
8.2
Hamax Outback
7.1
8.8
1.0
4.4
Baby Trend Navigator
5.8
7.2
2.8
4.6
Joovy Caboose
5.0
3.6
6.8
4.5
Baby Jogger City Select 2
6.3
4.0
3.4
4.9
Veer Cruiser
4.6
4.3
8.0
1.4
Graco Ready2Grow LX 2.0
5.8
4.6
3.2
2.1
Baby Trend Sit N\' Stand
4.6
4.0
3.4
3.3
Double strollers are typically bigger than any other stroller type and can be more challenging to fold.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Most are in the 21-36 lbs range and narrow enough to fit through most doorways. If you are expecting twins, keep in mind that car seat frame strollers come in double versions and could be a better option in the first year. Plus, some top-ranked double strollers won't accommodate two infant car seats, making them virtually unusable until your babies are at least six months old.
While a stroller can help you get from A to B, they aren't a necessity for every family or every lifestyle.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Do I Need a Stroller?
Whether you need a stroller or how many products you will need varies from one family to another. Some families may not even need one. Alternatively, you might like using different options designed for specific activities. If this applies to you, you might easily find yourself with three or more different products over the years; these could include a full-size choice for everyday use, a jogger for outdoor adventures, a travel-ready option, or a bike trailer for kids. However, strollers can be expensive, so the fewer you need to buy, the better for most families, and if you can make some compromises in your selection, there are some crossover options that can potentially lead to a single purchase.
A baby carrier lets you bond with your baby while still getting things done. We've found that keeping your baby close helps calm meltdowns and gives you the freedom to get back to your day.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Benefits of Wearing Your Baby
Wearing your baby in a top-rated baby carrier is an excellent alternative to strolling, especially with young infants. Holding your newborn and younger infant close to your heart is a great way to increase bonding, and in our experience, it is an excellent way to calm and soothe your baby. Most modern-day carriers are comfortable and safe, keeping your baby close while freeing your hands for other activities. You can do so much, from getting groceries to doing laundry while wearing your baby. Starting this practice early could develop a habit where you don't need a stroller at all! This baby-friendly solution can save money, space, and frustration from purchasing and managing a space-consuming stroller.
Babywearing is a great way to go sans stroller. With new carriers offering more holding options and hands-free designs, it is hard to go wrong with these instant baby soothers.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Too much time in a car seat, baby bouncer, or favorite baby swing can contribute to plagiocephaly, or flattening of a baby's head. In the first six months, most parents use their car seat carrier for strolling, connecting it with a car seat adapter to the frame of a stroller. Pediatricians consider it relatively acceptable for a baby to spend 1.5 to 4 hours per day in a combination of these products. If your little one spends more than 4 hours in these devices, especially in the first few months, they will have a higher risk of developing a flattened area in the back of the head. Using a baby carrier in a parent-facing chest position can help take pressure off the head; combining carrier use with supervisedtummy time can help you avoid plagiocephaly.
A fully featured travel stroller might be able to double as a full-size, depending on your strolling needs.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Can One Stroller Do It All?
Wouldn't it be blissfully wonderful if a single product could fulfill all your strolling dreams and needs? We are sad to say that none of them can do everything, not a single one.
Stroller Type Comparison
Jogging
Everyday Use
Travel
Off-road Adventure
Full-size Strollers
✖
✖
Jogging Strollers
✖
Travel Strollers
✖
✖
Frame Strollers
✖
✖
However, some products cross the lines of type and could meet your needs in different areas, depending on what you want. For example, some full-size options are relatively light and small enough to be considered lightweight or potential travel products. They often have adequate running errands and napping features, but they quickly fold and fit in smaller spaces. If you want to jog, then you're still on the hunt. However, one new competitor to the market is a jogger that folds so darn small it might just flip the script on everything we know about strollers (we're looking at you Guava Roam).
The Guava Roam Crossover performed well in almost every metric but measured weight, proving it can be a great jogger and everyday full-size stand-in.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Can a Jogging Stroller be a Full-size?
Yes, it can, and maybe it should! Many people find a jogger works just as well for daily outings as it does for running, but there are trade-offs to consider. Some joggers have adequate storage and a locking swivel front wheel, allowing them to function well as a full-size product. If your vehicle has sufficient space to transport it, you don't have trouble lifting around 25-30 lbs, and you don't frequent crowded locations, you could be all set.
Rubber tires, like those on the Guava Roam, make “roaming” easier.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Because many jogging products have swivel front wheels, they also offer good maneuverability in small spaces (like freaky good!). Their rubber tires mean they can easily push and turn on uneven surfaces (can you say easy, breezy?). Our top joggers have practical storage, comfy passenger seats, deep recline angles for napping, nice suspension, and large canopies. Many joggers are even similar in weight to some full-size competitors. And at least one of them folds smaller than almost all of the full-size options (Guava come on over and take a bow). Also, many joggers work with infant car seat carriers, so they can combine with a car seat, even if they are larger and heavier. These features mean joggers could potentially do the job of three products (jogger, full-size, and car seat carrier). Will a jogger ever be an excellent travel companion? Probably not, though the Guava Roam is the closest we've seen. Most of them are too darn large to meet travel needs. But does it matter if you don't travel or need to stroll when you do? We don't think so.
The Yoyo2 has more features for comfort and convenience than a traditional umbrella stroller.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Travel or Full-size Stroller?
This answer depends on your strolling plans. If you frequently commute or travel with your baby, you might benefit from a lightweight or compact stroller, making a travel stroller your best choice. While they traditionally have fewer features and can be harder to push, the lighter weight and smaller size make them superior at traveling or navigating crowded city streets. If your travel days are long, your baby might need to nap, or you'll need extra supplies, you'll require more features, and not all lightweight options fit this bill. This means you need to make a thoughtful decision based on available features. Alternatively, if you want to invest in a single product that can “do both” (with a few compromises), then a few lightweight options with extra features or full-size choices that weigh less and fold up small could do the job of both without significant frustration.
We see the appeal of wagons for outdoor outings, but they are not our favorite kind of strolling method.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
What About Wagons?
Nowadays, you can't throw a sippy cup without hitting a wagon designed for hauling little ones. It seems like the “cool parent” thing to have is a wagon for outdoor adventures. From days at the park to trips to get groceries, wagons are everywhere. While their popularity is rising and we see the fun in the marketing, we aren't convinced that a wagon is a good stroller choice for every family or that it is the right single stroller for anyone.
Even great wagons lack many comfort features kids need, like seatbacks, full canopies, and 5-point harnesses.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
We recognize that a wagon might have its place, but we worry that parents might be caught up in the advertising without considering the reality. We urge anyone seriously considering a wagon to assess the pros and cons before investing, or making it a second stroller for adventures where a traditional stroller can't get the job done.
Choosing a double stroller that fits in your vehicle could be a challenge, and we suggest testing this as soon as you make your choice.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Wagons are more challenging to maneuver than traditional strollers. They are also large, hard to fit in smaller trunks, and lack functional storage. If you have gear for more than one kid, you'll have to stack supplies in the footwell between the children. Also, they are easier to pull than push (not all offer the ability to do both).
Wagons are fun for some activities and less useful for others.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
This creates the opportunity for little ones to drop or throw items from the wagon without your knowledge, and you won't know if older toddlers try to jump out on the go until they fall. We've also heard parents remark that kids getting in and out on their own is appealing. Still, in practice, toddlers climbing in and out can cause tipping from side to side if they do it unassisted, and you might be lifting them in and out multiple times in one outing.
Our test on the Xplore includes pushing and pulling over surfaces inside and outdoors.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Overall, we see why the concept is interesting, and they might be good for park visits, hauling sandbox toys, or a picnic, but overall, we think a great jogger or bike trailer might be a better fit for most families.
Like most wagons, the Veer wagon is relatively easy to break down. However, it takes up more space than most strollers and requires keeping track of an extra plastic part.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Are All Double Strollers Suitable for Twins?
Depending on the age of your twins, there are different considerations. If your twins are infants and you hope to pair your infant car seats with a stroller, then not all double strollers will work as many aren't compatible with two car seats simultaneously. This lack of car seat compatibility makes them useless for twins under six to nine months. To resolve this issue, you could consider a frame stroller as an excellent way to stroll with two infants until they are big enough for toddler seats. Choosing a frame stroller gives you additional time to decide which features or style will best fit your strolling goals. Alternatively, you can push one and wear the other in a baby carrier until they reach the minimum stroller age, which is 6 months for most strollers.
Other Notable Award Winners
With so many strollers to choose from, you might still be wondering what is out there. Here are a few more of our favorites:
BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 Duallie — This double-seating jogger has everything we love about BOB strollers, like suspension, adjustable handlebar, and giant canopies, but offers seating for two
Hamax Outback with Jogger Kit — This versatile travel pod allows you to stroll, jog, and attach to a bike, all in one comfy pod that little kids love. If outdoor adventures are your jam, the Hamax is a budget-friendly trailer for nature lovers.
UPPAbaby Ridge — This UPPAbaby is another great crossover jogger that can work as an everyday grocery getter. If you like to move off the beaten path or live where the sidewalks are wide, this could be all you need to get from A to B.
Chicco KeyFit Caddy — If you haven't decided how you plan to stroll, but you want a frame stroller to pair with your Chicco KeyFit infant car seat, then the KeyFit Caddy could be the best short-term solution.
We've purchased and tested more than 210 strollers, including more than 40 double strollers, in our effort to compare performance through testing.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Conclusion
Unfortunately, we haven't discovered one stroller that can “do it all,” but luckily, you don't have to figure it all out today. You can easily baby step into the strolling world. Going slow helps you determine what your strolling needs are before you potentially make an expensive mistake. We think some parents will be happier with a baby carrier instead of a stroller, or perhaps an ultra-lightweight frame stroller, or a budget-friendly full-size option that can fill two niches and be all you need if you don't jog.
The strollers highlighted in this review are all top-ranking, award-winning options in their respective categories. Using our rigorous process for narrowing potential alternatives, you can better determine if you need more than one and what type of stroller will work best for your needs.
Meet Your Review Team
Wendy Schmitz Senior Review Editor Wendy is a mother of two who has been a leading member of BabyGearLab's Review team since 2014. She brings a combination of skills and talent to the team that translates into well written, thought-provoking, easy to understand reviews that provide the parents with the information necessary to make a well-informed decision regarding products for their children, as well as, entertain and encourage readers to read more articles on the site. Wendy has a BA in Biology and brings a scientific and... read more
Juliet Spurrier, MD Mom-in-Chief Dr. Juliet Baciocco Spurrier is a board-certified pediatrician, Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), mother of two, and founder of the Baby section of GearLab. Juliet earned her Bachelor of Arts degrees in Anthropology and Italian Literature from the University of California at Berkeley and her Medical degree from Georgetown University School of Medicine in Washington DC. She completed her pediatric residency at the Doernbecher Children's Hospital at Oregon Health & Science... read more
