Lightweight strollers weigh next to nothing, in comparison to some strollers out there. This is its number one selling button. As a new or even an experienced mom of two or more, you know how much you have to carry around with you. Nappy changing bag, your own handbag, lunch or snack bag and of course, the stroller or some form of vehicle for your little chap.
So, when the baby stroller has been outgrown, the lightweight stroller is your next best friend. These babies and excuse the pun, can see you through until your child is almost 5 years old. And where you have a slight, equally lightweight child, it may even stretch a little further, but experience has shown me that once they reach 4 or 5 it’s almost impossible to keep them still or contained in any form of vehicle. That is unless they are cranky and need a sleep. The lightweight stroller is a perfect mobile bed. And yes, toddlers can sleep sitting up, although some strollers do come with neat cushioned head wedges.
So, exactly what is a lightweight stroller?
Commonly called an Umbrella Stroller, possibly earned this nickname because some come equipped with a clip on Umbrella, for added sunscreen and my personal favorite, sometimes to hang a dangly, sparkly something on the end. Trust me, distraction is key when it comes to babies and toddlers! But in actual fact, the name is derived from the way they look when folded away – like a closed umbrella. Some countries call this little gem a Push Pram or Pusher.
But I digress. So, your average lightweight stroller is around 12 pounds in weight, but some can weigh in as low as 6 pounds, others reaching up to 35 pounds. It folds up neatly for easy storage and generally easy unfolding. I say generally as there are a few that you want to eventually throw against the wall because of they JUST-WON’T-OPEN – or CLOSE! Be aware that, because most are to be used primarily for pushing your child around in a seated position, they are not built for a lot of comforts. However, this does depend on the brand and quality you choose, which we will get into a little later.
Advantages of a Lightweight Stroller
Cost
They range from as little as $13 to right up to $450. The more expensive varieties boast a few added extras, which, in my opinion, is not what the lightweight stroller is all about. It should be minimalistic at best, however, for just a few extra dollars, you can get some really awesome add-ons. I can tell you from experience, the cheaper the nastier. You do not want to be walking across a busy street or through a sticky, hot park one day and the little sucker dies on you. The stroller, I mean, not the baby!
Weight
As mentioned before, it is light, easy to store in the closet at home, in the boot of your car and light enough to tuck under your arm when you have a million other items to carry. And we know you always have a million other things to carry. Do not forget your quickly growing baby!
Safety
An important factor for any mom is child safety. There are normally little straps that both fit over the child’s shoulders and lock together between their little legs or some strollers only come with a waist strap. My suggestion is to look for the over-the-shoulder option, mostly because it’s wiggle-out-proof but more importantly, it is safer. (Ask the one who has hit a rock on the road and the sucker has flipped forward. The hovering child strapped in by their shoulders may get a bit of a fright, but at least he didn’t hit his noggin!)
Factors to Consider When Looking a Lightweight Stroller
Terrain
Consider the area you live in and what type of terrain you will most often be pushing the stroller over. Is the terrain grassy, sandy, rocky, cement or will you only be using your stroller in the mall? The type of wheels your stroller sports is an important factor to check out in relation to the ground surface you will be wheeling your toddler on.
Size
While they are all relatively light and easy to pick up, some strollers can be quite big and bulky. Dependent on your vehicle’s trunk size or your storage space at home, you may need to consider the size of your stroller. Again, if you are just going to go from home to park, then trunk size is not an issue.
Child
Strange subheading, you may ask? But the size of your child is important. If you are buying a stroller later in your child’s life and they are already nearing age 2 or 3, then you must consider the size of your child now and the size he may be in 2 or 3 years time. Every child is, of course, different, and you want to get your money’s worth when buying the stroller.
Multiples
If you have twins or even triplets, or you want to walk with both your younger baby and older toddler together, then you will have to consider a double or triple stroller. Of course, you are buying, basically, two or three strollers in one and the price will increase.
Best Lightweight Strollers Reviewed
So, let’s get down to brass tacks and discuss what we consider being the best lightweight stroller out there. Of course, the choice is very personal and we hope that you will be able to choose the best for your lifestyle from the comprehensive list below.
This list is not in any order other than what we consider being the coolest of cool in the lightweight stroller world.
Quinny Zapp Xtra Folding Seat Stroller
This futuristic-looking stroller is just so cool that you will be the envy of all your friends, available in a variety of colors.
While classed under Lightweight Stroller it is not very light, weighing in at about 32 pounds. But what it lacks in carrying ease, it makes up in that it folds up really neatly, without having to remove the seat, has improved memory fold buttons and a reversible seat that has many positions, easily adjusted with one hand. A little more on the reversible seat, as we think this is really a huge selling point.
Reversible meaning the seat can either face you or face away, so for those new moms out there, the facing toward you option will mean you are always at ease whilst walking out and about with our little honey.
This innovative revolutionary stroller is top on our list and does not cost a fortune either, coming in at $300, dependent on the color you choose. Further advantages are that it is compatible with Maxi-Cosi infant car seats and include their unique adaptors. Big bonus points are that it can accommodate a child up to 50 pounds in weight.
Chicco Bravo Trio Travel System
Similar to the Graco Travel System, the Chicco Bravo Trio System provides three unique modes of use to adapt to your baby’s changing needs. On the safety features side, there is a 5-point harness so you will know your little one is safe and secure whilst out on your daily walk.
The weight is around 30 pounds, but not to worry, it is easy to pack away. We like the transition from baby to toddler, with the added #1 rated KeyFit 30 Infant Car Seat and base, which comes standard with this stroller. We especially like the fact that the straps are easy to clean. A simple wipe with a damp cloth will do the trick. As for the car seat cover, these come off and can be washed separately. We all know how a baby can mess, so good news all round. The price range is under $400 and on our top 3 list of the best lightweight stroller.
Graco Modes Pramette Travel System
Here, we, in particular, like their snug car seat, which clicks into the car portal and then straight into the stroller, giving you peace of mind when moving your sleeping child. We all know that Baby Rule #1 is DON’T WAKE A SLEEPING CHILD! Just a note on the infant car seat, this one is only for rear-facing travel, which is the safest position anyway.
Of course, as your little one gets bigger, you wouldn’t use the infant car seat, however, the stroller’s padded seat is just as comfy. This stroller has locking front-swivel wheels and great suspension for a smooth ride. In addition, there are multiple positions to make your baby’s traveling experience a real comfort.
One downside is that it is a trifle heavy, so not really a lightweight stroller in the true essence of the word. Weighing in at a hefty 47 pounds, you want to make sure you flex those muscles and use those legs when lifting this baby. Not shy on the assortment of colors available, you are spoilt for choice. Although it sells at $300, you do get a lot of bang for your buck.
BOB Gear Revolution Flex 3.0 Jogging Stroller
The BOB jogging stroller has easy maneuverability, due to the front swiveling wheels and you can lock the front wheels for when you do a little off-road running or the terrain is a little uneven.
Adjustable suspension makes sure your sweetheart has a super gentle ride and includes extra padding for comfort, adjustable reclining seat and for safety’s sake, a 5-point padded harness.
There are a few removable gadgets, which we think are cool, like their infant car seat adaptor and snack tray. This stroller is not the lightest at almost 25 pounds but has a two-step opening and closing function, which is just a breeze.
Price? It is a little over the top at $450 but looks at all that you are getting. Number one on our list, as the best lightweight stroller is … drum roll … Number one on our list, as the best lightweight stroller is … drum roll …
Graco Modes Element Stroller
Another Graco gem. Guess you know we are Graco fans by now, but they do have some innovative baby gear. This stroller can accommodate all the Graco infant car seats, making that transition from car to stroller a breeze. Their one-step attachment is exactly that. One step. The front wheels lock which allows for easier movement and control. A feature that is sure to be on the top of your list, that along with the safety of a 5-point harness.
It boasts a one-hand close ability and also stands on its own, so for busy, loaded moms, this is a good detail. Weight-wise, it’s under 20 pounds, which means easy portability. Good solid suspension makes for a smooth ride for baby and mom. Added extras like 2 cup holders; extra snack area and a large storage compartment underneath make this a good buy, especially as it only costs $100. We feel this is definitely the best lightweight stroller. Simple, inexpensive but covers all the bases.
So, whether you want to admit it or not, that your baby is growing quicker than you can say “by gingo, I have the best lightweight stroller!”, it is clear that investing in one of these innovative gems makes good sense.
