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How to Choose a Stroller: Umbrella vs. Full-Size

Tap each step to work through choosing the right stroller for your family.

  1. Understand umbrella vs. full-size strollers

    Umbrella (lightweight) strollers are light and fold easily, making them great for long-term use from infancy through toddlerhood, while full-size deluxe strollers are heavier but offer better suspension and a smoother ride, which some parents prefer from the newborn stage.

  2. Check recline angle and newborn suitability

    Newborns can't yet support their own heads, so confirm whether the seat reclines nearly flat (roughly 170 degrees or more) or whether the stroller is compatible with an infant car seat as part of a travel system.

  3. Check the harness and brakes

    Confirm in-store that a 5-point harness is standard and that the parking brake locks both rear wheels securely.

  4. Check the folding mechanism and weight

    Test whether it folds one-handed, whether the folded size fits your car trunk or elevator, and how heavy it actually feels to carry.

  5. Check for recalls and frame condition when buying used

    For a used stroller, inspect for frame cracks, worn wheels, and a faulty folding latch, and look up the model on the manufacturer's site to confirm it hasn't been recalled before buying.

Think about your routine and how long you'll use it

Rather than deciding umbrella versus full-size is objectively better, start with how often you go out, how you get around, and how long you plan to use it starting from the newborn stage β€” that makes the decision much clearer. Weight, storage space, and terrain (sidewalks vs. uneven ground) all matter too, so picture your actual daily routine before comparing models.

If buying secondhand, choose a safe meeting spot

Strollers are expensive, so many are bought and sold secondhand. Beyond checking the stroller itself, meet in a well-lit, public location such as a police station's designated safe-exchange zone or a busy shopping area, bring someone with you if possible, and inspect the item thoroughly before paying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I really need both an umbrella and a full-size stroller?

If you're out often and plan to use it from the newborn stage, a full-size deluxe stroller is usually more comfortable. If you move frequently between indoors and outdoors and portability matters most, an umbrella stroller alone is often enough.

Can I use a stroller and car seat together?

Products designed as a travel system let you click an infant car seat directly onto the stroller frame, which is convenient for moving a sleeping baby, but not every stroller brand is compatible with every car seat brand, so check compatibility before buying.