When you’re already schlepping around a baby and diaper bag, the last thing you want to do is juggle a heavy stroller, too. That’s why finding the best lightweight stroller is vital, “especially if you plan on taking it in and out of the car a lot,” says Meg Collins, creator of Lucie’s List. But weight isn’t the only thing that matters — here’s what else to look for.
How to Choose the Best Lightweight Stroller
First of all, decide how you want to use your lightweight stroller. Do you need a stroller to cart your kid on public transit, something you can carry up a flight of stairs or are you looking for something lightweight to get you through a vacation at Grandma’s house? “I always look at features versus price when I review strollers,” says Susan Brian, the creator of Mom’s Stroller Reviews.
Another thing to consider is handle height. “Most lightweight strollers lack adjustable handles,” adds DP Nguyen of My Pregnancy Baby. “So what you see is what you’re stuck with. If the handles are too high, or too short, it can be a real pain in the back! I always encourage parents to try pushing the stroller before buying. The most important thing is that both you and your child must be comfortable.” Keep that in mind as you shop for the best lightweight strollers:
- Mamas & Papas Armadillo City
“I’m a big fan,” says Brian about the Mamas & Papas Armadillo City. “The narrow frame and small footprint allows it to navigate crowded streets and tight spaces with ease.” Add that to its empty weight of 15 pounds and you have a lightweight powerhouse. This stroller is best for older babies and young children.
- MacLaren Mark II
The MacLaren Mark II stroller weighs in at just over 7 pounds. It boasts a large sunshade, storage basket and a one-hand fold. It comes with a rain cover and is available in bright colors, making this stroller easy to spot at the park.
- Babyhome Emotion
At 13 pounds, the Babyhome Emotion isn’t the lightest lightweight available, but it’s loaded with features. The stroller reclines and has an adjustable footrest. It also safely holds an infant car seat and comes with a rain cover and visor extender.
- The Joovy Groove Ultralight
The Joovy Groove Ultralight features the ability to fully recline, making it the perfect stroller for nap time. The 12-pound stroller also features a movable sun visor, storage basket, carrying strap and three mesh pockets.
- Babies R Us Lightweight Umbrella
True, the Babies R Us Lightweight Umbrella stroller isn’t going to become a family heirloom, but at 7 pounds and a price tag of just $20, this is the perfect emergency stroller. (And it probably won’t break your heart if it gets mangled by baggage handlers.)
- Quinny Yezz
The 12-pound Quinny Yezz has an ergonomically designed handle. It’s one of the few lightweight strollers that has an adjustable handle to accommodate parents of differing heights. It also features a one-hand fold and a carry strap that makes it easy to sling the folded stroller over your shoulder.
- Inglesina Net
The quick-release fold of the Inglesina Net puts the stroller into a self-standing position so that no part that your child touches will touch the ground. The seat reclines, and a cup holder for Mom is included. At only 11 pounds, you could call this stroller an ultralight.
- Bumbleride Flite
The rugged Bumbleride Flite includes a universal car seat adapter for your littlest traveler. It also includes a reclining seat and adjustable footrest. All this at a weight of 14 pounds make it a stroller to consider.
- Uppa Baby G Luxe
The Uppa Baby G Luxe was designed with Mom in mind. Not only does this 15-pounder have a one-hand fold and ability to recline, but the seats are removable and machine washable. They even include a cup holder for your water or coffee.
- Chicco Liteway
At 17 pounds, the Chicco Liteway is at the upper end of a lightweight stroller, but it features a one-hand fold, five recline positions and an adjustable foot rest. It also accommodates the Chicco Key Fit car seat, making it a good infant-to-preschool option.
Shellie Braeuner is an award-winning children’s author. She earned an M.Ed from Vanderbilt in human developmental counseling and has worked as a nanny for more than 25 years.
