Best Convertible Stroller

What is a convertible stroller?

Traditional strollers have a fixed frame structure and seat position, and you typically need a stroller designed specifically for young infants and a completely different model for older babies and toddlers. In contrast, a convertible model gives parents the ability to adapt their stroller’s configuration to suit children from birth to about three years of age or as new siblings are born into the family.

The term “convertible stroller” can refer to a couple of different products, and there are distinct differences between the model options:

• Single convertible strollers seat one child. These models have adjustable frames that hold either an infant car seat or bassinet, and they can later reconfigure into a standard toddler seat.
• Other convertible strollers use this same concept of growing with your child, but they also have the capability of adding an additional seat for a second child. Some models include a rear platform for older toddlers and preschoolers to stand on.

Advantages of getting a convertible stroller

One-Time Purchase

A good stroller can be an investment, especially when you consider that you will probably need to purchase a couple of different models as your child grows or if you have more children. While they typically tend to be more expensive at the outset, a convertible stroller can grow along with your child or your family. Making just one purchase that can meet your changing needs for several years could end up saving you money over the long run.

One Product for Multiple Ages

Traditional upright stroller seats usually aren’t safe until a baby has the ability to hold their head straight and sit with minimal support. Many babies reach those milestones somewhere around six months of age, so you need a stroller specifically designed for young infants if you want to take your baby on a ride during their early months.

Convertible strollers have a car seat attachment or a bassinet bed that lets your baby ride safely even as a newborn. Once your child is able to sit by themselves, you can readjust the stroller configuration into a more traditional toddler seat.

Some Models Can Seat Multiple Children

When you only have one baby, it’s totally natural to think about buying things for one baby. However, many parents find themselves in a different situation when their second baby is on the way while the first still needs a stroller. Buying a convertible model with the capability of seating more than one child can be a perfect solution.

A double convertible stroller can also be a great choice if you have twins. Many models let you use two car seats or bassinets at the same time, and adding an additional toddler seat is a snap.

Features to Consider When Choosing a Convertible Stroller

Upper Weight Limit

Strollers that seat only one child typically tend to have a lower weight capacity, although most will still accommodate older toddlers and possibly preschoolers. Models that are specifically designed to convert into double strollers typically have a higher weight limit.

The most important factors to consider when looking at a stroller’s weight capacity are the number of children that need seating and the age of the rider(s). Especially if you have twins, look for a stroller that is strong enough to hold two toddlers at once.

Number of Convertible Positions

If you plan to carry a lot of gear or use your stroller to carry a few bags on shopping trips, a stroller that adjusts between a wide variety of positions can be convenient. If you plan to use your stroller in a more traditional manner and carry just the essential baby items, you may find that a model with only a few adjustable positions will still meet your family’s needs.

However, don’t let the sheer number of convertible options be the deciding factor. The ideal stroller should have several good options that you will actually use as well as a smart design that lets you easily switch between configurations. It won’t do you much good to have tons of options to pick from if it’s too difficult to make the necessary changes.

Ease of Transport

At one time or another, you will probably need to transport your stroller in a car, train, bus or plane. Some models fold more compactly than others, so be sure to check the stroller’s folded dimensions to make sure it will easily fit into the space you have to work with.
A car trunk or rear cargo bay are the most common places parents use to transport a stroller, so measuring your vehicle’s storage space before making your final stroller choice is a must.
Additionally, pay attention to the stroller’s weight. Especially if you will be loading and unloading the stroller by yourself, make sure it doesn’t weigh more than you can handle independently.

Safety Features

You can expect all strollers to have basic safety features. However, having additional or especially well-designed elements can add an extra layer of protection. Here are a couple of safety features to look for:

Wrist strap

Many strollers have wheels and bearings that ride smoothly over a variety of surfaces. This design makes it easy to push your stroller, but there is also the risk of it rolling on its own or going faster than you anticipated.

A wrist strap fits over your hand and gives you an extra opportunity to stop the stroller even if the handlebar slips out of your grasp. Wrist straps come in especially handy for parents who use their stroller as a jogger, but they could also be useful when walking over hilly terrain.

Parking brake

While all strollers should have a mechanism that locks at least one wheel when the stroller is stationary, not all locking systems are created equal. Some locks fit into grooves on the wheel bearing, and the wheel must be in a certain position to securely lock. Other strollers may have switches that are small and can be a bit of a challenge to engage or disengage.

Look for a parking brake that is easy to set and release quickly. These will usually be a large rocking switch or a bar that you can press with your foot.

Sun canopy

Babies and young children usually tend to have more sun-sensitive skin than older children or adults. If you plan to use your stroller outdoors often, a large, hinged canopy can help prevent a sunburn and keep the bright rays out of your child’s eyes.

Wheel Construction and Size

Small, plastic wheels may be adequate for flat surfaces like a sidewalk or indoor floor, but they often perform poorly on uneven terrain. Your child could be in for a bumpy ride, or there may be places you simply can’t take your stroller.

If you and your child like to go on outdoor adventures and nature walks, look for a stroller with large wheels. A greater surface area can roll over bumps and cracks more easily without getting stuck or jarring your child.

Additionally, air-filled rubber tires tend to provide the smoothest ride over a variety of terrain surfaces. Many models also feature a suspension system that helps absorb shock to give your child a smoother and more comfortable ride.

Stroller Measurements

What kinds of environments do you anticipate using your stroller in? If you plan for your child to ride along in stores or other places with limited room, it’s likely that a stroller with a more compact frame will be easier to maneuver and fit through doorways.

On the other hand, if you plan to use your stroller for mostly outdoor walks and adventures, a larger design that can hold extra gear may be a wise choice.

Our Choices for the Best Convertible Stroller