Strollers have changed a lot since the classic English pram. Today’s best strollers, according to parents, offer more flexibility and are lightweight and easy to use. But they still have to be sturdy enough to protect your child. That’s why Consumer Reports tests strollers for safety as well as maneuverability and ease-of-use. Here are some of the standouts from this year’s tests.
Traditional strollers
The Graco Modes Click Connect, $250, has superb maneuverability and was very easy to adjust, featuring one-touch brakes, and it can be stored vertically when folded. It’s truly “three strollers in one,” allowing caregivers to use it in a car-seat carrier or in flat bassinet mode for a newborn or young baby, as well as in rear- or forward-facing toddler mode. Its five-point harness is the safest type.
![]()
Travel systems
The sturdy Chicco Cortina KeyFit 30 Travel System, $330, provides a smooth ride for children weighing up to 50 pounds. A comfortable and adjustable handle and one-touch brakes make it easy to handle. The top-rated Chicco KeyFit 30 infant car seat is included, and the stroller also features the convenience of a pop-up bassinette-style enclosure for infants 6 months and under, with a five-point harness. If you prefer a jogger-type travel system, consider the Graco FastAction Fold Click Connect Jogger Travel System, $325, a sturdy and easy-to-maneuver model with three air-filled tires, which accepts an infant car seat.
![]()
Combination strollers
Though bulky, the Peg Perego Book Plus, $500, offers a sturdy feel, excellent maneuverability, and a smooth ride, even over uneven terrain. An infant enclosure allows babies to lie flat, and a reversible seat allows your toddler to face forward or toward you. With its one-touch brakes, and an easy-to-push, adjustable handle, it was a cinch to use and it comes with a five-point harness. It comes complete with the Peg Perego Primo Viaggio SIP 30-30 infant car seat, which had very good crash protection in our tough car seat tests.
Umbrella strollers
The First Years Ignite, $60, a CR Best Buy, is lightweight and easy to open and fold. Its five-point harness and buckles are easy to adjust. It weighs 15 pounds and is small when folded.
Consumer Reports has no relationship with any advertisers or sponsors on this website. Copyright © 2007-2013 Consumers Union of U.S.
