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In addition to plenty of diapers, comfy postpartum pajamas, and maybe a nightly foot massage, new parents should also have a fabulous umbrella stroller.

Now, we’re not talking about a buggy that takes center stage at the London fashion show. No, we want something practical, affordable, and able to do pretty much anything we ask of it!

But with all of the options, it can get pretty overwhelming to know which one to choose. And unless you have hours to cruise the internet — we’re guessing you might not, with a new baby and all — researching the ins and outs of today’s top strollers is likely not at the top of your to-do list.

The good news? We did the searching for you and came up with some of the best umbrella strollers in every category, from budget and travel to frequent use and summer days.

If you’re new to this whole parenting thing, you might be wondering what the difference is between a traditional stroller and an umbrella stroller. You might also be wondering whether you need an umbrella stroller if you already have something like a luxury travel system, which often includes a stroller that comes with a car seat, and sometimes other components.

An umbrella stroller is a lightweight (typically under 20 pounds) and portable version of a stroller, that is a standalone (as in it doesn’t come with a car seat or other components). These strollers are smaller and easier to pack than traditional ones. And they’re a lot easier to unfold when you’re on the go, and maybe have limited hands or it’s pouring rain.

Designed for quick trips, walks, and travel, umbrella strollers give you ease and portability when you don’t need the car seat, storage units, and all the other bells and whistles of full-blown travel stroller systems.

They’re a great option to have on hand as an extra stroller for grandparents or other caregivers or for times when the large travel system isn’t practical.

That said, they are meant for older babies and toddlers, usually 4 to 7 months or older, who can sit upright on their own.

The strollers described below were chosen based on parent recommendations, best-seller lists, reviews, and Facebook parent groups. While not an exhaustive list, the strollers in these categories came out on top among various audiences.

Pricing guide

  • $ = under $50
  • $$ = $50–$150
  • $$$ = over $150

Best budget umbrella stroller

  • Price: $
  • Dimensions: 38.31 x 9.41 x 9 inches
  • Stroller weight: 9.5 lbs.

There’s a reason the Kolcraft Cloud Umbrella Stroller tops the list as the best budget option. It’s a favorite of many families looking for a simple, lightweight, yet durable stroller that’s also very affordable.

This umbrella stroller has a three-point harness system. Plus, the stroller collapses easily with a one-step fold, has an extended sun canopy, and still comes with a small storage pocket for the essentials like snacks and bottles.

Pros

  • It has an extended sun canopy for extra protection.
  • The stroller is quick and easy to fold and assemble.
  • It’s good quality and has nice features for a relatively low price.

Cons

  • Taller kids that are still under 40 pounds may find their legs are too long and their feet go past the foot rest.
  • The stroller doesn’t have shoulder restraints.

Best reclining umbrella stroller

  • Price: $$
  • Dimensions: 18 x 17 x 43 inches
  • Stroller weight: 13 lbs.

The Summer 3Dlite Convenience Stroller has a four-position recline with a five-point safety harness to keep your little one safe and comfy during naps. It also accommodates kids up to 50 pounds.

This fan-favorite gets the top pick for reclining since the lowest recline position goes almost flat, which is great for nap time. It also folds with a one-hand and one-foot system that allows for quick setup and takedown.

Plus, parents say the padding on the seat and straps are top-notch, and the foam handles feel nicer than the plastic on other strollers. It also has a wider seat than other strollers, which is a nice feature for older toddlers.

Pros

  • The stroller is equipped with a five-point safety harness and a four-position recline.
  • The Maximum child weight is high at 50 pounds.
  • Its extra-large storage basket can hold up to 10 pounds of items.

Cons

  • The storage basket is difficult to access if the seat is fully reclined.
  • The stroller doesn’t provide a smooth ride on rough surfaces.

Best luxury umbrella stroller

  • Price: $$$
  • Dimensions: 20.5 x 17.3 x 7.1 inches
  • Stroller weight: 13.6 lbs.

Luxury meets convenience in this splurge-worthy umbrella stroller. If you have an unlimited budget or friends looking for a group gift to buy, the Babyzen YOYO2 6+ Stroller is a great choice.

It has a fast, one-handed fold that transforms the stroller from fully open to closed and over your shoulder in a matter of seconds. You can sling the stroller in its travel bag on your shoulder or use it as a backpack — one of the reasons this luxury stroller is so popular with families that travel a lot.

This stroller has a five-point harness system and accommodates children up to 40 pounds.

Pros

  • The stroller is customizable and grows with your child.
  • Compact and easy to carry on one shoulder when not in use.
  • Four-wheel suspension means a comfortable ride for both adults and child.

Cons

  • Very expensive compared with other umbrella strollers.
  • Not as lightweight as other umbrella strollers.
  • Folding the stroller requires some practice.

Best umbrella stroller for small spaces

  • Price: $$
  • Dimensions: 28 x 18 x 39.8 inches
  • Stroller weight: 9.5 lbs.

Whether the space in your trunk is tight or you need to shove your stroller in the corner of a room, finding an umbrella stroller, like the GB Pockit Stroller, that is compact and fits in small spaces is a feature many parents are seeking.

The GB Pockit Stroller is compact and light. When folded, this compact stroller measures 12 inches x 7 inches x 20 inches, according to the manufacturer. This compact umbrella stroller has a three-point harness system.

But just because it’s small doesn’t mean it’s not sturdy. The Pockit can accommodate your little one up to 55 pounds, and you can stuff 11 pounds of gear into the storage basket. Plus, the seat has thick padding, which comes in handy for kids on the higher end of the weight limit.

Pros

  • One of the lightest umbrella strollers on the market.
  • Accommodates kids up to 55 pounds.
  • Excellent for traveling, especially on airplanes.

Cons

  • Handlebars are positioned lower than other strollers, making them uncomfortable for taller people.
  • Sun visor is not as large as other strollers.

Best umbrella stroller for summer days

  • Price: $$
  • Dimensions: 31.25 x 18 x 39 inches
  • Stroller weight: 11.8 lbs.

Keeping your little one protected from the sun is important when out and about. That’s why the Kolcraft Cloud Plus Travel Stroller made the cut for best umbrella stroller for summer days.

This lightweight umbrella stroller has an extended canopy that more than shields your infant or toddler’s face and body from the sun, and it has a peek-a-boo window so you can quickly glance down to see what they’re doing. Since the seat is multi-positioning and reclines, your baby can be protected from the sun when they’re sleeping.

The Kolcraft Cloud Plus has a 5-point harness style and it accommodates children up to 50 pounds.

Pros

  • Three-tier extended canopy for maximum protection from the sun.
  • Equipped with all-terrain wheels and front suspension for a smoother ride.
  • Extra-large storage basket holds all the essentials.

Cons

  • Does not recline completely flat.
  • Child tray can get in the way.

Best reversible umbrella stroller

  • Price: $$
  • Dimensions: 31 x 25.5 x 39.5 inches
  • Stroller weight: 13.2 lbs.

If you’re looking for a stroller with a reversible seat design that also comes with some top must-have features, then the Summer 3Dflip Convenience Stroller is worth checking out.

Like a reversible car seat, this umbrella stroller allows you to face baby toward you when they’re young, and as they get older, you can flip the seat around, so they can look out at the world. It also reclines in three positions for rear-facing and three positions for front-facing. The forward-facing position fits your child until they reach 50 pounds and the rear-facing until they’re 25 pounds.

The Summer 3Dflip Convenience Stroller has a five-point harness style.

Pros

  • Dual stroller that allows you to easily position baby to face you or look away.
  • Comes with an oversize adjustable sun canopy with a see-through window.
  • Durable frame and ride for a lightweight stroller.

Cons

  • Takes time and practice to get good at folding and unfolding the stroller.
  • More active babies or larger toddlers may find the seat uncomfortable and not very durable.

Best umbrella stroller for travel

  • Price: $-$$
  • Dimensions: 31.5 x 18.1 x 42 inches
  • Stroller weight: 11.6 lbs.

The Jeep North Star Stroller is geared toward parents looking for a lightweight stroller that also packs easily for travel. Weighing in at under 12 pounds, it certainly meets the requirement for an easy-to-lug travel stroller.

With a large storage space and a removable parent organizer that hangs from the back of the stroller, the Jeep North Star is an excellent choice for parents who want to pack light for a day trip but also have a place to put their personal items.

The Jeep North Star Stroller has a 3-point harness style and it accommodates children up to 40 pounds.

Pros

  • It has easy folding for traveling.
  • It comes equipped with a removable carry-all organizer that hangs from the back of the stroller.
  • Front swivel wheels and sturdy suspension system ensure a comfy and safe ride.

Cons

  • It does not have shoulder straps for carrying when folded up.
  • It only accommodates kids up to 40 pounds.

Best umbrella stroller for frequent use

  • Price: $$
  • Dimensions: 20.5 x 42 x 32.5 inches
  • Stroller weight: 14.08 lbs.

The Joovy Groove Ultralight Umbrella Stroller wins the category of best umbrella stroller for frequent use because it’s one of a few you can use with a newborn. Most umbrella strollers are recommended for 4 months and up, but the Groove Ultralight has a deeper recline and bassinet mode, which makes it ideal for babies.

Since it’s appropriate for kids up to 55 pounds, you’ll get a lot of use out of this stroller. Plus, it comes with a large sun shade that will protect both newborns and toddlers. The Joovy Groove has a five-point harness system.

Pros

  • It has an easy shoulder-style carry strap.
  • It is safe for newborns to kids up to 55 pounds.
  • The extra-large canopy has UPF 50 protection.

Cons

  • It is one of the heavier umbrella strollers on the market.
  • It is often sold out on online retailers.

Best double umbrella stroller

  • Price: $$
  • Dimensions: 29.9 x 37 x 23.4 inches
  • Stroller weight: 18.3 lbs.

Leaving the house with two kids under the age of 3 can sometimes feel like herding cats. One takes off in one direction while the other splits and goes the other way. Well, not anymore with the Delta Children LX Side by Side Tandem Umbrella Stroller.

This sturdy, yet comfy, double umbrella stroller is a must-have for any parent that needs to have two kids in a seated position at the same time. Like most of the top umbrella strollers, this one comes with a five-point harness system and the sun visor, while smaller than other strollers, still provides protection from the sun.

Because it is a side-by-side stroller, you can expect it to be on the heavier side. This one weighs in at 18.3 pounds. However, users do say that it folds up easily and fits in smaller spaces. This stroller will accommodate up to 35 pounds per seat.

Pros

  • Excellent umbrella stroller for twins or children close in age.
  • Fairly compact and easy to maneuver through doorways.
  • Comes equipped with two large hanging storage bags.

Cons

  • Because it accommodates two kids, the weight limit for each child is 35 pounds.
  • Frequently sold out online.
  • Sun canopy is small.
Stroller
Price
Stoller weight
Max child weight
Kolcraft Cloud Umbrella Stroller
$
9.5 lbs.
40 lbs.
Summer 3Dlite Convenience Stroller
$$
13 lbs.
50 lbs.
Babyzen YOYO2 Stroller
$$$
13.6 lbs.
40 lbs.
gb Pockit Stroller
$$
9.5 lbs.
55 lbs.
Kolcraft Cloud Plus Travel Stroller
$$
11.8 lbs.
50 lbs.
Summer 3Dflip Convenience Stroller
$$
13.2 lbs.
25/50 lbs.
Jeep North Star Stroller
$-$$
11.6 lbs.
40 lbs.
Joovy Groove Ultralight Umbrella Stroller
$$
14.08 lbs.
55 lbs.
Delta Children LX Side by Side Tandem Umbrella Stroller
$$
18.3 lbs.
35 lbs. each seat

Each family will have different criteria when shopping for an umbrella stroller. That said, there are a few features to keep in mind before you seal the deal.

  • Price: Knowing your budget before you head to the store is key when shopping for an umbrella stroller. These baby gadgets will run you anywhere from $30 to $500, with the average being around $75 to $200.
  • Weight: The lighter, the better, especially if you’re using this stroller for travel or quick trips to the store. Most umbrella strollers weigh less than 20 pounds, with the majority under 15 pounds. Some of the top lightweight picks weigh in under 10 pounds though.
  • Push: Wheel design, handlebar height, and weight all factor into how easy it will be for you to navigate your stroller.
  • Foldability: You might not think the ease of folding and unfolding an umbrella stroller is something to be concerned with when considering your options. But ask any seasoned parent, and they’ll tell you that it’s a game-changer. Ideally, go with a one-handed fold that makes getting the job done a lot easier, especially since you’ll likely be holding at least one item, your baby, and possibly more in the other hand.
  • Safety: Check the stroller for safety ratings and recalls. You can also look for the JPMA seal on the box. This is the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association certification for safety.
  • Features: Having an umbrella stroller with a reclining seat is a feature many parents want, and some prefer multiple-reclining options. Also, cup holders, storage bins, and removable seats for easy cleaning are all features to keep in mind when looking for the right umbrella stroller for you.

Who needs an umbrella stroller?

Having the right stroller is a lifesaver. The type of stroller you choose depends on budget, your child’s age and weight, the stroller’s features, and how you plan on using it.

Umbrella strollers are designed for light use, travel, and short trips. They’re ideal for times when packing a large, full-sized stroller is not possible. That said, this stroller design is better suited to infants over 6 months, and most umbrella strollers have a maximum weight of about 55 pounds, so they are not ideal for larger children.

There are many budget-friendly options available, so if cost is a consideration, make sure to shop around before settling on a brand.

Are umbrella strollers safe for infants?

Whether or not an umbrella stroller is safe for an infant depends on their age and development. Most umbrella strollers are not safe for younger infants, such as newborns. Most umbrella strollers require children to sit up, at least partially, which is not something infants are capable of doing until they develop enough strength in their back and neck muscles. Most babies can sit up without support around 6 months of age.

Generally, umbrella strollers can’t accommodate infant car seats, a common feature of strollers for babies less than 12 months old. Some umbrella strollers have a recline feature that may work for older infants — but even with recline features, umbrella strollers may lack the cushioning and support an infant needs to support their head. It’s best to consult your child’s pediatrician before using one for a younger baby.

Finally, you should always check the manufacturer’s guidelines and recommendations for age and minimum weight requirements before using an umbrella stroller. Several recommend a minimum of 4 to 6 months of age to use an umbrella stroller.

Can I run with an umbrella stroller?

While you can run with an umbrella stroller, it’s not recommended. Umbrella strollers are designed for general use, not for off-roading or higher speeds.

They often lack the right suspension for absorbing the bounce and rough terrain that often comes with running. This can make for an uncomfortable and possibly unsafe ride for your little one. The models that have only a three-point harness would be particularly unsafe to use for running.

Umbrella strollers also lack a fixed front wheel, which is necessary for a quickened pace. Jogging strollers, on the other hand, typically have three larger wheels in a triangular configuration — two in the back and one in the front. These strollers are a go-to for many parents who like to run, and we’d recommend investigating that style of stroller if running with it is a priority.

With hundreds of umbrella strollers on the market, you’re bound to find the right one for you. Read through our list, take some notes, and head to your nearest baby-goods store to try them out.

It’s always a good idea to test a stroller before buying one, so you can get an idea of what it feels like with your baby strapped in.