The Wheel Deal: Our Annual Guide To The Best Strollers Of 2014

October 23, 2014

The Wheel Deal: Our Annual Guide To The Best Strollers Of 2014

Find the best stroller for your family

By Mia Weber

[Editor’s note: To read our new guide to the best strollers of 2016, click HERE]

Finding a stroller that’s right for you and your child can be a confusing task, given the variety of attributes and amenities that many strollers now feature. While it can be a difficult decision, the ultimate factors should always be safety, comfort, mobility, and a harmony with your personal budget. To help you distinguish between the wheel deal and models that just aren’t for you, we’re proud to present our annual guide to the best strollers of the year—prepare to rock ‘n stroll!

Interested in stories like this? Sign up here for our eNewsletter New York Family Baby

Print This Post

4moms Origami & New Bassinet

4moms’ high-tech Origami stroller power-folds at the touch of a button and features a built-in generator that charges both the stroller’s electronic features and your cell phone as you walk. With daytime running lights, pathway lights for low-light conditions, sensors that detect when a child’s in the seat, and a handlebar LCD that shows the temperature, speed, and distance traveled, the Origami is the Starship Enterprise of strollers. The 4moms origami bassinet allows you to use your origami stroller from birth, and is appropriate for use until your baby starts to push up on their hands and knees (approximately 6 months). Includes bassinet, sunshade, carry handle, foot muff, and soft mattress. Stroller: $849.99; bassinet: $149.99; 4moms.com
Baby Cargo Series 300

The Series 300 is loaded with premium features, including a reversible and washable seat-cover, a smartphone pocket, all-wheel suspension, and an expandable sunshade for maximum UV protection. A single-button-release, adjustable five-point harness, adjustable carriage for sitting or napping, and an infant positioner for added support add to the design as well. Plus, the Series 300 comes with a rain guard and cup holder. $199.99, babycargo.com
Baby Jogger Summit X3 Double

The Summit X3 Double, which comfortably fits two children, is perfect for jogging and strolling on any terrain and features patented Quick-Fold technology, which allows parents to fold it one-handed. Additionally, the Summit X3 has remote swivel-locks on the front wheel, an all-wheel suspension system, and hand-operated rear drum breaks. In its full recline position, it’s suitable for children from birth to 6 months (for street jogging) or 12 months (for trail running). $649, babyjogger.com
Baby Trend Go-Lite Snap-N-Grow

Looking for on-the-go convenience and versatility? The Snap-N-Grow, a 3-in-1 lightweight aluminum stroller with six riding options, can smoothly convert from an infant car seat carrier to a carriage stroller or toddler stroller. Additionally, it has a foam grip handle with sliding height adjustment, a five-point safety harness with padded soft covers, and one-touch breaks. $199, babiesrus.com
Babyhome Emotion

Babyhome’s Emotion stroller is designed for parents who seek an affordable, super-lightweight stroller without having to sacrifice design and functionality. Weighing in at just 13 lbs, this stroller features smooth and durable wheels, shock absorbers, a large basket, and one hand maneuverability. It also has a reclining backrest and a waterproof canopy, and with the use of available car seat adapters, the Emotion becomes functional from birth (without car set, it’s suitable starting at 6 months) to 55 lbs. $299, diapers.com
BABYZEN YOYO

This super-compact stroller is the first in the world that, when folded, is totally compliant with the size recommendation for airplane carry-on baggage. This convenient feature, coupled with four-wheel suspension, an exclusive soft-drive system, a reclining backrest, and a variety of color options, make the YOYO a must for families on-the-go. Sutiable for babies starting at 6 months. $469, saksfifthavenue.com
Britax Affinity

The versatile Britax Affinity stroller—launching at the beginning of this month—combines fashion and function for a look that’s supremely sleek and modern. Parents can select from 18 different fabric and frame combinations to build a premium, custom stroller unique to their family. With Britax’s notable safety and design standards and cool color packs (each of which includes a canopy, shoulder and buckle pads, a basket liner, and a machine-washable padded seat liner) like “cactus green” and “fossil brown” this is definitely a fashion-forward stroller. Frame, $599.99; Color packs, $99.99 each; britaxusa.com/affinity
Bugaboo Bee3

The Bee3 features innovative functionalities like a 3D compact fold—making it easy to collapse, carry, and store. Plus it offers a smooth ride, smart design, and a great value. Its unique seat can extend, reverse, and recline, and a new lightweight bassinet makes it more comfortable to hit the town with your baby or toddler. It’s also created with a new fabric that promises to be super-soft and breathable. Finally, there are 64 different color combination options, allowing parents to customize their Bee3 and cruise the city streets in style. With bassinet: $949-999; without bassinet: $719-769; bugaboo.com
Bumbleride Indie 4

For a days crammed full of diverse metropolitan happenings—hitting the park, running errands, and zipping to playdates—the new Indie 4 (which comes with a bassinet included), is a perfect pick. Compact and lightweight, yet designed with rugged pneumatic tires and all-wheel suspension to handle any terrain, the Indie 4 handles both urban and off-road locales with ease. With a space-saving fold and new automatic frame locks, it can also stand on its own for convenient loading and stowing. $599, bumbleride.com
Chicco Bravo Stroller & Bravo Trio System

This travel system is the perfect marriage of comfort and convenience. Sold with the Chicco KeyFit30 Infant Car Seat, the Trio System is also sold as a stand-alone Bravo Stroller. The stroller itself, which is suitable from birth up to 50 lbs, features a one-step quick fold with a built-in carry handle, a large canopy that overlaps with the car seat, an adjustable handle, and a removable seat for quick conversion to KeyFitcarrier mode. Stroller: $229.99; Trio System: $349.99; chiccousa.com
Combi F2

The new Combi F2 stroller is ultra-lightweight, weighing in at just 8.6 lbs! The F2 folds compactly with just one hand, and a mesh seat provides breathability, while a reclining backrest allows little ones to rest comfortably. Additionally, the extended canopy protects from the elements while the sleek design puts a twist on the typical umbrella stroller look. The F2’s shock-absorbing frame, five-point harness, and wide seating area provide safety and comfort for the child while the convenient storage basket makes things easy for parents. The F2 is suitable for children up to 40 lbs. $199.99, combiusa.com
CYBEX Onyx by Jeremy Scott

The Onyx is a true city stroller which meets the demands of urban families. It’s fun to use and excels with intelligent functionality and great comfort. With its creative styling, high-quality fabrics, contrasting colors, and signature brand of edginess from renowned fashion designer Jeremy Scott, this special version of the Onyx is definitely eye-catching (the vivid blue pattern is called “Food Fight”). Plus, the stroller (which is suitable for children from birth up to 55 lbs) features a patented central one-pull harness system, a four-position recline, one-touch cable-linked brakes, and a shoulder carrying strap and integrated carry handle. $650, cybexbyjeremyscott.com
Evenflo FlexLite Pro Travel System

Evenflo’s FlexLite Pro Travel System includes the FlexLite Pro stroller and the Evenflo Embrace 35 Infant Car Seat. The stroller is super lightweight and features a durable and stylish design, one-hand folding, a full-size canopy with peek-a-boo window, cushioned parent, a reclining seat, large storage basket with front access, and swivel front wheels. The car seat includes an extended infant car seat canopy for added privacy (which is great for babies napping on the go). $199, babiesrus.com
GB Ellum

For a luxurious twist on the standard compact stroller, check out the Ellum. This stroller provides all the assets of a full-size stroller, including compatibility with Chicco and Graco infant car seats and a smooth-ride suspension, all in a sleek lightweight (15.1 lbs) package. Additionally, the Ellum features a two-step, foot-activated Kick ‘n Lift self-standing fold mechanism—making storage easier than ever. The Ellum is suitable from birth to 50 lbs. $219.99, gbchildusa.com
Graco Aire3 Click Connect Travel System

A two-for-one deal, Graco’s Aire3 Click Connect Travel System includes a lightweight stroller and the best-selling Graco SnugRide Click Connect 35 Infant Car Seat. The stroller has a sleek three-wheeled design with cup-holders and a multi-position seat for growing children, plus it comes with a reverse-facing car seat when bought as a travel system. Stroller, $229.99; Travel System, $349.99; gracobaby.com
guzzie+Guss Connect +3

Get ready to roll with the guzzie+Guss Connect +3 stroller, which blends amazing all-in-one convenience and seriously modern style. The revolutionary seat design combines a single stroller, highchair, rocker, or Casita pram body. It has 12-inch pneumatic tires for a smooth outdoor ride and adapts beautifully for every stage. Plus, it features a front bumper bar, a flip-out visor for extra coverage, and mesh ventilation for maximum breathability. $599, guzzieandguss.com
i’coo Acrobat

For an infusion of sophistication, the Acrobat stroller features leather wrapped handle and seating surfaces, as well as a very unique copper frame. The Acrobat weighs in at 21 lbs and is compatible with the brand new i’coo 0-35 infant car seat. Plus, the stroller is light, compact, nimble, and luxurious. Including car set and base: $899; gtbaby.com/icoo
Inglesina Quad Stroller

Inglesina’s Quad Stroller is ideal for the rough sidewalks of New York City. Equipped with large ball-bearing wheels and shock absorbers, your baby won’t feel a thing while riding over uneven pavement. A one-handed folding mechanism will compact the carrier for perfect storage in even the smallest of apartments. The quad also comes with a reversible, four-position reclining seat, a footmuff, rain cover, and foldaway hood with sun shade. A bassinet is an available add-on for newborns. $599, inglesina.us
JJ Cole Collections Broadway Stroller

The JJ Cole Broadway Stroller easily converts from bassinet mode to a toddler seat for fashionable versatility. With full 360-degree spin, adjustable handle height, and multiple positions for your child, the Broadway is fully customizable. Plus, you can easily switch styles thanks to six color swap canopies (sold separately). The Broadway is suitable for children from birth up to 50 lbs. Stroller: $450; color canopies: $29.95 each; jjcolecollections.com
Joovy TooQool

This double stroller is crafted from lightweight aluminum, making it a breeze to tote around two kiddos. Additionally, the TooQool features a reversible front seat, a multi-position recline and two-position rear seat, neoprene seat pads, a deluxe glove leatherette premium handlebar and bumper bar, and an adjustable handlebar and footrest. $799.99, joovy.com
Kinderwagon Hop

Kinderwagon’s Hop tandem umbrella stroller is lightweight, narrow, and easily collapsible for city parents who need a stroller suitable for their growing families. The front seat is suitable for children from 6 months up to 50 lbs, with a two-position recline and leg rest. The rear seat is suitable for little ones from 3 months and can recline to 130 degrees. Features include one-touch double brakes, a removable canopy with two viewing windows, a rain cover, and a removable cup holder. $299.99, kinderwagon.com
Lilly Gold Sit ‘n’ Stroll

Lilly Gold’s Sit ‘n’ Stroll has five different useful configurations, from car seat to fully functional stroller to FAA-certified flight seat, to a perfect dining booster buddy, this versatile carrier makes traveling with your tiny tot a breeze. The Sit ‘n’ Stroll is ideal for newborn babies up to when they weigh 40 lbs and can become both a forward-facing and reverse-facing car seat. $329.99, lillygold.com
Maclaren Mark II

Using the original design brief of their very first buggy as inspiration, Maclaren has applied modern materials and engineering to create a super-light full-featured buggy. Designed to withstand the conditions of urban life, the Mark II’s hexagonal chassis delivers strength and durability, while weighing in at just 7.3 lbs. The stroller also offers water-resistant ripstop fabrics, antimicrobial handles, and an extra-large hood with extendable sun visor. $195, shopmaclarenbaby.com
Mamas and Papas Armadillo City

The ultra-compact and lightweight Armadillo City is designed for parents who want their second stroller to be smaller without losing comfort. There is a surprising amount of wriggle room in the narrow and lightweight chassis, which weighs only 15.4 lbs. The wheels and front and rear suspension allow for smooth navigating throughout city spaces and the one-handed fold allows the stroller to fold to a super small size. This stroller also features an extra-large canopy with UPF 50+ fabric, a shopping basket, peek-a-boo window, simple foot brake, five-point safety harness, easy carry handle, and an automatic lock. The Armadillo City is suitable from birth up to 50 lbs. $269.99, us.mamasandpapas.com
Maxi-Cosi Kaia in Bohemian Blue

The special edition Bohemian Blue Collection is for those who look for a peaceful and happy life (while also looking very fashionable!). Plus, the Kaia is easy to fold and unfold, convertible to a travel system with the seat on or off, has comfy cushions that remove for easy washing, has a lightweight frame, and comes with Mico and Prezi adapters. The Bohemian Blue collection is also available for Maxi-Cosi’s popular Pria 70, and Mico AP car seats. $235, maxi-cosi.com
Mountain Buggy Duet

With the same footprint as a single buggy alongside Mountain Buggy’s world-class engineered maneuverability, the Duet can easily navigate through the same spaces and doorways as a single stroller. Plus, it has a simple one hand fast fold, the adaptability to take two carrycots or two infant car seats, and included reversible liners. The Duet is suitable for newborn up to 4 years (39.7 lbs per seat) and weighs in at 33 lbs. $599.99, mountainbuggy.com/us
Mutsy IGO Urban Nomad

Emphasizing ergonomics and flexibility, the IGO Urban Nomad edition offers a trendy design that’s compact, lightweight, and easy to store. Plus, it’s designed with natural colors and stylish leather finishing (including the handle grips). The IGO bassinet is ultra-light, as is the frame, which weighs in at just 7.5 lbs. The seat of the IGO has a soft cushion and can be clicked on the frame in two directions. The back and leg support of the seat are also fully adjustable. The seat has a reclined carriage position which makes it suitable from birth and the canopy can be extended. This functional stroller can be folded in a very compact position so you can lift it holding the additional handle and store it conveniently. With bassinet: $849; just stroller: $579; mutsy.com
MUV Reis

Designed to help savvy parents make their move” (or “muv,” rather) the newly
integrated and soon-to-be-available Reis single stroller and travel system (with bassinet) is sleek, modern, and durable. The single stroller features an extendable canopy, and comes with a bassinet, so it can easily convert to different configurations. Single stroller with bassinet, $699.99; travel system, $899.99; diapers.com
Orbit Baby G3

The brand new Orbit Baby G3 product line offers parents the most customizable premium stroller and car seat system on the market. Orbit Baby is a complete child travel system, from stroller to car seat and beyond. With an emphasis on advanced safety and engineering, Orbit Baby is continually recognized for its innovation, ergonomic design and environmentally friendly focus. Its unique features including 360 rotation, true one-handed stroller fold and certified green fabrics have made this system a top choice for parents. The mixable G3 product line allows parents to customize their stroller system with car seats, stroller seats, bassinets, rockers, and storage options, and to convert their single stroller to a double. From $660, orbitbaby.com
Peg-Perégo Book Pop-Up

In addition to being a travel system compatible with the Primo Viaggio 4-35 without the need to buy adapters, the Book Pop-Up has tons of new and innovative features. The bassinet can fold compactly with chassis, the stroller is reversible and can easily be folded in both directions, and the chassis has a turn knob which allows parents to lock and unlock the front wheels without having to bend down. $849.99, pegperego.com
phil&teds DOT

The DOT Inline stroller is ultra-compact for city life at only 23 inches slim and with one of the most compact folds. The DOT has a full-size seat that’s now even more spacious, so kids have plenty of room and infants enjoy a comfortable lie-flat space. The double kit, which lets you adapt from single to double, can now provide face-to-face contact with baby on-the-go in parent-facing mode, just one of the 21 different riding options. $449.99, philandteds.com/us
Quinny Buzz Xtra

The Quinny Buzz Xtra will be coming out with a sleek redesign and new features in December. On top of great features like a flip-out visor, air-filled tires, a roomy shopping basket, and an adjustable parent handle, the new model will have a new super-easy fold, a new extra-large adjustable canopy, and new never-flat all-terrain wheels. Additionally, the Buzz Xtra has a reversible seat, multiple position recline options, and is compatible with Quinny Tukk Foldable Carrier and Maxi-Cosi Infant car seats (adapters included). $595, quinny.com
RECARO Performance Denali Stroller

Suitable for children from 5-50 lbs, and weighing in at 22 lbs, the Denali is a sleek and sporty stroller model. It includes a parent cup holder, a 2-in-1 child’s tray and infant car seat adapter, an oversized storage basket, a double push brake, and an easy-to-use one hand folding system. Plus, it’s compatible with the RECARO Performance Coupe infant seat as a travel system with no assembly or extra parts needed. $279.99, recaropromotion.com
Schwinn Turismo Swivel Wheel Jogger

Schwinn Turismo Swivel Wheel Jogger: This lightweight jogger offers the ultimate in performance and style, thanks to 12- and 16-inch rear pneumatic tires and aluminum rims. Plus, the stroller features a flip-open tray with dual cup folders for the child, a remote-locking front wheel, a car seat adapter compatible with many leading brands, an adjustable handlebar, and canopy-mounted speakers compatible with most leading mp3 players. $240, instep.net
Stokke Trailz

This brand new model is the first all-terrain stroller in Stokke’s innovative stroller collection. The carry cot and seat position are placed high, to encourage eye contact and connection between parent and child while on the go. Plus, the stroller features car seat options so parents are able to use from birth up to 45 lbs. And finally, great maneuverability, an adjustable handle bar, advanced tire suspension, large air-filled rubber tires, and a waterproof shopping basket make the stroller a must for city parents. $1,299, stokke.com
StrollAir CosmoS

The CosmoS features a best-in-class full recline. That means no more bent legs when sleeping, even when in toddler seat and ability to change a diaper on the go. CosmoS comes as a package with bassinette, stroller seat, hood with extension, peek-a-boo window, and lightweight aluminum chassis. Plus, it’s lightweight, weighing in at 20 lbs, and folds very compactly. $499.99, stroll-air.com
Summer Infant 3D lite Convenience Stroller

The 3D lite Convenience Stroller is a lightweight, yet durable, stroller with an aluminum frame. The stroller features an adjustable and removable canopy with a flip-out sun visor, a wide seat base and recline feature, and large wheels that allow this stroller to glide over most surfaces. These features combine to make for a comfortable ride, while the five-point harness system ensures that baby is safe and secure. This new stroller also features rear-wheel brakes, locking front swivel wheels, and an effortless fold. $79.99, summerinfant.com
Thule Urban Glide

The Urban Glide offers features that are valued by both adults and children, like adjustable ergonomic handlebars, an adjustable sun canopy, a front wheel that can either swivel or be locked out, rear suspension, a padded seat, and an almost horizontal sleeping position for napping. The Urban Glide also features one-handed folding for compact storing and transporting. Weighing in at 23 lbs, the this stroller (as a stroller, not running) is suitable for ages 0-6 months and is recommended for running or walking on rougher terrain when the child is older than 6 months and able to hold its heads up by itself. $399.95, thule.com
UPPAbaby VISTA Performance Stroller System

Available starting in November of this year, the new VISTA introduces new features and configurations to an already popular stroller model. Expandable seat selections and configurations comfortably hold two MESA Infant Car Seats, two bassinets, or two toddler seats (the new RumbleSeat reclines and can be used rear or forward facing) and the stroller features an easy one-step fold. Also, whether you are using it as a single, inline double, or add a PiggyBack board for a third child, the new VISTA maneuvers like a single stroller. The bassinet is also tested to overnight sleep standards. The VISTA is suitable for children up to 50 lbs. $819.99-859.99, UPPAbaby.com
Urbini Avi

This high-performance all-terrain jogger is versatile, convenient, and comfortable—all at a great value. The stroller offers an adjustable handle, a cup holder, reflective accents for visibility, an adjustable canopy, one-handed folding, a single-touch brake, and all-terrain suspension. It’s suitable for children up to 65 lbs, and accepts the Petal Infant Car Seat with no needed adapters. $199.99, walmart.com