Lightweight strollers vs umbrella strollers vs standard strollers: Differences

Best lightweight strollers: These have more features than umbrella stroller, almost like standard single strollers but are more compact. Here we take a look at few more differences between these, and the best rated lightweight strollers at different price points.

Introduction to Lightweight Strollers

Lightweight strollers can look very much like standard buggies and its easy to get confused between the two.

However, strollers in the lightweight category are smaller in size (medium to small-sized)

• Lightweight strollers weigh 15 to 19 pounds
• Full-sized strollers start at about 20 pounds or more.

The obvious advantage is that its compact and easy to maneuver.

Parents prefer lightweight strollers to the larger ones as they don’t want to push all the extra weight, but still want convenience features (which are missing on umbrella strollers).

Lightweight vs Umbrella Strollers: Differences

Here are a few differences between lightweights and umbrellas.

• Umbrella strollers have curved handles (look like umbrella handles). They also fold vertically. Lightweight and most other types of stroller fold flat horizontally.
• The seat on Umbrella strollers typically don’t recline flat so they are not suitable for newborn babies, nor can it accommodate a car seat (if you wish to have a travel system). Umbrella stroller come with almost no extra features (no parent cup holder, storage basket, etc). Lightweight strollers on the other hand have almost all the same features of full-sized standard buggies, but minus the extra bulk.

  Some more differences:

• Umbrella strollers fold vertically, while most lightweight strollers fold flat horizontally.
• The seats on most umbrella strollers don’t recline flat so they are typically not suitable for newborn babies. Seats on lightweight strollers do recline flat.
• Umbrellas do not accommodate car seat, whereas lightweight strollers can accommodate car seats and can be used as travel system.
• Umbrella strollers do not offer extra features such as parent cup holder and storage basket, whereas lightweights offer these (they are almost like full-sized buggies, minus the extra bulk).
• Umbrella stroller have separate/curved handles (hence the name)

Regular/Standard Stroller vs. Umbrella Stroller

Here are the differences between a regular (standard) single stroller and an Umbrella Stroller?

So here the assumption is that you need a stroller for just one kid.

Now depending on where you want to take it to (and your preferences), you may need one of these:

• Something that is lightweight (but okay to compromise on the looks), such as Umbrella strollers
• Some may want proper standard strollers (the bigger sized ones, with bigger wheels) with good looks and more space to accommodate additional things (lunch boxes, small bags, personal things, etc.)
• Some may just buy a car seat and attach it to a stroller frame (inexpensive option)
• Very tall parents don’t like umbrella stroller as they have to stoop over to push the stroller (can hurt the back with prolonged use, you may consider buying stroller extenders or strollers with adjustable handles)
• You can buy accessories (adjustable shade, bag, stroller toys, etc.) for Umbrella and standard strollers.

Here’s how users of single strollers use the various options available to them:

• Some use the umbrella stroller for places like the mall, doctor’s office, strolls, etc, where the big stroller is kinda too bulky.
• Some always keep a umbrella stroller in the car, as a backup, just in case its required
• For strolls in the park, or at the zoo (basically for longer periods outdoors), many prefer to use their regular/standard strollers.
• Umbrella strollers are not very convenient for long walks
• For quick walks & jogs, people use the jogging stroller
• As mentioned earlier, you can get a used car seat, get a stroller frame and attach the car seat to the stroller frame. this is a lightweight option and it folds up well. You don’t need to buy a separate stroller.

More Differences

Basic Umbrella Stroller- Between 10-13 lbs.

Pro’s:

• Compact, easy to fold and store.
• Lightweight and easier to carry if you have to.
• Can likely be stored in overhead of airplane so there is less opportunity for damage during the flight.
• Cheaper to replace should you have any damage.
• Easier fit through standard doorways, aisles, sidewalks and stairs.

Con’s:

• Not much storage to hold bags, or toys or anything acquired during an outing.
• Not as easily maneuvered on rocky or difficult roads or terrain.

The BIG Stroller
Pro’s:

May be compatible with the car seat you are using or renting, therefore making a complete travel system.

Con’s:

• Takes up more space in trunks on sidewalks or buses.
• Heavier to carry.
• Needs to be stored with luggage on plane.

Useful Links

• Best Umbrella Strollers
• Best Lightweight strollers reviewed
• Strollers sizes and restrictions

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StrollerBoards is a family managed website with me (Ben) and my wife doing most of the work. We are proud parents of two wonderful kids and love reviewing baby travel gear. We have a firm but friendly “democratic parenting” style and offer several practical solutions backed by extensive research. Our own experience with raising two children prompted us to share our knowledge. Read more.