A stroller is an essential purchase for your baby or toddler. But a stroller’s importance can make it a very difficult purchase. How much should you spend? What features are required? How do I tell the good from the bad?
In this article, we’re giving you the full run-down. We’re giving you a list of the best lightweight strollers on the market. After that, there’s a full buyer’s guide to help you make the best choice for your baby.
Why Do I Need a Lightweight Stroller?
Let’s face it, no traditional stroller is designed to be heavy. Stroller manufacturers know that you don’t want to be lugging around a heavy everyday stroller. But that doesn’t change the fact that certain strollers use inferior materials or have unnecessary features that inflate their weight past a comfortable threshold.
Buying a “lightweight” stroller is such a delicate balance. You want lightweight travel stroller advantages, but you don’t want to skimp on necessary features and accessories for your baby’s (and your own) comfort. We’ve considered this balance in making our list, and we’re sure you’ll find something you enjoy. Let’s get into it:
Best Lightweight Strollers on the Market
1. BEST OVERALL: Thule Spring Compact Stroller
Item Weight: 22 lbs/10 kg
Age Range: 6 months – 4 years
Product Overview:
Our top pick comes from a trusted name in strollers – Thule. With a sleek, modern design, there’s more to this stroller than initially meets the eye. This basic 3-wheeled stroller is for everyday use. It’s about 30% smaller than your average 3-wheeled stroller and weighs in at just 22 pounds.
The stroller maneuvers like a dream. The foam-filled tires feature a no-puncture design, and the front wheel swivels smoothly for an easy turning radius. The front-wheel also has suspension to keep your child comfortable through bumps in the road.
The stroller has a compact fold with a simple one-handed buckle that collapses it in minutes. Once folded, it stands upright on its own accord, so you’ll never have to bend down to store or unfold.
The canopy is fully adjustable, keeping your child protected from harsh UV rays. There’s a mesh rear-facing window if you want to keep an eye on your child.
Pros:
- 30% lighter than traditional 3-wheel strollers
- One-handed fold for easy storage
- Quick, smooth maneuverability
- Large storage basket
- Comes in a variety of cool colors!
Cons:
- Canopy sold separately
- On the expensive end
The Bottom Line
This stroller is our top pick for a reason. It’s light, portable, functional, and very intuitive. If you need a stroller for everyday use, this would be tough to beat. Not the cheapest stroller on the market, but worth the bump in price over discount brands.
PS: It also meets Disney Land size requirements!
2. Pockit Lightweight Stroller
Item Weight: 9.5 lbs/4.3kg
Age Range: 6 months to 4 years
Product Overview:
If you’re looking to prioritize the “lightweight” part of “lightweight stroller”, then this is the one for you. This stroller weighs only 9.5 pounds. They’re the Guinness World Record holder for “most compact stroller”, which we were pretty surprised was even a category. Either way, don’t let its lightweight nature deceive you; it’s still strong and capable and can safely support a child up to 55 lbs.
The stroller is foldable to a size of just 11.8” x 7” x 13.8” (that’s small), for easy storage. It’s the perfect stroller to bust out if you’re stepping out for the entire day or just going on a short walk.
Functionally, it works great. The front swivel wheels are smooth and comfortable, and there’s an overhead canopy that provides decent sun shelter. The padded handlebars are soft and comfortable, and you can adjust them to keep you and your child comfortable.
Of course, given its extremely lightweight design, it lacks many features found on “heavier” strollers. There’s minimal storage space and few other bells and whistles of note. It’s a minimalist design, so it’s your decision whether it’s the stroller for you.
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight design
- Fair price
- Folds down extremely compactly
- Smooth and comfortable to use
Cons:
- Minimal features and accessories
The Bottom Line
If you’re serious about getting a lightweight stroller, this is the one for you. It’s the lightest stroller on our list and a great choice for short excursions and walks, but it might not have the storage capacity required for a full-day trip. Either way, this is a buyer’s guide for lightweight strollers, and we tip our hat to this one.
3. BEST BUDGET: Summer Infant Lite Foldable Stroller
Item Weight: 19 lbs/9 kg
Age Range: 3 months (with car seat) to 5 years
Product Overview:
Here’s an impressive lightweight stroller at a price point that’s tough to beat. The Summer Infant Lite stroller weighs just 19 lbs and features a foldable design that makes it an ideal stroller for everyday use.
The stroller is car seat compatible, which means you can quickly adjust it as a baby stroller. After that, it’s suitable for kids up to 50 kg. This long-term use makes it even better value than it already is.
In terms of performance, we liked this one. We won’t say it’s as smooth and luxurious as a premium stroller, but it does the job just fine. The front-swiveling wheels do a good job absorbing impact, and the adjustable handles help you find the perfect posture.
The stroller also features a cup holder, a padded seat, a large storage basket, and a wide, large canopy. You and your baby will be comfortable all day. For the price, you’ll be quite happy.
Pros:
- Very affordable
- Lightweight design
- Car seat compatible for babies
- Smooth and comfortable
Cons:
- Not as compact as more premium options
- No suspension to absorb impact
The Bottom Line
The bottom line is that you’ll struggle to find a better stroller for the price. We won’t lie and say it matches the premium options in performance and capability, but it gets the job done fine. It’s a wise investment that grows with your baby.
4. Joovy Kooper Lightweight Stroller
Item Weight: 16.17 lbs/7.3 kg
Age Range: 3 months to 5 years
Product Overview:
The Joovy Kooper is more than just a funky name. It’s a stroller ergonomically designed for both you and your baby.
Given its lightweight design, it has a big frame (41” x 34.5” x 21”). Your child will appreciate the roominess, and you’ll appreciate the jumbo storage compartment under the seat. There’s even a sneaky storage pouch affixed to the back of the XL canopy – perfect for your wallet and essentials.
The Kooper also boasts the biggest wheels of any compact stroller on the market, meaning it glides along effortlessly and absorbs the impact of any small bumps and jolts. You can comfortably push this stroller with one hand.
The Kooper folds up with ease, with a one-handed folding mechanism, and stands on its own once folded. The seat covers are removable and machine washable.
Overall, this is a great choice, albeit a bit on the expensive end. It’s not quite as “compact” as many other lightweight strollers, but it’s just as light. If you want a big, comfortable “cruiser” with big wheels to keep you rolling all day long, consider the Kooper.
Pros:
- Big wheels for a smooth, stable ride
- Lots of storage, including bottom compartment and canopy pockets
- Roomy seat for your child with a sturdy tray
- Folds up easily
Cons:
- Not as compact as other options
- Pricey
The Bottom Line
The Joovy Kooper is one of our favorite strollers and was in the running for our “best overall” pick. The only thing keeping it from that title is that it’s a little larger than most “lightweight” strollers. That said, what it lacks in compactness, it makes up for in roominess, stability, and that “smooth ride”.
5. BEST FOR NEWBORNS: Bugaboo Ant Baby Stroller
Item Weight: 15.8 lbs/7.2 kg
Age Range: 2 months to 1.5 years
Product Overview:
So far, our strollers were for the “kid” age range, so here’s a great choice for newborns and babies. The Bugaboo Ant Baby is among the most compact baby strollers out there and our top pick for this age range.
This stroller is ergonomically designed for comfort and features smooth, easy handling. The wheels are large, allowing for a smooth feel across various terrains, and the adjustable handle juts out from the back. The seat is reversible, whether you want to keep an eye on your baby or let them see the world.
The Bugaboo Ant Baby features a sleek, minimalist design with just the features you’ll need and use. The underside storage can comfortably hold up to 7 lbs. of equipment. Additionally, it has a compact fold and meets most major airlines’ overhead storage requirements.
The Bugaboo Ant Baby uses strong, durable materials and is for everyday use. Your baby stays safe and comfortable in the 5-point harness, and the large canopy keeps them sheltered from UV rays.
Pros:
- Lightweight, minimalist design
- Smooth, comfortable handling
- Ergonomically designed for both you and your baby
- Reversible seat
Cons:
- Very pricey
- Additional storage is a bit lacking
The Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a premium lightweight baby stroller, this is it. The Bugaboo Ant Baby has performance, comfort, and safety in mind. Not many strollers feel as smooth and comfortable as this. Built with strong, durable materials, it’s ideal for all-day use. The only downside is the hefty price tag!
6. BEST BUDGET ALTERNATIVE: Kolcraft Cloud Lightweight Stroller
Item Weight: 11.8 lbs/5.4 kg
Age Range: 6 months – 4 years
Product Overview:
If you’re looking for another quality option without breaking the bank, consider the Kolcraft Cloud. This stroller proves that you don’t need to shell out premium prices for ideal performance. The Kolcroft has features and ideal for everyday use.
Considering what you get in this stroller, it’s hard to believe it managed to weigh in at under 12 lbs. The stroller features a roomy seat, a large overhead canopy, a large baby tray, parent cup holders, and additional storage pouches throughout. It’s loaded with features so you can hit the streets prepared.
Of course, it’s still a budget stroller, so don’t expect the buttery smooth handling and versatility of a premium stroller. But it’s no slouch either, especially considering the price. It’s roomy, stable, and will get you through entire days with ease. Also, note that it doesn’t fold up as “compact” as premium options, so it may not be an ideal travel stroller.
Pros:
- Extremely affordable
- Lots of storage options
- Lightweight design (under 12 lbs.)
- Roomy reclining seat with 5-point safety restraints
Cons:
- Handling isn’t as smooth as premium options
- Not as compact as other lightweight strollers
The Bottom Line
You can’t beat that price! As far as affordable lightweight strollers go, this sets a standard. There are tons of storage compartments and a roomy, comfortable seat for your child. It’s not quite as “smooth” as premium strollers, and it doesn’t fold down as compact, but it’s all relative anyway, and we think the Kolcraft Cloud does the job just fine.
7. BEST ACTIVE STROLLER: Baby Jogger City
Item Weight: 21 lbs/9.5 kg
Age Range: 6 months – 5 years
Product Overview:
If you’re an active mom, here’s a great option for a lightweight jogging or outdoor stroller. Of course, any quality outdoor stroller is somewhat lightweight, so you can go ahead and consider this our best “active” stroller period.
This jogging stroller can stay upright and cover long distances comfortably. The handle is adjustable for perfect posture, and the air rubber tires provide smooth traction across bumpy terrain – you can even take this thing off-road! There’s a hand-operated parking brake for slowing down quickly.
Most quality jogging strollers utilize a three-wheel design, with the front wheel pivoting for extra maneuverability. The front wheels have added suspension for an extra-smooth ride. Even if you aren’t jogging, this stroller is comfortable for long walks, hikes, or quick jaunts around the block.
The stroller weighs in at 21 lbs., and can support children up to 65 lbs. The seat is ergonomic and comfortable, with an overhead awning for sun protection. It also features a one-hand folding mechanism and folds into itself for a compact, self-standing design. And there’s plenty of under-seat storage for your belongings.
Pros:
- Lightweight, functional design
- One-hand folding
- Rubber wheels and front suspension for off-road capabilities
- Attachable car seat for infants (sold separately)
- Ample space in storage compartment
Cons:
- Quite expensive
The Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a jogging stroller, this one is tough to beat. It’s built to handle sidewalks, dirt paths, and off-road terrain. It keeps the baby comfortable and secure while keeping you upright and active. It’s a bit on the pricier end, but if you plan to jog with your stroller, we recommend buying one designed for it.
8. BEST JOGGING STROLLER: BOB Gear Revolution
Item Weight: 28.5 lbs/12.9 kg
Age Range: 6 months – 4 years
Product Overview:
At 28.5 lbs., this stroller is among the heaviest on our list. That said, someone had to claim that title! The weight was actually by design, offering a more “stable” base for moms who jog. And still, 28.5 lbs. isn’t all that heavy.
The BOB Gear Revolution is designed for the “smoothest” ride imaginable. You’ll immediately notice that the wheels are much bigger than most strollers on this list. They’re also filled with air, with rubber traction and their own suspension system. In other words, you’ll glide over various terrain easily. The front wheel features a 360-degree swivel for rapid responsiveness. The handlebar is also adjustable to find that perfect posture.
The BOB Gear Revolution has ample storage options. There are six storage pockets affixed to the back of the canopy and a roomy under-seat compartment for larger cargo.
The Gear Revolution will also keep your child comfy. The compression seat is ultra-padded and reclines with ease.
Pros:
- Smoothest ride around – big rubber tires, suspension system, and 360-degree swivel
- Lots of storage space
- Very comfortable child seat with secure harness
- Adjustable overhead canopy
Cons:
- Heavier than most strollers on our list
- Expensive
The Bottom Line
Here’s another awesome option for the active parent. The BOB Gear Revolution is among the smoothest rides possible. Big, grippy, bike-like tires offer a fast, smooth, consistent jog – and you can adjust it perfectly to your proportions. Due to its size, it’s less ideal for travel or portability, and the high price tag might turn some off this product. But if you want a stroller that can keep up, this is the choice.
9. BEST FOR TWINS: Baby Joy Double Lightweight Stroller
Item Weight: 18 lbs/8.2 kg
Age Range: 6 months – 3 years (per child)
Product Overview:
Because it needs to carry a whole extra human being, a tandem stroller tends to be heavier. But the BABY JOY stroller shows us this doesn’t have to be the case! This one weighs in at only 18 lbs.
It features a rather basic design, but it has everything that most parents would need. It’s safe and comfortable, with a 5-point safety harness, and is adjustable as the baby grows. The canopy also provides ample protection from UV rays.
Since it’s a budget scooter, the wheels aren’t quite as smooth as those found on premium rides, but they get the job done fine. The handles on either side are adjustable and ergonomically angled and even include a cup holder within arm’s reach!
Plus, since this is a double stroller, you get the added benefit of extra storage space. There’s a roomy storage bag affixed to the back of each seat, allowing you to pack up cargo for a full day out.
The BABY JOY stroller has an extremely fair price tag, and we think it’s excellent value for the money. The durable steel frame ensures that you’ll get plenty of use out of this stroller.
Pros:
- Very lightweight for a double stroller
- Safe & comfortable, with a 5-point harness system
- Ergonomic handles and convenient cup holder
- Plenty of storage space
- Very affordable!
Cons:
- Ride is not quite as smooth as premium strollers
The Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a lightweight, durable, and functional double stroller without breaking the bank, you could do a lot worse than the BABY JOY. It’s a no-frills option, but we think it has everything that most parents require. It’s a smooth, comfortable ride for you and your baby, and it sports more storage space than your average single stroller. You don’t have to spend an unreasonable amount to get a quality product.
Buying Guide
There you have it! Our top picks for lightweight strollers. As you can see, there are a lot to choose from, with many different strollers offering many different functionalities. So the best question is not what’s the best lightweight stroller; it’s what’s the best lightweight stroller for you?
Next, we answer this question by giving you the top factors to consider in choosing a stroller. Consider these factors, and match them to your preferences.
Weight
We might as well start with the obvious. In choosing a lightweight stroller, you should consider the weight. But do keep in mind how weight interplays with other components of a stroller’s design. For example, certain strollers (including many jogging strollers) are a bit on the heavier side to provide a more stable center of gravity for your activities. Additionally, some heavier strollers use more durable materials or sport larger wheels for a smoother ride.
So while weight is an important factor to consider, make sure it’s not the only factor you consider!
Your Child’s Safety/Comfort
This point is a big one. You want a stroller that has the child’s comfort in mind with features that are safe yet comfortable. For example, a safety harness that offers maximum protection and minimal intrusion. Many strollers are built with soft yet firm seats for a child to sit comfortably all day. It’s also a bonus if there is a spacious tray for the child to play, eat, and drink. You know your child better than anyone, so be sure to buy something you think they’ll love!
Storage
Storage in a stroller includes compartments, pockets, zippers, cupholders, and so on. Some strollers have all the storage you need. Others take a more minimal approach and sacrifice storage space for a compact design. Decide which is more important to you. Before you purchase a new stroller, determine how much storage space you’ll need. If you tend to take out your stroller for full-day trips at a time, then your storage needs will be on the higher end.
Compact-ness
While a lightweight stroller goes a way toward portability, you also need to consider the stroller’s compactness when folded down. Many strollers on our list have easy one-handed folded mechanisms and pack them down into a package that you can store in the overhead of an airplane. Other strollers, not so much. If portability and travel are important to you, get a stroller that folds down into a very compact unit.
Wheels/Suspension
The wheels are an important part of any stroller. The wheels/suspension system depends on how you plan to use the stroller. If you’ll be mostly on smooth roads and sidewalks, you’ll be fine with a more basic set of wheels. If you plan to walk, run, and hike, then you’ll want a stroller with rubber-inflated wheels, and also that has capable suspension.
In general, the bigger the wheels, the smoother the ride, but you also want it to be reasonable. Also, three-wheeled strollers tend to offer added maneuverability and an increased turn radius, but some parents prefer the stability of a four-wheel design.
Price
Another obvious one to round out the list is price. But more important than price is value. A cheap stroller won’t do you much good if it doesn’t offer what you need. Before you consider the price, we recommend you decide on the top features you are looking for in a stroller. Once that’s decided, survey the strollers in your desired price range to see which best matches your needs!
Conclusion
Thanks for checking out our comprehensive buyer’s guide to lightweight strollers. We’re confident that, using our buying guide, you can make the best choice from our list above!