Make sure the stroller comes equipped with a proper, and effective, belting system. At the minimum, look for a three-point seatbelt that goes around the waist and comes up between the legs. The latch should be comfortable against your child. If you are looking for a jogger, make sure you get a five-point restraint system (shoulder straps) since running will result in your child being bounced around. The shoulder belts must keep them in position well even when jogging.
Make sure the stroller has a brake. For most casual strollers, this will just be a parking brake. Be sure it works reliably and is easy to operate. For joggers, you should also look for a brake that can be used to brake the stroller while it is being used. Be certain that the brake is easy to engage and that you can lock up the tire(s) without excessive effort.
Look for a mechanism that allows the stroller to be folded up for storage. Make sure that you can operate the folding mechanism by yourself; it's not much fun to be standing outside your car in the snow desperately trying to fold your stroller. Even more significant than how easy the stroller is to fold is how strong it is when it is open. Be certain that when opened, there is a secure locking mechanism that keeps the stroller from folding accidentally. If this occurs when your child is in the stroller, they can be seriously injured.
Test out the stroller and see how easy it is to operate. You should be able to push and turn the stroller with one hand. Strollers with both front and rear swiveling wheels tend to be easier to use. Strollers with wheels that only move in one direction are usually harder to steer.
Verify the height of the handle. The stroller will be most comfortable to operate if the handle is at waist level. For most averaged sized people, this is not an issue. But if you are exceedingly short or tall, you should select a stroller with a handle with a height adjustment.
Consider options that can make the stroller more, or less, comfortable for your child. These include canopies to protect and against sun, rain, and wind; comfortable padding; reclining seats (makes for easier napping); cup holders and bins for snacks.
Be sure that the stroller has plenty of storage space for things like changes of clothes, snacks, diaper bags, backpacks, etc. The more storage you have, the happier you will be with your stroller.
Kids make lots of messes. If your kids are especially prone to spilling, look for a stroller with removable covers on the seats. Whether the fabric is removable or not, look for fabric on the stroller can be cleaned with water and mild detergent. While a stylish fabric may look great new, if it's not washable the look will quickly fade.
Carefully inspect the frame of the stroller for sharp edges or things that can poke or snag. Also look for gaps that could entrap small fingers and toes. Examine the leg openings of the stroller; make certain that they are not wide enough for an infant to accidentally slip through them.
Before you purchase a stroller, or any other product for your child, check the product recall finder website (http://www.babycenter.com/product-recall-finder) to see if there is a recall against the product you are think about getting.
