Posts Tagged ‘baby trend’

Double Strollers That Are Fun and Functional

Wednesday, July 29th, 2015

IMG_0202-2When you have more than one little one, sometimes you need a go-to stroller. Since having my son last summer, I have discovered that I never have enough hands free for my kids. I do prefer to baby wear, but sometimes a good stroller is necessary. When I was pregnant, I did a little research on what kind of a stroller I wanted.

Do you buy new or used? Websites likes craigslist and Facebook have many strollers for sale online. What features were necessary for my family and I? For example, I had to have a cup holder. Going on walks or runs with my kids is something I love to do and I sometimes just have to have a Starbucks iced tea along for the ride. Here are my three favorite double strollers.

#1 Joovy Ergo Caboose:

This stroller is a beast. I found mine on craigslist. It was used and still cost me $200.00. It retails for $300.00. Here are some of the features I love about my Joovy:

  • Giant canopy: This canopy is bigger than any I have ever seen. My kids are protected from the weather and sun. The rear canopy is also detachable.
  • Real tires: This stroller doesn’t have plastic wheels. It can handle rough terrain.
  • Easy seatbelt buckles. Lifesaver.
  • Giant basket underneath: I always have too much stuff. I never run out of room with this stroller.
  • Rear infant seat: My son Levi was always in arms reach. He could see me and that made him happy, too. It works  with several infant car seats. We used a Baby Trend.
  • It’s not too heavy. I do not have great upper body strength and I can easily lift this into my Jeep.
  • Fun colors. This stroller comes with optional seat covers. I bought it with the green ones and got the purple ones, too!

#2 In Step Grand Safari Double Jogger:

I recently purchased this double jogger to save my sanity and get in some workouts. Here are the best features I’ve discovered so far:

  • Dual cup holders for mom and dad
  • Dual child trays and cup holders
  • MP3 capability (It’s amazing what a little music does for a cranky baby on a run!)
  • Removable fleece seat pads for colder weather
  • Swivel front wheel
  • Wipes clean easily

This stroller retails for $270.00. The only thing I do not like about it is the weight. It weighs 42 lbs. I have trouble lifting it, but it is great for a good workout and my kids seem to like it so far.

#3 Baby Trend Sit ‘N Stand Stroller

This stroller was recommended to me by several friends. It is a very affordable option for a double stroller. It retails for under $200.00. Here are some of its highlights:

  • Many positions: This stroller’s seats can be positioned in different ways depending on your needs.
  • Cup holds and trays for everyone!
  • Foot activated rear brake
  • Can hold two infant seats (Ideal for moms of twins)
  • This stroller comes in a variety of colors, so you are sure to find one you like.

These are only 3 of the many choices out there in double strollers. I recommend thinking about what you are really looking for and going from there. Price can also eliminate some in your search.

What’s worked best for you, mom?

Karyn Meyerhoff lives, writes, strolls, and runs in Northeast Indiana with her family.

 

2014 Jogging Stroller Review

Wednesday, September 17th, 2014

Whether you are a marathoner or just a habitual jogger, if you have young children then you’ve probably considered purchasing a jogging stroller. But like cars, there are many options with all different price ranges. A lot of regular strollers might look like jogging strollers, but might not actually be made for running.

For safety reasons, prior to purchasing you need to make sure that the manufacturer has specifically stated that the stroller is meant for running. You should also look for a stroller that has a front wheel that will lock in place. Finally, most legitimate jogging strollers will also have at least 12” tires that are made from the same material as your bike tires. These are necessary to absorb shock and stabilize the unit.

When looking for the right jogger, there are a couple crucial elements that can set it apart from the rest.

  • Versatility (Can you attach an infant seat?)
  • Rolling resistance and weight limits
  • Ease of Use
  • Ability to load and unload from your car or your house/apartment

We mom-tested a few of the current favorites on the market and here are the results:

2014 Jogging Stroller Review BOB Ironman

Retails around $400

Pros

  • Very Light
  • Meant for serious runners
  • Capacity goes all the way to 70lbs
  • With its high-tech look and a bright yellow color option, it looks pretty amazing whizzing by you on the trail.

Cons

  • Seat length is short and might not accommodate your child even if they aren’t at weight capacity yet
  • Pricey
  • Almost all accessories, like infant seat conversion kit, cost extra

Baby Trend ExpeditionBaby Trend

Retails for around $99

Pros

  • Affordability
  • Stands when folded for tight spaces
  • Cup Holders

Cons

  • Front wheel has been known to bend and break the bolt. This can result in tip-overs!
  • Not meant for serious runners, or for long distances
  • No hand break
  • Some users have said that it shakes “violently” when running.

Jeep Liberty Limited TerrainJeep Jogger

Retails for around $200

Pros

  • Lots of extra storage space
  • Fits many infant car seats
  • Smooth ride whether you are running on a trail, asphalt, concrete

Cons

  • Very large and troublesome to maneuver in smaller places like elevators
  • Tires need to be replaced often
  • Difficult to store in smaller places like closets
  • Gets stuck easily when opening. Once user said that she usually looks ridiculous trying to force pry the thing open in public places.

What’s your favorite jogger? Any tips for moms on the run?

Tessa Westnitzer is a personal trainer and mother of two who lives and works out in Tucson, Arizona. She loves helping new moms get back to their fighting weight!