Value for Money
Key Features
- Easy to fold
- Large storage space
- Large canopy
Best Budget
Key Features
- Easy to maneuver
- Car seat compatible
- Large storage basket
Writers Choice
Key Features
- Large seat capacity
- Great suspension system
- Huge storage basket
Babies grow faster than we expect. The half-accented blabbering turns into meaningful full-form sentences, plenty of wild expressions that we cherish, and the ever-developing size and weight of the loved one—truly becoming a parent is a blessing! But in a glimpse, you will find that your newborn has outgrown their carriage—the infant stroller.
Although the baby learns to walk by this time, some toddlers need a stroller to relax or take a nap on the go, and some kids have a special need for a stroller.
Best Stroller For Older Child: Which One To Buy?
Strollers for older children are different from those for newborns. The big kids’ strollers should meet the criteria to accommodate the big kids. In short, the best stroller for big kids should have a large seating capacity, a sturdy frame, a spacious storage basket, and a huge canopy so you can carry your grown-up toddlers while you are on foot for a long.
The stroller market is experiencing significant growth and innovation. According to market research, the Baby Stroller Market is expected to reach USD 4.54 billion in 2024 and grow at a CAGR of 5.36% to reach USD 5.90 billion by 2029. This growth is driven by increasing demand for multi-functional and customizable strollers that can accommodate children as they grow.
Types of Strollers for Older Children
When choosing a stroller for an older child, there are several specialized types to consider:
- Jogging Strollers: Jogging strollers feature large, air-filled tires and enhanced suspension systems, making them ideal for active parents who want to run or jog with their child. They provide a smooth ride over various terrains.
- Wagon Strollers: Wagon strollers offer a spacious seating area that allows children to sit or lie down comfortably. They’re great for outings to parks, beaches, or festivals where you need to carry extra gear.
- Lightweight Travel Strollers: These compact, easy-to-fold strollers are perfect for travel or navigating crowded spaces. While lightweight, many models can still accommodate older children up to 50-55 lbs.
Weight Capacity and Age Limits
When selecting a stroller for an older child, it’s crucial to consider weight capacity and age limits:
- Most standard strollers have a weight limit between 50-65 lbs
- Specialized big kid strollers can accommodate up to 75-100 lbs
- Age limits vary, but many can be used up to age 5-7 years old
Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines for specific weight and age recommendations. Choosing a stroller with a higher weight capacity allows for longer use as your child grows.
Stroller Features to Consider for Older Kids
- Adjustable Handlebars: Many strollers for older children offer adjustable handlebars to accommodate parents of different heights. This feature enhances comfort and ergonomics for pushing the stroller.
- Reclining Seats: Look for strollers with multiple recline positions, including a near-flat recline. This allows older children to nap comfortably during outings.
- Storage Options: Ample storage is crucial for outings with older kids. Look for strollers with large under-seat baskets, parent consoles, and child trays to hold essentials and snacks.
- Best Stroller For Older Child: Which One To Buy?
- Types of Strollers for Older Children
- Weight Capacity and Age Limits
- Stroller Features to Consider for Older Kids
- List Of Best Strollers For Big Kids:
- 1. Britax B-Lively Stroller: Best Stroller For 3 Year Old
- 2. Baby Trend Expedition Jogger Stroller: Best Stroller for 4 Year Old
- 3. BOB Gear Revolution Flex 3.0: Best Stroller For 5 Year Old
- 4. Thule Urban 2 Jogging Stroller: Best Stroller For Disney For 5 Year Old
- 5. Baby Jogger City Mini GT 2 Double Stroller: Best Double Stroller For Big Kids
- 8. Joovy Zoom 360 Ultralight Jogging Stroller: Best Lightweight Stroller For 5 Year Old
- 7. Evenflo Pivot Xplore All-Terrain Stroller Wagon: Best stroller wagon for big kids
- How To Choose The Best Stroller For A Big Kid
- Comparison Table Of Best Strollers For Big Kids
- Stroller Accessories for Older Children
- Maintaining and Cleaning Your Big Kid Stroller
- When to Transition from a Stroller to Walking
- Verdict
- FAQs
List Of Best Strollers For Big Kids:
1. Britax B-Lively Stroller: Best Stroller For 3 Year Old
The Britax B-Lively is the lightweight best stroller for big kids! It is one of the best stroller for 3 year old. Usually 3 year old baby weighs between 30-35 lbs.; this stroller has a spacious seat that can carry up to 55 lbs, that’s great for baby weight. The comfy seat area makes it comfortable for your big kid to relax or nap. To sum up, it’s a convenient, compact stroller with an easy-to-fold mechanism.
Pros
- Easy to fold
- Large storage space
- Large canopy
- Car seat compatible
Cons
- Non-adjustable handlebar
Why we love it
- Easy to fold: Press the frame button and pull the seat strap to fold. The folded stroller self-stands and can be easily stowed in the car trunk.
- Large storage space: The stroller has an XL storage basket to carry baby essentials, towels, diapers, etc. You can run errands and carry the groceries in it. This stroller basket is accessible from the front and back.
- Large canopy: The stroller has a huge canopy that blocks all the sun rays. The canopy has a large ventilation area for airflow.
- Car seat compatible: The frames of the stroller are car seat compatible. You can easily install all Britax car seats and make it convenient to use the stroller for infants and toddlers.
Things that bother
- Non-adjustable handlebar: The stroller has no adjustable handlebar. For parents with a significant height difference, the stroller may be uncomfortable to hold.
2. Baby Trend Expedition Jogger Stroller: Best Stroller for 4 Year Old
This Baby Trend Expedition is one of the best stroller for big kids if you live an active lifestyle. It has a fully cushioned seat and jogging-ready wheels to move with your big kid through any terrain. Usually, a 4 year old baby weighs around 40 lbs. This stroller has sturdy frames to carry a weight limit (50 lbs.) which is great for 4 years old. The big storage basket allows you to carry big toys, dolls, and some baby essentials.
Pros
- Easy to maneuver
- Car seat compatible
- Large storage basket
Cons
- Non-adjustable handle
Why we love it
- Easy to maneuver: The stroller has a lockable swivel wheel at the front for jogging. You can unlock the wheel for low speed while maneuvering. Moreover, the rear wheels are big and have a latch to activate the brake.
- Car seat compatible: You can attach an infant car seat (sold separately) to the stroller. This stroller does not need an adapter to install a car seat. The car seat can be installed with the help of a food tray.
- Large storage basket: The stroller has a large storage basket to carry baby essentials, diapers, towels, etc. The basket can be accessed from the back and has enough space to carry groceries.
Things that bother
- Non-adjustable handle: The stroller does not have an adjustable handlebar to adjust the height accordingly.
Strollers for Special Needs Children
For children with special needs, specialized strollers can provide essential support and comfort:
- Look for strollers with adaptive seating systems that offer customizable seat depth, backrest height, and harness positions.
- Some models feature integrated therapy options like positioning wedges or lateral supports.
- Consider strollers with attachments for medical equipment such as oxygen tanks or feeding pumps.
These specialized features can greatly improve mobility and comfort for children with various physical needs.
3. BOB Gear Revolution Flex 3.0: Best Stroller For 5 Year Old
Bob Gear 3.0 is among the best stroller for big kids for jogging and offers a smooth ride for big kids with its great suspension system. The large, roomy seat with a capacity of 75 pounds makes it a comfortable stroller for 5 years old. It also has a huge canopy to block the sun and provide full shade.
Pros
- Large seat capacity
- Great suspension system
- Huge storage basket
- Extendable canopy
Cons
- Non-adjustable leg rest
Why we love it
- Large seat capacity: The stroller’s seat can carry up to 75 lbs. You can use the stroller for 6 months infants up 5-6 years toddlers. It lays in a near-flat position to give comfort to the baby.
- Great suspension system: The front swivel wheel rotates 360 degrees to make a turn on the narrow sidewalk. The big rear wheels ensure a smooth ride on all terrains.
- Huge storage basket: The storage basket has an extra-large capacity to carry all the essentials for the baby. The basket is accessible from the sides as well.
- Extendable canopy: The stroller has a canopy with two big panels. Its panels are huge to offer complete protection from the sun.
Things that bother
- Non-adjustable leg rest: The stroller has non-adjustable leg rest and does not offer support for teeny tiny feet.
The BOB Gear Revolution Flex 3.0 exemplifies the trend towards advanced suspension systems in high-end strollers. Some models now feature shock absorption technology inspired by mountain bikes, providing an exceptionally smooth ride even on rough terrain. This is particularly beneficial for children with sensory sensitivities or physical discomfort
4. Thule Urban 2 Jogging Stroller: Best Stroller For Disney For 5 Year Old
Thule Urban 2 is a car seat compatible best stroller for big kids. You can use this stroller for an infant and later replace the car seat (sold separately) with a toddler seat to carry a big kid. The toddler seat can carry 5 years old up to 75 lbs.! On top of it, it is Disney-approved. It comes with an integrated twist hand brake and offers great control in Disney theme parks.
Pros
- Large Seat capacity
- Large storage basket
- Extendable canopy
- Compact fold
- Wheels and brake
Cons
- No snack-tray
Why we love it
- Large seat capacity: The stroller’s seat can carry a maximum weight of 75 lbs. of baby weight. It has a one-hand reclinable seat with a 5-point harness to ensure safety.
- Large storage basket: The stroller comes with ample storage space in the storage basket. The basket also comes with a zippered pocket to keep small things like keys, cellphones, etc., safe.
- Extendable canopy: The canopy has two panels and a zippered panel for extra shade. It also has a peek-a-boo window to keep an eye on your baby.
- Compact fold: The stroller has a one-hand fold mechanism. Pull the latch given under the leg rest to collapse and fold the stroller. It self-stands when folded.
- Wheels and brake: The front 12-inch wheels swivel, and the rear wheels are bigger (16 inches). The built-in suspension system absorbs the shocks and provides comfort in riding on rocky or gravel roads.
Things that bother
- No snack tray: The stroller does not come with a snack tray built-in to let your baby enjoy snacks while strolling.
Best Strollers for Theme Parks and Travel
When choosing a stroller for theme parks like Disney or for travel:
- Look for lightweight, compact models that are easy to fold and maneuver
- Consider strollers with large canopies for sun protection
- Ample storage is crucial for carrying essentials throughout the day
- Ensure the stroller meets the size requirements of theme parks
The Thule Urban 2 is an excellent choice for these scenarios, offering a balance of comfort, maneuverability, and features suited for long days out.
5. Baby Jogger City Mini GT 2 Double Stroller: Best Double Stroller For Big Kids
Baby Jogger City Mini GT 2 Double Stroller has fully cushioned seats where each can carry 50 pounds. It is a travel-system-ready stroller to carry your infant and a big kid. Individually operable, two seats make it comfortable and cozy for two big kids.
Pros
- Large sun canopy
- Large storage basket
- All-terrain wheels
Cons
- The stroller is on the heavier side
Why we love it
- Large sun canopy: The stroller has a three-panel canopy to give a lot of shade to your baby. It gives UV50+ protection and can be opened or closed independently.
- Large storage basket: The stroller comes with a spacious storage basket. The basket holds up to 15 lbs., so you can carry baby essentials and your groceries.
- All-terrain wheels: The stroller has four non-flat tires for a smooth ride on all terrains. The swivelling front wheels are lockable, and the rear wheels have a brake latch to park the stroller.
Things that bother
- Heavy: The stroller weighs 32.6 lbs., which is heavy to carry even without your baby on the stroller.
8. Joovy Zoom 360 Ultralight Jogging Stroller: Best Lightweight Stroller For 5 Year Old
Joovy zoom 360 ultralight is a lightweight (only 26 lbs.) best stroller for big kids for jogging with a spacious seat (75 pounds) to carry your infants and toddlers. The spacious seat of the stroller ensures comfort for a 5 year old kid at ease. It’s an incredibly lightweight stroller that can carry a 5 year old. It comes with impressive jogging-ready wheels and is one of the best strollers for big kids for a trip with an older toddler.
Pros
- Large seat capacity
- Large canopy
- Car seat compatible
- One-hand fold
- Great suspension system
Cons
- Non-adjustable footrest
Why we love it
- Large seat capacity: The reclinable seat can carry babies from 3 months and can carry weight up to 75 pounds. Its large seating capacity allows you to use the stroller for your infant and your grown-up toddler.
- Large canopy: The stroller’s canopy has two large panels to offer shade from the intense sun. Your baby will get a cozy environment for napping, and you can keep an eye on your baby through the peek-a-boo window.
- Car seat compatible: The stroller is car seat compatible so that you can carry a newborn with the help of car seat adapters (sold separately). The adapters are compatible with various brands of car seats like Britax, Chicco, Graco, Maxi-Cosi, Cybex, Nuna, Peg, and Uppababy.
- One-hand fold: Using one hand, just pull the straps attached to the seat to collapse the stroller; the stroller will compactly fold. It easily fits in a car trunk. You can remove the wheels from the stroller for a more compact fold.
- Great suspension system: Extra-large air-filled tires are attached to the stroller for a smooth ride. The 12 inches front wheel does swivel and is lockable for gliding straight. The rear wheels are 16 inches to ride through most terrains.
Things that bother
- Non-adjustable footrest: The stroller’s footrest is not adjustable for convenience and comfort to the baby.
The Joovy Zoom 360 Ultralight exemplifies the trend towards lightweight yet feature-rich strollers for older children. The market offers a diverse range of products catering to different needs, from lightweight strollers for short trips to travel systems for seamless mobility. This diversity allows parents to choose strollers that best fit their lifestyle and their growing child’s needs.
7. Evenflo Pivot Xplore All-Terrain Stroller Wagon: Best stroller wagon for big kids
Evenflo is a wagon-type best stroller for big kids. The stroller has a vented foot wall that provides air circulation and additional space to keep the feet of big kids. Moreover, a big kid can lie on the stroller as the seat has ample space.
Pros
- Large seat capacity
- Independent canopies
- Push and pull stroller
- All-terrain wheels
Cons
- Heavy
Why we love it
- Large seat capacity: The stroller seat can carry your two toddlers comfortably. Both the seats can carry 60 lbs. easily. You can carry your babies, some groceries, and essentials in the stroller.
- Independent canopies: This wagon stroller has independent canopies for protection from the intense sun. The canopies are reversible in two different colors.
- Push and pull the stroller: Evenflo allows you to push and pull the stroller, depending on the terrain. The long adjustable handlebar can be adjusted at three different angles to set for ease of use.
- All-terrain wheels: The four all-terrain rugged wheels ensure a smooth and comfortable ride for the babies on the stroller. You can steer with the stroller on pavement, beaches, rocky roads, grass, etc. To park safely, the stroller wheels have two independent brakes on the rear wheels.
Things that bother
- Heavy: The stroller weighs 34.7 pounds which is heavy to pick up and carry.
How To Choose The Best Stroller For A Big Kid
It’s kind of tricky to choose the best stroller for a big kid since there are plenty of things to consider. For a big kid, the main concern should be plenty of seat space, weight capacity, and durability of the stroller. Let’s find out what else matters while choosing the best stroller for an older child.
Pick the right type of stroller
This article includes an umbrella, jogger, twin, tandem, and wagon stroller. For active parents, a jogging stroller is the best type of stroller as it has a great suspension system and a comfortable seat for the kid.
For travelling, an umbrella stroller is a better option because of its large expandable canopy to provide shade for your kid.
If you have two kids, a twin or tandem stroller is the option. Moreover, side-by-side strollers or wagon strollers are convenient for big babies too as they can sit or lie on the spacious seat as they need it.
Consider the age & size of your child
Infant strollers would not be the best strollers for big kids. When your newborn has grown into a 5-year-old toddler, you must find a stroller compatible with their size and age. For example, a 5 year old baby weighs around 40 lbs and is around 3.7″ tall. Each stroller has a seating capacity, like 50, 55, or 60 lbs, up to which it can carry. As babies grow fast, you need to opt for a stroller according to their growth so they can comfortably sit on it. Oh, another thing: you want your baby to use it for a while, as they grow fast, make sure you choose one that is future-proof!
Spacious seat and large canopy
Big kids need ample space in their seats as they do not stay steady in one place. For example, if your big kid sees a balloon or a beautiful bird and starts moving with excitement, they may fall off and get hurt. Without comfort, your baby won’t want to sit in the stroller, let alone nap or relax. The best stroller for big kids is the one that offers ample space and better shade.
Great suspension
When you go for a picnic or tour, often the kids don’t want to walk long distances. In this scenario, a stroller with a great suspension system aids in running over most terrains with your baby on it. If you are going on rocky terrain or a beach, regular wheels might not support you to ride smoothly on these terrains. Moreover, a great suspension system absorbs the road’s shocks and allows your kid to take a comfy nap.
Sturdy and durable frame
The best stroller for big kids should have a strong, durable frame to carry your big kid. A stroller that can carry up to 50 to 75 lbs. requires a sturdy frame. A strong and durable frame means the stroller will last a long time. Strollers are pretty expensive; big kids are heavy and get heavier each year. So, a stroller with a robust frame is a must-have feature to chart as the best stroller for big kids.
Special need
For babies with physical disabilities, a stroller can be a lifesaver when taking them outdoors. A stroller enables them to enjoy the outside world. A stroller allows parents to conveniently travel with their special kids in the best stroller for big kids. A spacious stroller offers space to carry medical equipment such as portable oxygen, ventilators, pulse oximeters, and other essential medical devices along with the baby.
Comparison Table Of Best Strollers For Big Kids
Stroller Accessories for Older Children
To enhance the functionality of strollers for older kids, consider these accessories:
- Ride-along boards: Allow older siblings to stand and ride along
- Snack trays: Provide a convenient place for snacks and drinks
- Weather shields: Protect from rain, wind, and sun
- Organizer bags: Offer additional storage for essentials
These accessories can significantly improve the stroller’s versatility and your child’s comfort during outings.
Maintaining and Cleaning Your Big Kid Stroller
To ensure longevity and optimal performance of your stroller:
- Regularly clean fabric parts with mild soap and water
- Lubricate wheels and moving parts as recommended by the manufacturer
- Check and tighten screws and bolts periodically
- Store in a dry place to prevent rust and mold
- Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for deep cleaning and maintenance
Proper care can significantly extend the life of your stroller, ensuring it remains safe and comfortable for your child.
When to Transition from a Stroller to Walking
Deciding when to transition from a stroller to walking full-time depends on several factors:
- Child’s physical development and stamina
- Length and type of outings
- Safety considerations in different environments
Generally, most children are ready to walk longer distances by age 3-4, but strollers can still be useful for longer outings or when the child needs rest. Gradually increase walking time and distance to build endurance.
Remember, every child develops differently, so follow your child’s cues and consult with your pediatrician if you have concerns about their mobility or development.
Verdict
Before deciding on a stroller for your tall toddler or big kid, It’s best to choose the best strollers for big kids based on usage. The question is simple: what will you and your baby do in a stroller?
If you want the best jogging stroller with the most features, choose the Joovy Zoom 360 Ultralight. This stroller can carry up to 75 lbs. and is compatible with a car seat to carry newborns.
For traveling with a big kid, you can choose Britax B-Lively. It is an umbrella stroller that carries 55 pounds and has a large canopy to provide complete shade for your baby.
If you need a double stroller, you must decide between a tandem and a twin stroller; the Baby Jogger City Mini GT 2 Double is a twin stroller that carries two babies up to 100 lbs. of weight.
The stroller market is evolving to meet the diverse needs of families with older children. Consumer emphasis on children’s safety and quality products continues to propel market innovation and expansion. When choosing a stroller for your big kid, consider factors like weight capacity, durability, and features that will grow with your child, ensuring you get the most value from your purchase.
FAQs
1. Can my older child use a sit-and-stand stroller?
A sit-and-stand stroller is a great option for your infant and preschooler. The stroller has a toddler seat, a standing platform, a small bench seat and a car seat. Your older baby can sit or stand as they like, while the toddler can be comfortable on the toddler seat.
2. At what age does a child stop using a stroller?
It depends on your baby if they want to sit on the stroller or walk with you all the time. When toddlers start to walk comfortably, they tend to run and play around. Usually, babies from 3 to 4 years want to get rid of strollers and go places by walking.
3. Are 3 or 4-wheel strollers better?
The 3 and 4-wheel strollers serve different purposes. The 3-wheel stroller has large wheels and is easier to maneuver in all terrains. Whereas a 4-wheel stroller ensures a smooth and stable ride to the babies.
4. What type of frame should a big kid stroller have?
The frames of the stroller should be sturdy to carry 50 to 75 pounds. It is better to avoid plastic frames and opt for steel or aluminum frames.
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