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Lightweight or umbrella stroller

What it is: You might lose a few of the features you can find in a full-sized stroller, but an umbrella stroller scores points for being supremely easy to handle while on the go.

Lightweight or umbrella stroller benefits:

Often weighing under 15 pounds, a lightweight stroller is designed for portability (some even come with a shoulder strap).

These models are easy to fold, which makes stashing one in the trunk or taking it on an airplane, bus or train a snap.

Many lightweight strollers still come equipped with beneficial features, such as a partial seat recline, expandable canopy, storage basket and built-in cupholder or snack tray.

Lightweight stroller downsides:

If you’re looking for a stroller you can use from the newborn months on, a lightweight high-view stroller won’t do. While a few models can safely carry newborns with car seat adapters or bassinet attachments, most umbrella strollers are designed for babies 6 months or older.

Most lightweight strollers do not have a convertible option, which means if you end up having a second (or third) baby within a few years of your first, you'll likely need to purchase a second stroller.

Options to consider: See our roundup of the best lightweight umbrella strollers.

Jogging stroller

What it is: On the run — literally? Then a jogging stroller might be a good option. Jogging strollers typically have larger, sturdier wheels and better suspension to take bumps and alternate terrain in stride.

Jogging stroller benefits:

Superior suspension lets you walk, jog or hike and keep baby in comfort while on and off the trail.

Many jogging strollers come with a front wheel that can swivel (for flexibility) or be fixed (for stability at higher speeds).

Depending on the model, other benefits may include compatibility with a car seat (for use from newborn through toddler stages), deep reclining seats, telescoping handlebars and generous storage baskets. A hand brake, five-point harness and wrist strap are key safety features, so don’t go jogging with a stroller that doesn’t include these.

Jogging stroller downsides:

A jogging stroller can be a bit heavier and challenging to assemble.

If space is tight, a jogging stroller usually can't fold up as small as an umbrella stroller.

Jogging strollers are typically wider than even many full-size strollers, which means maneuvering them through tight spaces can be challenging.

Keep in mind that while most three-wheeled strollers are referred to as “joggers,” not all three-wheelers are actually optimized for runners. Some of the most popular three-wheelers are “hybrid” strollers that lack hand brakes and other safety features, and therefore, aren’t intended to be used for jogging with baby. Serious runners will want to do a test drive to make sure their jogging stroller has the appropriate safety features and functionality.

Options to consider: See our roundup of the best portable pocket stroller.