The Best Reclining Umbrella Stroller for Toddlers Has It All (2022 Edition)

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Having an all-in-one stroller that supports car seats, carriers and has numerous pockets for all the little things you need is nice.

But sometimes, it's just too bulky and massive to be carried around, right?

That's where the best umbrella strollers jump in.

Umbrella strollers are lighter variants of travel strollers that are incredibly portable because they fold to small sizes.

In fact, their name came from the fact that they fold to the size of a larger umbrella.

And I know what you're thinking: They can't be that durable, for sure.

At first, I had reservations too, but as I read more about moms' experiences with it and tried it myself, I have no doubts; they are fantastic.

In the following article, you can read more about the best reclining umbrella stroller for toddler use, along with 9 more alternatives.

Our Favorite Umbrella Strollers - Overview

$$Summer 3Dlite+ Convenience Stroller ~ 14 pounds

The best umbrella stroller for traveling and everyday use. It folds to a small size and comes with an oversized canopy for upgraded sun protection. It's not car seat compatible 

Suitable for: kids at least six months old.

$$$gb Pockit+ All-Terrain ~ 12 pounds

This is the best car-compatible umbrella stroller. It features a high-grade structure, reclining seat, large canopy, and heavy-duty wheels. A bit flimsy on a bumpy road.

Suitable for: kids under 55 pounds.

$ — Kolcraft Cloud Lightweight Umbrella ~ 9.5 pounds

A budget-friendly umbrella, one of the lightest on the market. It's breathable and incredibly portable, perfect for families on the go. Too short for taller toddlers

Suitable for: toddlers under 40 pounds.

$$ — Chicco Liteway Stroller ~ 17.2 pounds

The best mid-ranger with unmatched quality per price ratio. It features an incredibly durable structure, heavy-duty wheels, and an upgraded suspension system. It is not adapted for infants

Suitable for: toddlers up to 40 pounds.

$$$ — The Tour+ Luxe (Zoe XL1) ~ 12.5 pounds

The best single-to-double umbrella stroller with luxurious design, high-quality materials, and durable structure. It's car seat compatible. Not suitable for tall parents

Suitable for: infants and toddlers.

$ — Safety 1st Step Lite ~ 15 pounds

This is the best option for parents looking for a budget offer with a high-quality design. It's one of the most comfortable budget strollers, with upgraded padding. The plastic parts easily break

Suitable for: toddlers up to 50 pounds.

$$ — JOOVY New Groove ~ 15.7 pounds

One of the best infant strollers. It doesn't need a car seat to accommodate an infant due to the near-flat recline and the bassinet mode. The wheels can be squeaky

Suitable for: infants and toddlers.

$ — Jeep North Star Stroller ~ 10 pounds

Incredibly breathable, budget-friendly umbrella stroller with mesh seat and compact fold. Excellent for hot summer days, complies with federal standards. Not the highest-quality structure

Suitable for: toddlers up to 40 pounds.

$$ — SHaHa Umbrella Stroller ~ 14.12 pounds

The best umbrella stroller for toddlers with washable fabric and high-grade frame and wheels. It complies with federal standards. The weight capacity could be better

Suitable for: toddlers up to 30 pounds.

$ — Grateful Dead Ultralight Umbrella ~ 7 pounds

The lightest umbrella stroller on the market with colorful, cartoon design on the seat and foldable structure. A bit too costly for the quality you get

Suitable for: toddlers from 15 pounds in weight.

Best Umbrella Strollers 2022: The Ultimate List

Summer 3Dlite+ Convenience Stroller - The Best Everyday and Traveling Umbrella Stroller
  • Brand: Summer Infant
  • Price: $$
  • Weight: 14 pounds
  • Bottom age limit: 6 months
  • Car seat compatible: No

From one of the most popular umbrella stroller brands comes the new upgraded model, with a portable design yet durable structure. Meet the Summer Infant 3Dlite+!

It's a perfect model for the ones preferring their strollers lightweight, still strong so that they can be used for daily walks and for traveling.

First thing first, let's see how different this model is from its popular predecessor, the Summer Infant 3D lite.

Both models are incredibly lightweight, yet the Summer Infant 3D lite weighs slightly less, a pound, to be precise.

But, in compensation for that extra pound, you get a load of awesome additions.

For example, the new 3D Lite+ model includes a parent cup holder, child sippy cup holder, cell phone holder, zip storage pocket, and a large basket, while the old model included only one cup holder, a small rear pocket, and a large basket.

Another great addition is the oversized canopy with a flip-out sun visor and a peek-a-boo window.

This gives way more protection from the harmful UV rays to your precious little one while still allowing you to check the situation.

You can adjust the reclining seat among multiple positions to a maximum of 142 degrees.

It features an easy-fold design with a padded carry strap, so I absolutely love how optimized for traveling it is.

As for safety, the stroller is equipped with a five-point harness, anti-shock front wheels, and lockable rear wheels. It's safe for toddlers up to fifty pounds in weight.

Unfortunately, this model is not car seat compatible, and some parents don't find it convenient for taller kids.

Pros
  • Aluminum frame
  • Oversized canopy
  • Cup holder, phone holder
  • Easy fold with auto-lock
  • Reclining seat
Cons
  • Car seat incompatible

gb Pockit+ All-Terrain - The Best Umbrella Stroller for Infant
  • Brand: gb
  • Price: $$$
  • Weight: 12.3 pounds
  • Bottom age limit: 6 months
  • Car seat compatible: Yes

Here we have probably the most portable umbrella stroller on the market, specially optimized for airplanes, yet equipped for tear and wear of everyday use too.

It's pretty similar to the previous single stroller I reviewed but even better.

It's one of the best-rated models on Amazon, with more than three thousand ratings and an average of 4.5 stars.

What this model proves is that you can get so much more from your umbrella stroller than a travel companion.

It's adapted for different terrains, transforms into a travel system when you need it, yet folds to a size perfect for overhead compartments.

Although this stroller is slightly heavier than the gb Pockit Air All-terrain, it's worth it because it includes XXL UPF50+ sun canopy in contrast to the small sun visor that the Pockit Air has.

Also, it's slightly wider than the Pockit Air too, but honestly, the folded size of 13.4 in x 7.9 in x 16.5 inches is still fantastic.

The seat has a maximum weight capacity of 55 pounds, but with the included adapters, you can attach the CYBEX infant car seat in minutes and get yourself a stable travel system.

Importantly, car seat adapters are usually sold separately, so this is a pretty nice gesture from gb.

When it comes to adjustability, this reclining stroller reclines to a baby lounger, and the two-step fold system and the attached handle make it super-convenient for transport.

As for the structure, this stroller includes an aluminum frame combined with polyester fabric and plastic/rubber parts.

The front swivel wheels facilitate steering on corners, while the locking function makes it stable for uneven terrains.

Pros
  • Car seat compatible
  • The stroller folds to a small size
  • Fully reclining seat
  • All-terrain wheels
  • Infant car seat adapter
Cons
  • Flimsy

Kolcraft Cloud Lightweight Umbrella - The Most Budget-Friendly Umbrella Stroller on the Market
  • Brand: Kolcraft
  • Price: $
  • Weight: 9.5 pounds
  • Bottom age limit: Not specified
  • Car seat compatible: No

This umbrella is one of the lightest umbrella strollers on the market, manufactured by a family-owned company with more than seventy years in the industry.

Given that it's also on the budget side of the market, it is well-received by families looking for a cost-efficient travel stroller.

This is definitely a stroller I would recommend for traveling and special situations only since it is not that robust for everyday use and, more importantly, does not include a five-point harness.

However, it is honestly convenient for traveling and pretty easy to steer.

Namely, the stroller is equipped with shock-absorbing front swivel wheels, so it's pretty easy to maneuver it on many different terrains, even the bumpy sidewalks.

One exquisite feature that this stroller has is the cool-climate roll-up seat pad that removes the upper layer and reveals the mesh structure incredibly breathable and excellent for a hot summer day when your child sweats and could use the extra ventilation.

Since I mentioned summer, another fantastic feature for the hot climate is the extended canopy and rear hood that offer better sun protection and more shade for your little one to hide under.

The stroller also includes foam-padded handles for more comfort while pushing the stroller and a parent cup holder to keep the refreshments at hand.

Unlike your traditional troller, this compact stroller features a one-step folding mechanism, coming down to a portable size, convenient for carrying.

What I don't like about this model, though, is that it is too short.

Many parents have been complaining about not being able to place their children comfortably.

So, I wouldn't buy it for anything other than traveling and carpooling when you really need the portability.

Pros
  • Lightweight
  • Compact
  • Affordable
  • Breathable
  • Extended canopy
Cons

Chicco Liteway Stroller - The Most Durable Umbrella Stroller
  • Brand: Chicco
  • Price: $$
  • Weight: 17.2 lbs
  • Bottom age limit: Not specified
  • Car seat compatible: No

If what you're looking for is reliability, what better brand to explore than Chicco?

Even their lighter travel products are built like tanks, ensuring years of use and unmatched durability.

So, what I selected here is one lightweight stroller, incredibly practical with a compact fold.

This stroller includes a high-grade aluminum frame built to maintain structural integrity, provide stability and keep your child safe.

Then there's a padded seat with a 4-position reclining system and a five-point harness for comfort and safety, and an adjustable leg rest that follows your child's growth and adds to the overall comfort.

Like the models we reviewed thus far, this stroller is also equipped with a large canopy, protecting your baby from harmful rays, and an extra-large storage basket for all the essentials.

What you'll love about this Chicco stroller model is the convenient 3D fold with a carrying handle for comfortable transport and storage.

Although a model optimized for traveling, this stroller includes the rear-wheel suspension and locking front wheels. Plus, there are to-tao rear brakes for parking.

One thing I think this model lacks is car seat compatibility.

That's the one thing that Chicco Mini Bravo has to offer, so if you're looking for a high-quality stroller that can accept infant car seats, Mini Bravo is your go-to model.

Based on everything else, this is probably the most durable umbrella stroller we reviewed, so it's definitely worth considering.

Pros
  • High-quality
  • Sturdy
  • Rear-wheel suspension system
  • Locking front swivel wheels
  • Easy 3d fold
Cons
  • Not car seat compatible

The Tour+ Luxe (Zoe XL1) - The Best Single-to-Double Umbrella Stroller
  • Brand: Zoe
  • Price: $$$
  • Weight: 12.5 lbs
  • Bottom age limit: 0+
  • Car seat compatible: Yes

If you find yourself to be a person of refined taste with tendencies toward luxurious yet stylish products, look no more, this is your stroller.

Zoe probably makes the chicest and stylish baby equipment on the market, and this umbrella stroller is no exception.

Plus, if you were disappointed because the Chicco model above is not car seat compatible, this one won't fail you.

I noticed that parents are mainly interested in how different his model is from the The Traveler (Zoe XLC). So that will be my first point of focus.

When it comes to the ZOE lightweight line of strollers, both the Tour and the Traveler are pretty compact and convenient for traveling.

However, the Traveler can fit most overhead compartments, and it's genuinely portable, while the Tour was designed to be an everyday stroller as well.

It features an expandable design, so you can transform it into a tandem double stroller. This is the main difference.

It features luxurious fabrics with leather handles, a reclining seat, and an expandable UPF +50 canopy.

The revamped wheels are easily maneuverable and pretty durable, so you can push the stroller on a variety of different terrains.

Finally, this model is even Disney-approved, and it features a one-hand fold, so it falls down to the size of 26x7.5 inches with ease.

Generally, the customers are delighted with the lightweight design and maneuverability of the stroller, but according to their reviews, the durability is not exactly corresponding to the price.

The handlebar is not adjustable, so tall people will have difficulties maneuvering this stroller.

Pros
  • Luxurious fabrics
  • Chic design
  • Compact stroller
  • Expandable
  • Tandem double
Cons
  • Not for tall people

Safety 1st Step Lite - The Most Comfortable Budget-Friendly Option
  • Brand: Safety 1st
  • Price: $
  • Weight: 15 pounds
  • Bottom age limit: Not stated
  • Car seat compatible: No

Now we're moving away from the luxurious offer back to the budget-friendly alternatives, and what a better brand to look into than Safety 1st.

This company has long ago won the trust of moms by the excellent quality per price ratio of their car seats, combined with countless safety features.

Therefore, I believe their strollers definitely deserve a chance too.

As you can see in the overview, this stroller weighs no more than any other model on this list.

But on top of the lightweight structure, it also features a sleek design easy to fit through any doorway and maneuverable wheels so you can steer it with confidence.

It has a fully reclining seat with generous padding that really makes a difference.

This is one feature that honestly caught my attention since most umbrella strollers don't have high-quality seats, so moms complain that their kids are uncomfortable.

The straps also have padding, so they won't be a problem either.

Furthermore, this stroller has a large extendable canopy, which, combined with a deep recline, creates the perfect atmosphere for your little one to nap on summer days.

And when you want to check on your kiddo, a peek-a-boo window allows it.

Now, when it comes to the additions, Safety First really went one step further and added an extra-large basket, extra-large cup holder, and an easy-access pocket for your valuables.

You can accommodate children up to 50 pounds, but the one thing that customers complain about is the quality of the plastic parts.

They definitely need reinforcement, so that's one negative thing I can single out about this model.

Pros
  • Affordable
  • Padded seats
  • Extended canopy
  • Ample storage
  • Padded straps
Cons
  • Poor quality plastic parts

JOOVY New Groove - The Best Umbrella Stroller for Newborns
  • Brand: Joovy
  • Price: $$
  • Weight: 15.7 pounds
  • Bottom age limit: 0+
  • Car seat compatible: No

If none of the models we reviewed thus far seems like your cup of tea, you might be looking for a stroller ready for your child since day one.

And no, you don't have to install a car seat because the stroller itself is safe enough.

But let's look into that more closely.

What makes this lightweight umbrella stroller a decent counterpart to full-size strollers is the near-flat recline and adjustable footrest.

Basically, when you adjust the seat to a near-flat recline, it's perfectly positioned for a small body of a newborn, and the foot enclosure adds to the overall safety.

Given that it has a five-point harness and UPF 50+ canopy, it definitely is safe for hot summer days as well, while the sturdy aluminum frame keeps it stable.

The fabric is 600D polyester, known for fantastic water resistance, durability, and quality.

What is more, there are also two mesh pockets for bottles, snacks, and toys and one large basket for the essentials.

Also, another great attribute of this JOOVY New Groove stroller is the four-wheel suspension.

If you did research of your own, you know that an all-wheel suspension system facilitates steering and makes the ride more comfortable for your baby.

Finally, it features an easy-fold system, so you can fold down the stroller while standing, and it comes with a carry strap for additional convenience.

All in all, is this a good stroller? Yes. But is it safe for newborns?

Apparently, in a bassinet mode, it is, but I wouldn't dare to put my newborn in anything other than an infant car seat, so it is up to you.

On the other hand, the only thing parents have been complaining about is the squeaking of the wheels.

Pros
  • Safe for newborns
  • Large canopy
  • Adjustable footrest
  • Bassinet mode
  • Ample storage
Cons
  • Squeaky wheels

Jeep North Star Stroller - The Most Breathable Umbrella Stroller
  • Brand: Delta Children
  • Price: $
  • Weight: 10 pounds
  • Bottom age limit: Not stated
  • Car seat compatible: No

This is another cost-efficient umbrella stroller, probably the closest model to the Kolcraft stroller I reviewed.

It's in the same price range with almost identical characteristics and definitely one of the light designs on the market.

Just like the Kolcraft model, this troller also has a roll-up design that exposes the mesh seat for upgraded breathability and more convenience during hot days.

Also, when you roll up the padding, you can create a comfortable headrest for your little one and improve the strolling experience.

This Jeep North Star model is safe for children up to forty pounds, yet I'm not sure about the bottom age limit.

Their instructions say it should be used only when your child can sit up on their own because it includes a three-point harness.

Yet, the manufacturer claims it meets the CPSC and ASTM safety standards.

I like that the front swivel wheels have a suspension system, so a smooth ride is guaranteed, and there's a large canopy with a sun visor for ultimate sun protection.

You'll love the under-seat storage basket and the parents' cup holder. Also, the extra-long handles are great for taller parents.

So, if you didn't like Zoe The Tour because it's not adapted for taller people, you'll love this one.

The stroller also features a one-handed fold, so it's genuinely practical.

Yet, it is one of the most price-efficient choices on the market, so accordingly, the quality is not really the best.

It performs well, yet I'd recommend it as a secondary stroller for traveling only.

Pros
  • Affordable
  • Breathable
  • Rolling seat
  • Safe
  • Lightweight
Cons
  • Not the greatest quality

SHaHa Umbrella Stroller - The Best Toddler Umbrella Stroller
  • Brand: SHaHa
  • Price: $$
  • Weight: 14.12 pounds
  • Bottom age limit: Not stated
  • Car seat compatible: No

Here we have something different. It's an umbrella stroller specially optimized for toddlers.

Like all umbrella strollers, this one folds to a size convenient for an overhead bin. It's well-built and durable, yet it's definitely not the cheapest stroller in this branch.

So why do we love it?

First of all, this is one high-quality roller.

It features a sturdy, durable frame and safe, breathable net fabric.

It's equipped with a protective canopy, UV-proof, and it includes a large shopping bag for all the necessities.

The structure includes universal wheels, yet the front two come with a built-in suspension system for smooth rides on bumpy roads.

It's ready for use, straight out the box, since it needs no installation. Just like that, it folds to a size convenient for overhead bins.

Now, this stroller includes a five-point harness, and it meets the ASTM and CPSC standards, so it's perfectly safe for toddlers.

The backrest reclines between 110 and 150 degrees, and you can take off the fabric for an easy wash to keep everything clean and germ-free for your precious one.

What I don't like about this stroller is the maximum weight limit. It accommodates children up to 30 pounds, yet it's a toddler-optimized stroller.

So, shouldn't it have a capacity higher than the ones we reviewed thus far?

Besides this small confusing detail, everything about this model is great, and I would most definitely use it.

Pros
  • High-quality design
  • Washable fabric
  • Sun protection
  • Safe
Cons
  • Upper weight limit

Grateful Dead Ultralight Umbrella - The Lightest Umbrella Stroller
  • Brand: daphyls
  • Price: $
  • Weight: 7 pounds
  • Bottom age limit: 15 pounds in weight
  • Car seat compatible: No

Now, if you've been looking for a fun, colorful, compact stroller to entice your little one and stroll the city streets with ease, here's your stop.

From daphyls comes one ultra-lightweight, colorful toddler stroller, perfect for traveling and city use.

Now, the stroller can accommodate toddlers up to forty pounds in weight. It is equipped with a five-point harness and a colorful medium-sized canopy.

What's special about it is the cartoon seat, very engaging and colorful, therefore perfect for toddlers who love observing the environment and enjoying bright colors.

The frame is supposedly extra-sturdy and a large basket for your essentials, along with the cup holder, makes the everyday strolls more convenient.

Of course, it has a simple fold design, transforming this full-size stroller into a larger umbrella.

This is certainly one of the most budget-friendly models on the market, but to my mind, it doesn't exhibit a good price-to-quality ratio.

It does have double wheels for extra stability, parking brakes, and padded handles, but if you look at the seat and the entire construction, it's not heavy-duty.

So, while it is a great umbrella stroller, it's just not the one I'd pay $80 for.

Now, many umbrella strollers look cheap, but they're actually well-built. But what I believe this one lacks is the seat padding.

Pros
  • Lightest model on the market
  • Foldable
  • Canopy
  • large basket
  • Cupholder
Cons
  • Price-to-quality ratio

Selecting the Best Umbrella Strollers: Buyer's Guide

I'm pretty sure that buying baby gear for the first time is, to some extent, a stressful event for every parent.

As much as we enjoy seeing this super-cute stuff and choosing between adorable designs and decors, it's hard to choose a safe and high-quality product.

Today I'll help you choose the best umbrella stroller by listing the things you should consider when buying this specific piece of baby gear.

1. Age Restriction

best umbrella stroller 2022

Probably the biggest concern of parents when buying a traditional umbrella stroller is whether it is safe for toddlers under one.

And this concern is completely justified because they are not all suitable for small babies.

Most umbrella strollers are suitable for babies at least six months old up to somewhere around 50 pounds.

However, reclining umbrella strollers are usually suitable for even younger kids, which leads us to the next point.

2. Car Seat Compatibility

As I mentioned, reclining umbrella strollers usually have a lower bottom age restriction than standard umbrella strollers because most models support infant car seats.

This is a huge deal because infants should not be driven in a stroller without a car seat installed.

So if you're planning to buy it for your infant, always check the car seat compatibility.

3. Canopy

Moving on, a high-quality umbrella stroller can be noticed by the overall canopy design.

In contrast to a cheap umbrella stroller which usually has only a sun visor, a high-quality umbrella stroller has a full-size adjustable canopy or even an oversize canopy with UV protection.

Some umbrella strollers even come with a rain cover, so it's a nice extra.

4. Portability

best reclining umbrella stroller

Umbrella strollers are primarily known for their one-handed fold design that transforms a full-size stroller to the size of an umbrella.

This one-handed fold together with a carrying strap makes it ultra-portable and perfect for traveling.

Hence, always check the folding system, whether it is a one-step fold, two-step fold, etc.

5. Nice to Haves

To make an umbrella stroller the closest to a full-size stroller, manufacturers include a bunch of accessories to make everyday use more convenient.

Some extras good to look for are:

- Large storage basket

- Adjustable handlebar

- Cup holders

- Zip mesh pocket

- Swivel wheels

- Parking brake

Frequently Asked Questions

How old should a baby be for an umbrella stroller?

It depends on one model to another. But predominantly, at least six months old.


How wide is an umbrella stroller?

A single umbrella stroller is usually somewhere between 17 and 20 inches wide.

best everyday umbrella stroller

What is the purpose of an umbrella stroller?

The main purpose of an umbrella stroller is to have a lightweight, foldable alternative to your traditional stroller for when you need to save some space, or simply have it at hand at a moment and then carry it with you afterward.


Can you take an umbrella stroller on a plane?

Most American Airlines allow bringing a stroller into the cabin if it fits the overhead compartment.

However, if it's too big, you can check it at the gate.


What is the weight that an umbrella stroller can hold?

Usually, a lightweight stroller like an umbrella stroller has a weight limit of 50-55 pounds.

best umbrella stroller for toddler

Can you jog with an umbrella stroller?

Only if it is optimized to be a jogging stroller, they usually have larger pneumatic wheels, suspension systems, and heavy-duty construction.

So, unless your umbrella stroller is specifically built for this purpose, it is dangerous to jog with it.

What Is the Best Lightweight Umbrella Stroller?

To my mind, the only stroller on the list that has it all is the gb Pockit+ All-Terrain.

It has a high weight limit, supports infants, has a roomy storage basket, and all-terrain wheels.

As such, it's no different than any standard stroller but definitely better than other umbrella favorites like Summer Infant 3D Lite or some cheap umbrella stroller.

gb Pockit+ All-Terrain, Ultra Compact Lightweight Travel Stroller with Canopy and Reclining Seat in...*
  • Collapsible & Compact Design: This travel stroller's ultra-compact and collapsible design ensures it will fit in most overhead compartments on planes and trains, eliminating the need to check your...
  • Lightweight Convenience: This must-have umbrella stroller weighs a mere 9 1/2 pounds and makes one-handed pushing and steering a breeze. It folds down in 2 simple steps and can be carried effortlessly...
  • Durable and Flexible Construction: Durable for everyday use as well as travel the Pockit+ is designed to roll with the punches. Its flexible construction keeps wiggly bodies safe and happy during...
  • UPF50+ Sun Canopy & Reclining Seat Back: Your little one can take a stroller snooze in total comfort thanks to the reclining seat back and the UPF50+ sun canopy. The seat reclines to a baby lounger,...
  • Agile Front Swivel Wheels: The helpful front swivel wheels make navigating busy streets and turning corners seem like a walk in the park for this lightweight stroller. For increased stability on...

Final Thoughts

Those were the best umbrella strollers for infants and toddlers.

I hope you managed to find a model on our list that meets all your demands and fits into your budget.

Let me remind you once again that a high-quality umbrella stroller is not only the best stroller for travel but also an everyday companion with a roomy storage basket, adjustable handlebar (for taller parents), easy-fold, and many other accessories that makes it no different than a traditional stroller.

So don't hesitate to give high-end offers a chance.

Avatar of Kathy Warner

Kathy Warner

Kathy is a busy mother of two and a CPS technician for more than eight years. Her mission is to awaken parents to the importance of child passenger safety and show them the right practice. You can read more about her here