Strollers: How we test

We test strollers for ease of use, maneuverability, and safety. Here are some specifics:

Ease of use scores take into account such factors as how easy it is to fold and unfold the stroller, lift and carry it, engage the brakes, adjust the harness and backrest, remove and install a car seat (in applicable models) and access the basket.

Maneuverability is evaluated on a test-course created by our engineers. The course measures a stroller's maneuverability when going uphill and downhill; over paved blacktop, grass, and dirt; through a series of "S" curves between traffic cones; up and down a simulated "curb"; and through a narrow space alongside a parked van. Strollers are scored on a nine-point scale.

Safety scores include each stroller's performance in the voluntary American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standard tests, as well as in Consumers Union's own stability and braking test. The latter test involves placing each stroller in different orientations on a platform whose angle is gradually increased to 20 degrees, unless the stroller slides or tips before then, and comprises a significant part of the score.

When we test travel systems (strollers with car seats sold as a unit), we subject the car seats to the same crash tests we perform on all infant car seats.

Learn more about stroller types, stroller features, and stroller safety tips for more information.