Packing the car and hitting the beach is a favorite summer activity for many families. Whether you’re visiting from out of town or just visiting your local spot, there are certain items that can make exploring with little ones even more enjoyable. One such item is a specialized beach stroller designed to navigate sand with ease.

Before you begin shopping, read through some of the key features you should consider when examining different types of beach strollers.

What to Look for in a Beach Stroller

Weight

A good stroller should be lightweight and easy to maneuver, as sand can make pushing heavy ones difficult. In addition, it’s important to consider the age and size of your child; if they are small or on the young side, you may want one with extra padding or adjustable straps to keep them secure.

Many strollers are made of lightweight materials that offer both strength and ease of maneuverability. In addition, the lighter the stroller, the more portable they will be when not in use.

Wheels

When selecting a beach stroller, the wheels are extremely important. This is because many beaches are soft and sandy, and regular stroller wheels may not be able to navigate this terrain. Look for pneumatic tires that are thick enough to meet the needs of any beach or boardwalk terrain. 

Air-filled tires should also have some level of shock absorption built in to help provide a smooth ride for your child and make it easier to control the stroller on uneven surfaces. Additionally, selecting a stroller with large and solid wheels will ensure more stability than smaller wheels while being pushed around across the sand.

Quality

It’s important to remember that the stroller will be exposed to more elements than it may normally experience and therefore must stand up to the increased wear and tear. Look for metal frames over plastic since these strollers will typically have a much longer lifespan than plastic models. 

Consider features like an adjustable handlebar, sturdy back support, easy mobility, and pneumatic wheels or foam-filled tires that are better suited to traversing sand compared to thin plastic ones. Doing research before making a purchase can help guarantee your beach stroller is fit for family fun in any weather condition.

Ease of Use

Another factor is ease of use: you don’t want something that will require extensive assembly when you arrive at the beach or take away valuable minutes from playtime! Thankfully, many models are designed with snap-on mechanisms so they can quickly be set up and taken down with the least amount of hassle.

Check if it has adjustable handlebars and loop brakes to provide you with safe steering and trustworthy stopping power. It’s also important the stroller isn’t difficult to maneuver on sand or pavement for a comfortable ride for baby and parent alike.

Durability

The weather on the beach can be brutal, with sand and saltwater lowering the lifespan of most strollers drastically. Look for a stroller that has clear protection against these elements, such as corrosion-resistant materials and special fabrics designed to keep salty ocean water away from sensitive parts. You’ll also want to make sure that the frame is well-made and sturdy enough to hold up against harsh sand-blown winds and waves. 

Durability doesn’t just mean protecting your stroller; it also means ensuring it will last more than one beach season.

Large Canopy

A large canopy will provide better protection from harsh weather elements and can be easily adjusted, so your child can remain shielded from harmful UV rays when you’re out and about. Look for a canopy that is adjustable to ensure maximum coverage from rain, too. 

You should also check if the angle is adjustable, as this will make it easier to manage air molecules and deflect strong winds. The canopy should also be easy to fold so you can pack it up and carry with ease after each use.

Cup holders

Having cup holders as part of the stroller design can be incredibly handy while having a day at the beach. Not only do cup holders make it easier to access beverages; they also provide a secure location for personal items such as phones, wallets, and keys. 

Furthermore, the added convenience of having the hands-free and secure storage removes any stress from parents who may otherwise have to hold onto their possessions while maneuvering around the beach. Cup holders are an invaluable feature for any beachgoer choosing a stroller for their next day at the shore.

Storage space

You may not have the luxury of carrying a bunch of additional bags and many of the items you need an infant on your visit can’t be left outside overnight. That’s why it’s important to find a beach stroller with plenty of pockets and compartments for things like toys, clothes, sunblock and more. 

Look for models with large storage baskets beneath the seat or multiple bins located around the stroller. This way, you’ll be able to carry whatever you may need without having to lug multiple bags or make many trips back and forth between your spot on the sand and wherever it is you’re staying.

Shock absorption

Strolling on sand or uneven terrain can cause a lot of impact and vibration which can make a quite uncomfortable experience for both the parents and the baby. Look for a stroller that has sufficient suspension systems, such as wheels with higher volume and air-filled tires to absorb unpleasant shocks. If possible, test out different models and get feedback from other customers who have used them to find the best one suited to your needs.

Water resistance

When searching for the perfect beach stroller, it’s important to look for a model that is water resistant. Not only will a water resistant stroller prevent damage from being out in the elements, but it will keep your child safe and worry-free while they explore the sand and surf.

Interior material

Lastly, when searching for the perfect beach stroller, it is important to consider the materials used both inside and outside of the frame. The interior material should be able to provide comfort for your child during long days at the beach and serve as a form of protection from sand and other debris. It should also be easy to clean in case of any messes or spills that may occur during your outing. 

For maximum absorption, look for a material such as cotton or woven cloth with moderate padding on its interior surface. This type of fabric can help keep sharp objects like shells and pebbles away from baby’s delicate skin while simultaneously providing plush cushioning. Furthermore, having a removable interior layer can make it easier to wipe down quickly at the end of your trip or during mid-day breaks.

Conclusion

When it comes to choosing a beach stroller, there is no one-size-fits-all. Before investing in one, consider the cost of ownership, your lifestyle and family needs and do some research to make sure you’re getting the right one for you. Investing in the right stroller can help make life easier, saving energy and allowing parents to get out and enjoy the beach with their little ones. 

Aside from beach strollers, there are many more types to choose from. If you are interested, you may check out our Guide to Picking a Stroller for more tips and recommendations.