Benefits of owning a top-quality stroller wagon
There are many benefits to owning a great stroller wagon. Unlike just owning a normal stroller, there are some extra excellent features, for instance you can use the wagon for storage, you can also use it for carrying around more than one child at a time with ease. It is much more fun than your average stroller for children, plus you can use them more easily for older children of up to five years old and sometimes even older.
Features to consider when choosing a stroller wagon
In this section we look at the features which are on offer when choosing a stroller wagon in order to help you to prioritize which are most important and work out what you might need for the terrain you plan to use your wagon on and your kids. Certain features crop up again and again and some companies are trying to break the mold and create interesting and new designs such as the bench design of stroller wagon. Which features are the most important for you to consider?
Weight capacity
The weight capacity is important for a couple of reasons. For a starter, you’ll want something that can easily take the weight of your children, even as they grow a little older. If you plan on taking two kids around in the stroller at once this is also something to consider. Some stroller wagons have quite modest capacities, whereas some go all the way up to around 250 lbs. For some more high-capacity models, read our review of the best strollers for big kids.
Age range
This is one of the simpler features to work out for your own needs. Some strollers have a recommended age range, and most start at 18 months and go to around five years of age. However there are plenty of models which can be used for children of different ages, just like convertible strollers. The weight is also a key consideration here. Think about not just the age your kids currently are, but remember they are going to age! The age range is usually more of a guideline than anything. It isn’t too strict with some products, though if they say for 1 ½ years and above you should ensure no younger children are put in the wagon just to be safe.
Dimensions
The dimensions of a stroller wagon should be considered. Not just for the reason that they need to be large enough to carry your children around, but also consider that you may wish to use it for storage or carrying items around and need it to be large enough. Dimensions of your stroller wagon are also relevant to your own height as a parent as it is vital that you have a handle height which works for you and that means you’re not straining to push or pull the wagon.
Weight
The weight of your stroller wagon matters mostly when it comes to transporting it. Not only does the weight add to the load you are carrying around (on top of the weight of the children in the wagon), you also need to consider this for transportation, putting it in your car for instance. A lightweight option is better, but this may also mean sacrificing a little of the durability.
Push or pull?
Wagons come in different designs for both pushing and pulling.
Pull models usually have a relatively short handle for one hand, whereas the push models may closer resemble a shopping cart and be easier to put both hands on.
Some of the best wagons on the market include both push and pull facilities so you can choose, which is naturally the most versatile choice out of all the wagons.
Seat belts
Just like in a car, seat belts are more or less a must, just for that extra level of safety. As well as this, it can help to train your kids to use seat belts automatically in cars as they get older. The vast majority of stroller wagons come with this functionality and of course, it is always advisable to be safe. Accidents aren’t all that likely, but it is good to be prepared just in case they do.
Foldability
With any big and bulky product like a stroller wagon which you plan to take out on trips with you, storage is a consideration, and it is far easier to store something which can fold up into a compact design. Foldable models can be a little more expensive, or if they are not made properly they can end up being flimsy, so be sure to thoroughly check the reviews.
Canopy
A canopy can provide protection from the elements! Mainly, these are used to ensure that sun’s rays don’t do as much damage and can protect your child from UV rays, but they can also be very useful for keeping out the rain. A canopy can be a big advantage, and whether you need one will also depend on the likelihood of these extreme weather conditions where you live.
Wheels
The wheels of your wagon are vital. A 360-degree swivel action is ideal in terms of pushing it around, and will make for a better ride for your kids as well as an easier time for you pushing. The Step2 Wagon for Two Plus as well as the Creative Outdoor Distributor stroller wagon are great examples of products which have this swivel functionality on the wheels. Also, be on the lookout for wheels made from durable materials, especially if you are planning to go off-road. Some wheels come with technology to keep them virtually silent when on the road as well, but if they’re rubberized, this is already a good
Construction quality and comfort
There’s no point in purchasing a stroller wagon which is either not built to last or which isn’t comfortable for your kids, as they will not want to go in it if they’re not comfy. Finding something which is spacious but also durable is key to choosing the best, whatever your needs are from your wagon.
Warranty
A long warranty is not just great in terms of offering you protection should something go wrong, it shows that a manufacturer has put a lot of consideration into their product and the build quality, so they are happy to provide a long warranty due to their confidence that the product will last! One year of a warranty should be seen as the minimum, but there are products on the market designed to last far longer.