Baby Jogger City Select Stroller Review: The Ultimate Convertible for Your Growing Family

As parents, we’ve all been there: the joyous chaos of welcoming a new child, only to realize our existing gear might not quite keep up with our expanding family. The search for a stroller that can comfortably accommodate a toddler and a newborn, or even twins, often feels like a quest for a mythical beast. We’re looking for something that seamlessly transitions from single to double, handles like a dream, and doesn’t demand a second mortgage. The complications of not finding such a solution are all too real – juggling a baby carrier while wrangling an energetic preschooler, navigating crowded spaces with an unwieldy double stroller, or simply feeling overwhelmed by the sheer logistics of family outings. It’s more than just an inconvenience; it can truly impact our ability to enjoy precious moments with our children. That’s precisely why a product like the Baby Jogger City Select Stroller enters the spotlight, promising to solve these very dilemmas with grace and ingenuity.

What to Consider Before Investing in a Tandem Stroller

A tandem stroller is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for parents navigating the exciting, yet sometimes overwhelming, journey of raising multiple young children. It addresses the fundamental need for mobility and convenience, allowing parents to transport two children of varying ages or two infants simultaneously, without the bulk and width of a side-by-side double stroller. The main benefits include streamlined navigation through doorways and aisles, diverse seating arrangements to suit different child needs, and the invaluable ability to adapt as children grow from infancy to toddlerhood. For many, it represents the freedom to maintain an active lifestyle, run errands, and enjoy family outings without logistical headaches.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the beautiful challenge of a growing family – whether expecting twins, a second child shortly after the first, or needing a versatile system for children with a small age gap. Parents who value adaptability, longevity in their baby gear, and a premium, durable build will find a tandem stroller a wise investment. Conversely, it might not be suitable for those who only have one child and do not anticipate more, or families with older children who are well past stroller age. Similarly, if your primary need is for an ultra-compact, minimalist stroller for single use, a tandem might be an over-specification. For those with significantly older children who prefer to walk but might need a quick rest, a simpler stand-on board attachment for a single stroller could be an alternative.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: When choosing a tandem stroller, always measure your doorways, car trunk, and common storage areas. While tandems are generally narrower than side-by-side doubles, their length can be considerable, especially with two seats in line. A compact fold is a game-changer for daily convenience and fitting into smaller vehicles. We look for strollers that balance ample child space with a manageable footprint when folded and in use, ensuring it doesn’t become a burden rather than a helper.
• Capacity/Performance: This isn’t just about weight limits; it’s about the stroller’s overall engineering. How smoothly does it maneuver with two children and a full diaper bag? Are the wheels durable enough for various terrains – from smooth mall floors to bumpy sidewalks? We scrutinize features like suspension, wheel size, and handlebar adjustability, knowing these elements directly impact the ride quality for children and the pushing comfort for parents. A stroller that struggles under load quickly loses its appeal.
• Materials & Durability: A tandem stroller is a significant investment and should be built to last through years of rigorous use. We assess the quality of the frame, fabric, and components. Polyester fabrics are common for their resilience and ease of cleaning, but the weave density and treatment for UV protection are also important. High-quality aluminum frames offer a good balance of strength and lightness. We also consider the quality of zippers, buckles, and connection points, as these are often the first points of failure in lesser models.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: A stroller can have all the bells and whistles, but if it’s a nightmare to fold, unfold, or clean, it won’t be used. We prioritize intuitive folding mechanisms, accessible storage, and simple seat adjustments. Removable, machine-washable fabrics are a huge plus for long-term care and hygiene. Consider how easy it is to attach and detach accessories, as this will be a frequent task for convertible models. A well-designed stroller simplifies, rather than complicates, daily life.

Ultimately, choosing the right tandem stroller means finding a balance between your family’s specific needs, your lifestyle, and your budget. It’s about empowering you to take on the world with your little ones, confidently and comfortably. The Baby Jogger City Select Stroller certainly aims to deliver on many of these fronts, offering a compelling blend of features and adaptability for the modern parent.

While the Baby Jogger City Select Stroller is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Impressions and Key Features of the Baby Jogger City Select Stroller

Unboxing the Baby Jogger City Select Stroller, Jet, we were immediately struck by its substantial, high-quality feel. The components arrived well-packaged, and while assembly required a few steps, it was intuitive and relatively straightforward. There’s a certain heft to the frame that immediately inspires confidence in its durability and stability – it doesn’t feel flimsy in the slightest. The “Jet” color, which we were keen to inspect closely given some user feedback, presented itself as a deep, sophisticated charcoal grey rather than a stark black, a detail worth noting for those expecting pure black from the marketing images. The fabric itself, a robust polyester, felt smooth and appeared well-stitched, suggesting it would withstand the rigors of daily use. We found the overall aesthetic to be sleek and modern, a significant upgrade from many bulkier double strollers on the market. From the outset, the promise of versatility was evident in the multiple connection points and intelligent design. This stroller clearly aims for premium functionality, an aspect we were eager to explore further as we delved into its capabilities. For those intrigued by its design and feature set, we highly recommend you see its full feature set and user reviews to understand why it’s a favorite.

A Deep Dive into the Baby Jogger City Select Stroller’s Performance

Unrivaled Versatility and Configuration Mastery

Where the Baby Jogger City Select Stroller truly shines is in its unparalleled versatility. This isn’t just a single stroller that can become a double; it’s a meticulously engineered system designed to adapt to virtually any family configuration. Boasting over 16 unique setups with the right accessories (sold separately, of course), we found it effortlessly transitions from a single seat to accommodating two infant car seats, two bassinets, two full-size seats, or any combination thereof. This modularity is a godsend for parents navigating the needs of a newborn and a toddler, or even twins. Imagine being able to switch from a car seat setup for quick errands to a bassinet for peaceful strolls, and then to two forward-facing seats for older children – all with the same core stroller frame. This adaptability reduces the need to purchase multiple strollers as your family evolves, proving to be a wise long-term investment.

We personally tested various configurations, including attaching a second seat and a car seat adapter. The process was surprisingly intuitive, with clear connection points and secure locks that instill confidence. A user with a 2.5-year-old and twin 2-month-olds perfectly summarized this experience, raving, “I bought the car seat adapters, one bassinet and the glider board to go with it. I love how many different configurations there are! I can put my babies in their carseats and my toddler on the glider board or I can have my twins share the bassinet and toddler in a seat or I can have both babies in their own seats since they recline so far!” This echoes our own findings – the flexibility to position children facing each other, facing the parent, or facing forward makes every outing customizable. The full recline on the standard seats is particularly beneficial for younger infants or naptime on the go. This level of customizable comfort and practicality is a feature that truly sets it apart, allowing parents to tailor the ride to their children’s specific needs at any given moment. For those who anticipate their family growing, the ability to explore its full range of accessories is key to unlocking its complete potential.

Effortless Mobility: Quick-Fold and Smooth Maneuverability

Beyond its impressive adaptability, the Baby Jogger City Select Stroller excels in day-to-day mobility. Its patented quick-fold technology is a standout feature. We found that collapsing the stroller truly is a single-step operation, a welcome relief for parents often juggling children, bags, and car keys. While it’s not the lightest stroller on the market due to its robust frame, the fold itself is compact enough to fit into most car trunks, a detail confirmed by users who noted “All the pieces fit in the back of my car.” This ease of storage and transport is crucial for urban dwellers and suburban families alike who are constantly on the go. Maneuverability is another area where the Baby Jogger City Select Stroller shines. Even with two children onboard, we found it surprisingly easy to navigate tight corners, crowded sidewalks, and various terrains. The front wheels swivel smoothly and can be locked for longer, rougher paths, providing excellent control. The adjustable handlebar caters to different parent heights, ensuring a comfortable pushing experience for everyone.

The ride quality for the children is equally impressive. We observed how the sturdy frame and quality wheels absorb minor bumps, providing a consistently smooth experience. One user particularly highlighted, “It turns really easily and looks very nice!” This sentiment aligns perfectly with our tests, where the stroller felt responsive and agile, belying its capacity. However, it’s important to address some reported concerns regarding wheel noise and ride quality. While our initial experience was excellent, some users have reported “noisy rattling front wheels” after several months of use, leading to a “bumpy ride.” This suggests a potential long-term durability issue with the wheel mechanism, which is a point of consideration given the premium price. We believe investing in regular maintenance, such as checking and cleaning the wheel bearings, could mitigate this, but it’s a factor to consider before making a purchase decision.

Comfort and Practicality: Adapting to Every Child’s Journey

The comfort features of the Baby Jogger City Select Stroller are designed with both parent and child in mind. Each seat offers multiple recline positions, allowing infants to lie flat for naps and older children to sit upright and engage with their surroundings. This flexibility is vital, especially when catering to two children with different needs simultaneously. The UV 50+ sun canopy is another thoughtful addition, adjustable for differing head heights, providing excellent sun protection no matter the child’s age or seating position. Its peek-a-boo window allows parents to check on their little ones without disturbing them. We also appreciated the generously sized under-seat basket, which provides ample storage for diaper bags, groceries, and other essentials, a critical feature for any parent on the go. Accessibility to this basket remains good even with a second seat installed, which is not always the case with tandem strollers.

However, we encountered a few practical considerations. A recurring theme in user feedback, and something we also noted, is the absence of built-in cup or phone holders. “The only thing I wish it had built in is cupholders,” lamented one user, a sentiment echoed by another: “Only thing I wish it had was a cup/phone holder that came with it (given the price it is).” This is a noticeable oversight in a premium stroller, often necessitating the purchase of an accessory console. Furthermore, while the seats are generally comfortable, we found them to be somewhat limited for taller children. One parent observed, “The seats are not the best for tall kids… my two year old is quite crammed in the seat, he ends up dangling his legs.” This suggests that while the weight capacity is generous (45 lbs per seat), the height of the seatback might lead to discomfort for very tall toddlers, potentially requiring an earlier transition to a glider board or a different mode of transport. Another concern is the fabric quality over time; a user reported “car seat fabric is already pilling” after only 6 months, an issue one wouldn’t expect from a premium product. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall design prioritizes a comfortable and practical experience for most families. When considering all aspects of comfort and convenience, it’s worth taking a closer look at the specifications to ensure it meets your family’s unique requirements.

Built to Last (Mostly): Material Quality and Design Considerations

The Baby Jogger City Select Stroller, Jet, boasts a construction that largely speaks to its luxury branding. The primary material, polyester, feels durable and is generally easy to clean, resisting spills and minor wear effectively. The frame itself is robust, providing a stable foundation that instills confidence when maneuvering with two children. This solid build is often a key differentiator for premium strollers, designed to withstand years of active family life. The meticulous stitching and overall finish suggest a product made with attention to detail.

However, even premium products have their nuances, and user feedback provides crucial insights into long-term durability and aesthetic expectations. We encountered several comments regarding color discrepancies, specifically for the “Jet” and “Paloma” options. One user, expecting a black stroller, was disappointed to find “Jet is not black or even a dark color like the picture shows,” describing it as a “misleading” representation. Similarly, another mentioned “Paloma looks like a tan / sandy color in the manufacturer pictures. It’s more of a grey/ silver in real life.” These color variances, while not impacting functionality, can be a significant point of contention for buyers expecting a specific look, underscoring the importance of viewing physical samples if possible. More critically, we noted concerns about the stroller’s longevity. A user who had their stroller for four years and used it for their fourth child experienced both sides of the stroller frame splitting, stating, “for the price you would think it would be able to withstand going over the broken concrete and be able to outlast the kids.” This experience, while potentially isolated, raises questions about the long-term structural integrity when exposed to consistently rough urban sidewalks. This suggests that while the initial quality is high, the Baby Jogger City Select Stroller, like any heavily used item, may have specific stress points that can show wear over extended periods or under particularly harsh conditions. Nevertheless, for many families, the initial build quality and premium feel are major selling points, and for those ready to make an informed decision, you can check the latest price and availability.

What Other Users Are Saying

The consensus among users largely reflects our own expert findings: the Baby Jogger City Select Stroller is a highly versatile and functional investment for growing families, though it comes with a few caveats. Many parents echo our admiration for its adaptability. One user with two young children and twins enthusiastically shared, “I love how many different configurations there are! I can put my babies in their carseats and my toddler on the glider board or I can have my twins share the bassinet and toddler in a seat or I can have both babies in their own seats since they recline so far! It turns really easily and looks very nice! It folds pretty small too.” This sentiment underscores the stroller’s core appeal – its ability to morph with a family’s evolving needs, offering unparalleled convenience and a smooth ride.

Another parent highlighted the unexpected comfort for their child, stating, “My husband and I were actually shocked when she sat happily, took a 40 minute nap and woke up happily all in the stroller. It was a very smooth ride on town sidewalks.” This confirms our observations about the excellent ride quality and child comfort. However, not all feedback is glowing. Several users voiced frustration over the lack of basic amenities like cup holders, with one noting, “Only thing I wish it had was a cup/phone holder that came with it (given the price it is).” We also saw concerns about misleading product images regarding color, where a user felt the “Jet” color was not truly black as depicted. More critically, some long-term users have reported durability issues, such as “noisy rattling front wheels” and, in one instance, the stroller “suddenly split” after four years of use, especially on rough sidewalks. These criticisms, particularly regarding durability and premium expectations, are important considerations for potential buyers.

Comparing the Baby Jogger City Select Stroller to Its Top 3 Alternatives

1. Joovy Caboose Too Ultralight Graphite Stand-On Double Stroller

The Joovy Caboose Too Ultralight offers a compelling alternative for parents with an older child who mostly prefers to walk but occasionally needs to rest, alongside a younger child. Its defining feature is the stand-on platform at the rear, allowing a toddler to hop on and off independently, complemented by a rear bench seat and a traditional front seat. This design makes it significantly more compact and lighter than the Baby Jogger City Select Stroller, which prioritizes two full-sized seats or bassinet options. While the Joovy includes a universal car seat adapter, its versatility in terms of multiple seating configurations for two younger children is more limited compared to the City Select’s 16+ options. The Joovy is ideal for families seeking an ultralight, agile solution primarily for an infant and an older, active toddler, rather than two closely aged children requiring full recline and diverse seating. It excels in portability and ease of navigation in urban settings, where space is at a premium and quick transitions are essential.

2. WONDERFOLD Volkswagen 4 Seater Stroller Wagon

Stepping into a different category, the WONDERFOLD Volkswagen Stroller Wagon is a robust, feature-rich alternative that completely redefines family transportation, especially for larger families or those with multiple young children. Unlike the in-line design of the Baby Jogger City Select Stroller, this is a 4-seater wagon, offering a spacious, open-concept design that children often adore. It boasts impressive all-terrain XL wheels and even functioning headlights, making it suitable for adventures far beyond paved sidewalks. While the City Select focuses on a traditional stroller experience with individual seats and various configurations, the Wonderfold wagon provides a communal space where children can interact, stand, and play. It’s a fantastic choice for parents who need to haul more than just children – think beach trips, sporting events, or extensive park outings where gear storage is as crucial as child transport. Its sheer size and weight, however, make it less nimble for quick trips to the store or navigating narrow aisles compared to the more traditional stroller form factor of the Baby Jogger City Select Stroller.

3. WONDERFOLD W4 Elite 4 Seater Stroller Wagon

The WONDERFOLD W4 Elite Stroller Wagon shares many philosophical similarities with its Volkswagen counterpart, providing a premium, collapsible 4-seater wagon experience. It stands as a direct competitor to the Baby Jogger City Select Stroller not in form, but in its ability to transport multiple children comfortably. Featuring seats with 5-point harnesses, an adjustable push handle, and a removable UV sun canopy, it prioritizes safety and comfort for all occupants. Where the Baby Jogger City Select Stroller offers a more conventional tandem stroller experience with modular, individual seating, the W4 Elite provides a more social, wagon-style ride, often preferred by children for its open feel and ability to move around. It’s an excellent choice for families who need high capacity, superior durability for diverse terrains, and a stroller that can also double as a gear hauler. However, its larger footprint and heavier build mean it’s less suited for daily, quick errands or fitting into compact car trunks compared to the more streamlined Baby Jogger City Select Stroller, which maintains a narrower profile even in its double configuration.

Final Verdict: Is the Baby Jogger City Select Stroller the Right Fit for Your Family?

After extensive testing and considering valuable user feedback, we confidently stand by the Baby Jogger City Select Stroller as a highly commendable choice for families seeking a versatile, durable, and aesthetically pleasing tandem stroller. Its unmatched ability to convert into over 16 configurations makes it a powerhouse for growing families, adapting seamlessly from infancy through toddlerhood. The patented quick-fold technology, smooth maneuverability, and premium materials contribute to a user experience that genuinely simplifies daily outings. While we noted some areas for improvement, such as the absence of built-in cup holders, potential for misleading color representations, and isolated reports of long-term durability issues with wheels or frame, these are largely outweighed by its core strengths. It’s important to manage expectations regarding the “Jet” color and consider the potential need for accessories like cup holders.

We heartily recommend the Baby Jogger City Select Stroller for parents who are planning to expand their family, or those with children close in age, who prioritize adaptability, ease of use, and a premium build that promises years of faithful service. If you’re looking for a convertible stroller that can truly grow with your family and offer exceptional flexibility in seating arrangements, this model is a top contender. Don’t let the minor drawbacks deter you from what is, for many, the ultimate solution for navigating parenthood with multiple children. To experience the unparalleled versatility and premium design for yourself, we encourage you to invest in the Baby Jogger City Select Stroller today and simplify your family adventures.