Editors Note
Mclaren has discontinued their Globetrotter, Triumph , and Mark II strollers. You can check out other fantastic strollers here.
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The founder of Maclaren actually invented the umbrella stroller. He used his knowledge as a pilot to mimic the way that aircraft wheels fold up when creating that landmark first Maclaren stroller. Parents everywhere are forever grateful!
This iconic and high-quality brand has a lot to offer. Here are the best Maclaren strollers.
Best Maclaren Stroller
Maclaren Quest Stroller
This article will go into a lot of Maclaren strollers in-depth and look at the winners in different categories. The winner across all categories, however, is the Maclaren Quest stroller.
Lightweight Design and Easy Fold
The aluminum chassis is what makes this stroller so incredibly lightweight. At just 12.2 pounds, this umbrella stroller is easy to push, fold, and haul, while still having enough heft to support your child.
The lightweight frame has a one-hand fold with an auto-lock to keep it folded. The tether strap on the back acts as a carrying strap once folded, and there is an additional padded carrying handle integrated onto the stroller frame. This stroller stays true to the name “umbrella stroller” and folds down small enough to practically be an umbrella.
Child Comfort and Big Weight Range
Many umbrella strollers will literally fold under the pressure of a larger child. Maclaren made the Quest to support a child up to 55 pounds. So yes, you can use the umbrella stroller for a toddler. Again, that wonderful aluminum frame is light but strong.
The exclusive aviator-style buckle on the 5-point safety harness will keep even older children safe. And with an extendable leg rest, toddlers won’t have to worry about their feet dragging on the ground. The seat also reclines to 4 different positions to keep your child comfortable.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, there’s the Newborn Safety System. This turns the stroller into a comfortable cot for smaller babies. Simply recline the seat all the way and put up the top and bottom guards. This stroller is also compatible with the Maclaren stroller carrycot. Just strap it into the seat and your baby will be safely cuddled.
For children of all ages, the included rain cover will keep them dry in the wettest conditions.
Newly Updated Features
Maclaren recently updated many of their strollers. This version of the Quest is part of their all-new collection that has upgrades including:
- More spacious hood – the hood now has a bigger design with a custom-fit apron, UPF 50+ material, zippered expansion, front visor, and rear viewing window
- Streamlined wheels – single in the front and double in the rear, these EVA wheels are light and easy to steer
- One-step brakes – the all-wheel suspension system and single-step brakes are now better and easier to use
- Elevated seat – the seat sits up higher, but can still be adjusted and even removed for washing
- Improved frame aerodynamics – pushing this fully-featured stroller has never been easier
Maclaren Stroller Repair
If you are a DIY master, you’ll love that you can buy individual replacement parts for nearly everything on the stroller. From a new wheel to a new harness buckle, you can keep your stroller in top condition with your own 2 hands.
Maclaren Quest Summary
This Quest stroller is the best that Maclaren has to offer. No matter your child’s age or size, this stroller has any feature that you could want or need. From a large shopping basket underneath to a measly 12.2-pound stroller weight, this stroller is every parent’s dream. Children love it too, with a roomy seat, cool buckle, and protective canopy.
If you want the convenience of an umbrella stroller and the features of a regular stroller, the Maclaren Quest stroller is the stroller for you.
Best Travel Maclaren Stroller
Maclaren Globetrotter Stroller
The name Maclaren Globetrotter is no accident. This is the ideal stroller for families that do a lot of traveling, whether local or abroad.
Updated for Improved Travel
The stated benefit of this stroller is that it gives you the small, light frame you need for traveling without sacrificing the comfort of a reclining seat. Not only does the seat have several recline positions, but its new design features an elevated seat and a more spacious headspace beneath the hood.
For quick folding on the go, the Globetrotter still has the signature Maclaren fold, complete with locking fold and carrying strap. The best part is the ability to do it all with one hand!
The wheels and brakes are ideal for use in any urban street. The all-wheel suspension keeps baby from feeling each and every bump in the road. The EVA foam wheels maneuver well. They keep the stroller light and you don’t have to worry about flat tires. The linked rear brakes make for quick stops and starts.
Customize for Your Trip
This stroller features a simple padded seat with side mesh panels for breathability. You can add any of the Maclaren seat liners to match the season and weather for your destination. From cozy winter seat liners to sheer summer ones, you can customize this stroller for your needs.
The included rain cover can further help you as you travel. It works well with the zipper-panel extended IPF 50 canopy to shield your baby from any moisture or sun. And should you choose to use just the canopy, it is waterproof.
Spare Parts Ready for Travel
Did the airline tear a handle grip? Did a mountainous terrain tear up a wheel? Simply replace that individual part. Maclaren offers a pick-and-choose spare parts selection so that you can switch out items as you need to repair them. That means your stroller can always stay ready for the next adventure.
Maclaren Globetrotter Summary
This stroller weighs just under 10 pounds, yet it can hold a child up to 55 pounds. The padded and spacious seat reclines, there’s an ample lower storage basket, and the hood with rain cover are wonderful. All this and it’s still compactly tiny when folded and easy to use. It’s the ideal Maclaren stroller for travel.
Best Lightweight Maclaren Stroller
| Maclaren Stroller | Basic Weight* (in pounds) |
| Alpine | 7.2 lbs |
| Globetrotter | 10.3 lbs |
| Mark II | 7.9 lbs |
| Techno XT | 13.5 lbs |
| Triumph | 11 lbs |
| Twin Techno | 26.2 lbs |
| Twin Triumph | 21 lbs |
| Quest | 12.2 lbs |
| Volo | 9.7 lbs |
| *Note: Basic weight includes seat and frame only |
Maclaren Mark II
While Maclaren can make a fully-featured umbrella stroller, they also make a simple and efficient umbrella stroller like the Maclaren Mark II.
Lightest Maclaren Stroller
This stroller is only 7.9 pounds, which is the second lightest that Maclaren has to offer (the first being the Maclaren Alpine, but we feel that the Mark II is a nicer stroller that’s only 11 ounces heavier!). The aluminum chassis for the Mark II has a slightly different design than the other strollers by Maclaren. It incorporates hexagonal tubing in the frame design to keep it as light as possible.
The stroller fabrics are also thinner and lighter on the Mark II. The hood is still waterproof and UPF 50, and it features a sun visor. It is considerably smaller than other Maclaren canopies, however, in order to keep the weight light. The seat fabric, though light, is still removable and machine washable.
The lightweight stroller folds up smaller than other Maclaren models, which is convenient for travel or transport. There is a carrying strap for convenience.
Just a Few Effective Features
While most lightweight umbrella strollers don’t recline, the Maclaren Mark II does. The seat can move to 2 different positions utilizing a zippered extension on either side of the seat. While helpful, this is tricky to do if there is a child in the seat.
The lightweight rubber handgrips are also anti-microbial. That’s comforting in the light of the number of germs surrounding babies and toddlers.
This stroller features the iconic Maclaren buckle that’s styled after aircraft safety harnesses. It also features the all-wheel suspension, linked brakes, and large bottom storage basket that all Maclaren strollers have. This basket isn’t as large as others, though. Probably due to the smaller overall frame size.
Extras Included
This simple stroller comes with a couple of bonuses. Maclaren includes a rain cover in each of its stroller boxes. That’s probably due to the rainy nature of its native England.
Also included are a coordinating seat liner and an ID tag for the stroller. The seat liner is great for keeping the mesh viewing window covered during cooler months.
Maclaren Mark II Summary
The Maclaren Mark II is simple and lightweight. It doesn’t have a lot of features, but it will still hold a child up to 55 pounds. It won’t do so as comfortably as other models, which have bigger seats and extendable leg rests, but it is great for the toddler years. This stroller is not newborn-friendly and should be saved for babies six months and older.
Best Newborn Maclaren Stroller
Maclaren Techno XT Stroller
The Maclaren Techno XT is very similar to the Maclaren Quest stroller that we’ve already discussed. It has some padding and some other features, however, that cater to younger babies. This is a wonderful all-around stroller with some thoughtful features for newborns and parents.
Same Features at the Quest
Just like the Quest, the Techno XT is a fully-functional and multi-featured umbrella stroller. For starters, it has the same lightweight aluminum frame and durable fabric seat. The whole thing folds down compactly in the way only a Maclaren umbrella stroller can.
The Techno XT has the same expandable hood, complete with zippered mesh extension and pull-down sun visor. This model also has a peek-a-boo vinyl window with a flap. Both the vinyl window and the hood are totally waterproof. The premium rain cover is included with the Techno XT for extra protection.
The seat is fully padded and can be removed and machine washed. The all-wheel suspension system uses double wheels all around as well as a linked foot brake. Near the foot brake, you’ll find a very generously sized storage basket that is quite large compared to most other umbrella strollers.
While this stroller caters more to newborns, the 55-pound weight capacity and extendable leg rest mean that you can have extra room for an older child as well.
Better Features for Newborns
Like the Quest, the Techno XT has the Newborn Safety System. The Techno XT and the Quest are the only two Maclaren strollers suitable for children under 6 months of age.
The newborn system utilizes a seat that can fold almost nearly flat. We can’t skip over the recline mechanism, which is an actual plastic lever and handle versus a simple nylon strap with a stopper. You then employ the net beneath the adjustable leg rest and the upper shield at the top of the seat. Together, these help to keep your newborn in place and it ensures that they won’t slide out of the seat.
Additionally. the Techno XT has a head hugger pillow. This is a newborn head and neck support that is similar to the padding that you’ll find in most infant car seats. This is completely removable and washable. There are also removable shoulder strap pads that will keep a newborn secure and cozy. This extra padding is ideal for newborns who need the extra cushion and support.
The final newborn-friendly feature is Carrycot compatibility. The Techno XT is compatible with Maclaren’s Carrycot Bassinet, which can be purchased separately. When used together, the Techno XT and carrycot become a travel system of sorts, which is perfect for going out and about with your littlest one without waking them up to transfer them from seat to stroller.
Bonus: Extendable Handlebars
The only other distinguishing feature of the Maclaren Techno XT stroller is the extendable handlebars. Being too short for many parents is the number one complaint when it comes to umbrella strollers. Now, with the XT, you can pull the handlebars out to reach a more comfortable height. You can easily push them back in for a slimmer footprint when folded up in your trunk, too. There are 3 different height settings in all.
The extra padding and the handlebar hardware contribute to the extra weight of the Techno XT when compared to the Quest, which is just over a pound lighter.
Maclaren Techno XT Summary
The Maclaren Quest and the Maclaren Techno XT are extremely similar.
The Techno XT has extra features that give in the edge for parents of newborns. However, the padding and extendable handlebars will cost you more money. If you are on a budget, you could get the Quest and be fine from birth through toddlerhood, but the extra features on the Techno are worth it if you can afford it for your newborn.
Best Maclaren Umbrella Stroller
Maclaren Volo Stroller
The Maclaren Volo stroller is similar to the other umbrella strollers that you’ve come to know and use (I’d say “know and love,” but we can all agree that umbrella strollers can be a pain!). It’s light and compact with minimal features. But true to style, Maclaren has added just a few things that keep this umbrella stroller feeling like a full-size stroller.
Straightforward and Simple Seat
The Volo stroller doesn’t have a recline feature. Instead, this one-position seat has a mesh fabric that helps it breathe better. The bottom of the seat remains solid and slightly padded for comfort. The entire seat fabric can come off and be washed.
The canopy and hood on the Volo have the same features as the other strollers: a waterproof hood, a zippered mesh extension panel nearest the handlebars, and a pull-out sun visor. Somehow, the visor on this hood seems smaller, which probably contributes to the more compact design and lighter weight. This base model still comes with Maclaren’s premium rain cover.
The aviator harness is still present and can be height adjusted. That’s all the seat has – it’s very simple, but it’s enough for many families to use for travel or occasional outings.
Light and Compact Design
The lightness of the stroller can be attributed to the lovely and sleek aluminum frame. This frame folds down to be compact and small and light. Once folded, there is a small lock that keeps the stroller from popping open. A carrying strap is built in to help with hauling this little stroller around.
The small stroller is great for travel. It is small and lightweight, while still having luxury features, like a large basket for storing items and a linked foot parking brake, that you want.
Maclaren Volo Summary
There’s not much to talk about when it comes to the Volo. This stroller is relatively small while still giving enough space for your baby or toddler (up to 55 pounds). The fold is easy, smooth, and can be done with one hand. I highly recommend this stroller for traveling. At around $100, you can’t afford not to try this simple but effective Maclaren stroller.
Honorable Mention: Maclaren Triumph Stroller
If you like the idea of a simple umbrella stroller but you want more features than the simple and inexpensive Maclaren Volo, then check out the Maclaren Triumph. It’s their perfect middle-of-the-road stroller. It’s not the priciest nor the most fully-featured model, but it has more to offer than the base models.
Here’s what the Triumph stroller offers:
- Lightweight aluminum frame
- Extendable waterproof canopy with mesh panels and an extra visor
- Quick-release aviator-style 5-point safety harness
- Adjustable and reclinable seat
- Padded and washable seat pad with a leg/calf cushion
- Rain cover included
- Comes fully assembled
- Large storage basket
- All-wheel suspension
- Linked rear parking brake
- Small and compact fold with an integrated carrying strap
Best Double Maclaren Stroller
Maclaren Twin Triumph Stroller
Take all of the features that we’ve discussed for Maclaren, and double them. That’s the Maclaren Twin Triumph Stroller. It has everything you want, times two, and it still small and compact.
Individual Comfort, Times Two
Each seat can be adjusted individually. So whether you have picky twins or kids of differing ages, you can get each seat just right. The back of the seat adjusts with a nylon strap and plastic stopping piece. It can’t lay flat, but since this stroller is for babies six months and up, that shouldn’t be an issue.
The seat is fully padded. Not too thick, but enough that your child isn’t sitting on a single-ply nylon sling. The padded calf rest will just add to the overall comfort and will help the edge of the seat from digging into an older child’s thighs.
One of the best features to keep baby comfortable is the hood. It has a sun canopy that looks small at first, but once you lock the sides into place and unzip the extension, it’s so roomy! Plus, the mesh extension provides great airflow during hot months. And if that’s still not enough, you can pop down the extra sun visor for almost total coverage. For baby’s upper half, anyway.
Still Sized Small
Even though this supports two kids with a total 110-pound weight limit, it’s not big and clunky. It only weighs 21 pounds! This matters when you have it folding and you are trying to carry it around.
This stroller is still under 30 inches wide. There are two sides to this coin: it can fit through doorways and doesn’t take up an entire grocery store aisle, but it also only allows about 14 inches of width in each seat. Some kids may feel squished with no room to move, particularly older toddlers.
Easy for Parents to Use
The signature aviator-style buckle really matters here because it can be undone with just one hand. If you want to feel like a total parenting boss, you can pop both buckles on the 5-point harnesses at the same time to release your children into the wild at exactly the same time. It probably won’t work like that in real life (insert flailing and screaming children here), but it’s still a handy feature!
What else will parents love? Here’s a quick list:
- Waterproof hood fabric (and rain cover is even included!)
- Two individual storage baskets on bottom
- All-wheel suspension and easy steering
- Linked brakes
- Easy folding and carrying handle
- NO ASSEMBLY REQUIRED
Maclaren Twin Triumph Summary
This stroller for twins is something special. It’s small and lightweight without feeling too tiny for your two kids. It is honestly the smallest and lightest double umbrella stroller you’ll find without sacrificing all the features you want. One warning: wear closed-toed shoes when you want to use this, as the folding and brakes aren’t exactly flip-flop friendly. Otherwise, the Maclaren Twin Triumph is a 5-star product.
Best Special Needs Maclaren Stroller
Maclaren Major Elite Push Chair
Special needs parents everywhere are rejoicing over the Maclaren Major Elite Push Chair. Finally, a lightweight and somewhat stylish stroller for children with special needs!
The Right Features for Special Needs
A special needs stroller must be different than a regular stroller because the requirements and use are simply different. The Major Elite doesn’t have things like a reclining seat or a large storage basket.
It does have a spacious and comfortable seat. The seat can accommodate a child up to 110 pounds, which gives the Maclaren Major Elite Transport Chair the ability to grow with your child. The seat is padded to keep it comfortable for kiddos who may notice anything uncomfortable.
For parent peace of mind, there is an adjustable 5-point safety harness. While this isn’t the iconic aviator-style buckle found in Maclaren strollers, it’s a secure and easy-to-operate version. The shoulder straps can be moved to one of 4 slots in order to fit your child. The footrest is solid and sized generously. It can be removed for older or larger children that don’t want or need it.
Traditional Umbrella Stroller Fold
While this is a specialty stroller, it still has the fold and function of a regular stroller. It has a lightweight aluminum frame, ergonomically curved handles, and four double-wheels with individual rear brakes. It folds like the umbrella strollers you’ve always used before.
The pushing and steering are also similar to a normal stroller. The front wheels fully swivel to help it turn and move like a stroller. It handles well and many parents are surprised by how sturdy it is, given that it’s only 16 pounds.
Extras Available
This stroller is lacking in one area: storage. If you want to purchase something to help with storage, or any other accessory, check out the following:
- Shopping basket
- Hood
- Raincover
- Lateral supports
- Chest pads
- A cold-weather boot
Maclaren Major Elite Summary
This is a special needs stroller that has the best of both worlds. It has the size and capacity and function of a pushchair, with the slim, light, and foldable design of a stroller. If you need a smaller pushchair for your special needs child, this is a great option for taking out and about and traveling with. However, it does not make a great daily driver because it is on the small and feature-free side.
Comparing Maclaren Strollers
The table below compares only the recommended products on this page. A low or high Price means it is low or high compared to the other products listed. The Popularity Score reflects how often readers click on and buy the product. The Quality Score is our assessment of the overall performance and satisfaction with the product compared to others in the table.
| Maclaren Major Elite Push Chair | 9.9 | 9.2 | - |
| Maclaren Twin Triumph Stroller | 6.1 | 8.4 | - |
| Maclaren Globetrotter Stroller | 3.9 | 8.8 | - |
| Maclaren Volo Stroller | - | 8.2 | - |
| Maclaren Quest Stroller | 8.5 | 9.0 | - |
| Maclaren Techno XT Stroller | 7.8 | 9.0 | - |
| Honorable Mention: Maclaren Triumph Stroller | - | 8.0 | - |
| Maclaren Mark II | - | 8.8 | - |
FAQs – Maclaren Strollers
Are Maclaren strollers ever on sale?
Maclaren strollers don’t come cheap. While many budget-conscious parents will balk at the massive price tag associated with these strollers, you are certainly paying for a name brand with impeccable history and design. Some would daresay that Maclaren strollers are worth their high price.
Finding a Maclaren stroller on sale is not unheard of. Generally speaking, Maclaren stroller can be found on Amazon for less than the list price. This is often the equivalent of finding a Maclaren stroller on sale for up to 30% off when compared to buying directly from Maclaren or buying from another retailer.
Also, be sure to check for a brand-specific Maclaren sale at retailers that carry the brand. Places to look include Walmart, Albee Baby, and BuyBuyBaby (Bed, Bath & Beyond). They may or may not allow the use of coupons, so be sure to check the specific model you are eyeing.
The cheapest Maclaren stroller is going to be a used Maclaren stroller. Check secondhand stores and online re-sale sites (think Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist) for Maclaren strollers. You can get Maclaren strollers on sale for up to 75% off the original retail when buying them used. Just keep an eye on the overall quality and age when buying used.
And don’t forget, you can replace Maclaren parts individually, so if something is broken on a used Maclaren stroller, it can probably be mended.
What are the best accessories for Maclaren strollers?
While Maclaren strollers might seem simple to some, they actually have a lot of features for umbrella strollers! If you want even more from your Maclaren, consider adding on some of the following Maclaren accessories, which are all available from the company itself:
- Maclaren Stroller Bag
- Maclaren Rain Cover
- Maclaren Tray
In addition to all these add-ons, you can always order Maclaren replacement parts direct. From wheels to grips to screws and beyond, you can contact them to get any part you may need.
What is the Maclaren’s Lifetime Warranty?
Maclaren’s Sovereign Lifetime Warranty is the best in the industry. As long as you register your stroller with Maclaren during the first 60 days of owning it, it’ll be covered.
Here’s the gist of their warranty coverage:
If, during your lifetime of use, you find any defect in material or workmanship, or the product should fail to function with proper use and care, we will gladly repair or replace it.
Maclaren has so much faith in their products because of their strict testing and quality assurance process. Their Global Safety Standard helps ensure that each stroller produced is as safe as humanly possible.
Their replacement parts also play a role in their warranty. It’s easy to fix a broken wheel by sending out a new one. A torn canopy can be replaced. Their parts are also covered under the warranty.
Do note that the Maclaren stroller warranty is non-transferable. It also doesn’t apply to normal wear-and-tear.
And if you are wondering if there has been a Maclaren recall, the company has not had to recall a product since 2009. And even then, it was because there was a pinch hazard if your baby had their hands on the stroller when you folded and unfolded it. Dangerous, absolutely, but honestly not the worst product feature we’ve seen!
Why are Maclaren strollers so loved?
Umbrella strollers are a love/hate product – many parents use and love them and many parents avoid them at all costs.
No matter which side of the argument you find yourself on, Maclaren strollers are universally loved. They’ve taken the best of full-size stroller and umbrella strollers and seamlessly integrated them into a quality brand of reliable baby strollers.
Maclaren strollers easily fold up small (they did invent the umbrella stroller fold, after all), they have bigger storage baskets compared to other options on the market, and their light weight just can’t be beat. The canopies are stunning, the aviator buckle is fun and useful, and linked parking brakes are simply the best.
