Stroller Sunshades: What You Should Look For
Babies and toddlers should be protected from direct sun exposure. A suitable sunshade for your stroller or buggy provides shade on the go and, depending on the material and style, can also help protect against UV radiation.
You can choose from options such as stroller sun canopies, stroller parasols, and extendable hoods. Make sure the sunshade fits your stroller, can be flexibly adjusted, and still allows good air circulation. Don't cover the stroller completely with cloths or blankets, as heat can build up underneath.
UV Protection and UPF
For many models, the UPF value indicates how well the material blocks UV radiation. The higher the stated value, the stronger the tested protection. Be sure to check the manufacturer's product information and certifications.
A stroller sunshade doesn't replace other protective measures: avoid intense midday sun whenever possible, and additionally protect uncovered skin with suitable clothing and age-appropriate sun protection.
Types of Stroller Sunshades
Stroller Parasol
The classic among sunshade products is the stroller parasol. It's available in many different designs (round, square, with ruffles) and countless colors, making it easy to find one that matches your stroller. Stroller parasols also come in various sizes. Make sure the parasol is large enough to provide adequate shade — a diameter of at least 70 cm is recommended.
Parasols are usually attached to the stroller frame with a universal clamp, making them suitable for nearly all stroller models.
Parasols need to be readjusted to the position of the sun every time you change direction with the stroller. That's why parasols are usually equipped with a hinge or gooseneck joint at the top, along with an adjustable joint at the mount. This lets you adjust the parasol's position individually. However, wind or bumpy terrain can cause the parasol to shift out of position, requiring readjustment.
Stroller Sun Canopy
The stroller sun canopy is a clever alternative to the parasol. This sunshade attaches quickly and easily between the hood and the handlebar. This way, the sun canopy covers almost the entire open area of the stroller and provides sufficient shade for nearly any position of the sun. The canopy stays in place even in wind or on uneven roads and rarely needs to be readjusted. When not in use, it's simply rolled up over the hood and can stay on the stroller even when it's folded. Due to how it's attached, however, it can only be used on strollers with a rear-facing seat.
Attaching a sun canopy interrupts active air exchange, which can cause warm air to build up inside the stroller. This can lead to your child overheating.
Sunshade Extension
A sunshade extension expands the existing stroller hood, increasing the shaded area inside the stroller. It can be attached quickly and easily to almost any stroller model. Because it fits directly onto the hood, it offers little surface area for wind to catch, so it's easy to use even on windy days. When you no longer need the sunshade extension, simply slide it back onto the hood, where it can stay — even when the stroller is folded — until you need it again.
