In Depth Baby Product Reviews Led by a Pediatrician

The Best 4 Baby Walkers

We tested the top baby walkers from Radio Flyer, Brio, HABA, Skip Hop, and others to find the best
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Best Baby Walker Review (A fun spring day testing walkers and taking photos of the top baby walkers on the market.)
A fun spring day testing walkers and taking photos of the top baby walkers on the market.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
By Wendy Schmitz ⋅ Senior Research Analyst  ⋅  Nov 4, 2024

The Best Baby Walkers


We tested the top 10 baby walkers to get toddlers moving and grooving. We've carefully researched the market before purchasing worthy contenders for hands-on testing, side-by-side comparisons, and testing with tiny tots. We evaluate key factors like features that capture baby interest, durability, performance, and ease of setup.

The top-performing walker is the KUB Baby & Toddler Push Walker. This useful walker has a wide base, interactive wheel cogs, and a fun ball chute. We like the subtle colors, less overwhelming sounds, and the ability to turn sounds off.

If your little one enjoys more stimulation to stay engaged, the Vtech Sit-to-Stand Learning Walker is a budget-friendly walker that has more buttons and dials to play with than any other. With lights and sounds, the front face of this walker can keep toddlers busy.

As your little ones grow, they'll need different types of gear to keep them busy or soothed. Whether it's a cool balance bike or favorite jumper, we have conducted tests to help you find the best options.

Editor's Note: We updated our baby walker review on November 4, 2024, with new products.

Top 10 Baby Walkers - Test Results

Displaying 1 - 10 (scroll right)
 
Awards Editors' Choice Award
Best Overall Walker
Best Value Award
Best Baby Walker on a Budget
Top Pick Award
Our Favorite Timeless Wagon
 Top Pick Award
Best Grow-With-Me Walker
     
Price $100 List
$89.99 at Amazon
$45 List
$34.99 at Amazon
$90 List
$79.99 at Amazon
$70 List
$67.70 at Amazon
$65 List
$38.99 at Amazon
$30 List
$19.97 at Amazon
$200 List
$179.99 at Amazon
$50 List
$46.03 at Amazon
$60 List
$59.99 at Amazon
$70 List
Overall Score Sort Icon
71
68
65
61
59
59
58
42
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41
Star Rating
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Pros Interactive, wide wheelbase, customizable rolling, quick assemblyDraws baby's interest, adjustable rolling resistance, removable faceplateHigh quality, plastic bumper, non-slip wheelsBattery-free fun, appealing aesthetic, grippy wheelsCargo space, multi-functional, fun sounds and lightsBudget-friendly, flashy featuresNon-toxic materials, sturdy construction, timeless designBright and interesting colors, cute alligator themeAffordable, easy assembly, more durableSuper cute, natural wood
Cons Small storage box, nooks can trap dirt, potential to lose partsLoud and bright, all plastic, difficult to cleanComplicated assembly, plain design, heavyLong assembly time, compact storage compartmentThree-wheel design, long assembly time, low rolling resistanceLower quality, non-adjustable rolling resistance, a lot of flex in the frameLow on entertainment, expensiveMinimally interactive, no cargo space, non-adjustable rolling resistanceExtremely basic, paint may transfer/chipExpensive, lacks features and versatility, harder to set up
Bottom Line Featuring an interactive playboard and thoughtful design, this walker provides entertainment and support for new walkers ready to exploreThis inexpensive and intriguing choice was a tiny tester favorite, but it may get annoying to parentsThis nostalgic throwback is not the most exciting, but it is sturdy, easy to use, and will be useful for yearsThis baby walker provides enjoyable playtime, but be prepared for one of the lengthy assembly timeThis 3-in-1 walker is more versatile than the competition but not great for younger babiesA flimsy but very affordable plastic walker with interactive componentsA top-quality design allows this pushchair to be passed on to future generations but comes with a high price tagEye-catching design, but has some flaws that make it less interesting for young toddlersThis basic wagon walker is easy to use and easy on the wallet but has very few interesting featuresThis walker is undeniably adorable, but lacks versatility and impressive quality
Rating Categories KUB & Toddler Push VTech Sit-to-Stand... Radio Flyer Classic... Radio Flyer Classic... Skip Hop Kids 3-in-1 Fisher-Price Learn... HABA Walker Wagon Melissa & Doug Chom... Brio Toddler Wobbler Janod Crazy Doggy Cart
Features (45%)
7.0
9.0
6.0
7.0
7.0
8.0
3.0
4.0
2.0
4.0
Durability (35%)
7.0
5.0
7.0
6.0
6.0
5.0
8.0
4.0
6.0
4.0
Performance (15%)
7.0
4.0
8.0
5.0
3.0
2.0
8.0
4.0
5.0
4.0
Ease of Setup (5%)
9.0
7.0
3.0
2.0
4.0
4.0
8.0
7.0
9.0
5.0
Specs KUB & Toddler Push VTech Sit-to-Stand... Radio Flyer Classic... Radio Flyer Classic... Skip Hop Kids 3-in-1 Fisher-Price Learn... HABA Walker Wagon Melissa & Doug Chom... Brio Toddler Wobbler Janod Crazy Doggy Cart
Age range 6mo - 18mo 9mo - 3 years 1 - 4 years 1 - 4 years 1 - 3 years 6mo+ 10mo+ 12mo+ 9mo+ 1 - 4 years
Dimensions 18"L x 22"W x 17.5"H 16.5"L x 14.2"W x 18"H 22"L x 15"W x 12"H 16.90"L x 15.75"W x 16.50"H 22.75"L x 13.5"W x 20.5"H 16.5"L x 16"W x 17.5"H 20"L x 13"W x 19.5"H 15"L x 15"W x 11.75"H 12.5"L x 19"W x 6"H 19.3"L x 12.2"W x 17.9"H
Adjustable Rolling Resistance Yes Yes Yes No No No Yes No Yes No
Adjustable Handle No No No No Yes No No No Yes No
Needs Batteries Yes Yes No No Yes Yes No No No No
Material Plastic Plastic Wood, Plastic Wood, Plastic Plastic Plastic Wood, Water-based Stain Wood FSC Certified Wood, Metal Handlebar Wood
Assembly Time 5:23 min:sec 3:56 min:sec 15:41 min:sec 25:01 min:sec 6:11 min:sec 5:35 min:sec 3:14 min:sec 3:20 min:sec 3:03 min:sec 4:32 min:sec


Best Overall Walker


KUB Baby & Toddler Push Walker


71
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Features 7.0
  • Durability 7.0
  • Performance 7.0
  • Ease of Setup 9.0
REASONS TO BUY
Engaging
Quick setup
Stable design
Rounded corners
REASONS TO AVOID
Small storage box
Nooks and crannies to clean
SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions 18"L x 22"W x 17.5"H
Age range 6mo - 18mo
Adjustable Rolling Resistance Yes
Adjustable Handle No
Needs Batteries Yes
Putting things in and taking them out - it's a classic game that most babies enjoy. The KUB Baby & Toddler Push Walker perfectly caters to this type of play with its interactive and engaging playboard that keeps little ones busy. We think the ball goal game is a standout feature, and the magnetic shapes, rotating gears, and moveable beads were fun for kids during testing. All of these activities encourage hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills. Sound and tunes keep the excitement going, and we think parents will appreciate that there's an on/off switch with two volume levels. The wide rear wheelbase design adds stability, and the plastic wheels feature a non-slip strip for extra grip to help prevent accidental spills when walking is wonky in the beginning. In our tests, the brake/lock button was beneficial for slowing down the rear wheels, making it easier for early walkers to get their footing. The wheels rotate freely when unlocked, allowing toddlers to walk and roll a little faster. A bonus is that assembly is a breeze; one tester noted, “I love how easy it is to assemble. I was done in no time!

Unlike the Radio Flyer Classic Walker Wagon, which offers ample storage for toys, the KUB has a button-operated storage box that is limited in size and may not accommodate larger items. Parents will also need to keep a close eye on the balls and magnetic shapes, as these can easily roll away or get misplaced during playtime. Alternatively, the VTech Sit-to-Stand keeps most of its engagement securely attached, so there is less chance of losing parts. However, it is loud, and there is a lot going on that can be annoying to parents over time. Also, the nooks and crannies, including the ball goal game, can collect dirt and debris, but the plastic construction does make wiping it down easier. Despite these considerations, the KUB stands out for its solid functionality and engaging design. It's a fun, sturdy baby walker that will likely delight most babies and toddlers ready to play and move.

The KUB walker features several activities that engage little ones. You'll need to keep an eye on the balls and magnetic shapes to avoid losing them over time.
Credit: Molly Bradac

Best Baby Walker on a Budget


VTech Sit-to-Stand Learning Walker


68
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Features 9.0
  • Durability 5.0
  • Performance 4.0
  • Ease of Setup 7.0
REASONS TO BUY
Super interactive
Removable activity center
Affordable
REASONS TO AVOID
Annoying sounds
Crevices to clean
SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions 16.5"L x 14.2"W x 18"H
Age range 9mo - 3 years
Adjustable Rolling Resistance Yes
Adjustable Handle No
Needs Batteries Yes
The VTech Sit-to-Stand Learning Walker is an affordable, ultra-interactive baby entertainment machine. With all the bells, whistles, lights, and buttons you can think of, this walker does almost everything but make fries (only kidding). It does draw toddlers' attention and keeps it longer than other contenders, which could be a lifesaver if you're a busy parent who needs a breather. This walker was a baby favorite in our tests with the removable faceplate and melodies with adjustable volume. We appreciate that the wheels are slip-resistant, and it has an adjustable brake to limit the speed at which your baby can travel.

This walker is made entirely of plastic, but it does feel studier than some thinner plastic competition. We suspect the noises and lights will grow wearisome over time, and some parents will long for a quieter playtime. As one tester remarked, “Thank goodness you can turn the volume on this down or off.” However, this may frustrate little ones who fancy the constant noise. If you're looking for something quieter, fun, and durable, the Radio Flyer Classic Walker Wagon is a wooden option that encourages imaginative play and creativity without relying on electronic features and sounds. Nonetheless, we think most babies will likely enjoy the VTech, even if parents long for a more nostalgic (and quieter) option.

baby walker - whether pushing or playing, testers were drawn to the v-tech and its...
Whether pushing or playing, testers were drawn to the V-Tech and its bright colors and interactive design.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Our Favorite Timeless Wagon


Radio Flyer Classic Walker Wagon


65
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Features 6.0
  • Durability 7.0
  • Performance 8.0
  • Ease of Setup 3.0
REASONS TO BUY
Durable construction
Slowing brake
Fun design
REASONS TO AVOID
Clacking sound with the brake
Potential assembly woes
SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions 22"L x 15"W x 12"H
Age range 1 - 4 years
Adjustable Rolling Resistance Yes
Adjustable Handle No
Needs Batteries No
The nostalgic look of the Radio Flyer Classic Walker Wagon harkens back to a simpler time and is part of what makes this walker so attractive. The Radio Flyer is sturdy and thoughtfully designed, with ample room for all of your baby's treasures or a sibling to share in the fun. The wood-slatted sides are removable, and the front has a plastic bumper to prevent damage to your walls or furniture, which we appreciated during testing as toddlers often made contact with walls and furniture. We love the look and feel of this primarily wood option, and the design seems like one your child can use well past toddling time. This walker includes a resistance tensioner that limits the forward movement of the wheels. You can adjust this tensioner as your child masters walking, and the wheels are foam-filled plastic with no discernable slipping problems in our tests.

While the Radio Flyer has some attractive features, it lacks the high level of interactivity found in the VTech Sit-to-Stand, which offers sounds, lights, and activities. If you like the idea of interactive but loathe the idea of another noise maker, the Radio Flyer Classic Push & Play is a wood walker with a versatile playboard. The assembly process for this wagon involves several parts and steps, taking longer than most of the competition. However, it's not complicated if you follow the instructions, unlike the Push & Play where making mistakes is often unfixable. If you like building, you might even enjoy putting this wagon together. Also, we noticed that the pusher makes an audible clicking noise when you use the tensioner. This sound will likely intrigue little ones, but parent testers remarked, “The sound is annoying; why would they design it this way?”. As your child masters walking, you can remove the tension and stop the clicking. We believe little ones will use this wagon to move and store toys for years after they learn to walk, making it a valuable and fun addition they'll use for years.

baby walker - the flyer is sturdy and stable, making it an excellent walking...
The Flyer is sturdy and stable, making it an excellent walking companion with ample room for all your treasures.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Best Grow-With-Me Walker


Skip Hop Kids 3-in-1


59
OVERALL
SCORE
  • Features 7.0
  • Durability 6.0
  • Performance 3.0
  • Ease of Setup 4.0
REASONS TO BUY
Fun-filled design
3-in-1 functionality
Convertible storage bin
REASONS TO AVOID
Learning curve
Assembly
SPECIFICATIONS
Dimensions 22.75"L x 13.5"W x 20.5"H
Age range 1 - 3 years
Adjustable Rolling Resistance No
Adjustable Handle Yes
Needs Batteries Yes
The stylish Skip Hop Kids 3-in-1 is a versatile walker designed to adapt as your child grows, providing great value over time. It starts as a push walker with a handy carry bin for transporting treasures while your little one learns to stand and walk. During testing, toddlers love putting items in the bin and moving them from place to place. Next, it transforms into a sit-on scooter, perfect for tooling around like they're exploring the Italian countryside or just rolling through the living room. Only the HABA Walker Wagon also allows for riding on in this lineup. This is something siblings might enjoy by helping one another get from A to B. Finally, it becomes a standing scooter for older kids who are ready to roll a little faster. It also features a working headlight, sound effects, and melodies, making this 3-in-1 walker even more exciting.

With an age range of 1-4 years, the Skip Hop walker may not be the best fit for first-time standers or toddlers still developing their coordination. Parents should note the one-year lower limit, as younger babies might tip over when pushing on the handlebar while dismounting the seat. Some children may struggle to transition between different modes, requiring additional parental guidance, and this could be frustrating as they attempt skills beyond their developmental stage. In contrast, the KUB Baby & Toddler Push Walker features a wide wheelbase that provides added stability for early walkers. While the parts on the Skip Hop are easy to install, one tester noted, “Make sure to follow the directions carefully; otherwise, you might end up installing everything multiple times.” No tools are needed unless you have to take it apart due to a misstep. Overall, we think parents and kids will enjoy this unique baby walker for its versatility and fun long past the toddler years.

baby walker - little testers enjoyed the versatility of this 3-in-1 product.
Little testers enjoyed the versatility of this 3-in-1 product.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Compare Products

select up to 5 products to compare
Score Product Price
71
KUB Baby & Toddler Push Walker
Best Overall Walker
$100
Editors' Choice Award
68
VTech Sit-to-Stand Learning Walker
Best Baby Walker on a Budget
$45
Best Value Award
65
Radio Flyer Classic Walker Wagon
Our Favorite Timeless Wagon
$90
Top Pick Award
61
Radio Flyer Classic Push & Play
$70
59
Skip Hop Kids 3-in-1
Best Grow-With-Me Walker
$65
Top Pick Award
59
Fisher-Price Learn with Me Zebra Walker
$30
58
HABA Walker Wagon
$200
42
Melissa & Doug Chomp & Clack Alligator
$50
42
Brio Toddler Wobbler
$60
41
Janod Crazy Doggy Cart
$70

baby walker - little ones pushing the dog walker look almost too adorable.
Little ones pushing the Dog Walker look almost too adorable.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

How We Test Baby Walkers


We researched more than 20 potential contenders for our review of baby walkers. We focused on popular and well-regarded options combining engaging features with aspects parents might want, like natural materials, longevity, and entertainment value. We gathered our chosen options and let little ones have free access to the products, observing which options they preferred and why. We also considered metrics like quality, ease of use, features, and more when assigning high-ranking options and award winners. Toddlers have opinions and are not afraid to share them, so we considered their views when scoring products because adults can be boring, but toddlers rarely are.

baby walker - the haba has a classic design you'll want to pass down to future...
The HABA has a classic design you'll want to pass down to future generations.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Why Trust GearLab


Our BabyGearLab team has assembled and tested baby gear with over 20 years of combined experience. This review team includes Abriah Wofford, Senior Review Editor, who was responsible for the product selection, testing, and assessing baby engagement with each walker. Abriah is one of 7 siblings and has extensive experience as a nanny and tester of baby gear. Assembly master Bob Wofford, Senior Review Analyst and father of seven, put together each walker and scored products with a keen eye for quality, durability, and longevity. Bob has been assembling baby gear for over eight years and has assembled more equipment than just about anyone. Wendy Schmitz, Senior Review Editor and mother of two, rounds out the team helping to assess the award winners and product ranks using the test data and her seven years of experience as a guide.

baby walker - the haba offers impressive attention to detail using real wood and...
The HABA offers impressive attention to detail using real wood and screws for a finished product that feels like it will last for generations.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Analysis and Test Results


For this review, we purchased and tested top baby walkers to determine the best options for specific goals and budgets. We used each walker with little ones of different ages to assess interest, quality, and ease of assembly.


What's the Best Value?


You don't have to spend a fortune to get your baby on their feet. Budget-conscious parents might appreciate the VTech Sit-to-Stand Learning Walker. This affordable option has tons of features that keep babies and toddlers entertained. Plus, it provides the support they need as they're learning to walk. We think it's a practical investment without the hefty price tag. Now, if you prioritize wood materials and craftsmanship, you may be interested in the HABA Walker Wagon. It's crafted from top-quality materials that will last through multiple children and generations. We consider it a good value due to the potentially long life or ability to be used with multiple children or to sell. But it's one of the most expensive baby walkers in our review. For a solid middle ground, the Radio Flyer Classic Walker Wagon offers sturdy construction and materials without going overboard on price. Plus, it's great for those who prefer toys with less plastic. Ultimately, we think there's a baby walker in our lineup that will fit your needs, preferences, and budget.

The Radio Flyer Push & Play offers convenient, battery-free entertainment with its engaging play board and built-in storage for small treasures.
Credit: Molly Bradac

Features


Play features on a walker can grab your baby's attention and keep their minds entertained and engaged. The walkers in our lineup cover the full range, some with only wheels and handles and others with a full-on panel of buttons, switches, and fun songs.


As expected, tots like sounds, lights, and bright colors. So, to no surprise, our little testers made a beeline to the plastic walkers with interactive features like the VTech Sit-to-Stand Learning Walker and the Fisher-Price Learn with Me Zebra Walker, two products with higher scores in this metric.

The V-Tech was definitely a fan favorite of our little testers with...
The V-Tech was definitely a fan favorite of our little testers with a variety of sounds and lights to keep children engaged.
While a baby zebra is adorable, this Fisher-Price walker isn't the...
While a baby zebra is adorable, this Fisher-Price walker isn't the best quality, and it moves pretty quickly for newer walkers.

Over time, they preferred the VTech as it has more going on and seems to respond to touch more than the Learn with Me. However, parents and caregivers might not be interested in hearing repetitive sounds that often continue to play when no one is near the walker. This reality could mean you'd prefer something quieter, but you still want the walker to be exciting and interactive.

The ball goal game is entertaining and beneficial for child development, helping with hand-eye coordination and motor skills.
Credit: Molly Bradac

The KUB Baby & Toddler features a sound-making ball goal, which is a top feature, plus magnetic shapes, rotating gears, music, and a sliding bee with clicking sounds. While the button-operated storage box is limited in space, making it tricky for younger hands, the walker's interactive elements more than make up for it. Just remember that it requires 3 AA batteries (not included) for operation, which you can omit for silent operation.

Walker Play Features
 Lights/SoundsCarry ItemsRide-onHand Eye
Kub
VTech
Radio Flyer Wagon
Skip Hop
HABA

The bucket/seat on the Skip Hop Kids 3-in-1 makes this walker more versatile. Children can use it as a bucket, a place to sit, a carrying device, and more. The cute design of the scooter offers more versatility than any other walker in the group.

The Radio Flyer Classic Push and Play has a small compartment on the back for stowing treasures, as kids are want to do.
Credit: Molly Bradac

The Brio Toddler Wobbler is a rather dull option, followed by the HABA and the Janod Crazy Doggy Cart. The Brio has a simple U-shaped handle attached to a bright red cargo box, but this walker offers no enticing activities.

baby walker - the haba is beautifully crafted and features sturdy wooden...
The HABA is beautifully crafted and features sturdy wooden construction.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Durability


A durable baby walker should withstand everyday play, including bumps, spills, and the occasional tumble. This allows it to withstand years of use and can ideally be shared among multiple children. For this metric, we considered several factors that contribute to durability.


First, sturdy materials that resist wear and tear over time. Second, material maintenance. Will the baby walker be easy to clean and maintain in good condition? The lineup includes walkers of varying materials and quality. During testing, we didn't have any trouble with quality perse; our kits came ready to assemble with holes in the right spots and functional screws, and none of the walkers broke or failed during testing.

A high-quality wooden baby walker can last a long time. Some options in our lineup, like the HABA Walker, are incredibly well-built with excellent attention to detail and non-toxic materials. We also love the Radio Flyer Classic Walker Wagon for its sturdy construction. However, since wood is porous, spills or moisture can cause damage. Wiping down surfaces quickly after any spills can help prevent this issue. With proper care, these wooden walkers have the potential to remain a family favorite well past the toddling phase, and their quality suggests they will last as long as you need them.

The wood slats on the side of the Radio Flyer are easily removable...
The wood slats on the side of the Radio Flyer are easily removable, but the initial assembly of this product is fairly involved and includes many parts.
The Brio is a straightforward, minimalistic walker with a no-frills...
The Brio is a straightforward, minimalistic walker with a no-frills design. Its tension adjustment helps maintain a suitable pace for little ones.

The Brio impressed us with varying levels of real wood construction, chipless paint, and attention to detail, such as rubber on the wheels, brakes, and resistance devices that help keep your baby moving at a reasonable and safer pace. This product feels like it will last through multiple children.

baby walker - the plastic on the fisher-price is thin and flexes when little ones...
The plastic on the Fisher-Price is thin and flexes when little ones push on it to support themselves.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Some parents prefer sturdy plastic options because they can be more durable and moisture-resistant than wood. Plastic is also easy to clean. However, not all plastic walkers are created equal; some are flimsy and have rough edges and crevices that can trap spit-up and snacks. The Fisher-Price Learn with Me Zebra Walker has thin plastic that flexes when pushed on and feels like it might break under regular use. In contrast, the VTech Sit-to-Stand walker and the Kub feel significantly sturdier and better constructed.

baby walker - while our clack & chomp walker came with all the right parts and...
While our Clack & Chomp walker came with all the right parts and did not break during testing, some reviewers report that parts break off easily and the paint frequently chips.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Performance


All the walkers we tested adhere to safety regulations, but some offer features that enhance usability for your baby. We appreciate those with adjustable rolling resistance, which allows you to control how quickly the pushcart moves. You don't want it to move too quickly for a new walker to keep up.


The HABA Walker Wagon stands out with its thoughtful design elements. Its wheels have a non-slip silicone coating, adjustable rolling resistance, sturdy construction, and a handle extending from the center rather than the edge. This design creates a more stable structure for your baby to pull themselves upon, reducing the risk of tipping.

The KUB has a wide rear wheelbase for added stability, and each plastic wheel has a non-slip strip for added grip. The brake/lock button allows parents to slow down the rear wheels. While some competitors have higher-quality wheels, we appreciate that these useful features enhance the KUB's usability.

Walker Performance Features
 Adjust ResistanceAdjust HandleBatteries
Kub
VTech
Radio Flyer Wagon
Skip Hop
HABA

In contrast, the Fisher-Price Learn with Me Zebra Walker falls short in performance. The frame is flimsy and flexes under pressure. Additionally, the wheels are made of hard plastic and may slip on hard surfaces. Some parents have noted that it rolls too quickly for new walkers, and it lacks adjustable rolling resistance or grip on the wheels. Similarly, the Skip Hop 3-in-1 doesn't rank well in this metric due to a few factors contributing to its lower score. Although it's designed for children aged 1-4 years, the three-wheel design can be less stable, especially as little ones navigate different surfaces. This is something parents should keep in mind, especially since there's no adjustable rolling resistance.

Assembling the Push & Play was quite time-consuming, and the directions required careful attention to avoid mistakes.
Credit: Molly Bradac

Ease of Setup


Some people enjoy assembling products, while others find it about as exciting as watching paint dry. We evaluated each product's ease of assembly during our testing, considering everything from unboxing to full setup. This includes the number of parts and tools needed, how easy the instructions are to read and follow, and the overall assembly time.


Our tests show that some options are straightforward and manageable, while others can turn into a not-so-fun adventure. While assembly is usually a one-time task and perhaps won't make or break your walker choice, it's certainly a factor to consider because no one wants this task to turn into a hassle.

One of the most time-consuming contenders to assemble is the Radio Flyer Classic Push & Play. The setup felt more like running a marathon, taking significantly longer than other options. You really have to concentrate on the instruction photos, which can be tough if you're distracted by dinner simmering on the stove or a hundred other things.

baby walker - the red caps are one-way parts, and if the push & play wheels...
The red caps are one-way parts, and if the Push & Play wheels are installed incorrectly, you won't be able to redo this step. That's why paying close attention to the directions during assembly is essential.
Credit: Molly Bradac

During testing, we accidentally attached the wheels with the insides facing out, and if you don't catch that mistake before hammering on the plastic red caps, which are one-way parts, there's no turning back. You end up with a product that's essentially unusable, and you'll have to buy a new one. That's exactly what happened to us. We succeeded in assembling this product on our second attempt, but we had to wait for the new one to arrive. While not everyone will run into this hiccup, our advice is to keep your eye on the details in the instruction manual and avoid distractions during assembly.

The Radio Flyer has more parts to assemble than any of the...
The Radio Flyer has more parts to assemble than any of the competition.
The Skip Hop has only a few parts to assemble, but it's not...
The Skip Hop has only a few parts to assemble, but it's not intuitive, and we recommend following the instructions.

The Radio Flyer Walker Wagon scores low for ease of setup. While the instructions are helpful, it feels like you built a kit instead of putting together a toy. Luckily, it is a one-time project, and it's unlikely you'll need to make it twice. The Fisher-Price Zebra caused some trouble with several parts and screws. While it's not hard to accomplish, your hands and arms will likely get tired. We recommend carefully following the Skip Hop Kids 3-in-1 instructions, as it is not intuitive to assemble. If done incorrectly or out of order, it will not work, and you'll end up doubling your efforts. Some of the easiest walkers to assemble are the Brio and KUB Baby & Toddler Push Walker, as these products have fewer parts and screws.

baby walker - the brio walker is easy to assemble with few parts and a somewhat...
The Brio walker is easy to assemble with few parts and a somewhat intuitive design.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

A relatively universal issue with many walkers in our review is the exceptionally long screws that take forever to turn and result in a tired hand and forearm. We aren't convinced they need to be this long, which significantly extended some products' assembly time. Some users report trouble during setup with misaligned holes or faulty screws, specifically with the Chomp & Clack Alligator. So, we recommend putting your walker together immediately to see if you need to return it for any reason.

The Kub has several interactive features to keep little ones entertained and help them work on hand-eye coordination skills as they grow.
Credit: Molly Bradac

How to Choose a Baby Walker


Choosing a baby walker can be fun, as they are full of activities and things to explore. We purposefully did not choose any sit-in walkers because they are inherently potentially dangerous. Little ones can end up taking a tumble downstairs or having similar issues. We recommend choosing those that are stand-alone and do not confine a child inside.

Materials


The walkers come in wood or plastic. Both have advantages and disadvantages, but many people have preferences. You can narrow the field quickly by deciding which material is best for you. The wood options tend to be very durable and limit your child's exposure to plastic. The plastic options are lighter in weight and tend to cost less, and they have electronic features that light up or make noise.

Electronics and Features


Speaking of electronics, some of the walkers have lights and sounds. These features are really exciting for toddlers, and most enjoy them. However, most parents do not. Even sounds that seem acceptable in the store or the first time you hear them can easily grow annoying over time. So give it a good thought before making your purchase. Alternatively, walkers with more engaging activities will get used more often and considering features that work to improve hand-eye coordination or allow little ones to move toys from place to place is a good bet.

baby walker - a baby walker can be a useful and enjoyable piece of gear for little...
A baby walker can be a useful and enjoyable piece of gear for little ones learning to walk and beyond.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Conclusion


Finding the perfect baby walker can take time, especially with so many options flooding the market. Testing baby walkers and collecting honest feedback from our tiny testers on exciting or boring features is more fun than we should probably have at work. We are confident that there is something for everyone in our lineup of baby walkers. Whether you're seeking a timeless product to pass down or a product loaded with all the bells and whistles, our review includes important details and information to guide you in making the best choice for you and your budget.

Wendy Schmitz