Pushchairs - The Swiss Army Knife of Baby Transport

A pushchair, also referred to as a pram, buggy or stroller, is the Swiss army knife of baby transport. From navigating crowded streets to navigating rough terrain, these baby-chariots have been built to conquer all types of terrain.

A good pushchair will offer comfort and safety to your child, convenience to you, and a chance for you both to bond and explore together. Read on to find out what to look for when choosing one.

Folding

One of the most important characteristics that many parents are looking for when selecting the best pushchair is how simple it is to fold. The EeZeFold is a standout because it comes with a single-hand fold that allows you to hold your baby while folding the buggy. This means that you don't have to balance the two. The buggy stays upright when folded, meaning you don't need to be concerned about your child slipping out.

Some of the really compact folding pushchairs (like the Babyzen YOYO) are designed to fold so compactly that they can be tucked away in the trunk of your car, so they're perfect if you're a frequent traveler or have a tiny car boot. Others are day-to-day buggies that require less of space than the average pushchair, but have good features such as a great recline and lightweight wheels. They're also generally light enough to carry by hand, and therefore can be used by Grandma or Grandad in case they need to.

Some pushchairs are able to be used from birth, and they come with a lie-flat seat or carrycot option. Some are travel system compatible so you can attach a car seat for your infant with just one click.

Many compact travel stroller pushchairs are very compact when folded with the seat attached. They're perfect for those who have a limited storage space at home, or who live in apartments. They're also light and usually come with a rain cover to protect them from the elements.

The Ergobaby Pivot 360, another popular pushchair from this category is foldable with one hand by pressing the button. It's great to travel with because it's easy to fold. It's also extremely light, making it easy to handle on rough surfaces, and has great suspension. The seat can be rotated to face either the world or towards the parent, and the hood can also be extended to offer additional sun protection.

Convertible

A convertible stroller changes shape to fit the needs of growing families. It can start as an individual stroller, then transform into a double stroller for siblings and even a triple stroller by the addition of an additional seat or ride-along board. Our top pick is the UppaBaby Vista V2, is a stroller that can be used as a single or double. It can be converted to accommodate a bassinet, car seat for infants as well as one or two toddler seats and even an additional child through the use of adapters.

In addition to changing shape to accommodate different configurations convertible strollers should also have adjustable features, such as height and reclining. They should also come with large handles that are easy to hold, making it comfortable for dad, mom or grandma to push. And because these types of strollers often contain more parts than traditional pushchairs, they will be more stable and less likely to tip over when carrying multiple children or loads of equipment.

The Larktale crossover stroller/wagon is a first-of-its-kind that combines a full-featured single stroller with an incline wagon, removing the need for parents to purchase separate products. It can be converted quickly and effortlessly into a single stroller or double stroller without the need for tools or conversion kits. The second seat and pull handle provide the flexibility of seating when used as a wagon. While the Larktale is a little heavier than our other top convertibles, it has great maneuverability and maneuvers well over hills. The biggest issue is the limited storage under the seat. Click here for more info.

Safety

A well-constructed pushchair should have many safety features, including five-point harnesses for the baby. The harness should fit over the shoulders and around the waist as well as between the legs. It is also important that the harness doesn't become loose and that it has no areas where a baby may get their fingers stuck.

There are a number of different pushchair brakes to choose from, so pick the one that is most suitable for your lifestyle. The most common brake is one that is a foot brake. It's great if you stop a lot, Parent Facing Pram like when you go shopping. A lot of jogger-style pushchairs come with a hand brake. This is helpful in situations where you have to change your speed often, like when you run. Some pushchairs come with an active hand brake that operates by pressing a pedal with your foot. This is a good choice for parents who need to stop and starting their pushchairs more often. It helps to stay in your position while still applying the pressure to the wheels.

Examine if the front wheel of the pushchair can be locked. This is especially useful for those who live in areas with steep slopes or uneven terrain. A lockable wheel on the front can stop the pushchair from slipping away if you are in a rush or have a lot of luggage in the rear.

Although it may seem like a minor consideration however, the weight of the pushchair is something to keep in mind. Even a pushchair that is light can be quite heavy when stuffed with a growing child and shopping bags. Take a look at the weight of your pushchair and see whether you are able to lift it up stairs and into the boot of your car, while carrying the toddler.

Buggy or pram stores near me are designed for infants who can sit up. They are generally used after 6 months. The seat can be positioned towards you or away from you, depending on how much you want your child to bond with you or explore the world. Many pushchairs come with adjustable handlebars, seat positions and other accessories.

Comfort

Many parents appreciate the comfort of pushchairs - and there are many to pick from. Some are better suited for urban streets or rough terrain but others are not. The brake type is another factor to consider. For instance, a hand brake is great for daily use, whereas an active hand brake found on pushchairs with joggers can be more responsive and easy to operate when out on adventures.

The capacity of your pushchair to allow newborns to lie flat is among its most crucial features. Babies need to be in a flat position to develop their spine, so it's important to select a stroller with this feature right from the start. This will give your baby a peaceful nap or a rest, allowing for longer outdoor excursions and a healthier, happier child.

It's important to choose a pushchair that is compatible with the infant car seat you have chosen. This will make it easier to move your child from the car to the pushchair. It will also keep him calm and reduce fuss.

Some pushchairs have a smart car seat adaptor that allows you to easily fix your chosen car seat to the frame. It is possible to use the seat from birth until toddlerhood and save time and money. Many brands offer a bundle which includes a baby car seat, a carrycot, and adaptors, as well as an infant footmuff, all in one purchase.

Another crucial comfort feature is a great suspension - particularly on the front wheels. This can make a significant difference when driving over rough roads or urban streets, allowing you to navigate bumps and uneven surface with ease while keeping the baby in a comfortable position.

Other useful comfort features you might want to check for include a large shopping basket (or even an additional bag) as well as a adjustable handle bar that can recline, adjustable seat position and ventilated hood. All of these features will assist you navigate your way to the city or Pushchair Stroller out in the country, and ensure your child gets the best possible sleep for the longest nap possible.