Pushchairs - The Swiss Army Knife of Baby Transport
A pushchair can also be referred to as a stroller, buggy or pram. It's the Swiss Army knife of infant transport. From navigating crowded streets to braving rough terrain, these baby-chariots are built to conquer all types of terrain.
A good pushchair offers security and comfort for your child, ease for you, and an opportunity to explore the world together. Find out what to consider when buying one.
Folding
One of the main aspects that a lot of parents look for when choosing a pushchair is how easy it folds. A standout is the EeZeFold that has an incredible one-handed fold that lets you hold your child while folding the buggy, meaning you don't need to move between the two. The buggy is also stable when folded, which means you don't have to be concerned about your child falling out or getting harmed during this process.
Some of the really compact folding pushchairs (like the Babyzen YOYO) are designed to fold so small they can fit into the trunk of your car, which means they're ideal if you're a frequent traveller or have a smaller car boot. Some are small buggies designed for everyday use that have a smaller footprint than the typical pushchair, yet offer decent features such as a comfortable recline or light wheels. They're also typically lightweight enough to be carried on your own and can be used by Grandma or Grandad when needed.
Some pushchairs are able to be used from birth, and they come with a lie-flat seat or carrycot option. They could also be compatible with travel systems and allow you to attach an infant car seat to the frame in a single click.
A lot of compact pushchairs are very compact when folded with the seat attached. They're perfect for those who have limited storage space at home, or who live in apartments. baby pram Push Chairs And Prams and frequently come with a rain cover to protect them from the elements.
The Ergobaby Pivot 360 is another really popular pushchair in this class that is a great choice for travelling as it folds by pressing the button. It's also incredibly light, making it simple to handle on rough surfaces, and comes with excellent suspension. The seat can be rotated to face either the world or towards the parent, and the hood can be extended to provide extra sun protection.
Convertible
A convertible stroller can be altered to meet the requirements of growing families. It can begin as a single stroller, change into a double stroller for siblings, and even a triple stroller with the addition of an additional seat or ride-along boards. Our top pick is the UppaBaby Vista V2, is a multi-functional stroller that converts 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.
Convertible strollers must have adjustable features, such as height and reclining settings. They should also have large handles that are easy to hold, making it easy for dad, mom or grandma to push. Also, since these types of strollers often contain more parts than traditional pushchairs, they should be more stable and less likely to tip over when carrying multiple children or loads of gear.
The Larktale crossover stroller/wagon is a first-of-its-kind that combines a full-featured single stroller with the pull wagon, removing the necessity for parents to purchase separate products. It quickly and easily converts into a single or double stroller without the need for tools or conversion kits. It also offers ample seating options with its second seat and pull handle when it is in wagon mode. The Larktale is more bulky than our other top-rated convertibles however it is a great maneuverability and is able to easily climb uphills. The biggest issue is the limited under-seat storage. Click here for more info.
Safety
A good pushchair should have several safety features, including five-point harnesses for babies. The harness should fit over shoulders and around the waist and also between the legs. It is also essential that the harness doesn't come loose and that it has no areas where a baby could get their fingers stuck.
Select the brake that best suits your lifestyle. A foot brake is the most common and ideal for those who are likely to stop a lot such as when shopping. Many jogger-style pushchairs have a hand brake. This is useful if you will be changing your momentum 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 are stopping and beginning their pushchairs more frequently. It allows you to maintain your balance while still applying the pressure to the wheels.
It is also worth checking whether the pushchair has a lockable front wheel. This can be very helpful for those who live on uneven terrain or steep hills. A lockable front wheel can help stop the pushchair from moving away in a hurry or there is a large amount of luggage in the back.
While it might appear to be a minor issue it is important to consider the weight of the stroller. Even a pushchair that is light can be surprisingly heavy when stuffed with an ever-growing child and shopping bags. Be sure to check the weight of the pushchair and think about whether you'd be capable of lifting it into your car boot and up flights of stairs with a toddler in your arms and juggling a takeaway coffee.
A buggy, pram or pushchair is designed for babies who are able to sit up and is typically used from 6 months. The seat can be positioned to face you or away from you, depending on the preference of your child to connect with you or explore the world. A lot of pushchairs have adjustable seats, handlebars and other accessories.
Comfort
Many parents appreciate the comfort features of pushchairs - and there are plenty to choose from. Some are better suited to urban streets or rough terrain and others aren't. The brake type is another aspect to take into consideration. A foot brake, for instance is the best choice for daily use. A hand brake that is active, found on jogger-style pushchairs is more responsive on an adventure.
One of the most important comfort features is whether or not the pushchair features a fully lie flat position for newborns. Babies need to be in a flat position to help them develop their spine, so it's important to select a stroller that has this feature from the beginning. This will allow your baby to sleep or relax in a comfortable position, allowing for more time outdoors and a more relaxed and healthier child.
It's important to choose a pushchair that's compatible with the car seat for infants you've chosen. This will make it easy to move your child from the car to the pushchair. It will also keep him calm and minimize the amount of fuss.
Some pushchairs feature a smart car seat adaptor that lets you easily fix your chosen car seat to the frame. It is possible to use the seat from birth until toddlerhood and save money and time. Many brands also offer a travel bundles that include a carrycot, baby car seat, adaptors, and a footmuff all in one purchase.
Another essential aspect for comfort is a great suspension - particularly on the front wheels. This can make a huge difference when driving over rough roads or in urban areas, allowing you to navigate bumps and uneven surfaces easily while keeping your baby comfy.
You may also want to consider other practical features, such as a spacious basket (or separate bag) with reclined handles as well as an adjustable seat and a hood that is ventilated. Having all of these features will help you to navigate your way to the city or out in the country and ensure that your child gets the best quality sleep possible for his longest naps.