Pushchairs - The Swiss Army Knife of Baby Transport

A pushchair can also be referred to as a buggy, stroller or pram. It's like the Swiss Army knife of baby transportation. From navigating crowded streets to braving rough terrain, these baby-chariots have been built to conquer all types of terrain.

A quality pushchair provides security and comfort for your baby, convenience for you, and an opportunity to explore the world together. Find out what you should consider when purchasing one.

folding pushchair

When selecting a stroller, parents are often concerned about the ease to fold it. A standout is the EeZeFold which features an incredible one-handed fold which allows you to hold your child while folding the buggy. This means you don't have to juggle between the two. The buggy also stays standing when folded, so you don't have to worry about the child falling out or getting harmed during this process.

Some of the smaller folding pushchairs (like the Babyzen YOYO) are designed to fold so compactly that they can fit into the trunk of your car, so they're ideal for frequent traveller or have a small car boot. Some are small buggies designed for use in everyday life that have smaller footprints than average pushchair, but still offer decent features such as a good recline or lightweight wheels. They're also typically lightweight enough to be carried on your own and can be used by Grandma or Grandad if needed.

The majority of these pushchairs are aimed towards toddlers and older infants since they can sit up, but some offer a lie-flat seat and the option to add a carrycot to make them suitable for babies from the time of birth. They may also be travel system compatible which means you can connect an infant car seat to the frame in a single click.

Many compact pushchairs are still very compact travel stroller when folded with the seat attached. They're great for people who have a limited storage space at home or live in apartments. They're also lightweight and frequently have an umbrella to shield them from the elements.

The Ergobaby Pivot 360 is another really well-known pushchair in this category, which is an ideal option for travel because it can fold one-handed by simply pressing the button. It's also extremely lightweight stroller, making it easy to maneuver on rough surfaces, and comes with excellent suspension. The seat can be turned to face either the world or the parent and the hood can be extended to offer additional sun protection.

Convertible

A convertible stroller travel can be modified to meet the needs of families that are growing. It can begin as an individual stroller, then transform into a double stroller for children and even turn into a triple stroller with the addition of a third seat or ride-along board. Our top pick, the UppaBaby Vista V2, is a stroller that can be used as a single or double. It converts to accommodate a bassinet or car seat for infants and toddlers, as well as two toddler seats and a third child by the use of adapters.

Convertible strollers must have adjustable features, such as the height and recline settings. They should also have large, easy-to-grip handles that are comfortable for dads, moms or grandmas to push. Also, since these types of strollers typically have more parts than traditional pushchairs, they will be more stable and less likely to tip over when carrying a number of children or loads of equipment.

Larktale's cross-over stroller/wagon, the first of its kind that includes a single stroller travel and a wagon. Parents do not need to purchase separate items. It can be converted quickly and easily to a single stroller or a double stroller without the necessity of tools or conversion kits. The second seat and pull handle provide ample seating space when used as a wagon. Although the Larktale is a bit bulkier than the other top-rated convertibles has great maneuverability and maneuvers well over hills. The biggest issue is the lack of storage space under the seat. Click here for more details.

Safety

A well-constructed pushchair should have numerous safety features, such as a five-point harness for the baby. The harness should be able to fit over shoulders and around the waist and also between the legs. It is also essential that the harness doesn't come out of its place and that there are no areas where a child may get their fingers stuck.

Select the brake that best suits your lifestyle. The most common brake is one that is a foot brake. It's great if you have to stop frequently, like when you go shopping. A lot of jogger-style pushchairs come with a hand brake. This is helpful if you will be changing your momentum frequently, for example when running. Some pushchairs have an active hand brake which operates by pressing a pedal with your foot. This is a good option for parents who are stopping and beginning their pushchairs more frequently. It makes it easier 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 front wheel lockable can prevent the pushchair from slipping away when you are in a hurry or there is a large amount of luggage in the back.

While it may seem like a minor consideration, you should also consider the weight of the stroller. Even a light pushchair can be quite heavy when stuffed with a growing infant and shopping bags. Make sure you know the weight of the item and consider whether you would be able to lift it into your car boot and up flights of stairs while holding a toddler and juggling a cup of coffee from a takeaway.

A pram, buggy or pushchair is made for babies who are able to sit up and is typically used from six months. The seat can be placed to face you or away from you, depending on how much you want your child to connect with you or explore the world. Many pushchairs come with adjustable seats, handlebars and other accessories.

Comfort

There are many pushchairs with features that are comfortable for parents. Some are better suited for urban streets or rough terrain, while others are not. The type of brake is a different aspect to consider. A foot brake, for example, is best suited to daily use. An active hand brake, found on jogger-style pushchairs is more responsive when on an adventure.

One of the most important comfort features is whether or not the pushchair is able to lie completely flat position for infants. It's important to choose an infant pushchair with this feature right from birth. This will allow your baby to develop their spine into a straight position. This will give your baby a relaxing nap or a rest, allowing the ideal choice for more extended outdoor adventures and a healthier, happier child.

It is crucial to select the right pushchair with the infant car seat you've chosen. This will make it easy to move your child from the car to the pushchair. It will also help keep the child calm and less agitated.

Some pushchairs have a smart car seat adaptor that lets you easily attach your car seat to the frame. You can use the seat from birth until toddlerhood, and save time and money. Many brands offer a travel package which includes a baby car seat, a carrycot and adaptors, as well as an infant footmuff, all in one purchase.

Another essential aspect for comfort is a good suspension, especially on the front wheels. This can make all the difference when driving on rough roads or urban terrain, allowing you to navigate bumps and uneven surfaces easily while keeping your baby comfy.

Other practical comfort features that you might want to check for include a spacious shopping basket (or even a separate bag), the reclining handle bar, an adjustable seat, and a the hood that is ventilated. These features will help you navigate through the city or country and ensure that your child gets the best sleep possible for his longest naps.