Pushchairs - The Swiss Army Knife of
Baby TransportA pushchair is also referred to as a stroller, buggy or
pram bag. It's like the Swiss Army knife of infant transport. From navigating busy streets to traversing rough terrain, these baby-chariots are designed to conquer all kinds of terrain.
A good pushchair will provide security and comfort for your baby, convenience for you, and an opportunity to bond and explore the world together. Find out what to consider when purchasing one.
Folding
One of the main features that a lot of parents look for when choosing the best pushchair is how simple it is to fold. The EeZeFold is unique because it features a one-handed 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 is stable when folded, so you don't need to worry about your child getting out.
Some of the most compact folding pushchairs (like the Babyzen YOYO) are designed to fold so compactly that they can be tucked away into the boot of your car, so they're ideal for frequent traveler or have a smaller car boot. Some are compact buggies for use in everyday life that have smaller footprints than typical pushchair, yet provide decent features like recline that is comfortable or light wheels. These buggies are usually lightweight enough to be carried with hand which means that Grandma or Grandad can use them in the event of need.
The majority of these pushchairs are aimed at older babies and toddlers because they can sit upright, but some come with a lie-flat seating option and the option of adding an infant carrycot, making them suitable for babies from the time of birth. They might also be travel system compatible and allow you to attach an infant car seat to the frame with a single click.
Many compact pushchairs are still extremely compact when folded with the seat attached. They're perfect for those who have a limited storage space at home or in apartments. They're also light and usually have a rain cover to protect them from the elements.
The Ergobaby Pivot 360 is another very well-known pushchair in this category that is a great option for traveling as it can fold one-handed with a simple press of one button. It's also incredibly lightweight, making it easy to handle on rough surfaces, and has great suspension. The seat can be rotated to face either the outside world or the
parent facing pram and the hood can also be extended to provide extra sun protection.
Convertible
A convertible stroller changes shape to fit the needs of families growing. It could be an individual stroller that can be transformed into a double stroller to accommodate children, or a triple stroller with the addition of an additional seat. The UppaBaby Vista V2 is our top choice. It's a versatile
babiie stroller that can be transformed to accommodate a car seat, a bassinet for newborns, two toddler seats, or even a third child with adapters.
Convertible strollers must have adjustable features, such as the height and recline settings. They should also have large handles that are easy to hold, making it comfortable for dad, mom or grandma to push. Additionally, because these kinds of strollers typically contain more components than traditional pushchairs, they will be more sturdy 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 fully-featured single stroller with an incline wagon, removing the need for parents to invest in separate products. It converts quickly and effortlessly into a single stroller or double stroller, without the necessity of tools or conversion kits. The second seat and pull handle offer the flexibility of seating when being used as an actual wagon. Although the Larktale is a little heavier than the other top convertibles, it has great maneuverability and maneuvers well over hills. The main drawback is the lack of storage space under the seat. Click here for more info.
Safety
A good pushchair should have a number of safety features like five-point harnesses for baby. The harness should be able to fit over the shoulders and around the waist and also between the legs. It is essential that the harness doesn't fall off, and that there aren't any areas where a child's fingers could get stuck.
There are a variety of different brakes for pushchairs, so choose the one that is most suitable for your needs. The most commonly used brake is a foot brake. It's great when you stop a lot such as when you go to the shops. Many jogger-style pushchairs feature the option of a hand brake. This is helpful if you will be changing your speed frequently, such as when you run. Some pushchairs come with an active handbrake that can activate by pressing a button on the bottom of your foot. This is a great option for parents who need to stop and starting their pushchairs more frequently. It makes it easier to maintain your balance while still applying the pressure to the wheels.
Check if the front wheel of the pushchair can be locked. This is particularly beneficial for those who live in areas with uneven terrain or steep slopes. A front wheel that locks can help to prevent the pushchair from slipping away when you are in a hurry or there is a large amount of baggage in the back.
While it may appear to be a minor issue but you must also think about the weight of the stroller. Even a lightweight pushchair can be surprisingly heavy when loaded up with an expanding child and shopping bags. Take a look at the weight of your pushchair and see whether you can carry it up a flight of stairs and into the trunk of your car, while carrying a toddler.
A pram, buggy or pushchair is designed for babies who are able to sit and can be 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. Many pushchairs have adjustable seating positions, handlebars, and other accessories.
Comfort
Many parents appreciate the convenience features of pushchairs, and there are plenty to choose from. Some are more suitable for rough terrain or city streets but others are not. The brake type is a different aspect to consider. A foot brake, for example, is best suited to everyday use. A hand brake that is active, found on jogger-style pushchairs is more responsive on an adventure.
One of the most important features of comfort is whether or not the pushchair features a fully lie flat position for newborns. Babies need to be in a completely flat position to develop their spines, so it's worth choosing a pushchair that has this feature from the beginning. This will allow your baby to nap or rest in a comfortable position, allowing for more time outdoors and a more relaxed and healthier child.
It is essential to select 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 help keep the child calm and less agitated.
Some pushchairs have a smart car seat adaptor that lets you easily fix your chosen car seat to the frame. The seat can be used from birth to toddlerhood and save time and money. Many brands offer a travel bundle that includes a car seat, a carrycot, and adaptors, along with a footmuff, all in one purchase.
Another important aspect of comfort is a good suspension, especially on the front wheels. This can make a huge difference when driving on rough roads or in city streets, allowing you move over bumps and uneven surfaces easily while keeping your baby comfortable.
You may also want to consider other practical comfort features, such as the capacity of a large basket (or separate bag), reclined handles, an adjustable seat and a hood that is ventilated.