Pushchairs - The Swiss Army Knife of Baby Transport

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

A quality pushchair will provide security and comfort for your baby, ease for you, and the chance for you both to explore and bond. Find out what to look for when selecting one.

Folding

One of the key aspects that a lot of parents are looking for when they choose a buggy is how easy it folds. The EeZeFold is a standout because it comes with a single-hand fold, which allows you to hold your baby while folding the buggy. This means that you do not have to manage the two. The buggy also stays standing when folded, meaning you don't have to be concerned about the child falling out or causing injury during this process.

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

The majority of these pushchairs are designed at older babies and toddlers because they can sit up, however some come with a lie-flat seating option and the option of adding a carrycot to make them suitable for babies from the time of birth. Some are compatible with travel systems which means you can connect an automobile seat to your infant with just a click.

While they don't have the tiny fold of a travel buggie, many compact pushchairs still take up very little space when folded with the seat on and are ideal for those who are short on storage space in their homes or an apartment. They're also light, and many come with a raincover to shield them from the elements.

The Ergobaby Pivot 360, another popular pushchair in this category is foldable using just one hand by pressing the button. It's ideal for traveling as it is easy to fold. It is also extremely light, making it easy for you to handle even on rough surfaces. It also has an excellent suspension. The seat can be rotated to face either the world or the parent facing pram and the hood can be extended to offer additional sun protection.

Convertible

A convertible stroller changes shape to meet the demands of families that are growing. It can start as a single stroller, change into a double stroller for children and even become a triple stroller by the addition of a third seat or ride-along board. The UppaBaby Vista V2 is our top pick. It's a versatile cheap stroller that can be converted to accommodate a car seat, a bassinet for newborns or two toddler seats or even a third child using adapters.

Convertible strollers should have adjustable features, including the height and reclining setting. They should also feature large, easy-to-grip handles that make it comfortable for dad, mom or grandma to push. Additionally, because these kinds of strollers usually have more parts than traditional pushchairs, they will be more sturdy and less likely to tip over when carrying multiple children or loads of equipment.

Larktale's cross-over stroller/wagon, the first of its kind it includes a single stroller and a wagon. Parents do not need to purchase separate items. It quickly and easily converts to a double or single stroller without tools or additional conversion kits. It also offers ample seating options with the second seat and pull handle when it is in wagon mode. The Larktale is more bulky than the other convertibles we have rated top-rated however it is a great maneuverability and can easily handle uphills. Its biggest drawback is limited under-seat storage. Click here for additional information.

Safety

A quality pushchair will come with several safety features, including five-point harnesses for the baby. It should be placed over the shoulders as well as around the waist, and between the legs. It is crucial that the harness doesn't come loose, and that there aren't any places that children's fingers might be stuck.

There are many different brakes for pushchairs, so choose the one that best fits your needs. A foot brake is the most commonly used and great if you are likely to stop frequently for shopping. A hand brake is found on a variety of jogger style pushchairs and is more useful if you are going to be able to change momentum frequently, such as when using it for an exercise. Some pushchairs have an active hand brake which operates by pressing a pedal with your foot. This is a good choice for parents who will be stopping and starting their pushchairs more often. It allows you to maintain your balance while applying pressure to the wheels.

It is also important to determine whether the pushchair comes with a lockable front wheel. This is particularly useful for those who live in areas with uneven terrain or steep slopes. A lockable front wheel can help stop the pushchair from rolling away in a rush or there is a large amount of baggage in the back.

Although it may seem something of a minor issue but the weight of the pushchair is something you need to bear in mind too. Even a pushchair that is light can be surprisingly heavy when loaded up with a growing child and shopping bags. Be sure to know the weight of the pushchair and consider whether you would be capable of lifting it into your car boot and then up a flight of stairs while holding a toddler and juggling a takeaway coffee.

Buggy, pram, or pushchairs are designed for infants who can sit up. They are usually used after six months. The seat can be positioned to face you or away from you, depending on the preference of your child to be close to you or explore the world. Many pushchairs have adjustable seat positions, handlebars and other accessories.

Comfort

Many parents love the comfort features of pushchairs - and there are many to choose from. Some are better suited for urban streets or rough terrain but others are not. The brake type is another factor to consider. For example, a foot brake is great for daily use, whereas the hand brakes that are active on jogger style pushchairs can be more responsive and easy to use when on adventures.

The capability of your pushchair to permit newborns to lie flat is one of the most important characteristics. It is crucial to select the pushchair with this feature from the beginning. This will let your baby develop their spine in a flat position. This will allow your baby a peaceful nap or time to rest, which will allow more time for outdoor adventures and a happier, healthier child.

It is essential to select the right pushchair with the infant car seat you've chosen. This makes it quick and easy to move your baby from the car into the pushchair, reducing fuss and ensuring he's calm during his excursions.

Some pushchairs come with a smart car seat adaptor that allows you to easily attach your car seat to the frame. This means that you can use the same seat from birth to toddlerhood, reducing costs and time. Many brands also offer a travel bundle that includes a carrycot, baby car seat, adaptors, and a footmuff all in one purchase.

Another crucial comfort feature is a great suspension - particularly on the front wheels. This can make a huge difference when driving through rough roads or city streets, allowing you navigate bumps and uneven surface without difficulty while keeping your baby safe.

It is also possible to consider other practical features, such as the capacity of a large basket (or separate bag) with reclined handles with an adjustable seat, as well as a hood that is ventilated. Having all of these features will help you navigate around town or country and ensure that your child gets the best sleep possible for the longest nap possible.