Pushchairs - The Swiss Army Knife of Baby Transport

A pushchair, also known as a pram, buggy or stroller, is like the Swiss army knife of baby transport. From navigating busy streets to traversing rough terrain, these baby-chariots have been designed to conquer all kinds of terrain.

A good pushchair will provide comfort and safety for your baby, convenience for you and the chance to explore the world together. Find out what to look for when choosing one.

Folding

When selecting a stroller, parents are often concerned about how easy it will be to fold. A true standout is the EeZeFold which features an amazing one-handed fold that allows you to hold your baby while folding the buggy, meaning that you don't have to switch between the two. The buggy is also stable when folded, so you don't have to be concerned about your 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 be tucked away in the boot of your car, so they're ideal if you're a frequent traveller or have a smaller car boot. Some are day-to-day buggies which require less of space than the typical pushchair but still have decent features like a good recline and wheels that are lightweight. These buggies are usually lightweight enough to be carried with hand, so Grandma or Grandad can use them if necessary.

The majority of these pushchairs are aimed at toddlers and older children since they can sit up, but some come with a lie-flat seating option and the option of adding a carrycot that makes them suitable for babies from birth. They may also be compatible with travel systems which means you can connect an infant car seat to the frame in a single click.

Many compact pushchairs are extremely compact 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 light and they often have a rain cover to shield them from the elements.

The Ergobaby Pivot 360, another popular pushchair from this category, can be folded using just one hand by pressing a button. It's great to travel with because it's easy to fold. It is also extremely lightweight, making it easy to use even on rough surfaces. It also comes with an outstanding suspension. The seat can rotate to change between parent-facing and the world, and the hood can be extended for extra protection and coverage from the sun.

Convertible

A convertible stroller can be reshaped to meet the demands of families that are growing. It can start as a single stroller, change into a double stroller for siblings and even turn into a triple stroller (Full Survey) through the addition of an additional seat or ride-along boards. The UppaBaby Vista V2 is our top pick. It's a versatile stroller that can be transformed to accommodate a car seat or bassinet for newborns, two toddler seats, or even a third child by using adapters.

Aside from transforming shape to accommodate different configurations convertible strollers must also offer adjustable features such as reclining and height settings. They should also feature large handles that are easy to hold, Triple Stroller making it comfortable for dad, mom or grandma to push. These strollers are more sturdy than traditional pushchairs due to the fact that they are made up of more components.

Larktale's crossover stroller/wagon, a first of its kind it is a stroller that can be used as a wagon. Parents do not have to purchase separate items. It is quick and easy to convert to a double or single stroller without tools or additional conversion kits. It also offers ample seating options with its second seat and triple stroller pull handle when in wagon mode. The Larktale is heavier than our other top-rated convertibles however it offers excellent maneuverability and is able to handle uphills. Its biggest flaw is the small storage space underneath the seat. Click here for more details.

Safety

A good pushchair will have several safety features, including a five-point harness that is suitable for the baby. The harness should be able to fit over the shoulders and around the waist and also between the legs. It is also important that the harness doesn't become loose and has no areas where a child may get their fingers stuck.

Select the brake that best suits your lifestyle. A foot brake is the most commonly used and great if you are likely to stop often for shopping. A hand brake is found on a variety of jogger style pushchairs and is more useful when you will frequently change your momentum, such as when using it for running. Some pushchairs come with an active handbrake that can activate by pressing a pedal on the bottom of your foot. This is a good option for parents who are stopping and starting their pushchairs more often. It makes it easier to stay in your position while still applying the pressure to the wheels.

Check if the front wheel of the pushchair can be locked. This is extremely beneficial for those who live on uneven terrain or steep hills. A lockable front wheel can help to prevent the pushchair from rolling away in a rush or there is a lot of luggage in the back.

Although it may seem an unimportant thing to consider, the weight of the pushchair is something to be aware of. Even a lightweight pushchair can be quite heavy when loaded up with a growing child and shopping bags. Take a look at the weight of your pushchair and determine whether you can carry it up stairs and into the trunk of your car, while carrying a toddler.

A pram, buggy or pushchair is made for babies who can sit up and is typically used from six months. They come with a seat that can face toward you to bond with you and away from you to explore the world. A lot of pushchairs come with adjustable seat positions, handlebars and other accessories.

Comfort

There are a variety of pushchairs with comfort features that parents enjoy. Some are better suited for urban streets or rough terrain, while others are not. The brake type is a different aspect to consider. For example, a foot brake is perfect for simple daily use, while the hand brakes that are active on jogger-style pushchairs may be more responsive and easier to operate on adventures.

One of the most important comfort features is whether or not your pushchair features a fully lie flat position for babies. It is crucial to select the pushchair with this feature from the beginning. This will enable your baby to grow into a straight position. This will allow your baby to nap or rest comfortably, which will allow for longer outdoor excursions and a happier and healthier child.

If you're going to be using a car seat with your pushchair, it's essential to select a model that is compatible with your chosen infant car seat. This will make it simple to move your child from the car to the pushchair. It will also keep him calm and reduce fuss.

Some pushchairs have an intelligent adaptor for car seats, which allows you to connect your car seat. This means you can use the same seat from birth to toddlerhood, saving money and hassle. Many brands offer a bundle that includes a baby car seat, a carrycot and adaptors, as well as a footmuff, all in one purchase.

Another important aspect of comfort is a good suspension, especially on the front wheels. This can really make the difference when driving over rough roads or in urban areas that allow you to navigate bumps and uneven surfaces without difficulty while ensuring your baby is comfortable.

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