Pushchairs - The Swiss Army Knife of Baby Transport

A pushchair is also known as a stroller, buggy or pram. It's the Swiss Army knife of infant transportation. These baby-chariots can be used on any surface, from busy streets to rough terrain.

A quality pushchair provides safety and comfort for your baby, convenience for you and a chance to bond and explore the world together. Read on to find out what to look for when choosing one.

Folding

One of the most important aspects that a lot of parents look for when choosing a pushchair is how easy it folds. A standout is the EeZeFold which features an incredible one-handed fold that allows you to hold your baby while folding the buggy, which means you don't need to move between the two. The buggy is also stable when folded, meaning you don't have to be concerned about your child falling off or getting harmed during this process.

Some of the really compact folding pushchairs (like the Babyzen YOYO) are designed to fold so compactly that they fit into the trunk of your car, which means they're perfect if you're a frequent traveller or have a tiny car boot. Others are day-to-day buggies that are smaller in size of space than a standard pushchair, but have good features, like a comfortable recline and lightweight wheels. They are usually light enough to be carried with hand which means that Grandma or Grandad can use them if necessary.

The majority of these pushchairs are designed at toddlers and older children because they can sit up, but some have a lie-flat chair and the option of adding a carrycot that makes them suitable for babies from birth. They could also be travel system compatible, so you can 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 ideal for those who have limited storage space at home or live in apartments. They're also light, and they often have a rain cover to protect them against the elements.

The Ergobaby Pivot 360 is another really popular pushchair in this class, which is a great option for traveling as it can fold one-handed with a simple press of one button. It's also extremely light, making it easy to maneuver on rough surfaces, and has great suspension. The seat can rotate to turn from parent-facing to the world, and the hood can be extended to provide extra protection and coverage from the sun.

Convertible

A convertible stroller can be altered to meet the requirements of families that are growing. It can begin as a single stroller, transform into a double stroller for children and even a triple stroller by the addition of an additional seat or ride-along board. Our top choice, the UppaBaby Vista V2, is a versatile single-to-double stroller that converts to accommodate a bassinet, car seat for newborns, one or two toddler seats and a third child with the use of adapters.

Convertible strollers should have adjustable features, including height and reclining settings. They should also feature large handles that are easy to hold, making it comfortable for mom, dad or grandma to push. These strollers are more stable than traditional pushchairs as they are made up of more components.

The Larktale crossover stroller/wagon is a unique model that combines a full-featured single stroller with a pull wagon, eliminating the necessity for parents to invest in separate products. It can be converted quickly and easily to a double pram pushchair or single stroller without tools or additional conversion kits. It also offers plenty of seating versatility with its second seat as well as a pull handle when in wagon mode. Although the Larktale is a little heavier than the other top-rated convertibles is very maneuverable and can be maneuvered well over hills. The biggest issue is the limited 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 infant. It should be placed over the shoulders, around the waist and between the legs. It is also essential that the harness isn't out of its place and that there are no areas where a baby may get their fingers stuck.

There are many different pushchair brakes to choose from, so pick the one that best fits your lifestyle. The most popular brake is one that is a foot brake. It's a great option if you stop a lot, like when you shop. A hand brake is seen on a variety of jogger style pushchairs. It is more beneficial in situations where you'll be changing momentum often such as when using it for a run. Some pushchairs prams come with an active hand brake that operates by pressing a pedal with your foot. This is a great option for parents who will be frequent stop-and-starts as it makes it easier to keep your balance while still applying pressure to the wheels.

Check if the front wheel of the pushchair is able to be locked. This is extremely beneficial for those who live in uneven terrain or steep hills. A lockable wheel in the front of the pushchair can prevent the pushchair rolling away if you are in a rush or have a lot of luggage in the rear.

Although it may seem something of a minor issue however, the weight of the pushchair is something to keep in mind. Even a pushchair that is light can be quite heavy when stuffed with an expanding child and shopping bags. Be sure to check the weight of the pushchair and consider whether you would be capable of lifting it into the car boot and up the stairs with a toddler in your arms and juggling a takeaway coffee.

Buggy or pram are made for babies who can sit up. They are typically used after six months. The seat can be positioned 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 handlebars, seat positions and other accessories.

Comfort

Many parents appreciate the comfort of pushchairs - and there are plenty to choose from. Some are better suited for rough terrain or city streets, while others are not. The type of brake is another factor to consider. A foot brake, for example, is best suited to everyday use. An active hand brake that is found on pushchairs with joggers, can be more responsive on an adventure.

One of the most important features of comfort is whether or not your stroller is able to lie completely flat position for infants. Babies need to be in a flat position to help them develop their spine, and it is important to choose a pushchair with this feature from birth. This will give your baby a peaceful nap or time to rest, which will allow the ideal choice for more extended outdoor adventures and a happier, 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 simple to move your child from the car to the pushchair. It will also keep him calm and minimize the amount of fuss.

Some pushchairs have a smart car seat adaptor that allows you to attach your car seat to the frame. It is possible to use the seat from birth to toddlerhood and save money and time. Many brands also offer a travel system bundles that include a carrycot, baby car seat, adaptors, and 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 terrain or city roads that allow you to navigate bumps and uneven surfaces without difficulty while ensuring your baby is comfortable.

Other useful comfort features you might want to check for include a large shopping basket (or even an additional bag) and a reclining handle bar, an adjustable seat, and a ventilated hood. All of these features will allow you to navigate your way to the city or out in the country and ensure that your little one has the best quality sleep possible for the longest nap possible.