Pushchairs - The Swiss Army Knife of Baby Transport
A pushchair, also known as a buggy, pram or stroller, is the Swiss knife of infant transport. From navigating through crowded streets to navigating rough terrain, these baby-chariots are built to conquer all types of surfaces.
A quality pushchair will provide safety and comfort to your child, convenience for you, and the opportunity for you and your baby to spend time together and play. Read on to find out what to look for when choosing one.
Folding
One of the most important characteristics that many parents look for when choosing a pushchair is how easy it folds. The EeZeFold is a standout because it comes with a single-hand fold that allows you to hold your baby while folding the buggy. This means you don't need to juggle the two. The buggy stays upright when folded, so you don't have to be concerned about your child falling out.
Some of the really compact folding pushchairs (like the Babyzen YOYO) are designed to fold so small they can fit into the boot of your car, which means they're ideal for frequent traveller or have a small car boot. Some are day-to-day buggies which take up a smaller amount of space than a standard pushchair but still come with decent features, like a comfortable recline and wheels that are lightweight. They're also generally lightweight enough to be carried on your own and can be used by Grandma or Grandad when needed.
The majority of these pushchairs are designed at toddlers and older children as they can sit up, however 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 pushchair system compatible which means you can connect an infant car seat to the frame with one click.
While they don't have the tiny fold of a travel buggy, many compact pushchairs still require a small amount of space when they're folded with the seat in, so they're perfect for those short of storage space in their home or live in an apartment. They're also lightweight and frequently have a rain cover to protect them from the elements.
The Ergobaby Pivot 360, another popular pushchair from this class, can be folded with just the press of a button. It is great for travel because it is easy to fold. It's also incredibly lightweight, making it easy to maneuver on rough surfaces, and comes with excellent suspension. The seat can be rotated to face either the world or the parent, and the hood can also be extended to give you extra sun protection.
Convertible
A convertible stroller can be modified to meet the demands of families that are growing. It could be an individual stroller that can be transformed into a double stroller to accommodate siblings, or even a triple stroller when you add an additional seat. Our top pick, the UppaBaby Vista V2, is a multi-functional stroller that can be converted to accommodate a bassinet, car seat for newborns, one or two toddler seats and a third child with the use of adapters.
Convertible strollers must have adjustable features, such as the height and reclining setting. They should have large, easy to grip handles that are comfortable for moms, dads, or grandmas to push. And because these types of strollers usually contain more parts than traditional pushchairs, they should be more sturdy and less likely to tip over when carrying multiple children or loads of gear.
Larktale's crossover stroller/wagon, a first of its kind it is a stroller that can be used as a wagon. Parents do not need to purchase separate items. It can be converted quickly and easily to a double or single stroller with no tools or conversion kits, and offers ample seating options with its second seat and pull handle when it is in wagon mode. Although the Larktale is a bit bulkier than the other top-rated convertibles, it has great maneuverability and maneuvers well over hills. The main issue is the small storage space under the seat. Click here for additional information.
Safety
A great pushchair should come with several safety features, including the five-point harness for infants. The harness should be able to fit over the shoulders and around the waist, as well as between the legs. It is also important that the harness isn't loose and that it has no areas where a baby may get their fingers stuck.
There are many different brakes for pushchairs, and you should choose one that best fits your lifestyle. A foot brake is the most common and great if you are likely to stop often for shopping. A hand brake is found on many jogger style pushchairs, and is more appropriate if you are going to be changing momentum often like when you go for a run. Some pushchairs come with an active hand brake which operates by pressing a pedal using your foot. This is a good option for parents who are stopping and starting their
pushchairs more often. It allows you to stay in your position while still applying the pressure to the wheels.
Verify that the front wheel of the pushchair is able to be locked. This is a great feature for those who live on uneven terrain or steep hills. 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.
Although it might appear to be a minor issue but you must also think about the weight of the stroller. Even a lightweight pushchair can become quite heavy when it is loaded with a growing baby and shopping bags. Be sure to check the weight of the item and consider whether you would be able to lift it into your car's boot and then up a flight of stairs with a toddler in your arms and juggling a coffee from a takeaway.
Buggy,
pram sale, or pushchairs are designed for infants who can sit up. They are usually used after 6 months. The seat can be placed towards you or away from you, depending on whether you want your child to bond with you or explore the world. Many pushchairs have adjustable seats, handlebars and other accessories.
Comfort
Many parents love the comfort features of pushchairs - and there are plenty to choose from. Some are better suited to rough terrain or city streets than others, and the brake type is another factor to consider. For example, a foot brake is perfect for simple daily use, whereas the hand brake that is active on jogger style pushchairs can be more responsive and easier to use when on adventures.
The capacity of your
pushchair stroller to allow newborns to lie completely flat is one of the most important characteristics. It is essential to select a pushchair that has this feature from the beginning. This will let your baby develop their spine into a straight position. This will allow your baby a comfortable nap or time to rest, which will allow the ideal choice for more extended outdoor adventures and a happier, healthier child.
If you're planning on using a car seat along with your pushchair, you need to choose a car seat that is compatible with your chosen infant car seat. This makes it fast and easy to move your
baby stroller from the car to the pushchair, reducing stress and ensuring he's calm during his excursions.
Some pushchairs feature an adaptor for car seats that allows you to easily fix your chosen car seat to the frame. You can use the seat from birth to toddlerhood and save money and time. Many brands also offer a travel system bundles that include the carrycot, baby car seat, adaptors and a footmuff all in one purchase.
Another essential aspect for comfort is good suspension - especially on the front wheels. This can make a huge difference when you drive on rough terrain or city roads, allowing you to navigate bumps and uneven surfaces easily while ensuring your baby is comfortable.
You might also want to consider other practical comfort features, like a spacious basket (or separate bag) as well as the ability to recline handles with an adjustable seat, as well as a hood that is ventilated. All of these features can help you navigate across the country or around town and make sure that your child gets the best possible sleep for his longest naps.