A pushchair, also referred to as a pram set, buggy or stroller, is like the Swiss army knife of infant transport. From navigating crowded streets to braving rough terrain, these baby-chariots are designed to conquer all kinds of surfaces.
A good pushchair offers security and comfort for your child, ease for you and a chance to spend time together and explore the world together. Read on to find out what to look for when choosing one.Folding
One of the most important features that a lot of parents are looking for when they choose a buggy is how easy it is to fold. The most notable is the EeZeFold which features an incredible one-handed fold that allows you to hold your baby while folding the buggy, meaning you don't have to juggle between the two. The buggy also stays standing when folded, so you do not have to worry about your child falling off or being injured during the process.
Some of the most compact folding pushchairs (like the Babyzen YOYO) are designed to fold so compactly that they can be tucked away in the trunk of your car, so they're perfect if you're a frequent traveller or have a small car boot. There are some compact buggies that are ideal for everyday use that have a smaller footprint than the average pushchair, but still have features that are good, such as a good recline or lightweight wheels. They're also typically lightweight enough to carry 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 since they can sit up, but some have a lie-flat chair and the option to add an infant carrycot, making them suitable from the time of birth. Some are travel pram system compatible which means you can connect a car seat for your baby with just one click.
Many compact pushchairs are still extremely 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 usually have a rain cover to shield them from the elements.
The Ergobaby Pivot 360, another popular pushchair in this category is foldable with just the press of a button. It's great to travel with because it's easy to fold. It's also light, making it easy to use even on rough surfaces. It also comes with a great suspension. The seat can be rotated to face either the world or the parent and the hood can be extended to give you extra sun protection.
Convertible
A convertible stroller can be altered to meet the requirements of families that are growing. It can be one stroller that converts into a double stroller in order to accommodate siblings, or even a triple stroller by adding a third seat. Our top pick is the UppaBaby Vista V2, is a stroller that can be used as a single or pram double. It converts to accommodate a bassinet or car seat for infants, one or two toddler seats and even a third child with the use of adapters.
In addition to changing shape to accommodate different configurations, convertible strollers should offer adjustable features, such as reclining and height settings. They should also have large, easy-to-grip handles that are comfortable for moms, dads, or grandmas to push. Also, since these types of strollers usually have more parts than traditional pushchairs, they will be more sturdy and less likely to fall over when carrying several children or loads of gear.
The Larktale crossover stroller/wagon is a first-of-its-kind that combines a full-featured single stroller with a pull wagon, eliminating the need for parents to buy separate products. It is quick and easy to convert into a single or double stroller without tools or additional conversion kits, and provides ample seating options with the second seat and pull handle when used in wagon mode. Although the Larktale is a bit bulkier than the other top convertibles, it has great maneuverability and maneuvers well over hills. Its biggest flaw is the lack of storage space underneath the seat. Click here for more information.
Safety
A well-constructed pushchair should have several safety features, including a five-point harness for the infant. It should be placed over the shoulders as well as around the waist and between the legs. It is also crucial that the harness doesn't come out of its place and that there are no places where a child could get their fingers stuck.
There are a variety of different brakes for pushchairs, so pick the one that best fits your lifestyle. A foot brake is the most common and great if you are likely to stop frequently for shopping. A hand brake is seen on a lot of jogger-style pushchairs. It is more beneficial in situations where you'll frequently change your momentum, such as when using it for an exercise. Some pushchairs feature an active handbrake which you can activate by pressing a pedal at the bottom of your foot. This is a great option for parents who are likely to be stopping and starting more frequently as it makes it easier to keep your balance while applying pressure on the wheels.
Examine if the front wheel of the pushchair is able to be locked. This is particularly useful for those who live in areas with uneven terrain or steep slopes. A lockable front wheel can prevent the pushchair from slipping away when you are in a hurry or there is a lot of baggage in the back.
While it may seem like a minor consideration, you should also consider the weight of the stroller. Even a pushchair that is light can be surprisingly heavy when loaded up with an ever-growing child and shopping bags. Take a look at the weight of your pushchair and determine whether you are able to lift it up stairs and into the trunk of your car while carrying the toddler.
Buggy prams, pushchairs, or prams are designed for babies that can sit up. They are usually used after six months. The seat can be placed to face you or away from you depending on whether you want your child to be close to you or explore the world. Many pushchairs come with adjustable seats, handlebars and other accessories.
Comfort
Many parents enjoy the comfort features of pushchairs - and there are plenty to pick from. Some are more suited to rough terrain or city streets than others and the brake type is also a factor to take into consideration. A foot brake, for instance, is best suited to everyday use. An active hand brake that is found on pushchairs with joggers can be more responsive when on an adventure.
One of the most important features of comfort is whether or not your pushchair features a fully lie flat position for newborns. It is essential to select a pushchair that has this feature from the beginning. This will let your baby develop their spine in a flat position. This will allow your baby to sleep or relax comfortably, allowing for longer outdoor adventures and a more relaxed and healthier child.
If you're going to be using a car seat with your pushchair, it's essential to get a model that is compatible with your infant car seat. This will make it simple to move your child from the car to the pushchair. It will also help keep him calm and minimize the amount of fuss.
Some pushchairs feature an adaptor for car seats that lets you easily fix your chosen car seat to the frame. This means that you can use the same seat from birth until toddlerhood, which saves money and time. Many brands also offer a travel system bundle that includes infant car seat, adaptors, and a footmuff all in one purchase.
Another crucial comfort feature is good suspension - especially on the front wheels. This can make a significant difference when driving on rough roads or city streets, allowing you move over bumps and uneven surfaces without difficulty while keeping your baby safe.
Other features for comfort that you may want to look for include a large shopping basket (or even an additional bag) and a reclining handle bar, an adjustable seat and a an air-conditioned hood. Having all of these features will help you navigate through the country or town, and ensure your little one has the best possible sleep for the longest nap possible.