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 infant transport. From navigating busy streets to braving rough terrain, these baby-chariots have been designed to conquer all kinds of surfaces.

A good pushchair will offer safety and comfort to your baby, convenience to you, and a chance for you both to bond and explore together. Find out what to consider when purchasing one.

Folding

When selecting a stroller, many parents are concerned with how easy it will be to fold it. A standout is the EeZeFold which features an incredible one-handed fold that allows you to hold your child while folding the buggy, meaning that you don't have to switch between the two. The buggy also stays standing when folded, so you don't have to be concerned about the child falling out or being injured during the process.

Some folding pushchairs are so compact travel pram that they can be tucked away in your car's boot. They're great for frequent travelers or if you have a small vehicle. Some are day-to-day buggies which are smaller in size of space than the typical pushchair but still come with decent features, like a comfortable recline and light-weight wheels. They're also generally lightweight enough to carry by hand and so can be used by Grandma or Grandad when needed.

The majority of these pushchairs are targeted towards toddlers and older infants because they can sit up, however some have a lie-flat chair and the option to add a carrycot that makes them suitable from birth. Some are travel system compatible which means you can connect an infant car seat to your infant with one click.

Although they're not as tiny fold of a travel buggie, the majority of compact travel stroller pushchairs take up very little space when they're folded with the seat on, so they're perfect for those who are tight on storage space in their home or in an apartment. They're also lightweight and frequently come with a rain cover to protect them from the elements.

The Ergobaby Pivot 360 is another really well-known pushchair in this category, which is a great option for travel because it folds with a simple press of the button. It's also lightweight, making it easy to maneuver even on rough surfaces. It also comes with an outstanding suspension. The seat rotates to switch 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 could be one stroller that converts into a double stroller to accommodate children, or a triple stroller when you add the third seat. Our top pick is the UppaBaby Vista V2, is a multi-functional stroller that converts to accommodate a bassinet, car seat for infants as well as one or two toddler seats and a third child with the use of adapters.

Convertible strollers must have adjustable features, including the height and recline settings. They should also have large handles that are easy to grip, making it easy for dad, mom or grandma to push. These strollers are more stable than traditional pushchairs because they have more parts.

The Larktale crossover stroller/wagon is the first of its kind that combines a full-featured single stroller with the pull wagon, removing the necessity for parents to invest in separate products. It is able to convert quickly and easily into one stroller or a double stroller without the necessity of tools or conversion kits. The second seat and pull handle provide plenty of seating flexibility when used as a wagon. While the Larktale is a little heavier than the other top-rated convertibles, it is extremely maneuverable and can maneuver well over hills. Its biggest drawback is limited storage under the seat. Click here for more information.

Safety

A well-constructed pushchair should have numerous safety features, such as a five-point harness for the baby. The harness should fit over the shoulders and around the waist, as well as between the legs. It is also crucial that the harness doesn't become out of its place and that there are no places where a child could get their fingers stuck.

There are many different brakes for pushchairs, so pick the one that best fits your needs. A foot brake is the most common and is ideal if you are likely to stop frequently like when you go shopping. A hand brake is seen on many jogger style pushchairs and is more useful in situations where you'll be changing momentum often like when you go for running. Some pushchairs feature an active handbrake that you can activate by pressing a pedal on the bottom of your foot. This is a useful option for parents who will be stopping and starting more often because it allows you to maintain your balance while still applying pressure on the wheels.

It is also important to determine whether the pushchair comes with a lockable front wheel. This is especially useful for those who live in areas that have uneven terrain or steep slopes. A front wheel that locks can prevent the pushchair from slipping away in a hurry or there is a lot of baggage in the back.

Although it might appear to be a minor issue it is important to consider the weight of the stroller. Even a light pushchair can become quite heavy when it is loaded with a growing child and shopping bags. Take a look at the weight of your pushchair and see whether you can carry it up stairs and into the trunk of your car while carrying the toddler.

A buggy, pram or pushchair is made for babies who can sit and can be used until six months. They have seats that can face toward you to bond with you and away from you to explore the world. Many pushchairs can be adjusted to seating positions, handlebars, and other accessories.

Comfort

Many parents love the comfort features of pushchairs - and there are many to pick from. Some are better suited to rough terrain or city streets than others and the brake type is also a factor to consider. A foot brake, for example, is best suited to everyday use. A hand brake that is active that is found on pushchairs with joggers can be more responsive when on an adventure.

The capacity of your pushchair to allow infants to lie flat is among the most important features. Babies should be in a completely flat position to help develop their spines, so it's important to select a stroller with this feature right from the start. This will allow your baby a peaceful nap or time to rest, which will allow for longer outdoor excursions and a healthier, happier child.

It is crucial to select a pushchair that's compatible with the infant car seat you have selected. This makes it fast and easy to move your baby from the car to the pushchair, reducing fuss and ensuring he's calm during his excursions.

Some pushchairs come with a smart adaptor for car seats that enables you to easily connect your car seat. You can use the seat from birth until toddlerhood, and save time and money. Many brands offer a bundle that includes a car seat, a carrycot and adaptors, as well as an infant 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 driving over rough terrain or city roads and allows you to negotiate bumps and uneven surfaces easily while keeping your baby comfortable.

You might also want to consider other practical features, such as a spacious basket (or separate bag), 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 through the city or country and ensure that your child has the best sleep possible for his longest naps.