Pushchairs - The Swiss Army Knife of Baby Transport

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

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. Find out what to consider when you are buying a pushchair.

Folding

When selecting a stroller, many parents are concerned with the ease to fold it. A standout is the EeZeFold that has an incredible one-handed fold which allows you to hold your baby while folding the buggy. This means you don't need to move between the two. The buggy remains upright when folded so you don't need to worry about your child falling out.

Some folding pushchairs are so small that they fit into the boot of your car. They're great for frequent travelers or those with a small vehicle. Some are small buggies designed for everyday use that have smaller footprints than standard pushchair, but offer decent features such as a comfortable recline or light wheels. They're also typically lightweight enough to be carried by hand, and therefore can be used by Grandma or Grandad if needed.

The majority of these pushchairs are designed at toddlers and older children since they can sit upright, but some offer a lie-flat seat and the option to add an infant carrycot, making them suitable from birth. Some are compatible with travel systems so you can attach a car seat for your baby pram with just a click.

Many compact pushchairs are extremely compact travel stroller when folded with the seat attached. They're ideal for those who have limited storage space at home, or who live in apartments. They're also lightweight and frequently have an umbrella to shield them from the elements.

The Ergobaby Pivot 360, another popular pushchair in this category, can be folded with just the press of a button. It's ideal to travel with because it's easy to fold. It is also very lightweight, making it easy to maneuver even on rough surfaces. It also has an excellent suspension. The seat rotates to change between parent-facing and world-facing, while the hood can be extended to provide extra protection and protection from the sun.

Convertible

A convertible stroller can be altered to meet the demands of growing families. It can begin as an individual stroller compact, then transform into a double stroller for siblings and even turn into a triple stroller with the addition of a third seat or ride-along boards. Our top pick, 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 an additional child through the use of adapters.

In addition to changing shape to accommodate different configurations, convertible strollers should offer adjustable features like reclining and height settings. They should also come with large, easy-to-grip handles that make it comfortable for dad, mom or grandma to push. And because these types of strollers usually contain more components than traditional pushchairs, they should be more sturdy and less likely to tip over when carrying multiple children or loads of gear.

The Larktale crossover stroller/wagon is the first of its kind that combines a fully-featured single stroller with a pull wagon, eliminating the necessity for parents to buy separate products. It quickly and easily converts into a single or double stroller without the need for tools or conversion kits, and provides the flexibility of seating with the second seat and pull handle when in wagon mode. While the Larktale is a bit heavier than our other top-rated convertibles, it has great maneuverability and maneuvers well over hills. The main issue is the lack of storage space under the seat. Click here for more information.

Safety

A quality pushchair should include many safety features like five-point harnesses for babies. This should fit over the shoulders as well as around the waist and between the legs. It is also essential that the harness doesn't become out of its place and that there are no areas where a baby could get their fingers stuck.

There are many different brakes for pushchairs, and you should choose one that is most suitable for your lifestyle. The most common brake is one that is a foot brake. It's a great option if you frequently stop for example, when you go shopping. A lot of jogger-style pushchairs come with hand brakes. This is useful in situations where you have to change your speed frequently, for example when you run. Some pushchairs come with an active hand brake that operates by pressing a pedal with your foot. This is a useful option for parents who are likely to be frequent stop-and-starts because it allows you to keep your balance while still applying pressure on the wheels.

It is also worth checking whether the stroller has a lockable front wheel. This can be very helpful for those who live on uneven terrain or steep hills. A front wheel that locks can help to prevent the pushchair from slipping away in a rush or there is a lot of baggage in the back.

Although it may seem like a minor consideration but the weight of the pushchair is something you need to be aware of. Even a lightweight pushchair can become quite heavy when loaded with a growing child and shopping bags. Make sure you know the weight of the item and think about whether you'd be capable of lifting it into your car boot and up flights of stairs while balancing a toddler and juggling a cup of coffee from a takeaway.

Buggy prams, pushchairs, or prams are made for babies who can sit up. They are generally used after six months. The seat can be set 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 feature adjustable handlebars, seat positions and other accessories.

Comfort

There are a variety of pushchairs with comfort features that parents enjoy. Some are better suited to urban streets or rough terrain than others, and the brake type is also a factor to consider. A foot brake, for example, is best suited to everyday use. An active hand brake, found on jogger-style pushchairs is more responsive on an adventure.

One of the most important comfort features is whether or not the pushchair is able to lie completely flat position for newborns. Babies should be lying flat in a position to develop their spines, so it is important to choose a pushchair with this feature from birth. This will allow your baby a peaceful nap or rest, making for longer outdoor excursions and a healthier, happier child.

If you're planning on using a car seat with your pushchair, it's important to select a model that is compatible with your infant car seat. This makes it quick and easy to move your child from the car to the pushchair, reducing stress and ensuring he's calm during his excursions.

Some pushchairs come with a smart adaptor for car seats, which allows you to quickly connect your car seat. This means you can use the same seat from birth to toddlerhood, which saves money and hassle. Many brands offer a bundle that includes a car seat, a carrycot and adaptors, along with the footmuff in one purchase.

A good suspension system is also crucial particularly for the front wheels. This can make a significant difference when driving on rough terrain or city streets, allowing you move over bumps and uneven surfaces easily while keeping your baby comfortable.

Other useful comfort features you should look out for include a spacious shopping basket (or even an additional bag) as well as a reclining handle bar, an adjustable seat and a an air-conditioned hood. These features will assist you in navigating around town or the country and make sure that your child gets the best possible sleep for the longest nap possible.