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 navigating rough terrain, these baby-chariots have been built to conquer all types of terrain.

A good pushchair will offer safety and comfort to your baby, convenience to you, and the possibility for you to explore and bond. Read on to find out what to look for when selecting one.

Folding

When selecting a stroller, parents are often concerned about how easy it is to fold. The EeZeFold is unique because it comes with a single-hand fold that allows you to hold the baby while folding the buggy. This means you don't need to juggle the two. The buggy remains upright when folded, meaning you don't have to be concerned about your child falling out.

Some folding pushchairs are compact enough that they can be tucked away into the boot of your car. They're great for frequent travel or when you have a smaller vehicle. There are some compact buggies that are ideal for use in everyday life that have a smaller footprint than the standard pushchair, but have features that are good, such as a good recline or lightweight wheels. These buggies are usually lightweight enough to be able to be carried by hand and so Grandma or Grandad can use them in the event of need.

Some pushchairs can be used from birth, as they come with a lie-flat seat or carrycot option. Some are compatible with travel systems so you can attach an infant car seat to your infant with just one click.

Although they don't have the tiny fold of a travel buggy many compact pushchairs take up very little space when they're folded with the seat in which is why they're ideal for those who are short on storage space in their homes or an apartment. They're also light and they often come with a raincover to shield them from the elements.

The Ergobaby Pivot 360, another popular pushchair from this class, can be folded using just one hand by pressing the button. It's ideal for traveling as it is easy to fold. It is also very light, making it simple for you to handle even on rough surfaces. It also has an outstanding suspension. The seat can be rotated to face either the world or the parent and the hood can also be extended to offer additional sun protection.

Convertible

A convertible stroller can change shape to meet the demands of growing families. It can begin as a single stroller, change into a double stroller for siblings, and even become a triple stroller by the addition of a third seat or ride-along board. The UppaBaby Vista V2 is our top pick. It's a versatile stroller that can be converted to accommodate a car seat, a bassinet for newborns as well as two toddler seats or even a third child with adapters.

Convertible strollers must have adjustable features, such as the height and reclining setting. They should also come with large handles that are easy to grip, making it comfortable for mom, dad or grandma to push. These strollers are more stable than traditional pushchairs because they are made up of more components.

Larktale's crossover stroller/wagon, a first of its kind that is a stroller that can be used as a wagon. Parents do not have to purchase separate items. It can be converted quickly and easily 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 it is in wagon mode. While the Larktale is a bit heavier than some of our other top-rated convertibles is extremely maneuverable and can maneuver well over hills. The biggest issue is the lack of storage space under the seat. Click here for more info.

Safety

A great pushchair should come with a number of safety features like the five-point harness for baby. It should be placed over the shoulders, around the waist, and between the legs. It is crucial that the harness doesn't become loose, and there aren't any places where a child's fingers could be stuck.

There are a number of different pushchair brakes available and you should choose one that is most suitable for your lifestyle. A foot brake is the most commonly used and great if you are likely to stop a lot for shopping. Hand brakes are found on a lot of jogger-style pushchairs and is more useful when you will frequently change your momentum, for instance, when going for an exercise. Some pushchairs have an active hand brake which operates by pressing a pedal with your foot. This is a good option for parents who are stopping and starting their pushchairs more frequently. It allows you to keep your balance while still applying the pressure to the wheels.

It is also worth checking whether the stroller has an option to lock the front wheel. This is a great feature for those who live in uneven terrain or steep hills. A lockable front wheel can prevent the pushchair from moving away when you are in a rush or there is a large amount of baggage in the back.

While it might seem like a minor consideration it is important to consider the weight of the stroller. Even a lightweight pushchair 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 a flight of stairs and into the trunk of your car while carrying a toddler stroller.

Buggy or pram are made for babies who can sit up. They are usually used after six months. They have a seat that can face toward you to bond with you and away from you to explore the world. Many pushchairs come with adjustable seats, handlebars and other accessories.

Comfort

There are many pushchairs that come with comfort features that parents enjoy. Some are more suitable for rough terrain or city streets and others aren't. The type of brake is another aspect to take into consideration. A foot brake, for instance is ideal for everyday use. An active hand brake used on jogger-style pushchairs, can be more responsive on an adventure.

The capacity of your pushchair to allow newborns to lie flat is one of the most important features. Babies need to be in a completely flat position to develop their spine, and it's worth choosing a pushchair that has this feature from the beginning. This will allow your baby to nap or rest comfortably, allowing for longer outdoor excursions and a happier and healthier child.

If you're going to be using a car seat in conjunction with your pushchair, it's essential to choose a car seat that is compatible with your chosen infant car seat. This will make it easier for you to transfer your child from the car to the pushchair. It will also keep him calm and minimize the amount of fuss.

Some pushchairs have an adaptor for car seats that enables you to easily attach your car seat. This means you can use the same seat from birth until toddlerhood, saving money and hassle. Many brands offer a travel package that includes a baby car seat, a carrycot and adaptors, as well as a footmuff, all in one purchase.

A well-designed suspension system is also important particularly for the front wheels. This can make a huge difference when you drive on rough terrain or city roads and allows you to negotiate bumps and uneven surfaces without difficulty while ensuring your baby is comfortable.

You may also want to think about other practical comfort features, like a spacious basket (or separate bag) as well as reclined handles with an adjustable seat, as well as an air-conditioned hood. Having all of these features will help you navigate to the city or out in the country, and ensure your little one has the best possible sleep for the longest nap possible.