It's Enough! 15 Things About Pushchairs We're Sick Of Hearing Pushchairs - The Swiss Army Knife of Baby Transport

A pushchair, also known as a buggy, pram or stroller, is the Swiss army knife of infant transport. These baby-chariots are able to handle any terrain, from crowded streets to rough terrain.

A good pushchair will offer safety and comfort to your child, convenience to you, and the chance for you both to spend time together and play. Find out what to look for when choosing one.

Folding

When choosing a stroller, many parents are concerned with how easy it is to fold. The most notable is the EeZeFold, which has an incredible one-handed fold that allows you to hold your baby while folding the buggy, which means that you don't have to switch between the two. The buggy is stable when folded so you don't have to worry about your child slipping out.

Some of the smaller folding pushchairs (like the Babyzen YOYO) are designed to fold so compactly that they can fit in the boot of your car, so they're ideal for frequent traveller or have a small car boot. Some are small buggies designed for everyday use that have a smaller footprint than the average pushchair, but still have features that are good, such as a comfortable recline or light wheels. They are typically light enough to be able to be carried by hand which means that Grandma or Grandad can use them in the event of need.

Some pushchairs are able to be used from birth, and they come with a lie-flat seat or carrycot option. They may also be travel system compatible and allow you to attach an infant car seat to the frame with just a click.

Many compact pushchairs are still extremely compact when folded with the seat attached. They're great for people who have a limited storage space at home or in apartments. They're also light and many come with a raincover to protect them against the elements.

The Ergobaby Pivot 360 is another very popular pushchair in this category, which is an excellent option for traveling as it can be folded one-handed by simply pressing a button. It's also extremely lightweight, making it easy to maneuver on rough surfaces, and it has excellent suspension. The seat can be turned to face either the outside world or the parent and the hood can also be extended to offer additional sun protection.

Convertible

A convertible stroller can be altered to meet the requirements of growing families. It can be used as an individual stroller, then transform into a double stroller for siblings and even a triple stroller through the addition of an additional seat or ride-along boards. The UppaBaby Vista V2 is our top choice. It's a versatile single to double stroller that can be transformed to accommodate a car seat or bassinet for infants, two toddler seats, or even a third child by using adapters.

Convertible strollers should come with adjustable features, such as the height and reclining setting. They should come with large, easy-to-grip handles that are comfortable for moms, dads or grandmas to push. These strollers are more stable than traditional pushchairs as they have more parts.

The Larktale crossover stroller/wagon is a unique model that combines a fully-featured single stroller with an incline wagon, removing the need for parents to invest in separate products. It is quick and easy to convert to a double or single stroller with no tools or conversion kits. It also offers plenty of seating versatility with its second seat as well as a pull handle when in wagon mode. Although the Larktale is a bit bulkier than some of our other top-rated convertibles, it has great maneuverability and maneuvers well over hills. Its biggest drawback is limited storage under the seat. Click here for more details.

Safety

A good pushchair should have several safety features including the five-point harness for babies. It should be able to fit over the shoulders over the waist, around the waist and between the legs. It is crucial that the harness does not become loose, and there are no areas where a child's fingers could get stuck.

There are a variety of different brakes for pushchairs, so pick the one that is most suitable for your needs. The most commonly used brake is one that is a foot brake. It's great if you stop a lot for example, when you go to the shops. Many jogger-style pushchairs feature a hand brake. This is useful in situations where you have to change your momentum frequently, such as when running. Some pushchairs have an active handbrake that can activate by pressing a button on the bottom of your foot. This is a good choice for parents who will be stopping and beginning their pushchairs more frequently. It makes it easier to maintain your balance while still applying the pressure to the wheels.

Verify that the front wheel of the pushchair can be locked. This is particularly beneficial for those who live in areas with steep slopes or uneven terrain. A front wheel that locks can prevent the pushchair from slipping away in a hurry or if there is a large amount of luggage in the back.

Although it may seem something of a minor issue however, the weight of the pushchair is something you need to be aware of. Even a light pushchair can become surprisingly heavy when stuffed with a growing child and shopping bags. Check the weight of your pushchair and determine whether you are able to lift it up stairs and into the boot of your car, while carrying the toddler.

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

Comfort

Many parents enjoy the comfort features of pushchairs - and there are a variety to choose from. Some are more suitable for rough terrain or city streets but others are not. The brake type is another aspect to take into consideration. A foot brake, for instance, is best suited to daily use. An active hand brake used on jogger-style pushchairs can be more responsive during an adventure.

The ability of your pushchair to permit newborns to lie completely flat is one of the most important features. Babies must be in a flat position to help them develop their spines, so it's important to select a stroller with this feature right from the start. This will allow your child to rest or nap comfortably, allowing for longer outdoor adventures and a more relaxed and healthier child.

It's important to choose a pushchair that's compatible with the infant car seat you've chosen. This makes it fast and easy to move your child from the car into the pushchair, reducing stress and keeping him calm throughout his excursions.

Some pushchairs have an adaptor for car seats, which allows you to 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 travel bundle that includes a car seat, a carrycot and adaptors, as well as the footmuff in one purchase.

Another crucial comfort feature is a great suspension - particularly on the front wheels. This can really make the difference when driving over rough roads or in urban areas that allow you to navigate bumps and uneven surfaces with ease while ensuring your baby is comfortable.


You might also want to consider other practical features, such as an ample basket (or separate bag), the ability to recline handles with an adjustable seat, as well as an air-conditioned hood. Having all of these features will help you navigate your way to the city or out in the country and ensure that your child has the best quality sleep possible for the longest nap possible.