Pushchairs - The Swiss Army Knife of Baby Transport

A pushchair, also referred to as a buggy, pram or stroller, is the Swiss army knife of infant transport. From navigating busy streets to braving rough terrain, these baby-chariots are built to conquer all types of surfaces.

A good pushchair will provide safety and comfort for your child, ease for you and the chance to bond and explore the world together. Find out what you should consider when purchasing one.

Folding

One of the most important aspects that a lot of parents are looking for when they choose a pushchair is how easy it folds. The EeZeFold is a standout because it has a one-handed fold that allows you to hold your baby while folding the buggy. This means you don't need to juggle the two. The buggy also stays standing when folded, meaning you don't have to be concerned about your child falling off or getting harmed during this process.

Some folding pushchairs are compact enough that they can be tucked away in your car's boot. They're ideal for frequent travel or those with a small vehicle. Some are small buggies designed for everyday use, which have a smaller footprint than the typical pushchair, yet offer decent features such as recline that is comfortable or light wheels. They're also typically light enough to carry on your own and can be used by Grandma or Grandad if needed.

Some pushchairs can be used from birth, as some come with a lie-flat seats or carrycot option. Some are travel system compatible which means you can connect an automobile seat to your infant with just one click.

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

The Ergobaby Pivot 360 is another really popular pushchair in this class that is an excellent option for travel because it can fold one-handed by simply pressing the button. It's also extremely lightweight, making it easy to maneuver on uneven surfaces, and comes with excellent suspension. The seat can be rotated to face either the outside world or the parent facing pushchair and the hood can be extended to provide extra sun protection.

Convertible

A convertible stroller can be modified to meet the needs of families that are growing. It can begin as a single stroller, transform into a double stroller for siblings, and even turn into a triple stroller through the addition of a third seat or ride-along board. Our top choice is the UppaBaby Vista V2, is a stroller that can be used as a single or double. It can be converted to accommodate a bassinet or car seat for infants as well as one or two toddler seats, and even a third child by the use of adapters.

Apart from changing shape to adjust for different configurations, convertible strollers should offer adjustable features like height and reclining. They should also have large handles that are easy to hold, making it easy for dad, mom or grandma to push. Also, since these types of strollers usually contain more parts than traditional pushchairs, they should be more stable and less likely to tip over when carrying a number of children or loads of gear.

Larktale's new crossover stroller/wagon is the first of its kind that combines a single stroller with a wagon. Parents do not have to buy separate products. It can be converted quickly and effortlessly into one stroller or a double stroller, with no need for tools or conversion kits. The second seat and pull handle offer plenty of seating flexibility when it is used as an actual wagon. The Larktale is heavier than the other convertibles we have rated top-rated however it offers excellent maneuverability and is able to handle the hills. Its biggest flaw is the lack of storage space under the seat. Click here for more info.

Safety

A good pushchair will have numerous safety features, such as five-point harnesses for the infant. The harness should fit over the shoulders and around the waist, and also between the legs. It is important that the harness does not become loose, and there aren't any areas where fingers of children could become stuck.

There are a variety of different pushchair brakes to choose from, so pick the one that best fits your lifestyle. A foot brake is the most common and is ideal if you are likely to stop often such as when shopping. A hand brake is seen on a lot of jogger-style pushchairs and is more useful in situations where you'll be able to change momentum frequently, like when you go for an exercise. Some pushchairs come with an active hand brake which operates by pressing a pedal using 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 is particularly useful for those who live in areas that have steep slopes or uneven terrain. A lockable wheel in the front of the pushchair stroller can prevent the pushchair rolling away if you are in a rush or have a lot of luggage in the rear.

Although it may seem like a small consideration, you should also consider the weight of the stroller. Even a lightweight pushchair can be quite heavy when stuffed with a growing child and shopping bags. Make sure you know the weight of the item and think about whether you'd be able to lift it into your car boot and then up a flight of stairs while balancing a toddler and juggling a coffee from a takeaway.

A pram, buggy or pushchair is designed for babies who sit and can be used from six months. The seat can be set to face you or away from you depending on whether you want your child to connect with you or explore the world. Many pushchairs feature adjustable handlebars, seat positions and other accessories.

Comfort

Many parents love the convenience features of pushchairs, and there are many to choose from. Some are better suited for urban streets or rough terrain but others are not. The type of brake is a different aspect to consider. A foot brake, for example is the best choice for everyday use. An active hand brake, found on jogger-style pushchairs is more responsive on an adventure.

The ability of your pushchair to permit newborns to lie completely flat is one of the most crucial features. Babies need to be in a flat position to help develop their spines, so it's important to select a stroller with this feature from birth. This will allow your child to nap or rest comfortably, which will allow for longer outdoor excursions and a happier and healthier child.

If you're planning on using a car seat along with your pushchair, you need 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 fuss and keeping him calm throughout his outings.

Some pushchairs come with an adaptor for car seats that lets you easily attach your car seat to the frame. This means that you can use the same seat from birth to toddlerhood, which saves money and time. Many brands also offer a travel bundles that include the carrycot, baby car seat, adaptors and a footmuff all in one purchase.

A solid suspension system is also crucial particularly for the front wheels. This can make a huge difference when you drive on rough roads or urban terrain and allows you to negotiate bumps and uneven surfaces easily while ensuring your baby is comfortable.

You might also want to consider other practical comfort features, such as an ample basket (or separate bag) as well as reclined handles, an adjustable seat and a ventilated hood. Having all of these features will assist you navigate to the city or out in the country and ensure that your little one has the best possible sleep for his longest naps.