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. These baby-chariots can be used on any terrain, from crowded streets to rough terrain.

A quality pushchair will provide safety and comfort for your baby, ease for you, and the opportunity for you and your baby to explore and bond. Find out what you should consider when you are buying a pushchair.

Folding

One of the most important features that a lot of parents are looking for when selecting a buggy is how easy it is to fold. The most notable is the EeZeFold that has an incredible one-handed fold that allows you to hold your baby while folding the buggy. This means that you don't have to switch between the two. The buggy is stable when folded, so you don't need to be concerned about your child falling out.

Some folding pushchairs are compact enough that they can fit into the boot of your car. They're great for frequent travelers or if you have a small vehicle. There are also day-today buggies that require less of space than the typical pushchair but still come with decent features such as a great recline and light-weight wheels. They're also generally lightweight enough to be carried on your own and can be used by Grandma or Grandad if needed.

The majority of these pushchairs are aimed at older babies and toddlers because they can sit up, however some come with a lie-flat seating option and the option of adding a carrycot to make them suitable for babies from birth. Some are travel system compatible so you can attach an automobile seat to your infant with just one click.

Many compact pushchairs are very compact when folded with the seat attached. They're ideal for those who have a limited storage space at home or live in apartments. They are also lightweight, and they often have a rain cover to protect them against the elements.

The Ergobaby Pivot 360 is another very popular pushchair in this category, which is a great choice for travelling as it can be folded one-handed by pressing one button. It's also extremely lightweight, making it easy to maneuver on uneven surfaces, and it has excellent suspension. The seat can rotate to switch between parent-facing and the world, and the hood can be extended to provide extra protection and coverage from the sun.

Convertible

A convertible stroller can be modified to meet the requirements of families that are growing. It can begin as a single stroller, change into a double stroller for siblings, and even become a triple stroller through the addition of an additional seat or ride-along boards. The UppaBaby Vista V2 is our top pick. It's a flexible single to double pram stroller that can be converted to accommodate a car seat, a bassinet for infants as well as two toddler seats or even a third child using adapters.

In addition to changing shape to adjust for different configurations convertible strollers must also offer adjustable features, such as recline and height settings. They should have large, easy to grip handles that are comfortable for moms, dads or grandmas to push. And because these types of strollers usually have more parts than traditional pushchairs, they should be more stable and less likely to tip over when carrying multiple children or loads of gear.

Larktale's crossover stroller/wagon, a first of its kind it includes a single stroller and a wagon. Parents do not need to purchase separate items. It quickly and easily converts into a single or double stroller without the need for tools or conversion kits, and provides plenty of seating versatility with its second seat as well as a pull handle when it is in wagon mode. The Larktale is heavier than our other top convertibles however it offers excellent maneuverability and is able to handle the hills. The biggest issue is the lack of storage space under the seat. Click here for additional information.

Safety

A well-constructed pushchair should have many safety features, including five-point harnesses for the baby stroller. The harness should fit over the shoulders and around the waist, and also between the legs. It is also important that the harness doesn't come out of its place and that there are no areas where a baby may get their fingers stuck.

There are a number of different pushchair brakes to choose from, and you should choose one that best fits your needs. A foot brake is the most popular and ideal for those who are likely to stop frequently like when you go shopping. A hand brake is seen on a variety of jogger style pushchairs, and is more appropriate if you are going to frequently change your momentum, for instance, when going for an exercise. Some pushchairs feature an active hand brake that works by pressing a pedal using your foot. This is a great option for parents who will be stopping and starting more often as it makes it easier to maintain your balance and apply pressure on the wheels.

It is also important to determine whether the pushchair has a lockable front wheel. This is particularly beneficial for those who live in areas that have steep slopes or uneven terrain. A front wheel lockable can prevent the pushchair from rolling away in a hurry or there is a lot of luggage in the back.

While it might appear to be a minor issue it is important to consider the weight of the stroller. Even a light pushchair can become surprisingly heavy when it is loaded with a growing child and shopping bags. Make sure you know the weight of the pushchair and consider whether you would be able to lift it into your car boot and up flights of stairs with a toddler in your arms and juggling a coffee from a takeaway.

A buggy, pram or pushchair is made for babies who sit up and is typically 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 handles, seat positions, and other accessories.

Comfort

Many parents appreciate the comfort of pushchairs - and there are a variety to choose from. Some are better suited to urban streets or rough terrain than others, and the brake type is also something to take into consideration. A foot brake, for example, is best suited to everyday use. An active hand brake used on jogger-style pushchairs is more responsive during an adventure.

One of the most important comfort features is whether or not the pushchair has a full lie flat position for infants. Babies must be in a completely flat position to help develop their spine, and it is important to choose a pushchair that has this feature from the beginning. This will give your baby stroller a relaxing nap or time to rest, which will allow the ideal choice for more extended outdoor adventures and a healthier, happier child.

If you're planning on using a car seat along with your pushchair, you need to select a model that is compatible with the infant car seat. This makes it quick and easy to move your baby 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 allows you to attach your car seat to the frame. This means you can use the same seat from birth until toddlerhood, reducing costs and time. Many brands offer a travel bundle that includes a car seat, a carrycot and adaptors, as well as an infant footmuff, all in one purchase.

A good suspension system is also important, especially for the front wheels. This can make all the 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 may also want to consider other practical comfort features, like an ample basket (or separate bag) with reclined handles as well as an adjustable seat and a hood that is ventilated. These features will aid you in your travels across the country or around town and make sure that your child gets the best possible sleep for the longest naps.