Pushchairs - The Swiss Army Knife of Baby Transport

A pushchair is also referred to as a stroller, buggy or pram. It's the Swiss Army knife of baby transport. From navigating crowded streets to navigating rough terrain, these baby-chariots have been designed to conquer all kinds of terrain.

A good pushchair offers comfort and safety for your baby, convenience for you and a chance to explore the world together. Read on to find out what to look for when picking one.

Folding

One of the key characteristics that many parents are looking for when selecting a buggy is how easy it folds. A true standout is the EeZeFold that has an incredible one-handed fold that lets you hold your baby while folding the buggy. This means that you don't have to switch between the two. The buggy also stays standing when folded, meaning you don't have to worry about the child falling out or getting harmed during this process.

Some of the most compact folding pushchairs prams pushchairs (like the Babyzen YOYO) are designed to fold down so small that they fit into the boot of your car, which means they're perfect if you're a frequent traveler or have a tiny car boot. There are also day-today buggies that require less of space than the average pushchair but still have decent features like a good recline and lightweight wheels. They are typically light enough to be carried with hand and so Grandma or Grandad can use them in the event of need.

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

A lot of 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 in apartments. They're also lightweight and frequently come with an umbrella to shield them from the elements.

The Ergobaby Pivot 360, another popular pushchair in this category is foldable using just one hand by pressing a button. It's great for travel because it is easy to fold. It is also very light, making it easy to maneuver even on rough surfaces. It also comes with an outstanding suspension. The seat can be rotated to face either the world or towards the parent, and the hood can also be extended to offer additional sun protection.

Convertible

A convertible stroller changes shape to fit the needs of families that are growing. It can be used as an individual stroller, then transform into a double stroller for children and even a triple stroller with the addition of an additional seat or ride-along board. The UppaBaby Vista V2 is our top choice. It's a multi-purpose stroller that can be transformed to accommodate a car seat or bassinet for infants as well as two toddler seats or even a third child using adapters.

Convertible strollers must have adjustable features, like the height and recline settings. They should also have large handles that are easy to grip, making it comfortable for dad, mom or grandma to push. And because these types of strollers usually contain more parts than traditional pushchairs they need to be more stable and less likely to fall over when carrying several children or loads of equipment.

The Larktale crossover stroller/wagon is the first of its kind that combines a fully-featured single stroller with an incline wagon, removing the necessity for parents to invest in separate products. It is able to convert quickly and easily into one stroller or a double pram pushchair stroller, without the necessity of tools or conversion kits. The second seat and pull handle offer the flexibility of seating when being used as wagon. The Larktale is bulkier than our other top convertibles however it offers excellent maneuverability and is able to handle uphills. Its biggest drawback is limited storage under the seat. Click here for more information.

Safety

A well-constructed pushchair should have many safety features, including a five-point harness for the baby. The harness should fit over the shoulders and around the waist, and also between the legs. It is crucial that the harness does not come loose, and that there aren't any areas where fingers of children could become stuck.

Pick the brake that is best suited to your lifestyle. A foot brake is the most commonly used and is ideal if you are likely to stop a lot such as when shopping. Many jogger-style pushchairs feature the option of a hand brake. This is useful if you will be changing your momentum frequently, for example when you run. Some pushchairs feature an active hand brake that works by pressing a pedal with your foot. This is a good choice for parents who are stopping and starting their pushchairs more often. It helps to maintain your balance while applying pressure to the wheels.

It is also worth checking whether the stroller has an option to lock the front wheel. This is extremely beneficial for those who live on uneven terrain or steep hills. A front wheel that locks can prevent the pushchair from slipping away when you are in a hurry or there is a lot of luggage in the back.

Although it may seem like something of a minor issue however, the weight of the pushchair newborn is something you need to be aware of. Even a light pushchair can be quite heavy when stuffed with an ever-growing child and shopping bags. Take a look at the weight of your pushchair and see if you can lift it up the stairs and into the trunk of your car while carrying the toddler.

Buggy, pram, or pushchairs are designed for babies that can sit up. They are generally used after 6 months. The seat can be positioned to face you or away from you depending on how much you want your child to connect with you or explore the world. Many pushchairs have adjustable seating positions, handlebars, and other accessories.

Comfort

Many parents appreciate the comfort features of pushchairs - and there are plenty to pick from. Some are better suited to rough terrain or city streets and others aren't. The brake type is a different aspect to consider. For example, a foot brake is great for, everyday use, whereas an active hand brake found on jogger style pushchairs can be more responsive and easier to operate when out on adventures.

The capacity of your pushchair to permit newborns to lie completely flat is among the most important characteristics. Babies should be lying flat in a position to help develop their spine, so it's worth choosing a pushchair that has this feature from the beginning. This will allow your baby accessories a comfortable nap or time to rest, which will allow the ideal choice for more extended outdoor adventures and a healthier, happier child.

It is essential to select a pushchair that's compatible with the infant car seat you have chosen. This will make it easier for you to transfer your child from the car to the pushchair. It will also help keep him calm and minimize the amount of fuss.

Some pushchairs feature a smart car seat adaptor that allows you to easily fix your chosen car seat to the frame. The seat can be used from birth to toddlerhood and save time and money. Many brands also offer a travel system bundles that include infant car seat, adaptors and footmuff all in one purchase.

Another crucial comfort feature is good suspension - especially on the front wheels. This can make a significant difference when driving through rough roads or in city streets, allowing you move over bumps and uneven surfaces without difficulty while keeping your the baby in a comfortable position.

You might also want to think about other practical comfort features, like an ample basket (or separate bag), reclined handles as well as an adjustable seat and a ventilated hood. The combination of these features will allow you navigate your way through the country or town and ensure that your little one has the best possible sleep for the longest nap possible.