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. These baby-chariots can be used on any surface, from crowded streets to rough terrain.
A quality pushchair provides comfort and safety for your child, ease for you and the chance to bond and explore the world together. Learn more about what to look for when picking one.
folding pramOne of the most important characteristics that many parents are looking for when they choose a buggy is how easy it folds. A standout is the EeZeFold which features an amazing one-handed fold that allows you to hold your baby while folding the buggy, which means you don't need to move between the two. The buggy stays upright when folded, which means you do not have to worry about your child falling off or causing injury during this process.
Some of the most compact folding pushchairs (like the Babyzen YOYO) are designed to fold so small they fit into the trunk of your car, so they're ideal if you're a frequent traveller or have a smaller car boot. There are also day-today buggies that require less of space than the average pushchair but still come with decent features such as a great recline and light-weight wheels. They are usually light enough to be able to be carried by hand which means that Grandma or Grandad can use them if necessary.
The majority of these pushchairs are aimed at older babies and toddlers as they can sit up, but some offer a lie-flat seat and the option to add a carrycot to make them suitable from the time of birth. They might also be compatible with travel systems which means you can connect an infant car seat to the frame with one click.
While they don't have the tiny fold of a travel buggy, many compact pushchairs still require a small amount of space when folded with the seat in and are ideal for those who are short on storage space at their home or live in an apartment. They are also lightweight, and many have a rain cover to shield them from the elements.
The Ergobaby Pivot 360, another popular pushchair from this class is foldable with one hand by pressing the button. It is great for traveling as it is easy to fold. It's also extremely light, making it simple to maneuver on rough surfaces, and it has excellent suspension. The seat rotates to change between parent-facing and world-facing. The hood can be extended for extra protection and protection from the sun.
Convertible
A convertible stroller can be reshaped to meet the needs of growing families. It can be a single stroller that transforms into a double stroller to accommodate siblings, or even a triple stroller when you add the third seat. The UppaBaby Vista V2 is our top choice. It's a flexible single to double stroller that can be transformed to accommodate a car seat, a bassinet for infants as well as two toddler seats or even a third child using adapters.
Convertible strollers should come with adjustable features, such as the height and recline settings. They should also have large, easy-to-grip handles that are comfortable for moms, dads or grandmas to
push chairs and prams. Also, since these types of strollers usually have more parts than traditional pushchairs, they will be more stable and less likely to tip over when carrying a number of children or loads of gear.
The Larktale crossover stroller/wagon is a first-of-its-kind that combines a full-featured single stroller with the pull wagon, removing the need for parents to buy separate products. It can be converted quickly and easily to a double or single stroller without the need for tools or conversion kits, and provides the flexibility of seating with its second seat and pull handle when used in wagon mode. The Larktale is heavier than the other convertibles we have rated top-rated, but it has excellent maneuverability and is able to easily climb uphills. Its biggest flaw is the lack of storage space underneath the seat. Click here for more details.
Safety
A well-constructed pushchair should have numerous safety features,
Pushchairs such as a five-point harness that is suitable for the infant. It should be placed over the shoulders over the waist, around the waist, and between the legs. It is important that the harness does not fall off,
pushchairs and that there aren't any areas that children's fingers might get stuck.
There are a variety of different brakes for pushchairs, and you should choose one that is most suitable for your lifestyle. The most commonly used brake is a foot brake. It's a great option if you have to stop frequently, like when you shop. A hand brake is found on many jogger style pushchairs. It is more beneficial in situations where you'll be changing momentum often like when you go for a run. Some pushchairs come with an active hand brake that operates by pressing a pedal with your foot. This is a good choice for parents who need to stop and starting their pushchairs more often. It helps to stay in your position while applying pressure to the wheels.
Examine if the front wheel of the pushchair is able to be locked. This is especially useful for those who live in areas with steep slopes or uneven terrain. A front wheel lockable can prevent the pushchair from rolling away in a hurry or there is a large amount of baggage in the back.
Although it might appear to be a minor issue it is important to consider the weight of the stroller. Even a small pushchair can become surprisingly heavy when it is loaded with a growing baby and shopping bags. Make sure you know the weight of the item and consider whether you would be in a position to lift it into your car boot and up the stairs while holding a toddler and juggling a takeaway coffee.
Buggy, pram, or pushchairs are made for babies who can sit up. They are typically used after 6 months. They come with seats that can face towards you for bonding and away from you to explore the world. Many pushchairs have adjustable seat positions, handlebars and other accessories.
Comfort
Many parents love the comfort features of pushchairs - and there are many to choose from. Some are better suited to urban streets or rough terrain than others and the brake type is also something to consider. For instance, a hand brake is great for daily use, whereas an active hand brake found on jogger style pushchairs can be more responsive and easier to operate when out on adventures.
The capability of your pushchair to permit newborns to lie completely flat is one of the most important characteristics. Babies should be in a completely flat position to help them develop their spine, so it's important to select a stroller with this feature right from the start. This will allow your baby to nap or rest in a comfortable position, allowing for longer outdoor excursions and a more relaxed and healthier child.
It is essential to select a pushchair that is compatible with the car seat for infants you've chosen. This makes it fast and easy to move your baby from the car into the pushchair, reducing fuss and ensuring he's calm during his outings.
Some pushchairs feature an adaptor for car seats that allows you to attach your car seat to the frame. You can use the seat from birth to toddlerhood and save money and time. Many brands offer a travel package that includes a baby car seat, a carrycot and adaptors, along with an infant footmuff, all in one purchase.
A good suspension system is also crucial, especially for the front wheels. This can make all the difference when driving on rough roads or in urban areas that allow you to navigate bumps and uneven surfaces easily while ensuring your baby is comfortable.
You may also want to think about other practical comfort features, like the capacity of a large basket (or separate bag), the ability to recline handles as well as an adjustable seat and a hood that is ventilated. All of these features will allow you to navigate your way around town or country, and ensure your child gets the best quality sleep possible for the longest nap possible.
