Pushchairs - The Swiss Army Knife of Baby Transport

A pushchair is also known as a stroller, buggy or pram. It's the Swiss knife of baby transportation. These baby-chariots are able to handle any surface, from crowded streets to rough terrain.

A good pushchair will offer safety and comfort to your baby, convenience for you, and the possibility for you to bond and explore together. Read on to find out what to look for when picking one.

Folding

When choosing a stroller, parents are often concerned about the ease to fold it. A standout is the EeZeFold which features an incredible one-handed fold that allows you to hold your baby while folding the buggy. This means you don't have to juggle between the two. The buggy is stable when folded, meaning you don't have to be concerned about your child getting out.

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

Some pushchairs can be used from birth, since they come with a lie-flat seat or carrycot option. They may also be compatible with travel systems and allow you to attach an infant car seat to the frame in one click.

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

The Ergobaby Pivot 360 is another extremely popular pushchair in this category, which is a great option for traveling as it folds with a simple press of a button. It's also lightweight, making it easy to maneuver even on rough surfaces. It also comes with an excellent suspension. The seat can be rotated to face either the outside world or the parent and the hood can be extended to give you extra sun protection.

Convertible

A convertible stroller can be reshaped to meet the demands of families that are growing. It can be used as a single stroller, change into a double stroller for siblings, and even turn into a triple stroller with the addition of a third seat or ride-along board. Our top pick 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, car seat for newborns as well as one or two toddler seats and an additional child through the use of adapters.

Apart from changing shape to accommodate different configurations, convertible strollers should offer adjustable features, such as recline and height settings. They should also have large, easy-to-grip handles that make it easy for dad, mom or grandma to push. And because these types of strollers often contain more components than traditional pushchairs, they will be more sturdy and less likely to tip over when carrying multiple children or loads of equipment.

Larktale's crossover stroller/wagon, a first of its kind, includes a single stroller and a wagon. Parents do not need to purchase separate products. It quickly and easily converts into a single or double stroller without the need for tools or conversion kits, and offers the flexibility of seating with the second seat and pull handle when it is in wagon mode. Although the Larktale is a little heavier than our other top-rated convertibles is very maneuverable and can be maneuvered well over hills. Its biggest drawback is limited under-seat storage. Click here for more information.

Safety

A great pushchair should come with a number of safety features, including five-point harnesses for infants. It should be able to fit over the shoulders over the waist, around the waist, and between the legs. It is important that the harness does not come loose, and that there are no areas where a child's fingers could become stuck.

There are many different pushchair brakes available so pick the one that best suits your needs. A foot brake is the most common and ideal for those who are likely to stop often for shopping. Many jogger-style pushchairs have hand brakes. This is helpful if you will be changing your momentum often, like when you run. Some pushchairs have an active handbrake which you can activate by pressing a pedal on the bottom of your foot. This is a good option for parents who are likely to be stopping and starting more frequently since it helps to keep your balance while applying pressure to the wheels.

Examine if the front wheel of the pushchair is able to be locked. This is extremely beneficial for those who live on uneven terrain or steep hills. A front wheel lockable can help stop the pushchair from slipping away in a rush or there is a lot of luggage in the back.

Although it may seem like an unimportant thing to consider but the weight of the pushchair is something to be aware of. Even a lightweight pushchair can become quite heavy when stuffed with a growing infant and shopping bags. Check the weight of your pushchair and determine whether you are able to lift it up the stairs and into the trunk of your car while carrying an infant.

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

Comfort

There are many pushchairs with features for comfort that parents love. Some are more suited to rough terrain or city streets than others, and the brake type is also something to take into consideration. A foot brake, for example is ideal for daily use. An active hand brake that is found on pushchairs with joggers, can be more responsive when on an adventure.

One of the most important comfort features is whether or not the pushchair has a full lie flat position for newborns. Babies need to be in a flat position to develop their spine, so it's important to select a stroller that has this feature from the beginning. This will allow your baby to sleep or relax comfortably, allowing for more time outdoors and a more relaxed and healthier child.

It's important to choose a pushchair that's compatible with the car seat for infants you've selected. This makes it quick and simple to move your baby from the car into the pushchair, reducing fuss and ensuring he's calm during his outings.

Some pushchairs have an adaptor for car seats that lets you easily fix your chosen car seat to the frame. You can use the seat from birth to toddlerhood and save time and money. Many brands offer a travel package which includes a baby car seat, a carrycot, and adaptors, along with the footmuff in one purchase.

Another crucial comfort feature is a good suspension, especially on the front wheels. This can really make the difference when driving on rough terrain or city roads that allow you to navigate bumps and uneven surfaces with ease while keeping your baby comfy.

Other practical comfort features that you should look for include a large shopping basket (or even an additional bag), adjustable handle bar that can recline, adjustable seat, and a the hood that is ventilated. All of these features can aid you in your travels through the city or country and make sure that your child gets the best possible rest for his longest naps.