Pushchairs - The Swiss Army Knife of Baby Transport

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

A quality pushchair provides comfort and safety for your child, ease for you, and an opportunity to explore the world together. Find out what to consider when purchasing one.

Folding

One of the main aspects that a lot of parents look for when choosing a pushchair is how easy it is to fold. The EeZeFold is unique because it comes with a single-hand 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, which means you don't have to be concerned about your child falling out or getting harmed during this process.

Some folding pushchairs are compact enough that they can be tucked away into the boot of your car. They're ideal for frequent travelers or if you have a small vehicle. There are also day-today buggies that take up a smaller amount of space than the typical pushchair, but have good features such as a great recline and wheels that are lightweight. They're also typically lightweight enough to carry by hand and so can be used by Grandma or Grandad in case they need to.

The majority of these pushchairs are designed towards toddlers and older infants since they can sit up, but some have a lie-flat chair and the option to add an infant carrycot, making them suitable from the time of birth. Some are compatible with travel pushchair systems which means you can connect an automobile seat to your infant with one click.

Many compact pushchairs are still extremely compact when folded with the seat attached. They're ideal for those who are limited in storage space at home, or who live in apartments. They're also light, and many come with a raincover to protect them against the elements.

The Ergobaby Pivot 360 is another really well-known pushchair in this category that is a great option for traveling as it can be folded one-handed by simply pressing a button. It's also extremely light, making it simple to maneuver on rough surfaces, and it has excellent suspension. The seat can be turned to face either the outside world or the parent and the hood can be extended to offer additional sun protection.

Convertible

A convertible stroller transforms its form to meet the requirements of growing families. It can be a single stroller that transforms into a double stroller to accommodate siblings, or even a triple stroller with the addition of a third seat. The UppaBaby Vista V2 is our top pick. It's a multi-purpose 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 with adapters.

In addition to changing shape to accommodate different configurations convertible strollers should also have adjustable features, such as height and reclining. They should come with large, easy to grip handles that are comfortable for dads, moms, or grandmas to push. Additionally, because these kinds of strollers typically contain more parts than traditional pushchairs they need to be more stable and less likely to tip over when carrying a number of children or loads of equipment.

Larktale's cross-over stroller/wagon, a first of its kind, is a stroller that can be used as a wagon. Parents do not have to buy separate products. It is quick and easy to convert into a single or double stroller without tools or additional conversion kits, and provides the flexibility of seating with its second seat and pull handle when it is in wagon mode. While the Larktale is a little heavier than our other top-rated convertibles, it is very maneuverable and can be maneuvered well over hills. The biggest issue is the limited storage under the seat. Click here for more information.

Safety

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

There are a variety of different pushchair with car seat 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. Many jogger-style pushchairs have the option of a hand brake. This is useful if you will be changing your momentum often, like when you run. Some pushchairs come with an active hand brake which operates by pressing a pedal using your foot. This is a good option for parents who are likely to be stopping and starting more often because it allows you to keep your balance while applying pressure to the wheels.

It is also worth checking whether the pushchair has a lockable front wheel. This is particularly beneficial for those who live in areas with uneven terrain or steep slopes. A wheel lockable on the front can prevent the pushchair from slipping away if you're in a hurry or have lots of baggage in the rear.

Although it may seem an unimportant thing to consider but the weight of the pushchair is something you need to bear in mind too. Even a light pushchair can become surprisingly heavy when stuffed with a growing child and shopping bags. Check the weight of your stroller and see if you can lift it up stairs and into the boot of your car while carrying an infant.

Buggy, pram and car seat, or pushchairs are designed for infants who can sit up. They are generally used after six months. The seat can be positioned towards you or away from you depending on whether you want your child to be close to you or explore the world. A lot of pushchairs have adjustable handlebars, seat positions and other accessories.

Comfort

Many parents appreciate the convenience features of pushchairs, and there are a variety to choose from. Some are better suited to urban streets or rough terrain, while others are not. The brake type is a different aspect to consider. A foot brake, for instance is the best choice for everyday use. An active hand brake used on jogger-style pushchairs, can be more responsive when on an adventure.

The ability of your pushchair to allow infants to lie flat is among the most important characteristics. It's important to choose an infant pushchair with this feature from the moment of birth. This will enable your baby to develop their spine in a straight position. This will allow your baby a relaxing nap or rest, making for longer outdoor excursions and a healthier, happier child.

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

Some pushchairs have a smart car seat adaptor that lets you easily attach your car seat to the frame. The seat can be used from birth until toddlerhood, and save time and money. Many brands offer a bundle that includes a car seat, a carrycot, and adaptors, along with a footmuff, all in one purchase.

A good suspension system is also important, especially for 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 without difficulty while keeping your baby comfy.

You might also want to consider other practical features, such as the capacity of a large basket (or separate bag) with reclined handles, an adjustable seat and a ventilated hood. These features will help you navigate through the city or country and ensure that your child has the best possible rest for the longest nap possible.