Pushchairs - The Swiss Army Knife of Baby Transport

A pushchair can also be referred to as a stroller, buggy or pram. It's like the Swiss Army knife of baby transportation. These baby-chariots can be used on any surface, from busy streets to rough terrain.

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

Folding

When selecting a stroller, parents are often concerned about how easy it will be to fold it. A standout is the EeZeFold, which has an incredible one-handed fold which lets you hold your baby while folding the buggy, meaning that you don't have to switch between the two. The buggy is stable when folded, meaning you don't need to worry about your child slipping out.

Some folding pushchairs are compact enough that they fit in your car's boot. They're ideal for frequent travelers or when you have a smaller vehicle. Some are day-to-day buggies which take up a smaller amount of space than the typical pushchair, but have good features like a good recline and lightweight wheels. They are usually light enough to be able to be carried by hand which means that Grandma or Grandad can use them in the event of need.

The majority of these pushchairs are targeted at toddlers and older children because they can sit up, however some offer a lie-flat seat and the option to add a carrycot that makes them suitable for babies from birth. Some are travel stroller system compatible so you can attach an automobile seat to your baby with just a click.

Although they don't have the tiny fold of a travel buggy many compact pushchairs require a small amount of space when folded with the seat in, so they're perfect for those who are short on storage space in their home or live in an apartment. They're also lightweight and often come with an umbrella to shield them from the elements.

The Ergobaby Pivot 360 is another very well-known pushchair in this category that is an excellent option for traveling as it folds by pressing a button. It is also extremely lightweight, making it easy to use even on rough surfaces. It also has an outstanding suspension. The seat can be turned to face either the world or towards the parent and the hood can be extended to give you extra sun protection.

Convertible

A convertible stroller transforms its form to meet the requirements of families that are growing. It can start as an individual stroller, then transform into a double stroller for siblings and even become a triple stroller by the addition of a third seat or ride-along boards. Our top pick, the UppaBaby Vista V2, is a multi-functional stroller that can be converted to accommodate a bassinet or car seat for newborns, one or two toddler seats and a third child by the use of adapters.

Convertible strollers should come with adjustable features, such as height and reclining settings. They should come with large, easy-to-grip handles that are comfortable for dads, moms or grandmas to push. These strollers are more stable than traditional pushchairs because they are made up of more components.

Larktale's new crossover stroller/wagon is a first of its kind, is a stroller that can be used as a wagon. Parents do not have to buy separate products. It quickly and easily converts to a double or single stroller without the need for tools or conversion kits, and offers plenty of seating versatility with the second seat and pull handle when it is in wagon mode. While the Larktale is a little heavier than some of our other top-rated convertibles, it is extremely maneuverable and can maneuver well over hills. Its biggest flaw is the lack of storage space under the seat. Click here for additional information.

Safety

A great pushchair should come with a number of safety features, including a five point harness for infants. This should fit over the shoulders, around the waist and between the legs. It is important that the harness doesn't become loose, and there aren't any areas where fingers of children could get stuck.

There are a variety of different pushchair brakes to choose from, and you should choose one that is most suitable for your lifestyle. A foot brake is the most commonly used and is ideal if you are likely to stop often for shopping. Many jogger-style pushchairs have a hand brake. This is useful when you are changing your speed often, like when you run. Some pushchairs come with an active handbrake that you can activate by pressing a pedal at the bottom of your foot. This is a great option for parents who need to stop and beginning their pushchairs more frequently. It makes it easier to keep your balance while applying pressure to the wheels.

It is also worth checking whether the pushchair comes with an option to lock the front wheel. This can be very helpful for those who live on uneven terrain or steep hills. A front wheel that locks can help stop the pushchair from rolling away when you are in a hurry or there is a large amount of baggage in the back.

Although it may seem like a small consideration but you must also think about the weight of the stroller. Even a light pushchair can be quite heavy when loaded up with an ever-growing child and shopping bags. Be sure to know the weight of the pushchair and consider whether you would be in a position to lift it into your car's boot and up flights of stairs while holding a toddler and juggling a takeaway coffee.

Buggy, pram, or pushchairs are designed for babies that can sit up. They are typically used after 6 months. The seat can be positioned to face you or away from you, depending on the preference of your child to connect with you or explore the world. A lot of pushchairs have adjustable seats, handlebars and other accessories.

Comfort

There are a variety of pushchairs with features that are comfortable for parents. Some are better suited to rough terrain or city streets and others aren't. The type of brake is a different aspect to consider. A foot brake, for example is ideal for everyday use. A hand brake that is active used on jogger-style pushchairs can be more responsive on an adventure.

One of the most important comfort features is whether or not your stroller has a full lie flat position for babies. Babies need to be in a flat position to help develop their spines, so it's worth choosing a pushchair with this feature right from the start. This will allow your baby to sleep or relax comfortably, which will allow for longer outdoor excursions and a happier and healthier child.

If you're going to be using a car seat along with your pushchair, it's important to choose a car seat that is compatible with your infant car seat. This makes it fast and easy to move your child from the car to the pushchair, reducing stress and ensuring he's calm during his outings.

Some pushchairs have an intelligent adaptor for car seats, which allows you to quickly attach your car seat. The seat can be used from birth until toddlerhood and save time and money. Many brands offer a travel bundle which includes a baby car seat, a carrycot, and adaptors, along with a footmuff, all in one purchase.

A solid suspension system is also essential, especially for the front wheels. This can make a significant difference when driving over rough roads or in urban streets, allowing you to move over bumps and uneven surfaces without difficulty while keeping your baby comfortable.

Other practical comfort features that you should look out for include a spacious shopping basket (or even a separate bag) as well as a reclining handle bar, an adjustable seat and a ventilated hood. All of these features will allow you navigate your way around town or country and ensure that your child gets the best quality sleep possible for his longest naps.