Pushchairs - The Swiss Army Knife of Baby Transport
A pushchair, also referred to as a pram and car seat, buggy or stroller, is like the Swiss army knife of baby transport. These baby-chariots can be used on any terrain, from crowded streets to rough terrain.
A quality pushchair will provide security and comfort to your child, convenience to you, and the possibility for you to bond and explore together. Read on to find out what to look for when selecting one.
Folding
One of the main characteristics that many parents are looking for when selecting a pushchair is how easy it folds. The EeZeFold is unique because it comes with a single-hand fold that allows you to hold the baby while folding the buggy. This means you don't need to juggle the two. The buggy stays upright when folded so you don't need to worry about your child falling out.
Some of the really compact folding pushchairs (like the Babyzen YOYO) are designed to fold down so small that they can fit in the trunk of your car, which means they're ideal if you're a frequent traveller or have a smaller car boot. Others are day-to-day buggies that take up a smaller amount of space than the typical pushchair but still have decent features like a good recline and lightweight wheels. These buggies are usually lightweight enough to be carried with hand which means that Grandma or Grandad can use them in the event of need.
Some pushchairs are able to be used from birth, as they come with a lie-flat seat or carrycot option. Some are compatible with travel systems so you can attach a car seat for your baby with just a click.
A lot of compact pushchairs travel systems are very compact when folded with the seat attached. They're perfect for those who have limited storage space at home, or who live in apartments. They are also lightweight, and many have a rain cover to protect them from the elements.
The Ergobaby Pivot 360, another popular pushchair in this category can be folded with just the press of the button. It's great to travel with because it's easy to fold. It is also very lightweight, making it easy to maneuver even on rough surfaces. It also has a great suspension. The seat can be turned to face either the world or towards the parent, and the hood can be extended to provide extra sun protection.
Convertible
A convertible stroller can be altered to meet the demands of families that are growing. It can begin as a single stroller, transform into a double stroller for siblings, and even a triple stroller with the addition of an additional seat or ride-along boards. The UppaBaby Vista V2 is our top choice. It's a versatile single to double stroller that can be converted to accommodate a car seat or bassinet for infants or two toddler seats or even a third child using adapters.
Convertible strollers should have adjustable features, such as the height and recline settings. They should have large, easy to grip handles that are comfortable for dads, moms or grandmas to push. These strollers are more stable than traditional pushchairs as they are made up of more components.
The Larktale crossover stroller/wagon is a unique model that combines a full-featured single stroller with an incline wagon, removing the necessity for parents to purchase separate products. It can be converted quickly and easily to a double or single stroller without tools or additional conversion kits, and offers ample seating options with the second seat and pull handle when in wagon mode. Although the Larktale is a bit bulkier than our other top convertibles, it has great maneuverability and maneuvers well over hills. Its biggest drawback is limited under-seat storage. Click here for more information.
Safety
A great pushchair should come with several safety features, including the five-point harness for baby. It should be placed over the shoulders over the waist, around the waist, and between the legs. It is crucial that the harness does not fall off, and that there are no areas that children's fingers might be stuck.
There are a variety of different brakes for pushchairs, so pick the one that is most suitable for your needs. The most popular brake is one that is a foot brake. It's great if you have to stop frequently, like when you shop. Many jogger-style pushchairs feature the option of a hand brake. This is helpful when you are changing your speed often, like when running. Some pushchairs have an active handbrake which you can activate by pressing a pedal on the bottom of your foot. This is a great option for parents who will be stopping and starting their pushchairs more frequently. It allows you to stay in your position while still applying the pressure to the wheels.
Verify that the front wheel of the pushchair is able to be locked. This is a great feature for those who live in uneven terrain or steep hills. A front wheel that locks can help to prevent the pushchair from moving away in a hurry or if there is a large amount of luggage in the back.
Although it may appear to be a minor issue it is important to consider the weight of the stroller. Even a light pushchair can be quite heavy when stuffed with an expanding 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 the toddler.
A buggy, pram and car seat or pushchair is made for babies who are able to sit up and is typically used until six months. They come with seats that can face both towards you for bonding and away from you to explore the world. Many pushchairs come with adjustable seats, handlebars and other accessories.
Comfort
Many parents love the convenience features of pushchairs, and there are a variety to choose from. Some are better suited for rough terrain or city streets but others are not. The brake type is another aspect to take into consideration. A foot brake, for instance is ideal for everyday use. An active hand brake used on jogger-style pushchairs, can be more responsive when on an adventure.
One of the most important features of comfort is whether or not the pushchair features a fully lie flat position for newborns. It is essential to select an infant pushchair with this feature from the beginning. This will allow your Baby Mobility to develop their spine into an upright position. This will allow your baby to rest or nap in a comfortable position, allowing for longer outdoor adventures and a more relaxed and healthier child.
If you're going to be using a car seat in conjunction with your pushchair, you need to select a model that is compatible with your chosen infant car seat. This makes it fast and simple to move your baby from the car to the pushchair, reducing stress and keeping him calm throughout his excursions.
Some pushchairs come with an adaptor for car seats, which allows you to easily attach your car seat. It is possible to use the seat from birth to toddlerhood and save money and time. Many brands also offer a travel bundle that includes the carrycot, baby car seat, adaptors, and a footmuff all in one purchase.
A solid suspension system is also crucial, especially for the front wheels. This can make a huge difference when driving over rough terrain or city roads, allowing you to navigate bumps and uneven surfaces without difficulty while keeping your baby comfy.
Other features for comfort that you should look out for include a spacious shopping basket (or even a separate bag) and a adjustable handle bar that can recline, adjustable seat and a the hood that is ventilated. These features will assist you in navigating around town or the country and ensure that your child has the best possible sleep for the longest nap possible.