How to choose a pushchair: useful tips for parents
Types of pushchairs
Before choosing a pushchair, you should decide on its type, which directly depends on the age of the child and the needs of the parents.
Classic prams. This is a small and not very popular category, equipped only with carrycot. They do not serve long – the baby grows out of the carrycot and is ready for seat unit after 6 – 8 months. But at the same time, such prams cost like universal competitors and require a lot of storage space.
Travel system 2 in 1. This option is the most popular, as it includes both a carrycot and a seat unit. And this means that in such transport the child will ride from birth until the age of approximately 3–4 years, that is, until the need for a pushchair disappears. It is convenient that such model has one common chassis for two units, and this saves storage space.
Travel system 3 in 1. In fact, this is the same travel system 2 in 1, only its set includes not only a carrycot and a seat unit, but also a car seat. Accordingly, this model is relevant for families who have personal vehicles. The car seat is made in the same style as the rest of the blocks, so it looks more harmonious. Although, of course, no one forbids buying a 2-in-1 model, and then, if necessary, a car seat in addition – they are also sold separately.
Strollers. No less popular models equipped with only one block – seat unit. Some manufacturers allow to use their models for both newborns and grown-up children, but it is still better to transfer a child into a seat unit, when they can already hold their back without support – this is about 6-8 months old. Surely, many are wondering: why buy a separate stroller if you can use a travel system? Of course, you can, but strollers are often lighter and more compact, so they fit easily in the trunk of a car, take up less space when folded, and are much more convenient when traveling together. In addition, some models allow you to install a carrycot or car seat on the frame instead of a seat unit, thereby turning the model into a universal one.
Pushchairs transformers. This is a good option for practical parents who do not like unnecessary details and do not want to take up space in the apartment with unnecessary units. The peculiarity of transformers is that they have only one block, which turns into both a carrycot and a seat unit. For example, the assortment of the Polish brand Kinder Kraft has several similar transformers: Moov, Juli and Veo. Some models are designed a little differently: in them, the seat unit is transformed into a niche into which a soft carrycot or an envelope for a baby is inserted. In any case, such pushchairs have one significant disadvantage: they do not provide the newborn with such comfort and the correct position as a classic pram with a strong frame, soft mattress and thoughtful details designed to meet the needs of the child.
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| Pushchair transformer Kinder Kraft Veo. |
Jogging strollers. A less common type of stroller designed for athletes and parents who prefer an active lifestyle. With such transport, you can not only walk, but also do jogging, as the name indicates. Often these are three-wheeled models with additional specific functions such as a hand strap and a brake that works when the stroller handle is released.
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| Sports stroller Cybex Sport Avi. |
What wheels to choose?
Having decided on the type of pushchair, we move on to the next most important point. You may be surprised, but these are not materials, accessories or equipment of the units (although these are also important criteria), but the wheelbase. This, so to speak, is the foundation of children's transport, on which the comfort of a small passengers and thrir parents depend. In this matter, we advise you to pay attention to the following points:
Wheel material. Plastic wheels are still found in more low-cost products, but, fortunately, manufacturers are gradually abandoning this material: such wheels are difficult to control and they do not provide the proper smooth ride. Therefore, it is better to spend a little more, but choose wheels from a different material. For example, air-filled wheels smooth out bumps well and overcome obstacles, but they require periodic pumping up and can fail if they run into sharp objects. A good alternative are gel wheels: they have the same advantages as air-filled wheels, but are not as sensitive to small punctures, as they are filled with gel inside, not air. The best options are polyurethane, rubber or foam rubber (EVA) – they are inexpensive, maintenance-free, wear-resistant and have good patency.
Number of wheels. There are models with three or four wheels. In the first case, there are two wheels at the back, and only one at the front. Such pushchairs are more maneuverable, but at the same time not very stable: for example, if you get into a deep hole or a road with a large slope, there is a risk of the vehicle tipping over. Therefore, classic four-wheeled solutions are considered the most stable and safest: they do not roll over and often cope with difficult tasks like snow, slush, bumps in the road and lack of even asphalt pavement without any problems. In addition, manufacturers can use double wheels. For example, Valco Baby Snap belongs to the category of three-wheeled models, but at the same time it has a double front wheel. Basically, this option helps to improve stability if the wheels themselves are small or the pushchair is designed for two or more children.
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| 3-wheel pushchair Valco Baby Snap with double front wheel. |
Wheel size. The larger the wheels, the better they overcome obstacles in the form of off-road, stairs or curbs. The optimal diameter is 25 – 30 cm, but it all depends on the type of pushchair, since often there are more wheels in travel systems. If we are talking about stroller, the front wheels with a diameter of 18 – 20 cm and the rear ones about 25 cm will be the best solution. Moreover, the larger the wheels, the larger and heavier the whole structure becomes. Therefore, if you are going to walk only on flat roads and playgrounds, you can choose a model with smaller wheels.
Maneuverability. For better maneuverability, choose pushchairs with swivel front wheels, which, if necessary (on slippery or uneven surfaces), can be locked in a straight position. Fortunately, this is a kind of standard for pushchairs, so most models on the market are equipped with just such wheels.
Suspension system. To reduce the cost of a pushchair, manufacturers may choose to omit suspension system. But this is another important detail that should not be skimped on. That's because it softens the jolts and vibrations from driving on rough roads, which can interfere with baby's sleep and rest. Even if you expect to drive on flat roads, suspension will definitely be usefull, since ideal roads do not exist, and curbs, stairs and thresholds will not go anywhere either. In addition, suspension will help to rock the child, which is especially useful if they are still small. Some pushchairs have double shock absorption on the wheels and on the frame, which doubles the efficiency. For example, Anex M-Type Pro 2 in 1 allows you to adjust the suspension on the frame depending on the road surface.
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| Anex M-Type Pro 2 in 1 pushchair with double shock absorption. |
Frame material. There is an opinion that the heavier and more massive the frame, the stronger it is. No! Most modern pushchairs use a lightweight but durable aluminium alloy that is unlikely to deteriorate with proper use. To do this, pay attention to the indicated maximum load: as a standard it reaches 15 kg, but there are models that can withstand more than 20 kg. This means that you will be able to ride your child for longer – not until 3 years old, but until about 4 years old.
Chassis width. Everything is simple here: the bigger the width of the chassis, the more stable the transport and the more spacious the “seat”, the smaller the width, the easier it will be for you to pass through doorways and get in a lift. Therefore, we recommend choosing the "golden mean" – about 60 centimeters. The only exceptions are models for twins and triplets, and this is not surprising, because the more children, the larger the pushchair itself.
Folding system. Here the choice is small: an umbrella or a booklike type. The first got its name due to the similarity in folded form with an umbrella: the design is oblong, but not wide. Among the advantages of such strollers are an affordable price, low weight and maneuverability, and among the disadvantages are uncomfortable double handles, small wheels and, as a result, poor patency. Therefore, 'umbrellas' are mainly used for travel and summer walks on smooth city roads. The most popular is the book-like folding system: the folded stroller has a fairly compact size and fits easily in the boot of a car. In addition, this design is used in all types of children's transport, and not just in strollers, as is the case with 'umbrellas'.
How to choose a carrycot
First of all, pay attention to the size of the carrycot. Since it will only be used for about 6 months, this indicator directly depends on the season. So, in winter it is better to choose a spacious unit 70–75 cm long and about 30 cm wide so that a child in warm overalls can fit in it, and in summer you can use a smaller carrycot, since there will be a minimum of things on the baby. For the comfort of the baby, the carrycot should be equipped with a soft mattress, a hard bottom, a large hood, high sides and upholstery that is pleasant to the touch. Additional advantages will be mesh inserts or a ventilated bottom for better air circulation in hot weather and the ability to adjust the height of the headrest. This option will help you choose the most comfortable position for the little one, as well as during the period when the children begin to try to sit on their own. In addition, a carry handle and special skids at the bottom will be useful, thanks to which the carrycot can be used separately from the chassis – as a cradle for rocking a baby.
How to choose a seat unit
The child will spend most of the time in the seat unit, so it should be as spacious, comfortable and convenient as possible. And if a one-year-old child does not need a lot of space, then in a year or two (and especially in winter), the width and length of the seat will play a decisive role. Of course, the larger the unit, the larger the pushchair itself, but in this matter it is still better not to save. The obligatory condition is the backrest adjustment – it should recline up to a horizontal position so that the baby can ride lying down or sleep in the fresh air. At the same time, it is desirable that the footrest is also was regulated – this increases the length of the sleeping area and eliminates the hanging of the legs. Sometimes, instead of adjusting the backrest and footrest, manufacturers add the ability to tilt the entire unit, which also transforms from a sitting position to a lying position and vice versa.
Take care of safety too. It will be provided with 3 or 5-point harnesses, a separator between the legs and a protective bumper. By the way, it should detach from both sides – it will be more convenient to get the child out.
Accessories
In this case, the rule “the more the better” applies. The bare minimum is a carrycot cover to protect from wind and bad weather, a warm foot cover for cold weather trips, a rain cover and a standard shopping basket to fit your favorite toys, groceries and other things. Keep in mind that the basket should be made of durable materials that will not tear after a while. It is also desirable that it is not too low, not touching curbs and ledges while driving, and has good roominess. In addition, the set may include a mosquito net, a parent bag for things, a cup holder, warm gloves or a hand muff, a changing pad, a pushchair cover, etc. All this can come in handy while walking and save you from additional expenses for accessories, so it’s better choose a pushchair with the necessary accessories set.
What else to pay attention to
Weight. Another important factor is the overall weight of the structure. Usually travel systems are heavier (from 10 kg), strollers are lighter. There are even ultra-light models weighing about 5 kg, which are often chosen for travel. For example, Chicco Ohlala 2 weighs only 3.8 kg! But the lower the weight, the smaller the wheels, and the worse the stability and patency. Therefore, for everyday use, it is better to find a "golden mean" – so that the design is reliable, but at the same time the pushchair itself can be easily lifted up a small staircase and brought into the public transport.
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| Chicco Ohlala 2 stroller weighs only 3.8 kg. |
Reverse installation. Most often this function is used in seat units. It means that the unit can be installed in the direction of movement or against it. This is not mandatory, but quite a convenient option, since eye contact with parents is necessary for a small child. If they want to view the surrounding landscapes while walking, just turn the unit in the opposite direction. By the way, sometimes manufacturers install a reversible handle and a swivel block for the same purpose.
Installation of additional units. For families with two children, some companies offer the possibility of installing a second additional unit. As a result, the single model turns into a two-seater. There are no strict rules in the location of the additional block: someone places them below, someone – above, someone – behind the main one. The main thing here is to take into account the comfort of children, because if one child looks at the back of another all the way, they probably won't like it. For example, the Peg Perego Ypsi allows children to sit with their backs to each other, so they can both watch what is happening around.
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| Peg Perego Ypsi pushchair with two units installed. |
Adjustable handle. An adjustable handle can be used to increase the comfort of the stroller – telescopic or lowering/rising. Thus, parents can "tune" it to their height. In addition, tall people will appreciate models without a rear axle on wheels – a crossbar that legs can cling to while walking.
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