- Suitable from birth depending on the model
- The cheapest models are generally only suitable for 6 months onwards
An umbrella folding pushchair is a type of lightweight pushchair,
so called because it folds up into a long thin shape rather like an umbrella.
Those that automatically lock as they close and are freestanding when
folded are the most convenient. The folding ability of umbrella folding
pushchairs means that they are brilliant for loading into the back of
the car, getting on the bus or train, nipping in and out of shops, going
for short walks and taking on holiday.
The
Maclaren
Volo pushchair is one of the simplest and lightest umbrella folding
pushchairs, being quick and compact to fold, even one-handed. Some umbrella
folding pushchairs are suitable for newborn babies, however this is only
the case if the pushchair has the facility to fully recline into a lie-flat
position. There must also be a range of accessories available to make
a snug, cosy cocoon for your baby.
Whilst umbrella folding pushchairs are the most economical
option, the cheapest models are generally only suitable for babies from
6 months. Additionally the minimal suspension, lack of support and small
wheels, particularly in the most basic models, can give a bumpy and uncomfortable
ride, which makes them unsuitable for young babies.
Umbrella folding pushchairs come in a lot of different styles
and may include the facility to carry some shopping. However, they are
not designed to carry heavy loads, and those with shopping baskets will
only take a few things at a time. Hanging bags over the handles is also
unwise as it may cause the pushchair to tip over, harming your baby or
resulting in damage to the pushchair.
Back
to different types of pushchairs
If you are going to be using your pushchair around town,
for popping in and out of shops or on public transport then it is important
that you buy a suitable pushchair. A pushchair that is easy to manoeuvre,
lightweight and compact enough to fit through shop doors is essential
for moving through busy crowds and coping with town life. The Jane
Sonic Lightweight pushchair 
is
a good option, as weighing just 5.5kgs and with locking swivel front wheels,
it is easy to whiz around town.
The Britax
Verve+ 3 wheeler pushchair is an ultra light 3 wheeler, with a quick
and simple collapsing mechanism meaning that it is perfect for busy town
life. The Baby
Jogger City Mini pushchair is another ultra compact and lightweight
option, and has the added benefit of being able to attach the Maxi
Cosi Cabriofix car seat.
- Suitable from around 3 months to 3 years
An all-terrain pushchair typically comprises of an aluminium-folding
frame with large pneumatic tyres. All-terrain pushchairs are designed
primarily for off-road use, such as cross-country walks, along the beach,
or even for use when jogging. All-terrain pushchairs are great for people
who enjoy walking, as they are very manoeuvrable and designed to cope
with all kinds of terrain.
However, even with weatherproofing accessories, all-terrain
pushchairs are not as solid or as snug as a normal pushchair. An all-terrain
pushchair is also often heavier, and not as quick to fold or as compact.
Whilst all-terrain pushchairs function just as well walking around town
and in and out of the shops as they do on harsher terrains, it is worth
noting that they are not designed to carry a lot of items.
If
you are looking for a pushchair that can carry a small amount of shopping
as well as other items such as a changing bag, this is perhaps not the
most suitable pushchair for you. All-terrain pushchairs are also quite
expensive, particularly as they are likely to be bought in addition to
an everyday pushchair.
The Quinny
Speedi SX pushchair is a good example of an all-terrain pushchair,
with handbrake-operated drumbrakes making it ideal for hill and all-terrain
walking. The lockable 360° front wheel makes the pushchair highly manoeuvrable,
and also suitable for a more compact city walk.
The Bugaboo
Cameleon pushchair is another example, being a sturdy and lightweight
pushchair that can handle any terrain whilst keeping your baby comfy.
- Suitable from three months (if they partly recline)
Most three wheelers have soft tyres, rather than gel-filled
or solid tyres meaning that they provide better suspension, with certain
models being suitable for country walks and even jogging. However softer
tyres are more likely to puncture, so it is important that you know where
or how to get the puncture sorted.
If you are planning on using your three-wheeler pushchair
on public transport, it is advisable that you check the width of the back
wheel, as some are too wide to fit through the inner doors in train carriages.
Back
to different types of pushchairs
- Suitable from birth
- Adjustable forward or rear facing seat positions
A pramette is essentially a 2-in-1 pushchair, 
giving
you the comfort of a pram and the convenience of a pushchair in one item.
The Britax
Visio pushchair is a good example of a pramette, with the pushchair
converting simply into a pram for those early days when your newborn baby
needs to lie flat and face you. As your baby grows, the detachable newborn
liner can be removed, leaving a pushchair suitable for children up to
approximately 4 years old (15kg).
Other popular manufacturers, such as Graco and Silvercross
also produce pramettes.
A coach built pram is a traditionally styled, large, hard-bodied
pram with large spoke wheels and a shopping tray. Coach built prams offer
superb comfort and generally have excellent suspension, allowing you to
walk a sleeping baby for miles undisturbed. They are also large and sturdy
enough to use for toddlers.
However, the downside of coach built prams is that they
cannot be carried in the car, or be taken on public transport due to their
weight. They are also very difficult to manoeuvre up and down steps, and
will not fit through many shop doors. Coach built prams are an expensive
buy, considering that you will definitely need to purchase a pushchair
later on.
Back
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Back
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Choosing your pushchair
Buying your pushchair
- Buying
your pushchair: Safety Laws and Regulations - Essential
pushchair care and safety - Prolonging
the life of your pushchair
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