Pushchairs: specifications, types

General design of the stroller.

In addition to traditional varieties — classic models (with a carrycot) and pushchairs (with a seat) — nowadays you can also find universal strollers, which are 2 in 1 and 3 in 1, transformers and strollers for sports purposes. Here is a more detailed description of each variety:

— Pushchairs. Pushchairs designed for the sitting position of the kid. The seat for the baby in such pushchairs is called a seat unit; in fact, it is a seat of a special design. In some models, this seat can tilt almost horizontally, which gives the little passenger the opportunity to take a nap. Nevertheless, all pushchairs are intended for more or less grown-up kids who are able to sit up independently — that is, not younger than 6 — 8 months.
Also note that in this category there are the possibility of installing a carrycot. In fact, such models are universal (see below); but if the carrycot is not initially included in the delivery, it is customary to classify the stroller as a pushchair.

— Jogging. A type of pushchairs (see above) designed for parents who value an active lifestyle: a jogging pushchair can be used not only when walking quietly, but also when jogging. Such pushchairs are usually...equipped with three wheels of rather large diameter, and also have a large width of the chassis (see below); all this gives additional stability and passability, including on uneven roads. In addition, the design may include specific features for added comfort and safety, such as a strap that fixes the parent's hand on the pushchair handle or an additional brake that activates when the pushchair is released from the hands.

— Universal. Strollers often come with at least two (or even three) interchangeable units: a lying carrycot for infants, a seat unit for older babies, and sometimes a Group 0+ car seat. Parents can choose which unit to use on the chassis. This option provides convenience throughout the baby's stroller years, starting with the carrycot for the first 6-8 months and transitioning to the seat unit. However, these universal strollers are pricier and less space-efficient than transformers with similar capabilities. On the flip side, separate carrycots and seat units are more convenient and reliable.
It is worth taking into account that some universal models can be supplied in alternative options — for example, " carrycot + car seat". So, when buying such a stroller, it does not hurt to specify the set of accessories supplied with it.

— Stroller-transformer. Transforming strollers allow the seat to convert seamlessly from a carrycot to a seat unit and vice versa, offering the same versatility as universal models. Unlike universal strollers, transformers don't require rearranging the main unit for this reconfiguration, providing several advantages. Firstly, the main block's format can be changed anytime, even on the go, without the need for separate seat units or carrycots. Secondly, the integrated carrycot takes up less storage space compared to two separate units.

— Classic. Strollers that are equipped with carrycots only; some also allow the installation of a seat unit, as in universal models, but if such a unit is not included in the kit, the stroller is considered a classic. Recall that carrycots are intended mainly for children under 6 – 8 months old, who are not yet able to sit normally in the seat unit; in other words, this type of stroller is suitable mainly for the smallest kids. That is why the "classic" nowadays is not particularly popular.

The type of stroller is indicated by the number of seats in it.

— Single. The traditional, most popular option is a stroller for one kid. Some of these models allow the installation of an additional second seat unit (see below), which turns them into doubles; however, by default, even in such a stroller there is only one place.

— For twins. Strollers with two seats in which you can seat twins (or just two kids of the same age and physique). Seats in such strollers can be located either side by side or one behind the other, in the latter case they can be installed at different heights.

— For triplets. Strollers with three seats — for triplets or three kids of the same age. It is very rare to have triplets at once, so there are few strollers of this type. The seats for the kids in them are usually arranged as follows: two side by side and one separately, in front of or behind them.

Possibility of installation on a single stroller (see "Type") of an additional unit, simultaneously with the main one.

Features of the use of this function may be different, depending on the type (see "Design") and the specific model of the stroller. So, in pushchairs models, the installation of the second unit, usually, is used to turn a single stroller into a double one; at the same time, the additional seat, like the main one, is a seat unit with the kid sitting. However, it should be borne in mind here that the second unit is usually located behind the main one, in the lower part of the structure, and the kid sitting in such a place sees only the back of the front seat.

In turn, among the universal strollers there is a more specific option — the ability to install both the carrycot and the seat unit supplied in the kit on one chassis at once. This allows you to keep both accessories ready and use them depending on the situation: for example, at the beginning of a long walk, you can put the kid in the seat unit, and when he/she gets tired and wants to sleep, put him/her in the carrycot. The seat and carrycot are also installed at different levels, but changing them over is usually a matter of seconds.

— Book folding system. In strollers, this system involves connecting frame parts along a common axis, resembling closing book pages when folded. Despite being somewhat more complex and heavier than umbrella strollers, book system offer versatility, suitable for various stroller types. They work well with both walking seat units and carrycots, accommodate different handle types easily, and significantly reduce height when folded, unlike umbrella structures.

— Umbrella folding system. In the unfolded position, the frame of a stroller, with its umbrella mechanism, appears as a front wheel support inclined backward, extending to a top handle, and a rear wheel support attached to it, standing vertically. During folding, the rear support pivots at the attachment point and aligns with the front support. Unlike book folding system, the front support remains rigid and doesn't fold independently. Umbrella strollers got their name from the handle — which is curved, like an umbrella handle.
The advantages of this type of mechanism are low weight, low cost and quick unfolding/folding. On the other hand, the umbrella structure is not well suited for carrycots, which is why it is used mainly in strollers and individual universal models. In addition, curved handles are somewhat less convenient than solid handles (the latter are also found in similar designs, but much less frequently).

The ability to adjust the tilt between the seat and the backrest of the stroller. This helps to find the most comfortable position for the baby and adjust the seat to different situations: for example, at the end of a long walk, the backrest can be tilted back for a tired baby to take a nap.

The ability to adjust the tilt of the main unit relative to the stroller frame. This allows you to adjust the stroller to different situations: for example, at the beginning of the walk, the unit can be installed almost vertically, based on a sitting position, and later tilted back so that the baby can take a nap.

The ability to adjust the height of the main unit (where the kid is placed) on the stroller frame. Different location options have their own characteristics: for example, with a high installation, the kid will be closer to the parent, and with a low installation, stability increases and the stroller will behave better on uneven roads.

The ability to adjust the position of the footrest, on which the legs of the baby in the stroller rest.

A similar ability is found in some strollers, transformers and strollers of universal strollers (see "Design"). The footrest itself is an inclined surface attached to the front edge of the seat. Adjustable footrests are those in which the angle of inclination can be adjusted; in many models, this footrest can even be set horizontally. This makes it possible to choose the most comfortable position for the baby's legs in different situations.

Strollers in which the carrycot has a foldable design. This feature simplifies the storage and transportation of the stroller, when folded, the foldable carrycot takes up much less space.

The carrycot carry handle for carrying is mounted on the carrycot and makes it easy to carry it from place to place — for example, if you need to remove the carrycot for cleaning and then put it back. The handle can have a different shape — in the form of an arc attached to the sides of the carrycot, in the form of a hood cutout, etc.

Strollers in which the handle can be moved from one side to the other — in other words, put it at both the rear and front wheels. Simply put, the reversible handle makes it possible to carry the baby both forward-facing and parent-facing. Such an opportunity can be provided both due to the swivel fastening of the handle, and due to the fact that the handle is made removable.

This function is useful in light of the fact that the optimum handle position will also be different for various formats of use of the stroller. Thus, when the child is awake sitting in the seat unit, it is best to push the stroller forward, so that the little passenger can freely see the world around him/her. And when a small passenger sleeps on the unfolded seat - it is best to turn the stroller facing the parent; the same position is standard for the carrycot. In addition, the reversible handle can be useful in some daily situations: for example, to go down a steep hill, it is better to turn the stroller back to front, and the easiest way to do this is to use the reversible handle.

It is worth taking into account that when you reverse the handle, the front and rear wheels change places, and a long movement "backwards" can be uncomfortable. In some models this moment is compensated by automatic switching of wheels: when you change the position of the handle, the wheels also change (the front wheels are fixed straight, and the rear wheels are unlocke...d, turning into swivel wheels). However, the availability of this function should be specified separately.

In strollers with this function, the seat unit can be fixed in one of two positions, to choose from: facing the parent (against the direction of movement) or facing away from the parent (in the direction of movement). Each option has its advantages: in the first case, the baby can see a familiar face and is less nervous, and when located in the direction of movement, it is more convenient for him/her to view the world around him/her.

A feature used in walking seat units where the child is sitting. The bumper bar is a horizontal handrail installed in front of the baby seat. The child can hold on to such a handrail; in addition, such a device reduces the risk of falling out of the stroller, and for additional security, the bumper bar can be supplemented with a crotch strap (see below). To make the stroller more convenient to store, transport and clean, the bumper bar is often made removable; in some models, it also serves as a carrying handle (see above).

The presence of a separate crotch strap in the design of the stroller. Only strollers with a bumper (see above) are equipped with such a strap: it is located vertically between the legs of a seated kid, preventing him/her from falling out by slipping under the bumper. In general, this design is similar in purpose to three-point harnesses (see “Harness type”), however, in a stroller with a bumper and crotch strap, the child is usually less crowded. You should pay attention to the presence of this function when buying pushchairs.

A window made of transparent or translucent material, built into the hood that covers the cradle or seating unit. In the version with a walking block, the viewing window is usually located so that the parent can see the baby directly while moving, without being distracted from controlling the stroller. In cradles, the parent can see the child through a window by approaching the stroller from the side of the hood (that is, on the opposite side of the handle); implementations with a window in the front hemisphere of the hood are less common. In addition, a baby lying in a cradle can usually see the outside world through the window (primarily the sky above the stroller). The viewing window can be made in the form of oilcloth or a mesh mosquito net, through the holes of which air freely penetrates, but insects and small debris raised by the wind are retained.

Type of seat harnesses provided in the stroller.

— Two-point. A simple harnesses that strap the seated baby around the waist. A rather inexpensive and at the same time quite practical solution. The main disadvantage of the two-point harness is that the baby can slip under it and fall out of the stroller; however, to avoid this, many models include a bumper bar (see above) as well as a crotch pad — a protective partition between the seat and the bumper.

— Three-point. Three-point harnesses typically consist of two straps running over the shoulders from top to bottom, and one strap running from the bottom to the top, between the legs. The central fastener is commonly positioned at the abdomen. These systems are both straightforward and more dependable compared to point-to-point systems.

— Five-point. The most reliable and safe type of harnesses in contemporary strollers are the five-point systems. These include the three-point harnesses described earlier, with the addition of two waist harnesses, significantly minimizing the risk of a baby slipping out. However, five-point systems are more complex and may be challenging to use, and a fussy baby may not appreciate the multitude of harnesses.

The depreciation theme is designed to absorb shocks and bumps from uneven road surfaces. The most popular nowadays are models with spring systems; you can also meet the shock absorption of the articulated and double types, and in quite a large number of strollers this function is absent at all. Here are the main features of each option:

— Spring type. Depreciation systems based on classical springs mounted on individual wheels. They are used in all types of strollers except classic strollers (see "Design"). The simplest models use a single set of springs, while more advanced models may include additional comfort features such as SAS shock/vibration absorption technology. Whatever the case, depreciation systems of this type are simple yet practical, efficient and reliable.

— Articulated type. The type of depreciation used in strollers with carrycots - classic, universal, transformers. The frame, on which the carrycot or seat unit is installed, in such models is attached to the base of the stroller with the help of special bridges, which play the role of depreciation. As bridges can be used belt hinges, such systems can also refer to the articulated. Anyway, this type of depreciation is excellent for carrycots. First of all, the stroller is as smooth and soft as possible, which contributes to the comfort and deep sleep of the child (and the parent to drive...the stroller is much easier, especially on uneven surfaces). Secondly, the carrycot on such a stroller can be rocked back and forth, lulling the baby. On the other hand, such systems are poorly suited for stroller frames with swivel front wheels; and the failure of one absorber leads to tilting of the carrycot.

— Double. This term most often refers to the spring systems described above with additional shock absorbers on the frame of the stroller. Such systems help to maximize vibration reduction and can approach articulated systems in terms of efficiency (see above). On the other hand, the softness of the suspension can be inconvenient when overcoming curbs and other bumps: to raise the front wheels of the stroller, you have to press hard on the handle.

— Is absent. Strollers without depreciation are not suitable for uneven surfaces: in such conditions, the stroller will be shaken violently, which creates both discomfort for the baby and inconvenience for the parent. On the other hand, such models have advantages over strollers with depreciation. First, due to the lack of unnecessary parts, they are much cheaper, and the design itself is as simple as possible and at the same time reliable. Secondly, without depreciation, it is easier to overcome curbs and other obstacles: to raise the front wheels, it is enough to push a small pressure on the handle. Thirdly, such strollers rock less on smooth, wave-like uneven surfaces.

The number of points of support provided in the stroller — in other words, the number of individual wheels (single or twin) on which it rests. These strollers are currently in production:

— 3-wheel. These models usually have one wheel in the front and two wheels in the back. One of the advantages of this design is that even on an uneven surface, all wheels will have contact with the support, none of them will sag, and the stroller will stand stable without wobbling. In addition, 3-wheel models are lighter and cheaper than similar 4-wheel models. At the same time, they are worse to resist tipping on the side, and in general a little less reliable and durable. Therefore, such strollers are produced relatively few.

— 4-wheel. Traditional 4 wheels — two in front, two in the back. This design is more practical, reliable and resistant to tipping over than a 3-wheel one, which is why it is used in most modern strollers. However it is somewhat more expensive and heavier, but these points are generally outweighed by the benefits.

— 6-wheel. A variant found among strollers for twins, in which the seats are installed side by side. The traditional 4 wheels in such models are supplemented by two more wheels that are placed between the seats; these wheels provide additional support, preventing the structure from sagging unde...r the weight of the kids.

— 5-wheel. A very uncommon and specific variant, also found among strollers for twins. In fact, such models are a simplified version of the six-wheel ones described above: in the front of such a stroller there are three wheels (on the edges and in the middle), and only two wheels in the back (on the edges). This reduces weight and cost a bit, but it also reduces reliability, which is why 5-wheel models have not become widespread.

Strollers featuring a swivel design where the carrycot / seat unit can be rotated in relation to the base (around the vertical axis).

The purpose of this feature varies depending on whether the stroller has a reversible handle (as mentioned above). If equipped with such a handle, the swivel seat unit complements it, enhancing convenience. When the reversible handle is adjusted, the front and rear wheels of the stroller effectively switch places, potentially causing maneuverability challenges. To address this, the swivel seat unit can be turned along with the handle adjustment, ensuring the wheels return to their designated positions.

In the absence of a reversible handle in the stroller, the swivel seat unit serves as a substitute, enabling the baby to be turned in the desired direction — facing forward during walks or facing the parent while sleeping. This adjustment maintains the front and rear wheels in their standard positions.

Thus, this feature anyway provides additional convenience. On the other hand, the swivel mount significantly affects the cost of the structure and reduces its reliability, and therefore is quite rare.

The ability to install a carrycot on the stroller — a characteristic basket in which the baby can lie comfortably.

Carrycots are used mainly for very young kids (up to 6 – 8 months), who can not yet sit normally in seat units. And the possibility of installing such an accessory by definition is available in all universal strollers (see "Design"). Also, the replacement of the seat unit on the carrycot can be provided in pushchair models. In fact, such strollers are also universal – but they are not initially equipped with carrycots, and therefore belong to the category of pushchairs.

The possibility of installing a child car seat on the chassis of the stroller. This feature can be very useful on car trips: the car seat can be used both in the car and as a seat unit for a stroller, and the main seat unit can be left at home so that it does not take up space in the boot. Note that some models with this function are initially equipped with a suitable car seat; if it is purchased separately, you should pay special attention to compatibility with your stroller.

— Classic. U-shaped handle (or similar), which is a kind of frame. It is slightly less comfortable to hold with two hands than a double handle, but can be comfortably held with one hand.

— Double. A pair of separate handles without a bridge between them. The handles themselves are usually curved so that the parent's hands resting on them are in the best, most comfortable position. At the same time, double handles should preferably be held with two hands; it is much more difficult to handle them with one hand than with a classic handle. In addition, it should be noted that this option is considered the most suitable for pushchairs (see "Design"), while for strollers with a carrycot it is not very suitable.

— Universal. A design that is a combination of the classic and double handle described above. This allows the parent to choose the option depending on the situation: for example, it is more convenient to hold the stroller with two hands by the "horns", and if one hand needs to be free - you can take the single (classic) handle. At the same time, such a choice is not really necessary for everyone, and universal handles are more complicated and expensive than specialized ones, so they are much less common.

— Round. The handlebar can have a different design: in some models it is an oval loop mounted on a long b...ar, in others it is a kind of "steering wheel" on a frame above the hood. Whatever the case, in some models such a handle is a round: it is directly connected to the front wheels, and when you turn the handle, the wheels turn to one side or the other. This noticeably improves maneuverability, but complicates the design and increases its price. However, there are also simpler designs, where the round handlebar differs from the classic handles only in shape. All these nuances should be specified for each model separately.

Possibility to adjust the stroller handle in height. This function allows you to optimally adjust the length of the handle to the height of the parent. It will be especially useful if the parents are of different heights, and each of them regularly carries a stroller.

Typically, height adjustment is carried out by lowering or raising the upper segment of the handle, and in advanced implementations a telescopic mechanism is responsible for it. The retractable handle makes the stroller more adaptable to different situations and conditions. For example, it can be lengthened for more comfortable walking or shortened for ease of use in tight spaces.

The stroller has a hand brake.

Any parking brake (whether hand or foot brake) locks the wheels of the stroller, preventing it from moving. This function eliminates the risk of the standing stroller moving on its own, for example down a slope or in a gust of wind. Almost all modern strollers are equipped with a parking brake. Most often it is foot brake (activated and deactivated by pressing the foot), but some models provide manual control — with a lever or button on the handle. This brake is a bit more expensive than a foot brake, but it is more convenient: the control is right in front of the eyes and under the parent's hand.

LED backlight that is on the body of the stroller. This backlight provides additional safety: it makes the stroller more visible to others, especially at night. It is especially recommended to use LEDs when walking in yards where cars can drive, on roadsides where there are no sidewalks, as well as on pedestrian crossings (even well-lit and in daylight).

The main material from which the frame of the stroller is made.

— Aluminium. The material used in the vast majority of modern strollers of all price categories. This is due to a number of advantages: aluminium is light and at the same time durable, it does not rust and is not afraid of moisture, it lasts a long time, it looks nice, but it is relatively inexpensive — somewhat more expensive than steel, but noticeably cheaper than more advanced materials like carbon.

— Steel. Steel frames are as strong as aluminium frames, and they are much cheaper. On the other hand, they are quite heavy, so steel is used less often in strollers.

— Magnesium alloy. Premium Material: Stronger and more durable than aluminium, just as lightweight, but at a significantly higher cost. It is extremely rare, in single models of expensive strollers.

— Carbon. Another high-end material: carbon fiber filled with plastic. This combination gives excellent strength - comparable to steel — at a very low weight. However, carbon is very expensive, and these advantages are rarely decisive for strollers — in most cases simpler materials are enough. That is why carbon frames have not become widespread.

— Plastic. Plastic itself is easy to manufacture and relatively cheap; it is also not as cold to the hands in cool weather as aluminium or steel. However, modern strollers very rarely have frames made of this material. The fact is that low-cost varieties...of plastic are not strong enough for this; and high-quality varieties cost accordingly - their price is close to aluminium, or even higher.

— Fibreglass. In this context, "fibreglass" typically refers to glass fibers mixed with plastic filler. Unlike conventional window glass, glass fibers are flexible and strong. The plastic filler enhances durability by offering scratch and tear resistance. The result is a material that is lightweight and very strong. However, fibreglass is prone to brittleness, especially with point impacts, and is susceptible to abrasion. As a result, it isn't widely used in strollers.

The presence of a suitcase handle in the design of the stroller.

This is an auxiliary handle that is used for transportation when folded: the stroller can be rolled by this handle like a suitcase. Actually, the handle itself is generally similar to the devices used in suitcases. Most often it is made telescopic or foldable, and during normal use of the stroller — entirely hidden in the frame and does not create inconvenience. However, there are also other, more specific variants: for example, in some strollers the suitcase handle turns into a bumper bar when unfolded (see above).

A carry handle or strap makes it easy to transport or lift the stroller. Typically, the handle is located on the frame of the product and provides a convenient place to grip the stroller when folded. Similar tasks are assigned to the belt - with the only difference that with its help you can usually hang a load on your shoulder or behind your back, freeing your hands.

The presence of double wheels in the stroller — when two wheels are installed instead of one, at a small distance from one another. This somewhat increases the weight and cost, but improves stability, and also has a positive effect on the reliability of the design and patency.

Note that all wheels are not necessarily double wheels - for example, some strollers have single front wheels. This is mainly done to reduce the price and weight.

The swivel wheels can turn right and left while strolling, following the movement of the stroller itself. This design improves manoeuvrability and significantly facilitates control: if a stroller without swivel wheels has to be tilted “on itself” to turn, placing it on two rear wheels, then models with this function normally turn on all wheels at once.

It should be clarified that usually only the front pair of wheels has such a design — this is quite enough.

A feature found on models with swivel wheels (see above). Locking allows you to fix such wheels straight, without the possibility of turning to the sides; in some situations — for example, when driving over difficult terrain — locked wheels are more convenient than swivel wheels. And when manoeuvrability is required, the locks can be easily released.

Strollers in which the rear wheels are mounted on completely separate stands, without any additional bridge between them.

The main advantage of rear wheels without an axle is that the legs of the parent following the stroller do not touch the bridge between the wheels. In addition, this feature slightly increases the mobility (allows the stroller to pass between the wheels lying on the road objects, without clinging to them with the axle).

The type of wheels installed on the stroller.

The most popular in our time are rubber wheels, including air-filled ones. Plastic wheels are used mainly in inexpensive strollers to further reduce the cost, while gel ones, on the contrary, are considered a very advanced option. Polyurethane wheels and EVA foam-filled wheels are also widely used. Here is a more detailed description of each of these varieties:

— Rubber. Rubber solid tires, found in many modern strollers, are popular due to their affordability, quiet operation, and smooth ride over bumps. While less effective on uneven surfaces compared to air-filled and gel wheels, solid rubber tires are cost-effective, low-maintenance, damage-resistant, and suitable for various wheel diameters, including small ones.

— Air-filled. Air-filled rubber tires, commonly featured on strollers, offer a softer ride and facilitate easy maneuvering on uneven surfaces and high curbs. Despite their higher cost, they require periodic maintenance to ensure proper pressure and protection against cuts or punctures. However, users find air-filled wheels manageable, as they are thick and less prone to damage.

— Plastic. Plastic wheels, commonly featuring both tire and rim made from this material (though s...ome have metal rims), are known for their simplicity and affordability. However, they lack durability, reliability, and effective vibration dampening due to their hardness. Typically found in low-cost strollers with small wheels designed for flat surfaces.

— Gel. Wheels similar in design to air-filled tires (see the relevant paragraph), but filled not with air, but with a special gel. The main advantage of this option is its insensitivity to small punctures and cuts: coming out, the gel in the tire in contact with air almost instantly solidifies, effectively sealing the damage. In addition, such wheels are virtually maintenance-free — they do not need to be inflated. The disadvantages of gel tires include high cost and somewhat higher rigidity than air-filled tires (although in terms of softness of running such wheels are still noticeably superior to rubber and even more so to plastic ones).

— Polyurethane. Solid polyurethane tires offer excellent maneuverability, shock absorption, puncture resistance, and durability. They are unaffected by extreme temperature changes and are cost-effective, making them a common choice for various stroller types.

— EVA. Wheels made of microporous foam rubber, specifically EVA material, offer high elasticity, excellent cushioning, and wear resistance. Lightweight and puncture-resistant, these wheels provide a smooth stroller ride. However, they may stiffen in cold winter weather.

The material from which the rims in the wheels of the stroller are made. The reliability of the wheel and its resistance to deformation largely depend on the material of the rim.

— Plastic. Plastic rims are lightweight and cheap. They are not as strong as metal, but in most cases even such a relatively low strength is enough. Therefore, this material is most often used in strollers.

— Metal. The main advantage of the metal is its high strength: such a rim is able to withstand higher loads than a similar plastic one. On the other hand, it will weigh more and cost more. Therefore, metal rims are less common than plastic ones, mainly in rather expensive strollers.

The diameter of the front wheels installed in the stroller.

At the same time, the front wheels are not as important for mobility as the rear wheels: for example, to overcome obstacles, the stroller is often lifted "on its toes" by tilting it towards itself, with only the rear wheels working. Therefore, the diameter of the front wheels may be noticeably smaller than the rear wheels. It should be noted here that the small size also has its advantages — the wheels are lighter.

Speaking of specific numbers, diameter up to 15 cm is considered very modest, 16 — 20 cm — small, 21 — 25 cm — medium, 26 — 30 cm is larger than average and more than 30 cm is large.

The diameter of the rear wheels installed in the stroller.

The larger the wheel — the better it overcomes obstacles and bumps, the more convenient it is to drive the stroller over mud, snow and other difficult surfaces. For the rear wheels these moments are most relevant: for example, when driving the stroller over obstacles, it is usually tilted towards itself, so that the front wheels are in the air, and the rear wheels have to overcome the obstacle. On the other hand, small wheels weigh less and are easier to move, they are better suited for flat surfaces. So choose a stroller on this indicator should take into account the roads on which it has to be driven. If you plan to move on flat floors, good asphalt and stroller ramps — it is worth choosing small wheels, up to 20 cm. For difficult terrain, driving on mud and snow, regular overcoming steps and curbs it makes sense to pay attention to wheels in 30 cm and larger. And the diameter of 20 — 30 cm is an average option — it is suitable if you have to ride mainly on flat surfaces, but occasionally there is a need to overcome obstacles.

— Seat unit. A seat unit serves as the child's sitting area, suitable for use from 6 – 8 months onward when the child transitions from lying in a carrycot to sitting comfortably. All stroller types feature seat units (see "Design"), except for classic and transformer models. Classic strollers inherently use a carrycot, while transformers use a unique device known as a "carrycot-transformer" (see below).

— Carrycot. A traditional carrycot is a basket with high sides in which the child is lying down. Such baskets are intended for children in the first months of life - usually up to 8 months, no more; from an older age it makes sense to use a seat unit (see above). Carrycots are used in all types of strollers, except for pushchairs and transformers (see "Design") - the first type is completed only with seat units, the second uses the so-called " carrycot-transformers" (see below). A special kind of traditional carrycots are carrying carrycots (they are also described below).

— Carrying carrycot. A variation of the carrycot (see above) designed to be easily carried separately from the stroller. To do this, the design provides an appropriate handle. At the same time, not every carrycot that has a carrying handle (see above) belongs to this category of accessories: "carrying" are called only those carrycots that initially allow long-term carrying in the hands and...have various design features that facilitate such transportation.

— Carrycot-transformer. In fact, it is a carrycot, which, if necessary, can be turned into a seat unit for a child who can sit up.

— Car seat. A specialized seat designed for the safe transportation of small children in cars is essential for compliance with safety regulations in many countries. Car seats are typically provided with strollers for babies up to 12 months and weighing up to 13 kg. However, a separate seat for older babies must be purchased. Before buying, it's important to check the specifications of the car seat, particularly the method of attaching it to the car.

— Foot cover. A cover designed to protect a child's legs in a stroller from wind, cold and bad weather. While blankets or improvised solutions can be used for the same goal, complete covers offer more convenience as they securely attach to the stroller and stay in place during movement. Additionally, if needed, a blanket can be placed inside the cover for extra warmth. It's worth noting that many strollers, lacking this accessory, allow for separate purchase. This accessory is primarily used with seat units, whereas carrycots rely on a leg-area canopy with a similar function, though it's not classified as a cover.

— Rain cover. A waterproof cover that protects the child in the stroller from rain, snow and strong winds. Usually such a cover is made of transparent material or has transparent inserts — so that the baby can see the world around, and the parent can follow the baby. Rain covers for strollers are also sold separately, but if such an accessory is included in the kit, you do not have to worry about compatibility.

— Mosquito net. Mesh with small cells, which can cover a child sitting in a stroller. The cells allow air to pass through, but trap mosquitoes, midges and other harmful insects, as well as small debris raised by the wind; such protection is especially useful during evening walks in the warm season, as well as when going out in the countryside.

— Bag / backpack for things. A separate bag that is usually hung on the handle of the stroller. In such a bag you can keep various useful small things that need quick access: food, toys and hygiene items for the baby, parent's documents, etc. In most cases, the bag is removable, which provides additional convenience. Note that for some models, initially not equipped with a bag, such an accessory can be purchased separately. And some models are equipped with a backpack — a more convenient option for use.

— Shopping compartment. A device in the form of a basket or container installed at the bottom of the stroller - under the cradle or seat unit. This compartment is convenient for storing purchases and other things that do not require quick access while walking. At the same time, larger and heavier items are placed in the basket/container than in a bag for things (see above); and the low position improves the stability of the stroller. The shopping compartment can be either open or closed. The first option is found everywhere, the second - mainly in elite models (and such strollers can be supplied with two baskets: open and closed, or in different colors). The capacity of a closed compartment is often smaller, but the contents in it are securely hidden from prying prying eyes and protected from dust, dirt and moisture. Compartments for purchases are made from a wide variety of materials: plastic, metal mesh, fabric, etc. Soft materials are generally lighter, but less durable, hard ones are reliable, but can interfere when overcoming curbs and other obstacles.

— Cup holder. A stand on the parental handle to hold a glass or bottle with a drink - for example, milk for the baby or water for the parent.

— Hand strap. Strap on the handle of the stroller, which the parent can put on his hand. This reduces the risk of dropping the stroller: the strap is likely to keep it close to the parent, even if the arms are fully unclenched.

— Hand muff. An accessory that can come in handy when strolling in the cold season. The muff is attached to the handle of the stroller; if desired, you can hide your hands in it so that they do not freeze in the cold. At the same time, the design of the muff is such that it does not interfere with fully holding the handle and driving the stroller.

— Cover for stroller. A protective cover designed for storing and transporting a stroller during non-use hours is typically made from soft materials. It primarily protects the structure from dirt, direct sunlight, and moisture to some extent. While it offers symbolic protection against mechanical damage, more substantial safeguarding would require a case made of rigid materials. However, the need for such intensive protection is rare in practice. Soft covers are favored for their lightweight nature and minimal storage space when folded, making them the most popular choice for strollers. Overall, a complete cover tends to be more convenient, practical, and reliable compared to makeshift packaging.

Exceeding the recommended weight limit for strollers, though not immediately harmful, can eventually lead to breakdowns. Most universal strollers are designed for a 15 kg weight limit, suitable for a three-year-old kid. However, there are also more heavy duty strollers available, considering the varying weights of children and operating conditions.

The distance between the side wheels of the stroller; this generally corresponds to the overall width of the stroller. If the front and rear widths are different, the greatest distance is indicated, usually on the rear wheels; the same wheels are used to measure the width of three-wheeled models.

In general, the wider the chassis, the more stable the stroller is and the more difficult it is to tip it over. On the other hand, greater width can cause problems in tight spaces such as narrow hallways and doorways, elevators, etc. The narrowest modern strollers have a width of up to 45 cm, the widest — more than 70 cm (these are mainly models for twins or triplets , where two seats are side-by-side). Models 46 – 50 cm are also considered quite narrow, a width of 51 – 55 cm can be called small, 56 – 60 cm — medium, 61 – 65 cm — more than average, 65 – 70 cm — large.

Dimensions of the carrycot provided in the kit.

Partly the rule "the bigger the better" works here: a large carrycot gives a good reserve for the period of growth of the baby, in winter you can put the baby dressed in warm clothes in it, and in summer the extra space in the carrycot provides good ventilation. On the other hand, large carrycots are more bulky, weigh more and cost more.

The width of the seat installed in the stroller.

When selecting a seat, focus on the seat width, considering the child's build and allowing space for future growth, rather than the overall dimensions.

The total weight of the assembled stroller. For universal models (see "Design"), this paragraph usually indicates the weight with the seat unit installed: such an accessory is used for a longer time than the carrycot, therefore its characteristics are considered the most important. In addition, the difference in weight between cradles and walking blocks usually does not exceed 700 – 800 g (there are exceptions, but quite rarely).

Comparing similar models, a lighter stroller may offer more convenience, but it often comes at the expense of reliability or a higher price compared to a relatively heavier counterpart. It's important to note that weight varies based on the stroller type (refer to "Design"). Heavier strollers provide stability, reducing the risk of tipping over. The lightest models, weighing less than 5 kg, refer to pushchairs and single-seat ones. Models in the 6 – 10 kg are also mostly pushchairs, including variations for twins. The 11 – 15 kg range is standard for universal strollers and transformers. Models weighing 16 – 20 kg are notably heavy, while those exceeding 20 kg are rare and found among high-end double-seat strollers.

The country of origin of the brand under which the product is marketed. Often indicated by the nationality of the company or the location of its headquarters. At the same time, the actual production capacity of the brand often differs from the country of origin.

It should be noted that the quality of products depends not much on geography as on the organization of processes and quality control at all stages of production. Therefore, national prejudices about brands from certain regions are usually not supported by anything. It is only necessary to pay attention to the country of origin of a brand if the goal is to support or avoid a manufacturer from a particular country.