Getting your first set of baby wheels can be a tough task when you consider the sheer volume of makes and models on the market. Hilary Pereira has assembled the top 10 points to consider before you decide which pram is for you

 

 

1 Lifestyle
You need a pram that fits your lifestyle: if you like to go jogging, for example, you might want to choose one of the three-wheeled models that is built specifically for the purpose. If you live in an upstairs or garden flat, or if you frequently use public transport, you’re likely to have to negotiate stairs, so weight and size will be a consideration. If you rarely go any distance with your baby in a pram, a lightweight version (as long as it’s suitable from birth) may suit you best.

2 Handle height
A handle height that is either too low or too high can cause backache, neck ache and shoulder pain, so look for a model where the handle height is adjustable, especially if your partner or other carer is quite different in height from you. You may find a pram with a fixed handle height that suits you, but remember to check that other users are comfortable with it too.

3 Security
A brake that’s foot-adjustable is very handy, and locking devices that are easy to operate are essential, too. Again, get your partner or anyone else who is likely to use the pushchair to check they can operate all the safety devices easily.

4 Comfort
Your baby’s comfort is a key consideration so check that the seat is adjustable from lie-flat to sitting and that it is well padded and comfy. Some prams come with reversible seats so that your baby can lie flat facing you as an infant and then sit facing forward when older.

5 Foldability
Some models of pram are much easier to fold than others, so make sure you try collapsing each prospective pram a few times – and get your partner and anyone else who’s likely to use the pram to try them out too. There’s nothing more frustrating than trying to fold an awkward pram when you’re in a hurry or when it’s pouring with rain and you’re trying to get it into the car.

6 Size
A really important consideration, this. Will it fit through your front door easily? Will it store away when folded? Is there room enough in your hallway to unfold it, seat your baby and turn it round? Will it fit into the boot of your car and still leave room for shopping? The best idea is to take measurements of all the spaces you’ll need it to fit through and carry these – and a tape measure – with you when you go to buy.

7 Weight
Can you lift it easily? Could you lift it one-handed – say if you were getting on a bus or carrying it up a set of stairs? Now try pushing it around with your baby in it. Do you think you could manage it if you had shopping as well? What about when your baby is heavier? There can be quite a discrepancy in the weight of prams, and it’s an important consideration. Some are sold as ‘lightweight’, but may not be as sturdy as those which are slightly heavier.

8 Adaptability
Match the pram to your normal terrain. If you do a lot of walking and are likely to be crossing rough surfaces, fixed wheels may suit you better; if you’re using it more as a stroller, though, swivel wheels make a pram much easier to manoeuvre, especially in tight spaces like shopping aisles. Some models have swivel wheels at the front and fixed at the back. Try out different options to see what will suit you best.

9 Shopping basket
If you often visit the local shops on foot, it will help if the shopping basket is roomy. Far better to store shopping at the bottom of the chair than have heavy bags hanging off the handle, as a little bit too much weight can tip the pram backwards putting your baby at risk of injury – and will almost certainly topple it over if you take your baby out before you take the shopping off.

10 Price
You will probably have a budget in mind when you go to choose a pram, so don’t be too swayed by little extras like bottle holders or parasols that can sometimes bump the price up: some accessories may be available more cheaply as add-ons bought elsewhere. As long as the pram meets all the other criteria, go for the best value for money.