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Pushchairs

Choosing a pushchair for your new baby can be a headache! With so many out there how do you know which to choose? You want something practical, safe and comfortable but you want it to look good too at a good price, something that’s not going to use up all of your new baby fund!

Here at Childcare is Fun, we’ve checked out some of the best pushchairs available, testing some of them ourselves!

 

Micralite Superlite

The Superlite is the latest generation of strollers from the Micralite brand.

If you’re looking for a sleek, compact, light stroller, look no further than the Superlite. Weighing in at around 6kgs, the Superlite is an easy-to-use stroller with the added bonus of style!

Suitable for 6 months plus, (or can be used from birth upwards with the addition of a Micralite carrycot or the Maxi-Cosi Cabrio car seat,) the superlite’s one handed fold option makes it the perfect ‘all round’ buggy,  a no stress stroller when using public transport and going on holiday.

The chunky rear wheels with pneumatic tyres can cope with the mudiest of paths, whilst its swivelling front wheels give excellent manoeuvrability in the street.

The Good:

*A very light buggy weighing in at 6kg

*One handed steering and folding

*folds flat – easy for storing and getting into the smallest of car boots!

*Easy steering with large wheels at the rear and smaller,swivel wheels at the front

*Raincover included in funky storage bag

*Large shopping bag underneath

*Snooze position and sit up position

* Fab price for a funky pushchair (From £145)

The Bad:

*nothing bad about the superlite! A good looking, funky stroller!

The Ugly:

* This buggy certainly has nothing to worry about in the ugly department!

Put to the test…

‘First impressions count- and this light, good looking, super funky stroller certainly got us excited!

Easy to put together, we took it out for a test drive within minutes of it arriving. The terrain was bumpy, but the Microlite Superlite took it well-Betsy remained comfortable and happy, and the stearing was easy and light.

Folding and unfolding is possible with just one hand- perfect for when you can’t put your littly down while collapsing your pushchair.

The large wheels at the back and small wheels at the front, make the Superlite an easy push when out and about. The lightness makes putting into the boot of the car or understairs cupboard an easy task without braking your back!

The shopping compartment underneath, gives ample space for groceries, and the rain-cover comes packed in a funky bag so you don’t have to store it underneath like most buggies.

The lightness of this pushchair does mean you can’t put bags on the back of it without fear of it tipping, a small negative outweighed by all the positives this stroller has to offer.

We’d recommend this fantastic pushchair to any parent looking for a ‘stand out from the crowd’  stroller that has style, comfort and practicality all rolled into one.’

Maclaren GTLX

If you’re looking to buy a buggy that will help you loose those baby pounds, looks good, is stylish, then look no further than the tried and tested Maclaren GTLX.

Maclaren’s GTLX Travel System, is ideal for those looking to Stroll Back to Shape. The GTLX can be used from birth so you can start your ‘Baby Steps’ routine as soon as you feel fit enough and with the reversible seat, baby can face you or take in the world.

sports buggy, maclaren, pushy mothers, get into shape after baby

The Good:

*It’s the first buggy to feature a dashboard style console which sits within the handle frame and includes a strollometer to tell you how far and fast you are strolling.  It also features a clock, temperature gauge and space to put your mobile phone.  The drinks holder fits on the side of the handlebar – essential for your water!

*Posture is really important when exercising with your buggy and the GTLX has an adjustable handlebar so you can set it at the correct height for you to maintain good pushchair posture every step of the way.

*The all terrain wheels are ideal for pushing around the park, and the sophisticated braking system means you can confidently park the buggy whilst you do your lunges and it won’t go anywhere!

*Suitable from Birth

*Raincover included

*Folds compact

*Wipeable cover

The Bad:

Nothing really bad about the Maclaren GTLX. It is a little more expensive than it’s rival sports pushchairs, (ranges between £450-530) but the well trusted name of Maclaren and the stylish yet practical design ensures it’s well worth the money.

The Ugly:

Nothing ugly about this funky pushchair!

 

Put to the test…

We must say, that in over 20 years of experience with buggies, none have blown us away quite like the GTLX!

The stylish design is both comfortable and practical and comes with a wonderful range of accessories to make travelling out and about with your littly, easy!

With headlights fitted for safety visibility, this buggy is an all weather, all day stroller, perfect for getting out and about.

 

Phil & Ted’s Sport 3-wheeler pushchair

buggy, pushchair, phil&Teds, buggy review, baby, pram

The good

Flexible style with adaptable seat, and option to form a double buggy system. (see our double buggy review for more information)

Suitable from birth to Five years.

Seat unit folds flat so when used for newborns with the carrycot (sold seperatley)  you can keep an eye on your baby

Equipped with a handle mounted lock to switch easily between fixed or swivel front wheels

Full side pushchair weighs only 14kg

Folds quickly and easily

Unlocks from the handle for ease of use

Shopping basket stores shopping conveniently


The bad

While it is practical and aesthetically pleasing, this buggy comes at a price, at around £370-570

Without accessories its quite pricey in comparison to its rival Three wheelers.

Punctures are common on the P&T which is a nightmare when out and about with a littly. You can get this sorted easily with puncture ‘glue’ (available at most DIY stores) but ahould you have to prepare yourself and fix tyres of a buggy that isn’t cheap?

The ugly

Nothing ugly about this beauty as a single buggy- A good looking pushchair that will last for years to come, if your’e prepared to pay the price! However, see our double buggy reviews for a few negative pointers.

 Put to the test…

baby pushchairs, buggy, stroller, phil and teds

We bought this buggy knowing we would hopefully be having another baby pretty soon after, and happily enough our next baby was born the day before Betsy’s first birthday!

This pushchair is quite bulky and heavy, but it takes a heavy load and feels sturdy and safe. It’s easily lifted in and out of the car, and fits in the boot.

The only problem with the Phil & Teds is reacurring punctures which when out and about isn’t great!

The double attachment is fab – fixing to the front while Oscar is tiny, and to the back whe he’s a little older.

The Phil and Teds is a sound investment- yes, it’s a little more expensive than rival buggies, but it’s a brilliant double buggy!

Bebe Comfort Loola Stroller

bebe comfort, buggy, pram, pushcahir, baby, stroller

This super practical pushchair is ultra compact and easy to fold, making it perfect for trips out and about.

The front wheels can be fixed into straight or swivel mode, and the seat can be reclined one handed!

Loola comes in a selection of colours and is suitable from birth.

The good

Flexible style with reversible seat, and option to form a pram or travel system.

Use alone as a stroller, add the ‘Windoo’ carry cot to form a pram, or the ‘Creatis’ infant carrier (both sold separately) to form a travel system

Suitable from birth

Stroller has reversible seat unit, forward facing to see the world or rearward facing so you can keep an eye on your baby

The seat unit reclines easily to suit your child with a one-handed operation

Equipped with a handle mounted lock to switch easily between fixed or swivel front wheels

Full size pushchair weighs only 14kg

Ultra compact

Folds quickly and easily

Unlocks from the handle for ease of use

Shopping basket stores shopping conveniently

 

The bad

While it is practical and aesthetically pleasing, this buggy comes at a price, at around £240

Without accessories its quite pricey in comparison to its rival the Maclaren. (The accessories available are the carrycot at £199 and the car seat £100. )

The ugly

Nothing ugly about this beauty! A good looking pushchair!

Maxi-Cosy Mura

pushchair review, stroller review, buggy review

Suitable from birth, the Maxi-cosy is a practical pushchair but with a high price tag.

Retailing between £300 – £450, it’s not cheap and that’s not including all the extras you need with it.

The Good

•Offers versatility, comfort and durability – a great design with striking fabric amd is suitable from birth

•Spacious forward or parent-facing seat with complete lie flat design and 3 recline position

•Converts to a travel system with a coordinated Maxi-Cosi Cabriofix car seat (sold separately)

•Offers versatility, comfort and durability – a great design with striking fabric amd is suitable from birth

•Spacious forward or parent-facing seat with complete lie flat design and 3 recline position

•Converts to a travel system with a coordinated Maxi-Cosi Cabriofix car seat (sold separately)

•Also available in the three wheel model

Size information

•Folded dimensions: 52 X 65 X 86 cm

•Unfolded dimensions: 102 x 64 X 105 cm

•Handle height: 100.5 -106.5 cm

•Weight (with seat and wheels): 17.7kg

The Bad

Unlike other pushchairs, the Maxi-cosy Mura seems to have an age limit due to it’s size, meaning the expensive is not worth it!

Tyres are prone to puncture.

The Ugly

Good looking buggy but ugly that it only lasts a while!

Put to the test…

Julie & Caleb tell us all about their Maxi Cosi Mura.

Calebs Maxi Cosi Mura is too wee for him already and I’m so sad.

His feet hang over the edge and his head touches the hood!  He’s only 19months old and I expect a pram to last at least until they’re 3.

I’m so disappointed in it. The  carry cot was fantastic and he was in it right up until he was 10 months and the car seat was great too. We used it on the wheels until recently as it was spacious and convenient.

The seat unit has just been uncomfortable and not to his liking right from the beginning and I wondered if he was too wee for it, so left it a while until he was bigger.

 

It been used a handful of times and now he’s uncomfortable in it as he’s too big for it!

I’m now faced with the decision if I want another baby to keep it, or get a double buggy as Caleb needs a new one now!

 

Silver Cross 3D Complete Pram System Jet Sport

A lightweight pram system offering practicality and comfort from birth to toddler. The 3D offers a full lie flat position with a soft liner allowing face to face contact, something a lot of pushchairs these days don’t allow.

The good

The price! At £299 it includes everything you need, so no added extras

It converts to a stylish forward facing pushchair for a toddler, so no added costs when baby has grown!

Suitable from birth

Soft wrap baby harness

Removable gate style bumper bar

Snug foot-muff with cosy fleece lining

Change bag with adjustable shoulder strap, removable insulated bottle pocket and wipe clean pocket

Hood converts to a summer canopy

Spacious basket

Compact telescopic fold Washable pram liner, apron and mattress rain cover

Converts to a travel system with the Ventura Car seat (sold separately)

Lightweight at 10.3 kg

The bad

Although it is a great price, it does feel a little flimsy on heavier terrains.

Quite chunky when folded so not suitable for smaller car boots.

The ugly

Not the most beautiful or funkiest looking, but a great price for a great pushchair.

Vermillion Atlan travel system package

Quite simply a fabulous value lightweight package including all the accessories you’ll need. Includes cosytoe, Weathershield™, infant carrier, car seat base and change bag. Use pushchair alone or add the included infant carrier car seat to form a travel system.

The good

Suitable from birth

The price! At £160 it’s a nice price that includes everything you need

Easy, one-handed folding mechanism provides convenient handling Lockable double front swivel wheels

Three-position seat suits baby sleeping or awake

Detachable play tray with cup holder

Easy access shopping basket

Includes Weathershield™, cosytoe and stylish baby change bag

Includes infant Carrier (car seat)

Group 0+ rear-facing car seat suitable from birth up to 13kg (29lbs) approx.

Level indicator for correct in-car positioning

Head support cushion for comfort and sun/wind canopy shield baby

Removable, washable seat pad Hood Sun/wind canopy

The bad

The chunky wheels are make rough terrain quite tricky

Not as light as other pushchairs ( 11.7 kg)

Quite bulky when folded

The ugly

Not as good looking as its rivals, but a great price for a birth to toddler pushchair.

Bugaboo Gecko pushchair

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Available in a selection of funky colours this lightweight and comfortable pushchair is the top of the tots when it comes to making a fashion statement.

Used by the rich and famous, the Bugaboo range has many claims to fame in his purchase history, such as Madonna, Gwyneth Paltrow and hubby Chris Martin. Like all Bugaboo products, the Gecko is safe, comfortable and designed to adapt to you and your child’s needs in almost any environment or climate.

The good

3-in-1 pushchair

Suitable from birth

Compact fold

Lightweight aluminium chassis

Aerosleep® mattress

Carrycot included: ideal for transporting a young baby until they are old enough to sit upright in a pushchair and can be used separately

Raincover and Mosquito net

Machine washable fabrics

CD demonstration included

Available in Green, Red and Black Co-ordinating accessories also available

Handle height adjustable

Seat can be front or rear facing allowing face to face contact

The bad

Tricky to collapse unlike its rivals, but gets easier with practice

Quite bulky when folded

The price! At £490 without accessories this is one expensive pushchair!

The ugly

This funky fashion accessory for todays ‘yummy mummy’ can leave one a little red faced when trying to fold it up to get into the car! It takes some getting used to!

Quinny® Buzz 3-wheeler pushchair

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A funky 3-wheeler which offers a unique automatic unfolding mechanism and a flexible seat unit which allows your baby to face either forwards or towards you.

The good

Available in more funky colours

Use 3 wheeler pushchair alone or add the Dreami carry cot (sold separately) to form a pram, or the Maxi-Cosi® Cabrio infant carrier car seat (sold separately) to form a travel system.

Suitable from birth

Contemporary design Super-compact, 2-D fold with unique gas-spring for ‘automatic’ unfolding

Adjustable multi-position front-facing and rear-facing seat adjusts to suit your baby

3 recline positions in forward-facing mode; 2 recline positions in rearward-facing mode Lockable.

Double front swivel wheel Large rear wheels with pneumatic tyres

Quick release wheels

All-round suspension Adjustable, soft-touch rubber handlebar

Adjustable leg rest for your child’s comfort

Hood Clip-on baby changing bag

Raincover included

Sun canopy included

The bad

The price! At £329 (without the extras) it’s a tough price for the purse!

Heavier than its rivals (12.8kg) it’s a chunky buggy, not great for lifting in and out of the car boot.

Not as flat folding as its rivals

The ugly

Nothing ugly about the Buzz 3, a funky buggy that looks good and performs well if you can afford the price tag!

Petite Star Citybug Travel System – Red/Black

The Citybug is a compact and nippy stroller which converts to a travel system by simply locking the infant car seat in place

The good

Available in more funky colours

Use 4 wheeler pushchair alone or add the Cabrio infant carrier car seat (included) to form a travel system.

Suitable from birth

Adjustable multi-position seat adjusts to suit your baby

All-round suspension Adjustable, soft-touch rubber handlebar

Raincover included

The bad

 

A small compact buggy at an affordable price (£159) but a little lightweight and flimsy.

The ugly

Nothing ugly about this money saver! A funky buggy that looks good and performs well.

Maclaren Techno XT-Sport

 

This  fab, lightweight buggy is easy to use and fold, making it the perfect partner for public transport.

It’s quite expensive for a stroller at £195, but Maclaren do make their pushchairs pretty sturdy in comparison to other buggies, so you’re paying for a quality product.

Maclaren Techno XT The Good

Flagship high-tech buggy with superior comfort, performance and sporty style Maclaren Techno XT

Suitable from birth up to a maximum weight of 15kg

Sovereign™ lifetime warranty and recycling programme, visit maclarenbaby.com for details

Sturdy, aeronautical-quality aluminium frame

Lockable, front swivel wheels

Ergonomically optimised, extendable handles

Adjustable leg rest

All-round suspension

Carry handle

Shopping basket

Hood, with storage pockets, UV protective viewing window and sun visor

Reflective accents for night safety

Comfort pack included (head and chest pads)

Raincover

Weight: 6.8kg

The bad

Nothing bad about the Maclaren Techno XT-Sport – A good little stroller!

The Ugly

Available in a variety of colours- there’s nothing ugly about this buggy. (Check out our full video review here.)

The Petite Star Njoy Bubble

The Petite Star Njoy Bubble is the first reversible stroller meaning you and your baby can see The NJOY Bubble - The first reversible strollereachother, and when they want to have a look out at the world front facing – they can do that too! How very smart is that?!

The good

Suitable from birth

The very first of it’s kind – A reversible seat stroller

Reversible seat unit easily converts to forward or rear facing positions

Luxury padded seat unit

Comes complete with chest pads, head hugger, raincover and shopping basket

Can be folded in either direction

Suitable from Birth

Easy compact umbrella fold

Adjustable calf rest

The Bad

Nothing bad to say about this stroller! It takes a little getting used to with the hood and raincover, but pretty straightforwad and a pretty great design!

The Ugly

Nothing ugly about The Petite Star Njoy Bubble - At £199 it’s easy on the pocket compared to it’s rival stroller which are ALL forward facing.

For our full review go here.