Fastening in the direction/against the movement
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.
Crotch strap
The presence of a separate
crotch strap in the design of the stroller. Only pushchairs 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.
Depreciation
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 pushchairs 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 pushchairs except classic pushchairs (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 pushchairs 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 pushchair 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 pushchair is as smooth and soft as possible, which contributes to the comfort and deep sleep of the child (and the parent to
...drive the pushchair is much easier, especially on uneven surfaces). Secondly, the carrycot on such a pushchair can be rocked back and forth, lulling the baby. On the other hand, such systems are poorly suited for pushchair 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 pushchair. 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 pushchair, you have to press hard on the handle.
— Is absent. Pushchairs without depreciation are not suitable for uneven surfaces: in such conditions, the pushchair 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 pushchairs 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 pushchairs rock less on smooth, wave-like uneven surfaces.Carrycot installation
The ability
to install a carrycot on the pushchair — 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 pushchairs (see "Design"). Also, the replacement of the seat unit on the carrycot can be provided in pushchair models. In fact, such pushchairs are also universal – but they are not initially equipped with carrycots, and therefore belong to the category of pushchairs.
Handle height adjustment
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.
Frame material
The main material from which the frame of the pushchair is made.
— Aluminium. The material used in the vast majority of modern pushchairs 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 pushchairs.
— 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 pushchairs.
— 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 pushchairs — 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 pushchairs very rarely have frames made of this material. The fact is that low-cost vari...eties 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 pushchairs.
Suitcase handle
The presence of
a suitcase handle in the design of the pushchair.
This is an auxiliary handle that is used for transportation when folded: the pushchair 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 pushchair — entirely hidden in the frame and does not create inconvenience. However, there are also other, more specific variants: for example, in some pushchairs the suitcase handle turns into a bumper bar when unfolded (see above).
Lockable front wheels
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.
Rear wheels without axle
Pushchairs 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).