Folding strollers are children's vehicles that are light in weight and dimensions. Every year manufacturers release new models and improve old ones, among which parents can find the best option. In order not to be mistaken with the choice, you should know what to look for first.
Cane folding mechanism
Strollers of this modification are suitable for babies from one year old. In some models, the backrest is adjustable and unfolds to a reclining position - the child will be able to rest while walking on the street.
The main design features are separate slingshot handles, a folding footrest, several levers under the seat, connected crosswise. The stroller folds in four and turns into a long cane.
The front wheels have good maneuverability due to turning around their axis. If you want the wheels to go straight, it is enough to use the limit stop.
The advantages include low weight and dimensions, compact folded dimensions, low price. The disadvantages are small wheels with poor maneuverability, the presence of handles that are not suitable for one-handed operation - in certain cases this is inconvenient.
The best canes can be found from several manufacturers.
- Maclaren techno xt - compact, lightweight stroller with handles adjustable in height. It has double rubber wheels, a voluminous hood that protects the baby from the sun.
- Chicco light way - all-season stroller with a reclining back. Equipped with reliable five-point seat belts, a warm cape on the legs, a shopping basket.
- Geoby D208DR-F - a budget option, characterized by small dimensions. The construction is quite strong, the back is firm - this provides good support for the child's spine.
- The simplest and most inexpensive stroller for children - Hauck Buggy Go. It has five-point seat belts, there is no hood and a basket for things. A special sun umbrella can be purchased separately.
Book strollers
A great option for toddlers who have just learned to sit. These models are heavier and more bulky than "walking sticks". Despite this, when folded, the stroller will easily fit into the trunk of a car.
To fold the stroller, you need to open the latches on the frame by pressing the buttons or levers on the sides, after which the structure should be "broken" in half. As a result, the wheels will be located on one side, which is very practical in the case of traveling with a "book" in public transport.
The undoubted advantages of the model: a strong frame, a rigid back, quick folding and unfolding. The disadvantages include a rather big weight and dimensions, high cost.
Let's consider the rating of the best "books".
- Cam portofino - a compact stroller with good maneuverability and an affordable price. The model is equipped with a spacious seat, voluminous protective hood, insulated leg cover.
- Babyhome emotion - design with five-point harnesses and a large waterproof hood. There is a backrest that folds out 160 degrees. The stroller is equipped with a rain cover and a mosquito net.
- GB Pockit Stroller - the smallest model for walking. When folded, it turns into a square that fits easily into a backpack. It has rubberized wheels, a shopping basket, and a removable visor.
Strollers that fold into a suitcase are an excellent solution for long trips and travel.
The compact Babyzen Yo-Yo has a futuristic design, adjustable backrest and spring springs for good flotation. This great travel model will fit in your bag or aircraft luggage compartment.
Model selection: dimensions and weight
The first step is to consider the dimensions of the stroller. Here it is important to think about where the children's transport will be stored, how convenient it will be to take it outside. When living in a multi-storey building, it is necessary to measure in advance the width of the opening of the elevator doors and compare it with the width of the chassis of the model you like to determine the optimal value.
For "walking sticks" the maximum chassis width is up to 50 cm in single models and up to 80 cm in strollers for twins, for "books" - up to 65 and 80 cm, respectively.
It is better to choose a stroller with the lowest weight. Many models have a low center of gravity so that the child will not roll over. The vehicle will have to be carried in hands, transported on the roads, so the product should not be too heavy. Basically, children's walking vehicles weigh up to 15 kg.
Wheels and handles
Today, manufacturers create models with a different number of wheels, their size, and chassis width.
Types of tires:
- inflatable rubber - wheels with high-level shock absorption, making the wheelchair easier and more comfortable to operate;
- polyurethane foam - durable wheels of medium hardness, providing good shock absorption on flat roads;
- plastic - inexpensive, hard and very noisy tires with poor shock absorption and low service life.
If the roads on the street have multiple obstacles (curbs, holes), you need to purchase a vehicle with front swivel wheels.
Tire diameter:
- small (8-15 cm) - the standard size of plastic wheels, suitable for driving on flat sidewalks;
- medium (15-15 cm) - made of rubber or polyurethane foam, heavy, have good cross-country ability;
- large (25-40 cm) - inflatable rubber wheels that easily move on the ground and overcome any obstacles.
The handle in the form of a solid bracket is considered the most convenient, but it is installed only on "books". You can hang bags on such a handle, it is very easy to operate with one hand.
Two separate slingshot handles meet on the "walking sticks". You cannot hang packages on them, it is rather difficult to operate with one hand. Strollers with these handles are designed for light walks.
When choosing, you should pay attention to whether the backrest folds out 180 degrees, which is especially important for young children under one year old who sleep during walks. Not all models have this feature.
All these recommendations will help parents choose a quality children's vehicle that will last a long time and will be convenient to use.
Advice from young mothers will be an invaluable tip for those girls who are just about to purchase a stroller.
