Choosing a stroller-cane: rating the best and tips on choosing a lightweight walking model

Fresh air is very useful for a growing body, so walking is an important part of a child’s life. The moment when the child becomes uninteresting to lie down and not see what is happening around, comes in the life of every mother. And here we are overtaken by the agony of choice, which “crew” for a walk to buy.

There are two types of baby strollers that have a folding mechanism: a cane stroller and a little book stroller. Choose the best option for yourself best testing on the point of purchase. Dimensions of all modifications are about the same, but the stroller-cane when folded is much more compact. When added it is transformed into an object that looks like a cane, and can stand outside the door or lie in a closet. In the trunk of the car, it takes up less space, and if you choose a model by yourself, then you can fold and lower it from the stairs with one hand, without making much effort. For mobile moms who often travel by car with a child travel, the “cane” will be a wonderful choice.

The advantages of the cane are obvious:

• light weight - for different models it ranges from 1.5 to 9 kg;
• simple folding mechanism;
• compactness;

• mobility;
• a wide variety of models and additional functions;
• maneuverability.

There are also disadvantages, however, a large number of models offered allows you to select a set of functions that fully suit both mother and baby. Among the shortcomings can be noted:

• the back of inexpensive models is a stretched fabric, so it is inconvenient and harmful for a child to ride on it for a long time;
• the standard "cane" does not fold into a horizontal bed, so sleep on the street is excluded;
• the visor, which protects from wind, sun and rain in full, is usually only removable and takes up additional space during transportation;
• Most models are summer, while winter models are more voluminous and are quite expensive.

A wide range allows you to choose a vehicle that is suitable for almost any age, but it is worth considering a number of features. Most models with folding back support use from the age of 6 months. To say that a stroller-cane with a solid back and a folding base is suitable for a child from six months is possible, but whether it makes sense in such an acquisition - it's up to the mother.

Such transport is necessary for a kid who can walk. In this case, it is much easier to get to the playground, the polyclinic, walk around the shopping center. The “cane” can be carried folded in the hand, and at any moment a tired baby can sit down and move on in transport.

All wheelchairs can be classified into 4 categories:

• with the horizontal position of the back;
• with the possibility of a slight transformation of the angle of the back;
• with reclining back;
• with a fixed back.

Options may be very different. The clutch for a child’s feet, a bumper, a raincoat, a mosquito net, a carriage cover, a handle or carrying strap, a visor — the offered range of useful functions is very large and their convenience are obvious. The cost of the vehicle with an increase in the number of additions also increases.

This parameter is one of the main when choosing a stroller-cane. Lightweight minimizes even the problem of descent with the baby on the stairs - in one hand a folded stroller, with the other hand you can freely support a child who is torn to freedom. On the other hand, the lighter the wheelchair is, the less stable it is, maneuverability, and the bumps and stones on the road are depreciated in this case is not enough. And if the model includes a bag-case or a backpack for carrying, then you become the most mobile mom that can be.

If the use of the stroller will be reduced to use a couple of times a week exclusively on smooth roads, you can choose a lighter stroller. The lightest are, as a rule, the cheapest models with a minimum of functions. It should be remembered that the strollers weighing up to 6 kg easily turn over, so leave the child alone in it and go a couple of steps absolutely impossible.

Heavier non-foldable strollers weighing more than 10 kg are suitable for longer seated walks, but the mobility of the cane is reduced to a minimum here.

One of the important selection criteria is the ability to lay the backrest in a horizontal bed for sleeping. This function, as a rule, is irrelevant after a year, however, many children fall asleep while riding, and it is necessary to expand the backrest in this case. Strollers with a horizontal position of the back is usually chosen if you plan to organize a child’s sleep in the air. The angle of the back is not 180 °, but 160-170 °.

The back has up to 5 positions, including the recumbent. When choosing, you should pay attention to the size of the resulting bed. Usually it turns out short, and the legs have to be put on the footboard. Some models have an extended bed or raised footrest to increase the length in the unfolded state. On the resulting space, if necessary, you can even install a cradle with a child up to 6 months.

Strollers with reclining backrest weigh about 6 kg. The back angle is up to 140 °. In such wheelchairs, it is possible to make a reclining position for the rest of an unexpectedly tired baby. As a rule, such strollers get for active walks, so under the seat they have a basket-net for toys or shopping, a hood from the sun or rain. Their front wheels are usually maneuverable, rotating through 360 °.

Strollers with the possibility of a small transformation of the angle of the back have an average weight of up to 5 kg, calculated for a child from 9 months. The back can take up to 2 positions. This is the easiest category of wheelchairs, and therefore the most dangerous for the child.The price of these “reeds” is significantly lower than the first two categories, transportation is much easier. There are models that are simply a metal frame with a fabric seat. The price for them varies in the range of 1500-2500 rubles. They can be used for very short trips on a flat road, or kept in the trunk of the car in case of need.

Strollers with a fixed back have an average weight of 7-11 kg, calculated for a child from 1 year. The angle of the backrest is static. A stroller of this type will be comfortable for the baby with its stiff back. Usually they are acquired in case of planned walks near the house and to nearby distances.

There are quite a lot of options for the wheelbase of wheelchairs, despite the condition of their compactness. Wheels can be:

• single or paired;
• front pair - static or rotating through 360 °;
• on execution - inflatable or integral;
• on material - rubber, plastic, plastic with the rubberized surface.

The advantages and disadvantages of each option are varied. For example, inflatable rubber wheels will well absorb any flaws of the road, but they significantly increase the weight. Plastic wheels, on the contrary, are light, but they absorb worse and rattle on uneven surfaces.

For city conditions, a stroller with medium-sized plastic wheels with a rubberized coating, preferably with front movable wheels for maneuvering, is suitable. However, if this walk also takes place in forests, parks or places with rough, sandy or rocky roads, the front wheels should be blocked.

The standard wheelbase solution for the “cane” is a stroller with 4 single wheels, 6 or 8 wheels in a paired version. The most stable option is 8 wheels - two paired wheels in front and behind. Most options have swiveling front wheels.

Today, manufacturers are beginning to offer a version of a three-wheeled stroller with a mechanism "cane". Their frame is made of heavy-duty plastic, and the seat is made of parachute fabric, which makes its weight uniquely light, and it is especially attractive for traveling parents.

The hood is not included in the package on all models. Most strollers, reeds have, rather, small visors, their purpose - to protect the child's head from sun. In case you need protection from wind, rain, then the hood should be big enough.

Typically, these hoods have several transformations and can be removed altogether, serve as a small visor, or cover the child almost to the feet. There are various options for folding hoods - on the zipper, on the button, on the carbine.

They are also removable, and when folded, strollers are transported separately. Such a hood can be removed if necessary, making it easier for the overall weight of the stroller.

The material of the hoods is different. There are options for hot weather with a grid that partially lets in the sun and fresh air, options with a viewing window, so that mom can look at the child on the go without moving the stroller forward. In general, the main thing for the fabric of the hood - water-repellent and waterproof properties.

Basically, strollers, "canes" have 2 separate handles. The device of one continuous handle, like in a “book”, interferes with the folding mechanism, therefore it is quite problematic to carry the stroller with one hand. Most of the "reeds" with handles are all standard. In most, the modification does not have a height adjustment. To determine whether such a stroller is suitable for you, you need to ride it with your purchase, otherwise the walk will be a torment for the mother.

But there are models offering adjustment knobs both in height and in position of the child - facing the mother or facing the road.The design of reversible handles is rather cumbersome, and the cost of the wheelchair sometimes increases by half. Such a handle often breaks and is subject to replacement. But there are also enough advantages here: the ability to turn the stroller against gusts of wind, the ability to fully observe the child, calm him down if necessary, the possibility of increasing the permeability by changing the position of the driving wheels.

Depreciation - one of the main indicators of comfort stroller for the baby, it extinguishes shocks and blows while driving. Quite often in the "reeds" this parameter is presented a little.

Most often in such carriages are used direct spring shock absorbers. This system is quite simple and compact, it is located directly in the frame at the place of attachment of the wheel. The choice of shock absorber here is directly proportional to the load on the wheelchair: the higher the expected load, the harder the spring should be.

Clutch to his feet - quite a popular accessory for those who like to take a walk longer and in any weather. In cool, windy and rainy conditions, it will protect the child, especially if he is sleeping in a wheelchair. Usually a cape on the legs is made of the same material as the hood.

Some canes have shopping baskets. Usually they are made of mesh and not very roomy, but putting toys, things, a package with small purchases there is quite possible.

Bumper is an accessory for the safety of the baby while driving. It protects the small passenger from falling out of the stroller. Often the bumper is complemented by a partition between the legs fastened to it, which completely excludes the possibility for an overly independent child to get out on the go.

In addition to the bumper, belts are responsible for the safety of the baby in the stroller. They are two-point, three-point and five-point. The most convenient and reliable option - five-point belts. Mounts-carbines should be, on the one hand, tight so that the child could not open them himself, and on the other hand, should not cause discomfort in the mother when unbuttoning and be unyielding for an adult.

Standard stroller-cane - an option that is more suitable for the warm season. Riding on the "canes" with small plastic wheels on a snowy street just will not work, and in the absence of a cape on the legs, even in the fall, sitting in a wheelchair, the child will freeze.

Due to the large number of additional accessories, it is still possible to pick up the all-season “cane”. It should have inflatable wheels of large diameter, a hood on the legs, a large hood. As a rule, such strollers can be found in the model range of expensive manufacturers, and their price will be high. Find a budget option here is unlikely to succeed.

The appearance of modern "reeds" is very attractive. Some models can satisfy the highest aesthetic needs. The choice of colors today is huge, different colors and patterns will delight any kid. But when choosing, you should consider some nuances:

• Dark color heats up faster in the sun and during a long walk can lead to overheating of the child.
• The material of the stroller must be waterproof, easy to clean, pleasant to the touch.
• It is advisable to choose a model with a removable fabric base. If necessary, it can be washed in a washing machine.

If parents often travel, it makes sense to choose folding models of wheelchairs. Some of the folding models can even be taken as hand luggage in the aircraft cabin. Usually, the "cane" is formed by pressing a button or a pen. At first wheels connect, then the back with sitting develops. In this position, everything is fixed with a special clip.

The folding mechanism depends on the design of the stroller, so when choosing a model, you need to check whether you are comfortable with the option in question. Most firms offer mechanisms that can be folded quickly and easily with one hand. This is important, because often the hands of parents are busy with shopping bags or the child itself. Compact non-folding strollers with a stiff back - the best choice for walking close to home in walking distance.

In many ways, the choice of a stroller depends on its value. The price range of models is very large. There are prestigious luxury models of popular brands, there are very cheap options. It should be remembered that often the high price depends on the degree of fame of the manufacturer, and the low price can be caused by the same quality. A diverse selection of modifications and decent quality at the wheelchairs manufacturers average price level: Mobility One, Happy Baby, Baby Care and Babyton. Today the Chinese brand Jetem with strollers of very good appearance and a large set of functions is also entering the wide market in this segment.

You can find a budget option for firms with proven quality Peg-Perego, Inglesina and CAM, but their price will still be quite high. Consider the 10 popular models for today in a variety of price categories, weight and technical capabilities.

Stroller for occasional use. Model "World of Childhood Light." This stroller is the simplest thing that can be for carrying a child. Weight - 3.4 kg. Price - up to 1000 rubles. The main parameters: use for a child from six months, three-point safety mounts, 8 twin wheels, the front pair of which rotates, equipped with a locking mechanism.

Customer reviews about this stroller are mixed. They note the light weight, compactness, ease of carrying, the presence of the footrest. Of the minuses - instability, no depreciation.

Easy and inexpensive carriages. Model Polish manufacturer "Baby Care Hola". This stroller weighs 4.8 kg. The price is about 3,000 rubles.

Key parameters: use for a child from six months, three-point safety mounts, reclining position of the back, 8 twin wheels, the front pair of which rotates and is equipped with a locking mechanism. The great advantage of this stroller is the rubber wheels. Customer reviews for this stroller are mostly positive. Of the minuses note the small size of the seat and a tight button on the bumper.

Compact strollers. "Cane" firm Maclaren Globetrotter can be called one of the most popular for travelers. Weight - 4.8 kg. Compactness and the humeral handle create convenience in carrying. The price is about 10,000 rubles. The main parameters: 8 paired wheels, use for a child from six months, five-point safety mounts, a basket for things, a belt for carrying on the shoulder, a plastic rain cover.

The customer reviews for the stroller are positive, most of the notes are really lightweight and easy to fold. Of the minuses note the narrow distance between the wheels, which is not very convenient when walking.

Stroller for a long walk (folding, with a horizontal position of the back). In this category, undisputed and unchallenged leaders can be considered well-known brands, since a long walk implies comfort and safety.Here it is better to choose proven quality, for example, the “cane” from Peg-Perego “Pliko Mini”. Price - about 9,000 rubles, weight - 5.7 kg. The main parameters: 8 twin wheels, the front pair of which rotates and is equipped with a locking mechanism, five-point safety mounts, sun visor, adjustable backrest.

Reviews of this stroller are very good. Buyers note a smooth ride, maneuverability, wide seat. A significant disadvantage is the lack of a bumper and clothing pocket. An important advantage of this stroller is its appearance in the folded state. It can stand upright without support, wheels gather on one side.

Stroller for a long walk (folding, with a recumbent base position). More budget equivalent in this category can be called the Chinese "cane" «Jetem holiday». Its cost is about 4500 rubles, the carriage weighs 7.5 kg. Key parameters: 8 paired wheels, the front pair of which rotates and is equipped with a locking mechanism, five-point safety mounts, a large protective hood, adjustable backrest, pocket for things, bumper, foot cover.

Feedback about the stroller positive. The stroller maneuvers well, folds easily. A huge plus is a large hood, the child under it is closed almost to the knees. With the clutch fastened on the legs, the child is 100% protected from wind and rain. Of the minuses of this stroller can be distinguished relatively heavy weight (with one hand to lift it up the stairs, holding shopping bags in the other, it will be difficult), the wheel attachment system. The wheel unit is an integral part of the two wheels on the clutch.

Stroller 3 in 1. The famous Italian manufacturer Chicco offers its own version of the “cane” “Chicco Trio Living” for those who value multifunctionality and mobility. The stroller has 4 configurations. Its price is about 35,000 rubles, its weight is 10.5 kg. Key parameters: 6 wheels, one pair of which rotates and is equipped with a locking mechanism. Use is possible for a child from birth. This stroller has a block for newborns, a car seat, a sitting block for walking, a clutch on legs, a carrying handle, a clothes basket, a plastic rain cover, the connection of two separate handles into one continuous, several handle positions in height, adjustment of the stand for legs, bumper, kangaroo bag to carry the baby.

Reviews of this stroller are excellent. Mobile and compact 3 in 1 stroller is really a rarity. Of the minuses - certainly a high price. Also note poor depreciation during long-term operation in rough road conditions.

Stroller 2 in 1. A possible option here is the "Hauck Condor Duo". Price - about 9,000 rubles, weight - 10 kg. Key parameters: 8 wheels, one pair of which rotates, equipped with a locking mechanism. Includes a block for newborns, a block for a walk, five-point safety mounts, a bumper.

Reviews of this stroller are not bad, but there is a significant disadvantage - due to the small diameter of the wheels, it does not drive well along a snowy road.

Stroller for twins. A popular twin stroller is the Inglesina Twin Swift. Price - about 20,000 rubles, weight - 12.7 kg. Key parameters: 12 wheels (6 pairs of double), the front pair of which rotates, equipped with a locking mechanism. 4 provisions of a back which change separately, supports for legs, five-dot fastenings of safety, big hoods, ware pockets.

Reviews of this stroller positive, a big plus is called independent adjustment of the backs.

All-season stroller. In this category, it is possible to single out as a successful variant “cane” of “Peg-perego Si”. Its price is about 18,000 rubles, its weight is 7.1 kg. The main parameters: 4 wheels, front - swivel with locking mechanism, five-point safety mounts, car seat mounting adapters, sun visor, plastic rain cover, foot cushion, large fabric basket.

Reviews of this stroller are different, but mostly positive. The advantage of the model is the high maneuverability, comfort for the child, a large hood. Some users talk about the bad move, rattling when driving.

Stroller for a premium walk (foldable, with a horizontal position of the back). It is impossible not to mention in the ranking of the main beauty among the "reeds" - "Cosatto Supa". Its price is about 18,000 rubles, its weight is 7.5 kg. Key parameters: 8 paired wheels, the front pair of which rotates and is equipped with a locking mechanism, five-point safety mounts, double-sided compacted fabric, a protective layer from sunlight on the fabric parts, a large number of unique colors, a large hood, a pad under the head, a cover on the legs, a clutch for hands, warmed envelope for the cold season, duffel pocket, place for parents' gadgets, plastic rain cover, glass holder, speaker for player. All fabric parts are removed.

Reviews of this stroller are quite good, many mark this stroller as the most beautiful in its class. The stroller has a very large hood, as close as possible to the horizontal decomposition. Of the minuses note the noisy system of tilting the visor, the lack of a bumper kit, a low child landing.

Before choosing a stroller model, you need to decide which functions you and your child need, and which ones can be secondary and optional. Will you carry it in the trunk or carry it on the plane, will the child sleep on the street, at what time of the year is it planned to use, is there a need to carry the stroller on hand.

The decomposition of the stroller to a horizontal bed is an important parameter when choosing a stroller for traveling, when the child gets tired quickly and it is not always possible to put him in bedtime at home. Also, this parameter is very important when buying a compact "cane" for a child up to 1-1.5 years.

There are several basic rules for a landmark when choosing a model:

• Matching the age of the child.
• The presence of a rigid backrest frame.
• The weight of the stroller is from 4 kg, with a smaller weight the stroller will be too unstable.
• Quality materials. The stroller is usually used very intensively, so saving on quality, you need to understand that re-buying through the season will be much more expensive.

• The size, quantity, rotation and locking of the front wheels. From this indicator depends on the maneuverability and throughput of transport.
• Before purchase, check the certificate of conformity, hygienic certificate, as well as the equipment and instructions for assembly and operation.

When buying a stroller for a large child, it is important to consider the width and depth of the seat. Some manufacturers specify the maximum weight of the load on the stroller.

Strollers for twins - a separate category, because of the correct choice depends on the ability to move. Walking with two children with a heavy, unwieldy and uncomfortable pram or with two separate vehicles for the mother becomes an impossible task. Combined strollers are quite convenient and relatively compact.

Basically, the reed manufacturers offer an option where the seats are located side by side. This design is convenient, both children sit facing forward. It should be noted that with the folding backrest it is better if they are independent of each other in the two parts of the stroller. In this case, one baby can lie, and the second one can sit.

As an alternative to the "cane" can be considered a stroller-book. They are formed, relatively speaking, in half. All the wheels at the same time are together, and the handle - in the opposite place, which allows it to not get dirty. The weight of the "books" is approximately two times greater than that of the "reeds".The average weight of the “book” is about 9-10 kg, but there are also lightweight models weighing about 6 kg. In this case, the dimensions of transport will be more. So, more sitting for a child, a bed, higher stability of the stroller. However, when folded, such strollers take up more space and are less convenient for transportation.

Almost all strollers with such a folding mechanism are equipped with a complete set for the convenience of the child: a bumper, a cape for legs, a hood. Compared with the "cane", the food basket is bigger and more spacious here.

What is the folding mechanism to choose a stroller, is quite difficult to decide. With the same accessories, material and functions of the stroller differ very much.

To date, manufacturers of both types of wheelchairs offer different configuration options. Lightweight and reduced in size "book" from YoYo is very compact when folded, it is allowed to take into the cabin. The impressive and comfortable "cane" BabyHit "Drive" shows itself wonderfully on long hikes.

On how to choose the right stroller, see the next video from Dr. Komarovsky.