The period of preparation before the birth of a new family member is usually very busy. Adapting the home, buying clothes and all the necessary accessories are very time-consuming tasks. It is also worth taking some time to choose the right stroller. For it to be a practical aid, it needs to be suited to the family’s needs.
A stroller for up to 25 kg, or up to 22 kg?
Let’s start with a little theory. A stroller for up to 25 kg is a model approved for up to 22 kg, while the remaining 3 kg is the load capacity of the shopping basket – so this refers to the stroller’s total load capacity. A child most often reaches a weight of 22 kg at around four years of age. Only in exceptional cases do children use strollers for longer.
What does it mean to match a stroller to the needs of a particular family? For a stroller to be functional and not cause parents problems, it should be suited to their place of residence, lifestyle and physical capabilities.
Weight matters
A family living in a multi-unit building without an elevator should pay attention to the stroller’s weight. Carrying a stroller up the stairs with a child inside may be impossible in the case of heavy models, and young children are usually taken for walks every day. Strollers with frames made of carbon fibre or aluminium are available on the market. These two materials are much lighter than traditional steel and, contrary to appearances, are not any less durable. Their resistance to scratches and damage is essentially the same, so it is worth choosing a lightweight model. A stroller for up to 25 kg can weigh just under 6 kg. However, some models can weigh twice as much, meaning that the stroller’s weight may simply be crucial in many cases.
A functional wheel system
For daily walks to be enjoyable and the stroller to move smoothly, the wheel system is also important. The type and size of the wheels, suspension and brake are the elements that make it up. The wheels should be made of material resistant to damage. If the parents live in the city centre and walks will take place in a well-developed area, the stroller can have small wheels made, for example, of plastic or EVA foam. When living on the outskirts of a city or in the countryside, where the terrain is varied or uneven, the wheels should also provide suspension. In such a situation, models with inflatable or gel wheels will work well. Their disadvantage is their somewhat greater weight, but contrary to appearances, riding comfort is very important.
What is suspension for in a stroller?
If walks with the child will take place in green areas where human intervention is limited, it is also worth paying attention to the type of suspension. In some models, the shock absorbers are built only into the front axle, while in others each wheel has its own shock absorber. Smooth movement will ensure the child sleeps peacefully, while the stroller will be easy and pleasant to manoeuvre.
The brake should securely lock the wheels. It may be located at the bottom of the frame and activated by pressing it with a foot. Another option is a stroller with a hand brake, which is positioned much higher and, as the name suggests, operated by hand.
An adjustable handle and practical upholstery
If there is a significant height difference between the parents, they can use the convenience of an adjustable stroller handle. Maintaining the correct posture during a walk will not put strain on the spine, and the height can be changed at any time.
The upholstery in a stroller for up to 25 kg should be resistant to damage and pleasant to the touch. A canopy with several position settings will protect the child from the sun and wind. If the chosen model has a UV50 filter, it will also protect the child from harmful radiation.
An adjustable backrest angle will ensure comfortable sleep. Ideally, the backrest in the chosen stroller should recline to a completely flat position so that the child can lie without putting strain on the spine. The bumper bar and harness keep the child from sliding out of the seat. With a seat equipped in this way, enjoying the world together during walks will be pleasant.
Quick folding and easy storage
A good stroller should have a compact shape when folded, making it easier to store. The folding system is also important. If it can be operated with one hand, it is possible to care for the child at the same time, since we do not always go for walks with the child as a pair.
As you can see, there are many factors that determine whether a stroller will be functional. A stroller for up to 25 kg can offer a wide variety of features. Much depends on the model’s production date and brand. Prices also vary. Every family will certainly find its ideal model, providing comfort and safety during everyday walks.