Prams and strollers, same same but different
For most new parents’ prams and strollers are the same and there is often confusion on which one is best for transporting your baby. The truth of the matter is that both options offer unique features tailored to different needs, making it essential to understand which one best suit your lifestyle and ensures your baby’s comfort.
Ronald Govender, Dis-Chem Baby City FMCG Executive says it is important to understand both yours and your baby’s needs for ease and comfort of movement. “The decision between a pram and a stroller depends on several factors: your lifestyle, your baby’s age, finances, and most importantly, ensuring your child’s safety during transportation. Parents who live in urban areas often prefer lightweight strollers because they are compact and easy to manoeuvre. These strollers feature sturdy harness systems and durable frames, providing stability on city streets. Meanwhile, families who enjoy outdoor activities may opt for robust prams with all-terrain capabilities, adjustable suspension, and secure braking systems for smoother rides over rugged terrain.”
According to market intelligence company Blue Weave Consulting there is rising awareness about baby health and safety concerns in South Africa which is spurring the growth of the baby care and products sector.
Govender says prioritising safety when selecting a pram or stroller not only provides peace of mind but also supports your active lifestyle, enabling comfortable and secure exploration with your child. He points out useful tips to help parents navigate this decision:
- Safety comes first: When choosing a pram or stroller, prioritise safety to protect your child during outings. Look for features such as a robust frame, reliable brakes, and a secure harness system. Additionally, consider the stroller’s stability, especially if you are interested in jogging strollers designed for more active use.
- Baby’s age is an important factor: Prams provide a lie-flat position suitable for newborns, promoting healthy spine development. Strollers with reclining seats on the other hand are ideal for older infants or toddlers who can sit upright independently.
- Budget consideration: Plays a role in choosing a pram or stroller as theyspan a wide range of prices. Balance your budget with the features that are most important to you.
- Longevity and flexibility: Both cater for changing needs as some models offer modular designs that adapt as your child grows.
- Multi-purpose use for parents with older siblings: A considerationfor families withmultiple children. There are some prams that can handle a newborn and an older sibling, such as double prams or attachments that convert a single pram into a double.
- Usability and convenience: Assist to evaluate how and where you will use the pram or stroller. Lightweight strollers are ideal for tight spaces or public transport, while robust prams with large wheels are better for outdoor activities and rough terrain.
- Aesthetics and design: This matters for personal preferences; modern strollers come in sleek designs with various colour options, catering to those who prioritise aesthetics alongside functionality.
Whether you opt for a pram or a stroller, both are designed to keep your baby safe and comfortable while offering convenience for parents. “By considering safety, age appropriateness, usability, aesthetics, budget, and flexibility, you can make an informed choice that meets your family’s needs,” concludes Govender.
