Comparison Cybex Balios S vs Bugaboo Cameleon 3 2 in 1

General design of the pushchair.

In addition to traditional varieties — classic models (with a carrycot) and pushchairs (with a seat) — nowadays you can also find universal pushchairs, which are 2 in 1 and 3 in 1, transformers and pushchairs for sports purposes. Here is a more detailed description of each variety:

— Pushchairs. Pushchairs designed for the sitting position of the kid. The seat for the baby in such pushchairs is called a seat unit; in fact, it is a seat of a special design. In some models, this seat can tilt almost horizontally, which gives the little passenger the opportunity to take a nap. Nevertheless, all pushchairs are intended for more or less grown-up kids who are able to sit up independently — that is, not younger than 6 — 8 months.
Also note that in this category there are the possibility of installing a carrycot. In fact, such models are universal (see below); but if the carrycot is not initially included in the delivery, it is customary to classify the pushchair as a pushchair.

— Jogging. A type of pushchairs (see above) designed for parents who value an active lifestyle: a jogging pushchair can be used not only when walking quietly, but also when jogging. Such pushchairs are usu...ally equipped with three wheels of rather large diameter, and also have a large width of the chassis (see below); all this gives additional stability and passability, including on uneven roads. In addition, the design may include specific features for added comfort and safety, such as a strap that fixes the parent's hand on the pushchair handle or an additional brake that activates when the pushchair is released from the hands.

— Universal. Pushchairs often come with at least two (or even three) interchangeable units: a lying carrycot for infants, a seat unit for older babies, and sometimes a Group 0+ car seat. Parents can choose which unit to use on the chassis. This option provides convenience throughout the baby's pushchair years, starting with the carrycot for the first 6-8 months and transitioning to the seat unit. However, these universal pushchairs are pricier and less space-efficient than transformers with similar capabilities. On the flip side, separate carrycots and seat units are more convenient and reliable.
It is worth taking into account that some universal models can be supplied in alternative options — for example, " carrycot + car seat". So, when buying such a pushchair, it does not hurt to specify the set of accessories supplied with it.

— Pushchair-transformer. Transforming pushchairs allow the seat to convert seamlessly from a carrycot to a seat unit and vice versa, offering the same versatility as universal models. Unlike universal pushchairs, transformers don't require rearranging the main unit for this reconfiguration, providing several advantages. Firstly, the main block's format can be changed anytime, even on the go, without the need for separate seat units or carrycots. Secondly, the integrated carrycot takes up less storage space compared to two separate units.

— Classic. Pushchairs that are equipped with carrycots only; some also allow the installation of a seat unit, as in universal models, but if such a unit is not included in the kit, the pushchair is considered a classic. Recall that carrycots are intended mainly for children under 6 – 8 months old, who are not yet able to sit normally in the seat unit; in other words, this type of pushchair is suitable mainly for the smallest kids. That is why the "classic" nowadays is not particularly popular.

The ability to adjust the position of the footrest, on which the legs of the baby in the pushchair rest.

A similar ability is found in some pushchairs, transformers and pushchairs of universal pushchairs (see "Design"). The footrest itself is an inclined surface attached to the front edge of the seat. Adjustable footrests are those in which the angle of inclination can be adjusted; in many models, this footrest can even be set horizontally. This makes it possible to choose the most comfortable position for the baby's legs in different situations.

The carrycot carry handle for carrying is mounted on the carrycot and makes it easy to carry it from place to place — for example, if you need to remove the carrycot for cleaning and then put it back. The handle can have a different shape — in the form of an arc attached to the sides of the carrycot, in the form of a hood cutout, etc.

Pushchairs in which the handle can be moved from one side to the other — in other words, put it at both the rear and front wheels. Simply put, the reversible handle makes it possible to carry the baby both forward-facing and parent-facing. Such an opportunity can be provided both due to the swivel fastening of the handle, and due to the fact that the handle is made removable.

This function is useful in light of the fact that the optimum handle position will also be different for various formats of use of the stroller. Thus, when the child is awake sitting in the seat unit, it is best to push the stroller forward, so that the little passenger can freely see the world around him/her. And when a small passenger sleeps on the unfolded seat - it is best to turn the stroller facing the parent; the same position is standard for the carrycot. In addition, the reversible handle can be useful in some daily situations: for example, to go down a steep hill, it is better to turn the stroller back to front, and the easiest way to do this is to use the reversible handle.

It is worth taking into account that when you reverse the handle, the front and rear wheels change places, and a long movement "backwards" can be uncomfortable. In some models this moment is compensated by automatic switching of wheels: when you change the position of the handle, the wheels also change (the front wheels are fixed straight, and the rear wheels are unlock...ed, turning into swivel wheels). However, the availability of this function should be specified separately.

A window made of transparent or translucent material, built into the hood that covers the cradle or seating unit. In the version with a walking block, the viewing window is usually located so that the parent can see the baby directly while moving, without being distracted from controlling the stroller. In cradles, the parent can see the child through a window by approaching the stroller from the side of the hood (that is, on the opposite side of the handle); implementations with a window in the front hemisphere of the hood are less common. In addition, a baby lying in a cradle can usually see the outside world through the window (primarily the sky above the stroller). The viewing window can be made in the form of oilcloth or a mesh mosquito net, through the holes of which air freely penetrates, but insects and small debris raised by the wind are retained.

The pushchair has a hand brake.

Any parking brake (whether hand or foot brake) locks the wheels of the pushchair, preventing it from moving. This function eliminates the risk of the standing pushchair moving on its own, for example down a slope or in a gust of wind. Almost all modern pushchairs are equipped with a parking brake. Most often it is foot brake (activated and deactivated by pressing the foot), but some models provide manual control — with a lever or button on the handle. This brake is a bit more expensive than a foot brake, but it is more convenient: the control is right in front of the eyes and under the parent's hand.

The diameter of the front wheels installed in the stroller.

At the same time, the front wheels are not as important for mobility as the rear wheels: for example, to overcome obstacles, the stroller is often lifted "on its toes" by tilting it towards itself, with only the rear wheels working. Therefore, the diameter of the front wheels may be noticeably smaller than the rear wheels. It should be noted here that the small size also has its advantages — the wheels are lighter.

Speaking of specific numbers, diameter up to 15 cm is considered very modest, 16 — 20 cm — small, 21 — 25 cm — medium, 26 — 30 cm is larger than average and more than 30 cm is large.

The diameter of the rear wheels installed in the stroller.

The larger the wheel — the better it overcomes obstacles and bumps, the more convenient it is to drive the stroller over mud, snow and other difficult surfaces. For the rear wheels these moments are most relevant: for example, when driving the stroller over obstacles, it is usually tilted towards itself, so that the front wheels are in the air, and the rear wheels have to overcome the obstacle. On the other hand, small wheels weigh less and are easier to move, they are better suited for flat surfaces. So choose a stroller on this indicator should take into account the roads on which it has to be driven. If you plan to move on flat floors, good asphalt and stroller ramps — it is worth choosing small wheels, up to 20 cm. For difficult terrain, driving on mud and snow, regular overcoming steps and curbs it makes sense to pay attention to wheels in 30 cm and larger. And the diameter of 20 — 30 cm is an average option — it is suitable if you have to ride mainly on flat surfaces, but occasionally there is a need to overcome obstacles.

— Seat unit. A seat unit serves as the child's sitting area, suitable for use from 6 – 8 months onward when the child transitions from lying in a carrycot to sitting comfortably. All pushchair types feature seat units (see "Design"), except for classic and transformer models. Classic pushchairs inherently use a carrycot, while transformers use a unique device known as a "carrycot-transformer" (see below).

— Carrycot. A traditional carrycot is a basket with high sides in which the child is lying down. Such baskets are intended for children in the first months of life - usually up to 8 months, no more; from an older age it makes sense to use a seat unit (see above). Carrycots are used in all types of pushchairs, except for pushchairs and transformers (see "Design") - the first type is completed only with seat units, the second uses the so-called " carrycot-transformers" (see below). A special kind of traditional carrycots are carrying carrycots (they are also described below).

— Carrying carrycot. A variation of the carrycot (see above) designed to be easily carried separately from the pushchair. To do this, the design provides an appropriate handle. At the same time, not every carrycot that has a carrying handle (see above) belongs to this category of accessories: "carrying" are called only those carrycots that initially allow long-term carrying in the hands...and have various design features that facilitate such transportation.

— Carrycot-transformer. In fact, it is a carrycot, which, if necessary, can be turned into a seat unit for a child who can sit up.

— Car seat. A specialized seat designed for the safe transportation of small children in cars is essential for compliance with safety regulations in many countries. Car seats are typically provided with pushchairs for babies up to 12 months and weighing up to 13 kg. However, a separate seat for older babies must be purchased. Before buying, it's important to check the specifications of the car seat, particularly the method of attaching it to the car.

— Foot cover. A cover designed to protect a child's legs in a pushchair from wind, cold and bad weather. While blankets or improvised solutions can be used for the same goal, complete covers offer more convenience as they securely attach to the pushchair and stay in place during movement. Additionally, if needed, a blanket can be placed inside the cover for extra warmth. It's worth noting that many pushchairs, lacking this accessory, allow for separate purchase. This accessory is primarily used with seat units, whereas carrycots rely on a leg-area canopy with a similar function, though it's not classified as a cover.

— Rain cover. A waterproof cover that protects the child in the pushchair from rain, snow and strong winds. Usually such a cover is made of transparent material or has transparent inserts — so that the baby can see the world around, and the parent can follow the baby. Rain covers for pushchairs are also sold separately, but if such an accessory is included in the kit, you do not have to worry about compatibility.

— Mosquito net. Mesh with small cells, which can cover a child sitting in a pushchair. The cells allow air to pass through, but trap mosquitoes, midges and other harmful insects, as well as small debris raised by the wind; such protection is especially useful during evening walks in the warm season, as well as when going out in the countryside.

— Bag / backpack for things. A separate bag that is usually hung on the handle of the pushchair. In such a bag you can keep various useful small things that need quick access: food, toys and hygiene items for the baby, parent's documents, etc. In most cases, the bag is removable, which provides additional convenience. Note that for some models, initially not equipped with a bag, such an accessory can be purchased separately. And some models are equipped with a backpack — a more convenient option for use.

— Shopping compartment. A device in the form of a basket or container installed at the bottom of the pushchair - under the cradle or seat unit. This compartment is convenient for storing purchases and other things that do not require quick access while walking. At the same time, larger and heavier items are placed in the basket/container than in a bag for things (see above); and the low position improves the stability of the pushchair. The shopping compartment can be either open or closed. The first option is found everywhere, the second - mainly in elite models (and such pushchairs can be supplied with two baskets: open and closed, or in different colors). The capacity of a closed compartment is often smaller, but the contents in it are securely hidden from prying prying eyes and protected from dust, dirt and moisture. Compartments for purchases are made from a wide variety of materials: plastic, metal mesh, fabric, etc. Soft materials are generally lighter, but less durable, hard ones are reliable, but can interfere when overcoming curbs and other obstacles.

— Cup holder. A stand on the parental handle to hold a glass or bottle with a drink - for example, milk for the baby or water for the parent.

— Hand strap. Strap on the handle of the pushchair, which the parent can put on his hand. This reduces the risk of dropping the pushchair: the strap is likely to keep it close to the parent, even if the arms are fully unclenched.

— Hand muff. An accessory that can come in handy when strolling in the cold season. The muff is attached to the handle of the pushchair; if desired, you can hide your hands in it so that they do not freeze in the cold. At the same time, the design of the muff is such that it does not interfere with fully holding the handle and driving the pushchair.

— Cover for pushchair. A protective cover designed for storing and transporting a pushchair during non-use hours is typically made from soft materials. It primarily protects the structure from dirt, direct sunlight, and moisture to some extent. While it offers symbolic protection against mechanical damage, more substantial safeguarding would require a case made of rigid materials. However, the need for such intensive protection is rare in practice. Soft covers are favored for their lightweight nature and minimal storage space when folded, making them the most popular choice for pushchairs. Overall, a complete cover tends to be more convenient, practical, and reliable compared to makeshift packaging.