Comparison Chicco Lite Way 3 Top vs Roan Marita 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.

— Book folding system. In pushchairs, this system involves connecting frame parts along a common axis, resembling closing book pages when folded. Despite being somewhat more complex and heavier than umbrella pushchairs, book system offer versatility, suitable for various pushchair types. They work well with both walking seat units and carrycots, accommodate different handle types easily, and significantly reduce height when folded, unlike umbrella structures.

— Umbrella folding system. In the unfolded position, the frame of a pushchair, with its umbrella mechanism, appears as a front wheel support inclined backward, extending to a top handle, and a rear wheel support attached to it, standing vertically. During folding, the rear support pivots at the attachment point and aligns with the front support. Unlike book folding system, the front support remains rigid and doesn't fold independently. Umbrella pushchairs got their name from the handle — which is curved, like an umbrella handle.
The advantages of this type of mechanism are low weight, low cost and quick unfolding/folding. On the other hand, the umbrella structure is not well suited for carrycots, which is why it is used mainly in pushchairs and individual universal models. In addition, curved handles are somewhat less convenient than solid handles (the latter are also found in similar designs, but much less frequently).

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.

In strollers with this function, the seat unit can be fixed in one of two positions, to choose from: facing the parent (against the direction of movement) or facing away from the parent (in the direction of movement). Each option has its advantages: in the first case, the baby can see a familiar face and is less nervous, and when located in the direction of movement, it is more convenient for him/her to view the world around him/her.

The depreciation theme is designed to absorb shocks and bumps from uneven road surfaces. The most popular nowadays are models with spring systems; you can also meet the shock absorption of the articulated and double types, and in quite a large number of pushchairs this function is absent at all. Here are the main features of each option:

— Spring type. Depreciation systems based on classical springs mounted on individual wheels. They are used in all types of pushchairs except classic pushchairs (see "Design"). The simplest models use a single set of springs, while more advanced models may include additional comfort features such as SAS shock/vibration absorption technology. Whatever the case, depreciation systems of this type are simple yet practical, efficient and reliable.

— Articulated type. The type of depreciation used in pushchairs with carrycots - classic, universal, transformers. The frame, on which the carrycot or seat unit is installed, in such models is attached to the base of the pushchair with the help of special bridges, which play the role of depreciation. As bridges can be used belt hinges, such systems can also refer to the articulated. Anyway, this type of depreciation is excellent for carrycots. First of all, the pushchair is as smooth and soft as possible, which contributes to the comfort and deep sleep of the child (and the parent to...drive the pushchair is much easier, especially on uneven surfaces). Secondly, the carrycot on such a pushchair can be rocked back and forth, lulling the baby. On the other hand, such systems are poorly suited for pushchair frames with swivel front wheels; and the failure of one absorber leads to tilting of the carrycot.

— Double. This term most often refers to the spring systems described above with additional shock absorbers on the frame of the pushchair. Such systems help to maximize vibration reduction and can approach articulated systems in terms of efficiency (see above). On the other hand, the softness of the suspension can be inconvenient when overcoming curbs and other bumps: to raise the front wheels of the pushchair, you have to press hard on the handle.

— Is absent. Pushchairs without depreciation are not suitable for uneven surfaces: in such conditions, the pushchair will be shaken violently, which creates both discomfort for the baby and inconvenience for the parent. On the other hand, such models have advantages over pushchairs with depreciation. First, due to the lack of unnecessary parts, they are much cheaper, and the design itself is as simple as possible and at the same time reliable. Secondly, without depreciation, it is easier to overcome curbs and other obstacles: to raise the front wheels, it is enough to push a small pressure on the handle. Thirdly, such pushchairs rock less on smooth, wave-like uneven surfaces.

The ability to install a carrycot on the pushchair — a characteristic basket in which the baby can lie comfortably.

Carrycots are used mainly for very young kids (up to 6 – 8 months), who can not yet sit normally in seat units. And the possibility of installing such an accessory by definition is available in all universal pushchairs (see "Design"). Also, the replacement of the seat unit on the carrycot can be provided in pushchair models. In fact, such pushchairs are also universal – but they are not initially equipped with carrycots, and therefore belong to the category of pushchairs.

The possibility of installing a child car seat on the chassis of the stroller. This feature can be very useful on car trips: the car seat can be used both in the car and as a seat unit for a stroller, and the main seat unit can be left at home so that it does not take up space in the boot. Note that some models with this function are initially equipped with a suitable car seat; if it is purchased separately, you should pay special attention to compatibility with your stroller.

— Classic. U-shaped handle (or similar), which is a kind of frame. It is slightly less comfortable to hold with two hands than a double handle, but can be comfortably held with one hand.

— Double. A pair of separate handles without a bridge between them. The handles themselves are usually curved so that the parent's hands resting on them are in the best, most comfortable position. At the same time, double handles should preferably be held with two hands; it is much more difficult to handle them with one hand than with a classic handle. In addition, it should be noted that this option is considered the most suitable for pushchairs (see "Design"), while for pushchairs with a carrycot it is not very suitable.

— Universal. A design that is a combination of the classic and double handle described above. This allows the parent to choose the option depending on the situation: for example, it is more convenient to hold the stroller with two hands by the "horns", and if one hand needs to be free - you can take the single (classic) handle. At the same time, such a choice is not really necessary for everyone, and universal handles are more complicated and expensive than specialized ones, so they are much less common.

— Round. The handlebar can have a different design: in some models it is an oval loop mounted on a long...bar, in others it is a kind of "steering wheel" on a frame above the hood. Whatever the case, in some models such a handle is a round: it is directly connected to the front wheels, and when you turn the handle, the wheels turn to one side or the other. This noticeably improves maneuverability, but complicates the design and increases its price. However, there are also simpler designs, where the round handlebar differs from the classic handles only in shape. All these nuances should be specified for each model separately.

Possibility to adjust the stroller handle in height. This function allows you to optimally adjust the length of the handle to the height of the parent. It will be especially useful if the parents are of different heights, and each of them regularly carries a stroller.

Typically, height adjustment is carried out by lowering or raising the upper segment of the handle, and in advanced implementations a telescopic mechanism is responsible for it. The retractable handle makes the stroller more adaptable to different situations and conditions. For example, it can be lengthened for more comfortable walking or shortened for ease of use in tight spaces.