28/10/2018 Which wheels are best for a baby stroller?

One of the main criteria for choosing a stroller is the wheels. Which stroller wheels are better: swivel or classic, wide or narrow, inflatable or gel, inflatable or plastic?

When choosing, you need to understand primarily what surface the walks will be on: asphalt or tiles, wood or gravel, or other surfaces and be guided by this when choosing.

First, let's look at what kind of wheels there are.

There are three main types of wheels:

- inflatable

- silicone

- plastic.

Wheels on a baby stroller - how to choose the right one?

The main criteria when choosing wheels are the season in which the stroller will be used for the longest time and the quality of the road surface. Now, let's take a closer look at their varieties.

Wheel material for baby stroller

According to the type of material, all wheels are divided into 3 types: rubber, inflatable rubber and non-inflatable rubber.

Rubber wheels

the lightest of all, which reduces the overall weight of the stroller. They are also puncture-proof and have good wear resistance. Suitable for all types of roads, but in winter they will perform worse than rubber inflatable ones. The downside is not very good shock absorption, which is compensated by shock absorption on the frame itself.

Rubber inflatable wheels

give a softer ride on the road, so your baby can sleep peacefully while walking. But they are heavier and not at all protected from punctures; they also need to be pumped up from time to time. If damaged, inflatable wheels can be taken to a tire shop or simply bought new ones. It is best to use them on the road without sharp objects and stones, as well as in winter, because they cope well with driving on snow.

Rubber not inflatable

, differ from the previous type in that they do not need to be inflated, since they do not have a chamber and the entire internal space is filled with foam rubber. Therefore, they are puncture resistant and are perfect for any type of road.

Rubber wheel

Inflatable rubber wheel

Not inflatable rubber wheel

Choosing a baby stroller: types of wheels

Sooner or later, every young mother will face the urgent question of choosing a baby stroller .

How to find a suitable option and take into account all the disadvantages and advantages? How to find a model that meets all the requirements for quality and convenience?

Well-known manufacturers of children's goods, namely strollers, receive a lot of offers for their products. And in this assortment, it is important to find one that will satisfy your requirements for maneuverability, high cross-country ability, smooth running, and durability.

First of all, when choosing a baby stroller, you should pay attention to the wheels (quantity, quality, material, size). The stability and reliability of the stroller will depend on the wheels.

Let's make a brief classification of existing types of wheels to make the choice much easier.

Number of wheels

The most common, “classic” option is the presence of 4 wheels on the stroller.

Such models are recognized as the most stable and are able to overcome snowy and sandy roads without much effort.

This design applies to almost all modern universal strollers, transformers and cradles.

The original design attracts strollers with three wheels (one driving wheel in front, two in the back).

Modern manufacturers guarantee their stability and maneuverability.

The disadvantage is that it is almost impossible to use the stroller on a ramp when the rear wheels fit into the guides and the front wheels do not.

There are strollers with twelve (double strollers have 6 double wheels), eight (double front and rear wheels) and six (double front only) wheels.

Their advantage is that they have dual wheels, which increases maneuverability, stability, cross-country ability and a “floating” design.

Material

Plastic wheels with a foam rubber rim reduce the overall weight of the stroller; they are not as large as rubber wheels, but are suitable for walking on a flat road without holes or potholes.

Such wheels are most often used on small-sized strollers, such as canes.

Rubber wheels can be inflatable or solid, made of foam rubber.

Inflatable rubber wheels provide a smooth ride without shaking, but are susceptible to punctures and the need to inflate.

Often such wheels are installed on baby strollers for little ones - cradleboards.

Foam rubber wheels . Their advantages are that they are not afraid of punctures and cuts. Disadvantages - in cold weather they become stiff and the movement of the stroller becomes noisy.

Wheel size

The maneuverability and maneuverability of the stroller depends on the size of the wheels. The smaller the wheels, the more agile and maneuverable the stroller, the larger the wheels, the higher its maneuverability.

When choosing stroller wheels by size , pay attention to the quality of the roads on which it will travel. Small wheels on a bad road will cause the stroller to wobble and quickly break the wheel.

Small wheels are used on strollers such as walking, large wheels are used on universal strollers, including a walking unit, a cradle and a chassis.

Internal filling of the wheel

The rim of the stroller wheel is fixed using either metal spokes or plastic structures.

Metal spokes, like plastic inserts, in stroller wheels are designed to make them more stable and durable, but they make the overall structure heavier.

Compared to plastic ones, which are much lighter, metal knitting needles are more reliable and durable.

Wheel mobility

Good maneuverability of the strollers is ensured by the front wheels rotating 360 degrees around their axis.

But there is a drawback - if you get into a hole or in an area with mud or a snowdrift, the direction of movement of the wheel may not coincide with the desired one. In this case, you should give preference to wheels with a switch for driving and turning modes.

Removable wheels

Removable wheels on strollers are convenient in case of breakage or puncture. Only these, and not the whole stroller, can be easily and quickly taken for repair. This is also a good opportunity to change from one type of wheel to another depending on the time of year.

Removable overall wheels, for example, on universal 3-in-1, 2-in-1 strollers, allow you to easily place the stroller even in a small trunk - the structure, wheels and, directly, the stroller block are separate.

We recommend reading: The best 2 in 1 baby strollers

When choosing a stroller , in addition to the financial side, you should pay attention to the terrain and weather conditions in which you live, and choose the most suitable option that meets your requirements and also allows you to provide maximum comfort to your baby.

Types of wheels for strollers

The Russian market offers a wide range of children's vehicles. Strollers differ in the number and type of wheels, materials, equipment, sizes and other characteristics. When choosing vehicles for newborns, it is recommended to pay attention to the following indicators: structural reliability, maneuverability, maneuverability, level of safety .

Wheels of a baby stroller, depending on the material of manufacture, are divided into the following types:

• inflatable;
• rubber;
• gel.

Inexpensive models, created primarily for summer walks, use plastic wheels.

Polyurethane wheels

They are also called rubberized. They can most often be seen on the following types of strollers:

• walking;
• universal;
• stroller - cradle.

They also have a number of advantages, due to which they are preferred by consumers.

Here are some of them:

• improved maneuverability;
• good shock absorption;
• lightweight design.

Strollers with this type of wheels are preferable for those who live in cities with good and smooth asphalt surfaces. A stroller with polyurethane wheels should be lightweight, reliable, and easy to maneuver.

Advantages:

This is a very durable material from which wheels for rollerblades and skateboards are made. These wheels combine hardness and softness like rubber. In general, they combine the characteristics of plastic and inflatable wheels. Such a wheel is so strong that even if you stick a nail into it and then pull it out, there will be no mark left on the wheel. This material is also characterized by increased wear resistance, low abrasion and is not prone to aging. Strollers with polyurethane wheels are more maneuverable than strollers with inflatable wheels. These wheels have average weight.

Flaws:

Shock absorption is worse than inflatable wheels

Price and warranty period

Since today manufacturers offer us a huge variety of different baby strollers, the price range for them is very wide. The cheapest models are those made in Russia and Poland. More expensive baby strollers are German, Dutch, and English. It is believed that strollers from Europe are much better quality than domestic ones.

Every parent wants their baby stroller to last as long as possible. Therefore, at the time of purchase, find out about its warranty period and where to contact if a breakdown occurs. Typically, the warranty period for a stroller ranges from three months to one year.

The most important thing is that the soul “lies in” with the baby stroller. If you are satisfied with everything about the stroller and it attracts you externally, then take it and don’t hesitate. Consultants of the online store “First Stroller.RF” will help you choose a baby stroller, taking into account all your wishes and requirements.

Inflatable wheels

Inflatable wheels (also called chamber or pneumatic) are used for more massive and heavier strollers.

They also have their advantages:

• their dimensions and good maneuverability. As for cross-country ability, this is an irreplaceable and important property in the winter season;
• good shock absorption, which ensures smooth and soft movement;
• Strollers with inflatable wheels are quite high. This is very convenient for a parent who walks with a child.

There are also disadvantages, which include the need for periodic pumping. Also, there is a chance that the tire will puncture and will need to be replaced.

This type of wheel is often found on strollers for small children.

If you live in a rural area or simply walk in areas with poorly paved roads, it is better to give preference to a stroller with inflatable wheels.

The reliability of the entire stroller structure depends on the wheels. Therefore, be sure to take this selection criterion seriously. After all, the most important thing is the safety and comfort of the baby.

Advantages

Lasts longer and provides better shock absorption. It is easy to ride on depressions, snow and difficult ground. Snow does not stick to the wheels, and if the stroller is narrow, then it can be rolled in deep snow. At the same time, the stroller does not skid. So when choosing a winter stroller, you should pay attention to this type of wheels.

In addition, inflatable wheels are the best choice for those who live in a house without an elevator and have to take the stroller down and up the stairs several times a day.

You can decide how hard the wheels are. When they are heavily inflated, the stroller rolls well, but the shock absorption is not very good. When the wheels are not inflated so much, the shock absorption is better, but the stroller does not ride as smoothly. You can choose what you like best or find a middle ground. In addition, gravel does not get stuck in such wheels.

Flaws

Of course, inflatable tires can puncture at any time (in summer the risk of puncture is much higher), and they need to be inflated occasionally. How often you need to do this depends on the quality of the wheel and how often you use the stroller. If you inflate once a month (or once every two months), the tires will always be well inflated. They weigh quite a lot.

All-rubber wheels (non-inflatable, tubeless) are made of rubber (polyurethane, rubber, silicone) or foam rubber.

Spacious storage compartments

A spacious, easily accessible shopping basket makes shopping with your child much easier. Basket sizes vary. Choose one that can hold a large bag of diapers. If you choose a model with a reclining seat, make sure you can reach the basket when the backrest is fully reclined.

The bottom of the stroller should be at a sufficiently large distance from the ground, it should not drag when the basket is fully loaded. Some strollers have elastic storage bags on the back of the stroller or in place of the shopping basket. Do not hang heavy bags on the handle; the stroller may tip over if overloaded! Read our safety tips.

Rubber wheels

Advantages:

• ease;
• wear resistance.
• don't deflate

Flaws:

• weak depreciation;
• poor grip on the road in winter.
• heavy (increase the weight of the stroller)
• slippery

Rubber wheels are more common among strollers and 3-in-1 models.

Foam rubber

Advantages:

• low weight;
• durability;
• good depreciation compared to other types of solid rubber wheels (in summer);
• maneuverability.
• at the same time, they do not need to be inflated, and they cannot be punctured, since there is no air in them.
• Dirt doesn't get stuck in them either.

Flaws:

• At low temperatures, rubber hardens and receives all the disadvantages of cheap plastic: noise, rough running, poor contact with the road.
• weigh more than inflatables

Foam rubber wheels can be found on almost any stroller originally from Europe - in milder climates, such strollers behave just fine.

Silicone, gel, tubeless wheels.

Silicone wheels are made of durable rubber and without a tube. They contain foam or gel inside. The main and main advantage of these wheels is that they do not require maintenance. In terms of smoothness, they are slightly inferior to inflatable wheels, but, as a rule, they are used in combination with shock-absorbing elements of the frame. The advantage is that they have a large diameter and good cross-country ability. One of the disadvantages is the likelihood of snow sticking in the first minutes after leaving a warm room, since the wheel remains warm for some time.

Pros of gel wheels:

• does not require maintenance;
• not bad depreciation.

Minuses:

• Snow may stick.

Which wheel material is better?

When choosing a stroller, consider the type of wheels. They can be inflatable or non-inflatable. The former are better than others at absorbing and softening unevenness on the road surface. If a child sleeps in a stroller, then a hole in the path will not disturb his sleep - the wheels will take on part of the shock load and dampen vibrations. They are usually made from rubber. Disadvantage: May puncture or deflate over time.

We recommend reading: Do-it-yourself inserts and covers for a high chair

As for non-inflatable wheels, they absorb worse. Not so soft, but very durable. They are not afraid of sharp objects on the way, they do not need to be periodically inflated.

These wheels are made from:

1. Foam rubber
   . They have a homogeneous composition. Quite heavy and moderately soft. They absorb vibrations well, but in the cold the rubber hardens and absorbs worse. Over time, the protector (pattern) wears off.
2. Plastic
   . Lightweight, usually installed on inexpensive canes. Not the best option for a stroller, since it does not soften unevenness at all, it rattles, rattles and does not absorb vibrations at all.
3. Polyurethane
   . The material combines the properties of plastic and rubber. Designed for long and intensive use. Does not wear out for a long time, the tread retains its depth for many years.
4. Gelya
   . This is perhaps the best option for non-inflatable wheels. They have a rubber tire, just like an inflatable wheel, but instead of air there is an elastic gel inside, which is very resistant to wear. These wheels absorb well. They are distinguished by a smooth, soft stroke, but still not as perfect as inflatable ones. A few more advantages: they do not require maintenance, are not afraid of punctures, do not deflate, and weigh little.

Which wheels are best for a stroller:

1. If maximum depreciation on uneven surfaces is important to you, or off-road use is expected, then it is better to choose a model with inflatable wheels.
2. If the stroller will ride on a relatively flat road, and high shock-absorbing capabilities are not so important, a spring mechanism will be enough to soften the ride, then it is better to buy a model with non-inflatable gel, rubber or polyurethane wheels.

Which wheels for a stroller to choose?

The right choice will depend on the budget and the terrain on which the stroller will be pushed. In cities where all paths are paved and paved, any type of wheel can be used. However, the softer the wheels, the higher the comfort of the child and parent will be. In those cities and towns where the roads are only dirt, you cannot use plastic wheels. The plastic will quickly deteriorate and the wheel will break in the middle of a walk. It is better to take inflatable wheels (tubes and tires for the stroller wheels are sold separately). An excellent solution in such situations would be strollers with additional shock absorbers.

Once you have decided on the type of wheels, proceed to choosing their size:

• The best option is combination wheels. The rear wheel on the stroller is 12 inches, and the front wheel is 10.
• For better shock absorption - identical 12 or 14 inch wheels on a classic chassis.
• With excellent handling and walking on flat roads and shopping centers - strollers with non-inflatable wheels from 5 to 8 inches.

When replacing old wheels, we simply recommend choosing based on the model name, appearance of the wheels and their size . Wheels for strollers are selected exactly for the stroller model, as they have purely individual characteristics. Sometimes you can change to wheels from other models, but as a set or on one axle. Similar wheels are selected taking into account many characteristics. It is best to consult with specialists.

As for the rim material, there is no particular fundamental difference. You can choose a rim based on the type of spokes on a bicycle, or you can choose a rim with a plastic pattern. Here, as they say, it's a matter of taste.

Brakes

Good brakes are very important for your child's safety. All strollers have a parking foot or hand brake, which should prevent the stroller from rolling away if you stop. The hand brake is more convenient to use; with its help you can not only stop the stroller, but also slow it down. Many stroller models have two parking brakes that are activated by plastic teeth that engage the rear wheel sprocket. Some baby strollers, combination strollers, and umbrella strollers have a “linked” two-wheel parking brake that is activated in one motion—pressing your foot on a bar at the rear of the stroller chassis. Other stroller models have a foot pedal above the rear wheel.

Avoid models that can injure your feet when you apply or disengage the brakes while wearing light shoes or barefoot.

Optimal wheel sizes

The optimal size of the “gears” is determined by the area of ​​primary exploitation. If parents walk with their child mainly on a flat surface, then a maneuverable stroller will be required. This feature is provided by small plastic or rubber wheels. Large “gears” are suitable for driving on difficult terrain.

For urban conditions, you can purchase strollers with 10-inch “gears”. In this case, it is necessary to take into account the characteristics of the road surface.

Seat belts

The convenience and safety of the child is always more important than the bells and whistles. There can be no compromises here. A child in a stroller must be fastened! Five-point seat belts are the best option. They are attached to the child's waist, shoulders and between the legs, keeping the baby from falling and slipping. Five-point harnesses are better than three- or four-point harnesses, which secure only the lower part of the child's body - at the waist and between the legs.

Look for belts with buckles that are easy for an adult to open but difficult for a child. When purchasing a stroller, make sure the harness is strong and durable while still providing a snug but comfortable fit for your baby. The straps should be adjustable in height to the desired size and securely fastened.

Stroller frame design

There are two types of frames on baby strollers: classic and with swivel wheels.

Classic frame

has four large non-swivel wheels that are securely locked in one position. This design allows you to drive on any road, and is also recommended for use in the winter season. It can cope with snow, mud and curbs that are often encountered along the way. But at the same time, the maneuverability of the stroller is inferior to the second type.

Stroller with swivel wheels

maneuvers well and looks more compact. The wheels themselves can be fixed. The disadvantage of rotary ones is that they are more fragile due to their design and are more difficult to cope with obstacles.

Classic frame

Frame with swivel wheels

Advice from the store:

The standard answer to the question “Which wheels are best to buy a stroller with?” unfortunately no. As written above, the choice depends on weather conditions, road surface (or lack thereof), as well as your budget. Once you decide on these points, choosing the type of wheels will be much easier, and our consultants will always help you!

We recommend reading: 3 in 1 stroller for twins: transformers - rating of the best models for twins

Table. Comparison of stroller wheels by material

Folding/unfolding the stroller

When buying a baby stroller, you should find out how it folds and how much space it takes up when folded. This is an important factor if you plan to frequently transport the stroller in a car, and also if there is no space at home to store it. Strollers that remain upright when folded can be conveniently placed in a closet or hallway. But make sure that the child cannot reach the stroller and knock it over. Make sure your child is away from the stroller when folding or unfolding it.

The best strollers fold compactly in seconds with one hand. This mechanism is necessary so that you can fold/unfold the stroller while holding the child in your arms. 4Moms has released the first robotic stroller with an automatic folding mechanism.

Which is better to choose?

The choice of stroller is determined by the area of ​​primary use (city streets, off-road) and the budget of the parents. It is equally important to consider what time of year the children's “cart” is used. In particular, for winter it is recommended to purchase large strollers with a cradle in which you can cover the child. In summer, walking models of compact size and light weight are used.

These features also determine the type of “gears” used during a specific time of year. Demi-season models can be called gel models that combine the advantages of other types of products.

For winter

In winter, it is recommended to use inflatable models. This product has good cross-country ability in snow and mud, and does not get stuck or slip on ice. Rubber can withstand low temperatures and does not deteriorate over time.

When purchasing models with such equipment, you should pay attention to the spokes and fastenings.

Additional metal structures slightly increase the weight of the stroller. But the use of spokes increases the strength of the entire structure, and mounting on bearings is more reliable than analogues on bushings.

For summer

If children's "carts" are used mainly in the warm season, it is worth giving preference to structures made of foam rubber or plastic. The first material has the advantages characteristic of chamber models. But, unlike the latter, foam rubber cannot be punctured.

Similar features are characteristic of plastic wheels. This type of construction wears out relatively quickly and does not “conceal” irregularities.

For off-season

For autumn and spring, those types of children's “carts” that are used in winter are suitable. This choice is due to the fact that in the off-season the weather changes quickly, and it is better to protect yourself in advance.

What wheels should you buy a stroller with in Russia?

For each region and city you can find your own solution. For example, for Moscow and the Moscow region, the best choice for a cradle will be rubber inflatable wheels - and even though they will have to be inflated sometimes, but on our roads, and even in the conditions of five months of winter with frequent snowfalls, only cameras will provide maneuverability for you and the stroller, and for your baby – comfortable movement.

As for the spring-summer period, it’s worth paying attention to foam rubber: the stroller will have a fairly soft ride, and you won’t have to worry about the ubiquitous glass shards.

Cup holders for child and parents

Many stroller models have two cup holders - one for you and one for your baby. This is a very useful feature of a baby stroller. But keep hot drinks away from your baby. A stand for parents usually combines a cup holder and a pocket for keys or a holder for a mobile phone and other compact digital devices. If you bought a stroller without a parent stand, you can purchase various kinds of small bags and covers that attach to the handle of the stroller. It is better if these are accessories recommended by the stroller manufacturer.

Care

• Care must be taken to ensure that dirt, clay and sand do not get stuck in the wheel mounts or the chassis itself. Clear the stroller of stones as thoroughly as possible before entering the apartment. Deeply embedded stones can be removed using tweezers. Unsightly marks may remain at the site of the removed stones, which disappear over time.
• Stuck stones can cause rattling noises and in some cases affect the functionality of the stroller. To eliminate such problems, it is recommended to use silicone spray. Move and lubricate the problematic parts of the wheel, rub in the spray thoroughly. It is advisable to do this in the evening so that the stroller remains lubricated all night to achieve the full effect.
• Do not forget to lubricate the wheels with machine oil - preferably once every three months or as needed. Remove the wheels from the stroller and clean and lubricate the hubs, rims and spokes. Also lubricate the wheel axle and then carefully attach the wheel in place. Lubricants can be purchased at a car or bike shop. Removable wheels must be taken care of especially carefully.
• If your stroller has inflatable wheels, do not place it on a plastic surface. This can cause permanent stains. You will avoid punctures if you roll the stroller carefully, avoiding broken glass, nails and other sharp objects, and place it on a soft surface at home.
• Caring for a stroller with inflatable wheels is similar to caring for bicycle tires. Stock up on a small kit for repairing small punctures (thinner or gasoline, glue, patch material). Change the camera and make sure you fix the cause of the damage. If you can't fix the puncture yourself, go to a bicycle repair shop (the repairs are usually cheap there) or a stroller store. If your wheels often puncture, it is better to change your tires to more durable ones. Do not forget that the wheels should always be well inflated. The pump is suitable for a children's bicycle. You can contact your nearest tire shop for this service.

It's a rare mother who carefully considers the wheels when buying a stroller. However, this criterion should not be neglected if you do not want to regret your purchase. After all, it is the wheels that provide the stroller with a smooth ride and high-quality shock absorption.

The wheels of different strollers vary greatly. Before purchasing, you need to decide how many wheels of what size the stroller should have, how they will be attached, and what type of wheels is right for you. It depends on what surface you are going to roll the stroller on.

Sources

• https://OdmDetka.ru/article/kolesa_na_detskoy_kolyaske_kak_pravilno_vybrat.htm
• https://www.baby.ru/blogs/post/113499111-43776040/
• https://grudnichky.ru/uxod/kakie-kolesa-luchshe-dlya-kolyaski.html
• https://myogorod.ru/soveti1/kakie-kolesa-luchshe-naduvnye-ili-poliuretanovye.html
• https://www.kidiki.ru/articles/vibiraem-po-kolesam_88.html
• https://strollerspa.ru/kakie-kolesa-luchshe-dlya-kolyaski/
• https://avtopanda.com/article/show/kakie-kolesa-dlya-detskoj-kolyaski-luchshe/
• https://zen.yandex.by/media/rightchoice/kak-vybrat-progulochnuiu-koliasku-dlia-rebenka-glavnye-parametry-modelei-dlia-detei-ot-6-mesiacev-i-starshe-5e763687bd50810ac6e77718?feed_exp= ordinary_feed&from=channel&rid=1462210836.618.1586298772324.32208&integration=publishers_platform_yandex&secdata=CMng0O6PLiABMAJQDw%3D%3D
• https://kolesokolyaski.ru/blogs/blog/kolesa-dlya-kolyaski-kak-vibrat

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Upholstery fabric

Today, the choice of fabrics and colors for baby strollers is wider than ever before. Therefore, it will not be difficult for you to find a stroller with fabric to your liking. Keep in mind that you want a fabric that can be easily stained, cleaned, or washed without ruining it. It will be great if you can remove the entire fabric cover of the stroller and throw it in the washing machine without worrying about the fabric shrinking or losing its shape. Find out from your consultant whether the woven covering can be removed and what washing mode to use. As a rule, instructions and icons telling about the washing mode can be found on the inside of the woven cover.

The outer upholstery material must be moisture-resistant and well protected from the wind. If the fabric allows moisture to pass through, then you need to buy a special raincoat for the stroller (for some models of strollers, a raincoat is included). The raincoat is not intended for long walks. It should only be used to protect the baby from the rain and to run home.

The inside of the cradle box should be lined with natural fabric, preferably cotton. The fabric must be removed for washing; this is important for the child’s hygiene.