Pushchair and pram buying guide

However, like their motoring equivalents they have become very fashionable and many manufacturers have copied the style, but not the substance - a strong frame that make a pushchair sturdy enough to cope with rough ground.

This isn't an issue for mums whose usual terrain is the pavement, and simply want three wheels for fashion's sake. Really robust ones, suitable for Ben Nevis, cost more than £300. If you are not sure whether what you are buying is suitable for your needs, ask your retailer.

Best Buy
Teutonia Y2K2
Price £369
What you get - hand-operated disc brake, shopping basket, hood with pocket, adjustable handle height up to 110cm, raincover, carry bag (£24.90), air pump (£9.90)
iVillagers' comments - 'great for a young baby with all the luxury features of a proper pram'; 'you can adjust the handle height and the folding mechanism is incredibly smooth'; 'excellent over rougher ground and sand and, because it is has two front wheels, it's really stable.'Where to buy 07768 345180 or visit www.teutonia.de

Umbrella buggy
Suitable from six months, this buggy is lightweight, reasonably priced and easy to fold for use on public transport. It is usually purchased in addition to a heavier and more comfortable pushchair, suitable for extended walks.

Best Buy
Maclaren Volo
Price £49.99
What you get - lockable front swivel wheels, carry strap, shopping basket, umbrella fold, weight 4.4kg, handle height 104cm, accessory kit (£29.99, includes sun canopy, rain cover, seat liner and carry bag)
iVillagers' comments - 'wow. I love this buggy. The mesh seat is a new idea, it looks groovy, is easy to wipe clean and brilliant in the summer, plus you can buy a seat liner for colder days'; 'handles have a squishy cover and are shaped inwards making it easy to push using one hand'; 'folding mechanism requires minimal effort and it locks automatically'; 'useful carry strap for getting on and off the bus.'
Where to buy - call 01327 842662 for details