The wheels of the chassis (on which you put the carrycot or the seat) are what make pushing a stroller an easy and pleasant experience. They are the point of contact with the ground, which can be slippery or hard. Wheels make a difference during rides because they absorb shocks so the small passenger does not feel them.
Among the hundreds of wheel-related technical details and specifications (ball bearings, suspensions, inflatable tires) there is one detail worth investigating, i.e. fixed or swivel front wheels.
I don’t know if the same happened to you, but I clearly remember not really understanding how they could be a ‘great asset’ when I was first told about them.
Swivel wheels make a stroller more manoeuvrable when avoiding an obstacle or turning a corner on the pavement. It is less effort to turn a stroller with swivel wheels because it is not necessary to tilt it and raise the front wheels, which, considering the passenger’s weight, can be quite physically demanding.
Fixed wheels are perfect for walking in a crowd. There is no risk of the strollers’ wheels getting caught. They are excellent when going in a straight line and are suitable for athletic mums training for our strolleraces in the park. Fixed wheels are recommended on escalators because there is less risk of having to brake at the end. They are also recommended on lifts and while queuing in tight spaces, such as supermarket tills.
You can offer mothers nothing better than letting them decide between front fixed wheels or swivel wheels. And we only choose the best for you