Best on Wheels - The Honest Midwife Awards 2026

Best on Wheels – The Honest Midwife Awards 2026

Choosing a pushchair or car seat is one of the biggest buys before your baby arrives. It’s also one of the most confusing. Prices range from a couple of hundred pounds to well over a thousand, and every brand promises the smoothest ride and the easiest fold.

Now in their third year, The Honest Midwife Awards celebrate products that make life easier for new families. Entry is free. Brands send two samples, which are tested in real family life and reviewed by me, a registered midwife.

The Best on Wheels entries were strong this year, and some categories were very close. Car seats get extra checks. I asked every car seat brand for the same safety documents – the standard the seat meets, its test certificate and its newborn fit guidance – before publishing any result.

What We Looked At

Ease of use – the fold, the weight, steering with one hand, and getting it in and out of the car
Comfort and safety – lie-flat options for newborns, harness fit, brakes and car seat installation
Practical features – basket size, adjustable handlebars, and how long it lasts as your child grows
Value for money – whether the price matches the quality and lifespan
Real-life testing – kerbs, gravel, buses and busy shops, not just smooth pavements
Design – it has to look good as well as work well, because you’ll use it every day

A Note on What We Test

The Honest Midwife Awards judge the products that are entered. We can only test what brands send us, or what we know about and can get hold of. There will be products out there we haven’t seen, and some of them may be better, safer or cheaper than the ones on this page. A win here means a product performed well against the others in its category in our testing. If you know of a product you think we should be testing, tell us. We’d like to hear about it.

Best Travel System 2026

A travel system is the one purchase that has to do everything – carry a newborn safely home from hospital, survive the toddler years, and fit a car seat you trust without a second thought. This year’s category had three genuinely different approaches to that brief, at three very different price points, and the results reflect it.

What We Looked At

Safety from birth – car seat fit, ISOFIX or belted installation, carrycot suitability for newborns
Handling – pavements, kerbs, cobbles and rough ground
Ease of use – fold, seat attachment, car seat click-in, brakes
What’s included – accessories, adapters, and whether anything essential is sold separately
Build quality and longevity – materials, how it holds up from birth to toddler
Value for money – does the full bundle price reflect what you get
Parent and professional feedback – what our tester and The Honest Midwife thought

Gold Winner: Cybex Balios S Lux

The most complete and most proven system in the category, and the one we’d point a first-time parent towards without hesitation.

RRP: £479.95 | Prices range depending on car seat bundle + extras | Shop the Cybex Balios S Lux →

Why It Won Gold

The Balios S Lux bundle brings together the pushchair, a Cot S Lux carrycot, your choice of Cybex’s award-winning Cloud car seats, an ISOFIX base and all the adapters and accessories in one package. All-wheel suspension keeps the ride smooth over uneven ground, the one-hand fold is genuinely one-handed, and the seat reclines to a full lie-flat position from birth.

Key Features

3-in-1: pushchair seat, Cot S Lux carrycot, Cybex Cloud car seat
All-wheel suspension
One-hand fold, self-standing when folded
Full lie-flat recline from birth
Suitable from birth to approx. 4 years / 17kg (seat unit)
ISOFIX base and car seat adapters included
XXL UPF50+ sun canopy with mesh ventilation
Available in multiple colourways

Things to Consider

It’s the heaviest and most substantial pushchair of the three, which some testers find cumbersome to fold at first, and it’s a two-handed job the first few times. It’s also the priciest of the three depending on which Cloud car seat you pair it with. None of this stopped it being the strongest all-rounder we tested.

Silver Winner: Ickle Bubba Stomp Luxe

Proof that a genuinely good travel system doesn’t have to cost £700 upwards.

RRP: approx. £499-£749 depending on bundle and car seat | Shop the Ickle Bubba Stomp Luxe →

Why It Won Silver

The Stomp Luxe is the current generation of Ickle Bubba’s popular Stomp range, and it shows in the finish – it looks and feels well-built right from unpacking, with clear instructions that made assembly stress-free. All-terrain, puncture-proof wheels and a height-adjustable handlebar make it comfortable to push regardless of who’s doing the pushing, and it comes as a genuinely complete bundle – changing bag, rain cover, car window sun visors, footmuffs and ISOFIX base all included rather than sold as extras. For the price, it’s hard to beat.

Key Features

12 to 15-piece bundle including carrycot and rotating car seats
All-terrain, puncture-proof wheels
Height-adjustable handlebar
One-hand fold
ISOFIX base included
Changing bag, rain cover, sun visors and footmuffs included as standard
Suitable from birth to approx. 3 years

Things to Consider

It doesn’t have the same depth of independent testing history as the Balios, simply because it’s a newer generation. Earlier Stomp models were criticised for a flimsy carrycot base, so we checked ours carefully – the current Luxe generation felt sturdy and well-finished, with none of the issues reported on older versions.

Bronze Winner: Kinderkraft Vesto 2

The value pick, and a genuinely capable 3-in-1 for parents who don’t want to spend £600 upwards on a first pushchair.

RRP: £269 | Shop the Kinderkraft Vesto 2 →

Why It Won Bronze

The Vesto 2 packs carrycot, reversible pushchair seat and the Mink Pro 2 car seat with adapters into one affordable bundle. The reversible seat means baby can face you or face the world as they grow, spring suspension on all wheels smooths out pavements and cobbles, and the one-hand fold stands upright unaided for easy storage. The carrycot has three ventilation panels, which is a thoughtful touch for warmer days and one we don’t see on every carrycot at this price.

Key Features

3-in-1: carrycot, reversible pushchair seat, Mink Pro 2 car seat
Spring suspension on all wheels
One-hand fold, self-standing
Reversible seat unit, parent or world-facing
Ventilated carrycot with 3 panels
5-point harness
Rain cover, mosquito net, leg cover and cup holder included

Things to Consider

It’s the newest and least independently reviewed of the three, so there isn’t the same weight of real-world feedback to draw on yet. It’s also built primarily for pavements and parks rather than rougher terrain – if you’re regularly off the beaten track, the Balios or Stomp Luxe will cope better. For everyday city and suburban use at this price, it’s very good value.

Congratulations

Well done to Cybex, Ickle Bubba and Kinderkraft. Three travel systems, three budgets, and a genuine winner at each.

Best Pushchair 2026

A pushchair is one of the biggest purchases new parents make, and one of the hardest to get right from a photo online. It needs to fold with one hand while you’re holding a baby, cope with kerbs and cobbles, and still look good doing the school run five years later.

What We Looked At

Handling – how it manages pavements, kerbs and rough ground
Ease of use – fold, seat attachment, recline, brakes
Comfort and safety – for both baby and the person pushing
Practical features – storage, adaptability, sleep provision from birth
Build quality and longevity – materials, warranty, how it holds up
Value for money – does the price reflect what you get
Safety record – any recalls or notices, and how they were handled
Parent and professional feedback – what our tester and The Honest Midwife thought

Gold Winner: Mamas & Papas Ocarro 2

The most complete system of the three, and the one that copes with the widest range of everyday journeys without a fuss.

RRP: £849 | Shop the Ocarro 2 →

Why It Won Gold

Dual suspension and puncture-resistant, all-terrain wheels make the Ocarro 2 equally happy on a city pavement or a muddy park path, and the one-hand fold means you’re not wrestling it while holding a baby. The carrycot is approved for overnight sleep for the first time on this generation, with its own stand for use at home. It’s suitable from birth to around 4 years or 22kg, and testers consistently describe it as sturdy and luxurious rather than just big. At around £800 it’s a serious investment, but reviewers have rated it as genuinely good value against that price.

Key Features

Dual suspension and all-terrain, puncture-resistant wheels
One-hand fold
Overnight sleep-approved carrycot with dedicated stand
Lie-flat seat with removable newborn liner
Suitable from birth to approx. 4 years / 22kg
Extendable UPF50+ hood with ventilation
Large storage basket
Soft recycled fabrics, mostly wipe-clean

Things to Consider

It’s priced at the top of the market, and the softer baby insert needs hand washing rather than wiping. Our tester also noted the basket could sit a little lower at the front for easier loading. None of this took the shine off what is, overall, the strongest all-rounder we tested.

Silver Winner: Joolz Hub2

Compact, narrow and built for city life – and a pushchair we want to be upfront about before we say anything else.

RRP: from £599 | Shop the Joolz Hub2 →

Why It Won Silver

Once past that, the Hub2 is a genuinely impressive pushchair. It’s lightweight, narrow and streamlined – built for narrow shop aisles and tight city pavements without feeling flimsy. In independent eight-week testing it scored highly for stability: it held firm with a bag on the handlebar and a baby in the seat, and didn’t tip when the baby was lifted out. The seat is reversible, the fold is one-handed with a transport lock, and it comes with a 10-year warranty, longer than either of the other two finalists.

Key Features

Suitable from birth to 4 years / 22kg
World and parent-facing seat
One-handed fold with transport lock and carry strap
Large rear wheels for a smooth ride
Six seat positions including lie-flat
XL sun hood, UPF50+
10-year warranty

Things to Consider

The recall above is the obvious one, and we’d rather you knew about it from us than found it yourselves. Beyond that, it sits at the higher end of the compact urban category, and a rain cover isn’t included as standard.

A Safety Note

In October 2025, Joolz recalled two Hub2 colourways (Space Black and Forest Green, batch numbers HUB2CH-016488 to HUB2CH-016687) after identifying a fault that could allow the front wheels to detach from the chassis during use. Joolz contacted affected owners directly and provided free replacements. We checked our sample against the affected batch and contacted Joolz directly to confirm there have been no further safety issues or notices since. We’re satisfied the product we tested is unaffected and safe to award. If you already own a Hub2, we’d still encourage you to check your batch number against the range above.

Bronze Winner: Venicci Upline 2

The luxury pick. Beautiful to look at, and genuinely practical underneath the finish.

RRP: £599-£799 for the pushchair + carrycot; more if bundled with accessories or a car seat | Shop the Venicci Upline 2 →

Why It Won Bronze

The Upline 2 is built to impress from the first look, with premium fabrics and colourways including Stone Beige, Aloe, Taupe and All Black. It’s not just style: the seat and carrycot adjust to three heights, so you’re not bending to reach your baby, and the magnetic harness buckle is a genuinely useful one-handed touch. We judged it here as a pushchair, but it’s worth knowing Venicci also offer it as a full travel system bundle with a carrycot, the Venicci Thiago car seat, backpack, footmuff, mosquito net and rain cover, for anyone who wants everything in one purchase.

Key Features

Height-adjustable seat and carrycot (3 positions)
One-handed magnetic harness buckle
Ventilated carrycot mattress and base
One-handed fold with carry strap
Universal car seat adapter
Optional full bundle with Thiago car seat and accessories

Things to Consider

Venicci is a newer name to many UK parents than Mamas & Papas or Joolz, so there’s less long-term track record to draw on. It’s also the priciest of the three once accessories or a car seat are added. We’d recommend a hands-on test in store before buying, simply because the fold size and kerb weight matter more once you’re living with it day to day.

Congratulations

Well done to Mamas & Papas, Joolz and Venicci. Three very different pushchairs, and three that earned their place on this podium.

Best Travel Buggy 2026

Not every buggy needs to do everything. Sometimes what you need is something light enough to lift into a car boot one-handed, small enough to fit in an overhead locker, and sturdy enough to survive a week of cobbles, airports and unfamiliar pavements. This category is about that buggy – the second pushchair, the holiday buggy, the one that lives by the front door for quick trips. Three strong, very different options made the podium this year.

What We Looked At

Weight and fold – can you lift and fold it one-handed, realistically, with a baby on your other arm?
Size when folded – does it genuinely meet carry-on or car boot expectations?
Comfort and recline – can baby nap properly, or is upright the only option?
Handling – kerbs, cobbles, uneven ground, tight spaces
Build quality and longevity – materials, warranty, how it holds up to repeated travel
Value for money – does the price reflect what you get
Parent and professional feedback – what our tester and The Honest Midwife thought

Gold Winner: Joolz Aer²

A lightweight, compact travel buggy designed to make everyday outings and travelling with little ones easier.

RRP: approx. £439 | Shop the Joolz Aer² →

Why It Won Gold

The Joolz Aer² stood out for its lightweight design, easy manoeuvrability and simple folding mechanism. Weighing approximately 6.5kg, it’s easy to lift, carry and store, while the one-handed fold makes getting in and out of the car or navigating public transport much simpler. Its ergonomic seat, adjustable leg rest and improved recline offer added comfort for little ones, while the compact folded size makes it a practical option for family travel. The 10-year transferable warranty is another standout, offering reassurance that the buggy is built to last.

Key Features

Weighs approximately 6.5kg
One-handed fold and unfold
Compact fold designed for travel
Built-in shoulder strap for easier carrying
Adjustable leg rest and improved seat recline
UPF50+ sun canopy
Aeroplane compatible
Spacious storage basket
10-year transferable warranty
Compatible with a separate carrycot and selected infant car seats using adapters

Things to Consider

Although the Aer² offers an improved recline, the seat unit isn’t suitable for newborns on its own. You’ll need the separate carrycot for use from birth, which adds to the overall cost.

Silver Winner: Inglesina Quid³

The best seat for actually sleeping in, and the lightest of the three by some margin.

RRP: £349 | Shop the Inglesina Quid³ →

Why It Won Silver

At just 6.4kg, the Quid³ is the lightest buggy in this category, and its backrest reclines to 170° with an adjustable footrest to create a genuinely flat surface – a real advantage for a buggy babies might actually nap in, which many lightweight travel buggies simply don’t manage. Front-wheel suspension and bigger wheels than the previous Quid generation make it noticeably smoother over uneven ground than you’d expect from something this light.

Key Features

Weighs just 6.4kg
Backrest reclines to 170° with adjustable footrest for a flat sleep surface
Front-wheel suspension, bigger wheels than previous generation
Peekaboo window with magnetic closure
One-touch foot brake
Car seat compatible
Repairable parts (wheels, bumper bar) rather than a disposable build

Things to Consider

It doesn’t have the same depth of independent testing history or long warranty as the Joolz. At £349 it sits at a premium price point for what is, ultimately, a lightweight second buggy rather than an everyday one. But it really is beautifully made and a great addition to your baby equipment.

Bronze Winner: Momcozy ClickGo

The value pick, and a genuinely capable travel buggy rather than just a cheap one.

RRP: RRP £299.99 | Shop the Momcozy ClickGo →

Why It Won Bronze

At around 8.6kg the ClickGo is a heaver travel buggy however it folds one-handed into a compact, carry-on-friendly size, and stands on its own once folded. Four-wheel suspension keeps it stable over gravel and uneven pavement, and the seat reclines from 95° upright to 175° for napping, controlled with one hand. It comes with a genuinely useful accessory set as standard – snack tray, bumper bar, rain cover, travel bag and cup holder – rather than charging extra for them. In independent testing it held up well against pricier rivals and its more upright seat position for toddlers who don’t want to slump is a real bonus.

Key Features

Weighs approx. 8.6kg (19 lbs)
One-hand fold, stands when folded
Four-wheel suspension
Recline from 95° to 175° with one-handed adjustment
Five-point harness with detachable cushions
Snack tray, bumper bar, rain cover, travel bag and cup holder included
Suitable from 6 months to 50 lbs

Things to Consider

It doesn’t have the brand history or long warranty of the Joolz, and unlike the Quid³, it’s not suitable from birth.

Congratulations

Well done to Joolz, Inglesina and Momcozy. Three excellent travel buggies, each suited to a slightly different kind of trip.

Best Double Pushchair 2026

Two under two, or a newborn and a toddler who still needs to sit down sometimes – a double pushchair has to work harder than almost anything else in the nursery aisle, and it has to keep working for years. This category came down to three very different approaches: a premium system that grows with your family, a genuinely versatile newcomer, and a lightweight all-terrain option built for the school run.

What We Looked At

Versatility – can it adapt from single to double, newborn to toddler, as your family changes?
Manoeuvrability – can one tired parent steer it through a shop doorway or down a kerb?
Weight and fold – what does it actually feel like to lift into a car boot?
Safety – suitability from birth, harness type, build quality
Value for money – does the price match what you get and how long you’ll use it?
Customer support – because a pushchair is a long-term relationship with a brand, not a one-off purchase
Parent and professional feedback – what our tester and The Honest Midwife thought

Gold Winner: Bugaboo Donkey 6

The double pushchair that doesn’t ask you to commit to being a two-child family until you actually are one.

RRP: from £1,560 (Double Essential Bundle) | Shop the Bugaboo Donkey 6 →

Why It Won Gold

The Donkey 6 converts from single to double – or to twin, for two newborns at once – in three clicks, which means it can genuinely grow with your family rather than being bought and rebought as your needs change. In double mode it’s only 14cm wider than the single, so it still fits through a standard doorway, and the large puncture-proof wheels and tight turning radius make it manageable one-handed even fully loaded. It’s a serious investment, but it’s one of the few doubles in this category built from recycled aluminium and bio-based materials, so the quality is there to justify the price.

Key Features

Converts single to double (or twin) in three clicks
Underseat basket holds up to 15kg; side bag adds 10kg (single) or 4kg (double)
Large puncture-proof wheels with a tight turning radius
Self-standing fold and a compact two-piece fold option
Only 14cm wider than single mode when in double/twin configuration
Recycled aluminium frame, bio-based and recycled fabrics

Things to Consider

It’s the most expensive pushchair in this category by a wide margin, so it suits families who see it as a multi-year investment rather than a short-term buy. Twin mode requires the separate carrycot bundle, so check you’re ordering the right configuration for your family before you buy.

Silver Winner: Ickle Bubba Altair Growing Families

New to the category this year, and it earned its place immediately – a double that genuinely flexes to however your family is shaped that day.

RRP: Bundles start from £399 | Shop the Ickle Bubba Altair →

Why It Won Silver

The Altair comes as an 11-piece bundle – chassis, two seat units, a carrycot with apron and mattress, two footmuffs, two rain covers, a buggy organiser and a cup holder – and offers 14 configurations across seats and carrycots, so it works for newborn twins, a newborn and a toddler, or two older children. At 15.4kg with two seats attached it’s around 15% lighter than most other double prams, suitable from birth to 22kg per seat, and comes with a 4-year warranty. For the price, the sheer amount of kit and flexibility included is hard to match.

Key Features

11-piece bundle including carrycot, two footmuffs and two rain covers
14 configurations across seat and carrycot combinations
Suitable from birth to 22kg per seat
15.4kg with two seats attached – around 15% lighter than most doubles
Independent seat removal and repositioning
Compact fold with seats attached
Pop-out sun visors and ventilation panels
4-year warranty

Things to Consider

The Altair was only available on pre-order at the time of testing, so there were no customer reviews to look at. It is also worth enquiring about stock and delivery timelines directly with Ickle Bubba before you buy. With so many configurations on offer, it’s worth a proper look at the user guide before your first outing so you’re confident switching between them.

Bronze Winner: Out n About Nipper Double V6

The all-terrain double that parents keep coming back to – it’s the reliability of the pushchair itself that earns this podium spot.

RRP: £725 for pushchair alone; extra for accessories | Shop the Out n About Nipper Double V5 →

Why It Won Bronze

The Nipper Double V6 is built for real life outside smooth pavements – 12″ air-filled tyres with a lockable swivel front wheel and a proper suspension system make it genuinely capable on kerbs, gravel and mud, while a one-piece fold and 12.8kg weight keep it manageable for the school run. It’s suitable from birth with parent-facing carrycot compatibility, takes up to 22kg per seat, and the adjustable handlebar (77-103cm) means it works for parents of very different heights. As a pushchair, it does exactly what a lot of families need it to do, and does it well – which is why it’s on this podium despite the caveat below.

Key Features

12″ air-filled tyres with lockable swivel front wheel
Suspension system for kerbs, gravel and rough ground
One-piece fold, 12.8kg
Suitable from birth (parent-facing carrycot compatible) to 22kg per seat
Adjustable handlebar, 77cm to 103cm
Includes bumper bar, seat liner, rain cover and basket
Removable, washable seat covers

Things to Consider

The pushchair itself performed well in our testing and our testers rate it highly as a product, but Out n About’s customer service reputation has been a recurring, longstanding issue, and our research bore that out. Independent reviews show a wide split – the majority are very positive, but a significant minority describe long delays getting a response to enquiries, complaints left unacknowledged for weeks, and difficulty reaching support by phone. If you buy one, we’d suggest keeping a clear record of any correspondence with the brand, just in case. It’s a good pushchair let down by a support experience that doesn’t always match it.

Congratulations

Well done to Bugaboo, Ickle Bubba and Out n About. Three very different ways of solving the same problem, and each with something genuinely worth recommending to a growing family.

Best Running Buggy 2026

For active parents, a good running buggy is about far more than getting from A to B. The best models let you keep fitness and fresh air part of your routine, while keeping your little one safe, comfortable and settled, whatever the terrain.

Our running buggy awards are based on hands-on testing by our parent testers and in-house team, alongside feedback from parents and insights from brand experts. Every entry is tested by two separate reviewers, giving us a genuine, first-hand view of how each buggy performs out on the road, trail or towpath.

Every family’s needs are different, and the right running buggy depends on where you run, how often, and what else you need it to do day-to-day.

We strongly encourage all parents to:

Try before you buy where possible, especially for width, weight and handlebar height. Check the minimum age guidance for jogging with your specific model. Always follow the manufacturer’s fitting and usage guidance. The right running buggy is the one that fits your routine and your terrain. Please carry out your own research before making a final decision.

Gold Winner: Cybex Avi Spin

The Cybex Avi Spin takes Gold for combining genuine running performance with real style and comfort. It’s a standout in the running buggy category, and our testers loved both how it looked and how it handled.

RRP: £609.95 | Shop/Learn More →

Why It Won Gold

Our testers, Racheal and Lisa, testing with baby Jude, found the Avi Spin genuinely easy to set up once they’d worked out the wheels, and loved how stylish it looked out and about. The fabrics impressed them for comfort too – Jude settled so well he fell asleep on their test run. Its only real drawback was its width, which needed a bit more concentration to navigate on narrower pavements.

Key Features:

360° swivel front wheel that locks for jogging, paired with large air-filled rear tyres for a smooth ride on varied terrain
Adjustable, foam-padded handlebar with a deceleration brake for extra control on descents
Lie-flat recline, unusual for a running buggy, making it a genuine option for newborn naps
Suitable from birth to approximately four years (with compatible carrycot or car seat), up to 22kg
Extra-large sun canopy for full weather protection
Compatible with Cybex infant car seats and the Cot S carrycot

Our Tester Said

“Once we had worked out how to put the wheels on, the Avi Spin was so easy to set up and looks fab. I felt I was pushing something really stylish around. The fabrics are lovely and comfortable, and my little boy Jude seemed super comfy – he fell asleep anyway!” — Racheal & Lisa, testing with baby Jude

Things to Consider

It’s on the wide side, so narrower pavements need a bit more care and concentration when steering.

Silver Winner: Thule Urban Glide 3

The Thule Urban Glide 3 takes Silver for its combination of security, comfort and everyday practicality. It’s a long-standing favourite in the running buggy world, and our testers found it lived up to its reputation.

RRP: £769.99 | Shop/Learn More →

Why It Won Silver:

We met parents Amanda and Mark, with baby Milo, who praised the five-point harness for the reassurance it gave them that Milo was properly secure. They also found it really lightweight and easy to fold, with a seat that reclines fully flat – a real plus for naps on the go.

Key Features:

Five-point harness for secure, reassuring support
Large 16″ air-filled rear tyres with rear suspension, plus a lockable swivel front wheel for varied terrain
Fully reclinable seat, ideal for naps on the move
Built-in legrest and full-coverage, ventilated canopy for all-day comfort
One-handed, compact fold with quick-release rear wheels
Suitable from birth (with bassinet) and for jogging from 6 months, up to 22kg

Things to Consider

The Thule Urban Glide 3 is designed for active parents, but its air-filled tyres may require occasional maintenance.

Bronze Winner: UPPAbaby Ridge V2

The UPPAbaby Ridge takes Bronze for its performance-driven design and thoughtful features for tackling mixed terrain. Our tester found plenty to like, alongside one honest trade-off.

RRP: £700 | Shop/Learn More →

Why It Won Bronze

When out and about we met parent Clara, who particularly valued having the choice between a locked and unlocked front wheel. Running mostly on canal paths where she needs to dodge other walkers and dogs, she found the unlocked wheel ideal, while switching to locked made rougher terrain far more manageable. She found it a genuinely stylish runner, though felt her baby’s ride was a little bumpier than she’d have liked.

Key Features:

Choice of locked or unlocked front wheel, suited to mixing up terrain on the same run
Two-stage responsive suspension system with variable coil springs
No-inflation, never-flat tyres with deep tread, removing the worry of punctures
Dependable disc hand brake for controlled descents
Suitable from 6 months to 22kg, with carrycot or car seat adapters (sold separately) extending use from birth
Two-year standard warranty, extendable to three when registered

Things to Consider

Clara found the Ridge a lovely, stylish runner overall, but felt her baby’s ride was noticeably bumpier than she’d expected.

Congratulations

Huge congratulations to all three winners.

Best Baby Car Seat 2026

When choosing a car seat for your little one safety, comfort and ease of use are the top priorities. The best models don’t just protect your little one, they also make everyday journeys smoother, whether that’s school runs, long road trips or quick hops around town. And, lets face it – we all want to be comfortable on car journeys.

Our car seat awards take into account feedback from parents, insights from brand experts, and even considerations provided by an experienced road traffic police officer. We have also reviewed the safety credentials and testing information provided by manufacturers and independent bodies where available.

Please note, we do not carry out our own crash testing. Car seat safety depends on many factors, including your child’s age, weight, and height, as well as correct installation in your specific vehicle.

We strongly encourage all parents to:

Review the latest independent crash test results (e.g. ADAC, Which?, Stiftung Warentest). Check that any car seat is compatible with their vehicle. Always follow fitting and usage guidance carefully. Your baby’s safety is the top priority. Please carry out your own due diligence before making a final decision. We also advise avoiding using second hand car seats. Only accept a second-hand seat from someone you know well enough to be certain of its full history, and never buy one if you can’t verify it hasn’t been in an accident.

Gold Winner: Cybex Cloud G i-Size

The Cybex Cloud G i-Size takes Gold for its outstanding safety engineering, comfort-first design and genuinely useful everyday features. It’s a seat that combines strong independent test results with real thought for newborn comfort.

RRP: £209.95 | Shop/Learn More →

Why It Won Gold

The Cloud G i-Size stood out for the combination of proven safety credentials and thoughtful, real-world usability. Parents consistently praise how easy it is to install and rotate, and the lie-flat position is a genuine point of difference for newborn comfort. It’s the seat we’d point any parent towards with real confidence.

Key Features:

Certified to the latest i-Size (R129) safety standard, with independent testing bodies consistently rating the Cloud range among the strongest performers in its class
Linear Side-impact Protection System Plus, offering meaningfully enhanced protection in a side collision
Specially designed lie-flat position, supporting healthy body posture both in the car and out on walks
Innovative 180° rotation and one-click release, making it far easier to get baby in and out without the usual contortions
All-round air ventilation with mesh fabric panels to help keep baby cool
Certified for use on aeroplanes, so it travels as safely as it drives

Silver Winner: Maxi-Cosi Pebble 360 Pro²

The Maxi-Cosi Pebble 360 Pro² takes Silver for its strong safety reputation and standout ease of use. Certified to i-Size (R129), it’s built on Maxi-Cosi’s long track record in independent safety testing, with a genuinely clever installation system that parents rate highly.

RRP: £259.99 | Shop/Learn More →

Why It Won Silver

Maxi-Cosi has one of the most established safety reputations in the car seat market, and the Pebble 360 Pro² lives up to it. Between its safety credentials, wide parent trust and genuinely practical installation features, it was an easy choice for Silver.

Key Features:

i-Size (R129) certified, with G-CELL Side Impact Protection for enhanced side-collision safety
360° rotation with SlideTech®, letting you slide and spin baby towards you rather than lifting and twisting
Full lie-flat position for maximum sleep comfort, in the car or on the move
Anti-misuse rotation lock, so baby always travels rearward-facing until the recommended stage
Visual installation indicators on the FamilyFix 360 Pro base, taking the guesswork out of correct fitting
Certified by AGR as back-friendly, and TÜV certified for aeroplane use

Bronze – Not Awarded

A Bronze place was awarded in this category. Since then, new independent crash test results have been published for that seat. Because of those results, I’ve withdrawn the placement. Bronze is not being awarded in Best Baby Car Seat this year.

Safety is the most important thing I look at in a car seat. I would rather leave a place empty than recommend a seat I’m not fully confident in.

If you’re choosing an infant car seat, check the latest independent crash test results as well as the safety standard. Make sure the seat fits your car properly.

Congratulations

Huge congratulations to both winners.

Best Child Car Seat

Once your baby outgrows the infant carrier, you need a seat that will last. The best ones take a child from around 15 months right through to 11 or 12 years, so it is worth getting the choice right. This category looks at seats that cover that whole range (76-150cm). Brands entered this year, and because car seats matter so much, we also looked at the wider market rather than only judging what was sent in. We do not have in-house crash test facilities so could only go on available independent crash test information.

What We Looked At

Independent crash test results – what ADAC and other testing bodies actually found, not just what the brand says
Side impact protection – the part of a crash where children are most at risk
Fitting – ISOFIX or seatbelt, and how easy it is to get right every time
Comfort for the child – recline, headrest and how the seat copes as they grow
Longevity – how many years you will really use it
Value for money – does the price match what you get?
Parent and professional feedback – what our tester and The Honest Midwife thought

Gold Winner: Cybex Pallas G3

The only seat in this category with a current independent crash test result to back it up, and a very good one.

RRP: £209.95 | Shop the Cybex Pallas G3 →

Why It Won Gold

ADAC named the Pallas G3 Best in Class in its May 2026 test, with an overall score of 2.5 (Good). It suits children from 15 months to around 12 years (76-150cm). For younger children it uses an impact shield instead of a harness, which is designed to reduce neck forces in a crash. Older children then use the vehicle seatbelt. It has a reclining headrest, built-in side impact protection and ISOFIX with a top tether. It takes about five minutes to fit, the covers are machine washable, and at 8.9kg it is manageable to move between cars.

Key Features

Suitable from 15 months to around 12 years (76-150cm)
ADAC Best in Class, May 2026 – score 2.5 (Good)
Impact shield instead of a harness for younger children
Reclining headrest and built-in side impact protection
ISOFIX with top tether
Machine washable covers
8.9kg product weight

Things to Consider

Some children take a little while to get used to an impact shield, so it is worth trying it with your child in the seat before you buy. It is a bulkier seat than some, and it is forward-facing only.

Silver Winner: Maxi-Cosi Onyx i-Size

A well-made, easy-to-fit seat that takes a child from toddler to tween.

RRP: £229.99 | Shop the Maxi-Cosi Onyx →

Why It Won Silver

The Onyx is approved to R129/03 and fits children from 15 months to 12 years (76-150cm). It uses a 5-point harness until about 4 years (105cm), then converts to a high-back booster. It has ISOFIX with a top tether, which makes it much easier to fit correctly than a seatbelt-only seat. G-CELL side impact protection, five recline positions and a ten-position memory foam headrest add to the comfort. The covers are machine washable and made from recycled fabric.

Key Features

Suitable from 15 months to 12 years (76-150cm)
R129/03 i-Size approved
5-point harness to about 4 years, then high-back booster
ISOFIX with top tether
G-CELL side impact protection
5 recline positions, 10 headrest positions
Memory foam headrest
Machine washable covers made from recycled fabric

Things to Consider

It is the most expensive seat in this category. We could not find a published independent crash test score for it, so its place rests on its certification and design, together with our own experience of using it.

Bronze Winner: Joie Elevate R129

The budget pick. A lot of seat for the money.

RRP: £65 | Shop the Joie Elevate R129 →

Why It Won Bronze

For around £65 you get a seat that works from 15 months to 12 years. It uses a 5-point harness up to 105cm, then becomes a high-back booster up to 150cm. It is R129 i-Size approved in booster mode, with side impact protection for the head, body and hips. The headrest and harness adjust together with one hand, so there is no re-threading as your child grows. There is a lock-off for the seatbelt, a cup holder and machine washable covers, and it comes with a 2 year warranty. If you want a seat that does the job without a big price tag, this is it.

Key Features

Suitable from 15 months to 12 years
5-point harness to 105cm, then high-back booster to 150cm
R129 i-Size approved in booster mode
Side impact protection for head, body and hips
One-hand headrest and harness adjustment
Seatbelt lock-off
Integrated cup holder
Machine washable covers
2 year warranty

Things to Consider

It is fitted with the seatbelt rather than ISOFIX, so take a little more care when installing it. We could not find an independent crash test score for it. Always check the fit in your own car and follow the instructions carefully.

Also Worth A Look

The Cybex Solution T i-Fix is a high-back booster for children from about 4 to 12 years (100-150cm), and it was named ADAC Test Winner in October 2023 with a score of 2.0 (Good). It has a reclining headrest and ISOFIX, and it is a strong choice for older children. It stays off the podium here because it does not cover toddlers.

Congratulations

Well done to Cybex, Maxi-Cosi and Joie. Three seats built to last a child’s whole car-seat life, at three different prices.

Best Pushchair Accessory 2026

Not every award-worthy product is the pushchair itself. Sometimes it’s the small things that saves your sanity or make that journey a bit more comfortable. The bit of kit that gets a reluctant napper to sleep, keeps an older sibling happy on the school run, or means you don’t wake a sleeping baby every time you stop moving. This year we have two Gold Winners in this category – that is because they were both amazing for completely different reasons!

What We Looked At

Does it solve a real problem – not a gimmick, something parents actually reach for
Safety – testing standards, materials, and how it’s designed to be used
Ease of use – can you fit or operate it one-handed, realistically, while out and about
Build quality – does it hold up to daily use
Value for money – does the price match what it does
Parent and professional feedback – what our tester and The Honest Midwife thought

Joint Gold Winner: Rockit Rocker

The buggy accessory that solves the problem every parent knows – the second you stop walking, baby wakes up.

RRP: £49.95 | Shop the Rockit Rocker →

Why It Won Gold

The Rockit clips onto any pram or pushchair and gently vibrates it, recreating the motion of walking so baby stays asleep even when you’ve stopped. It’s safety tested to EU and UK standards by Intertek, suitable from birth, and the current USB-C rechargeable version solves the battery-drain complaints of earlier models. Over a million have been sold worldwide, and real parent reviews consistently describe it as transformative for restaurant meals, airport queues and anywhere else a crying baby makes life harder than it needs to be.

Key Features

Universal bracket fits any pram, pushchair or buggy
Quiet motor with adjustable speed
60-minute rocking cycle
USB-C rechargeable, up to 60 hours on a single charge
Showerproof for outdoor use
Suitable from birth
12-month warranty

Things to Consider

The mounting strap has to fit a wide range of stroller tubes, so it can take a little patience to attach securely on thinner frames, and it’s important to rotate the unit so it points straight up for the motor to work efficiently.

Joint Gold Winner: SnoozeShade Plus Extra

The UK’s original blackout buggy blind, and still the safest, simplest way to help a baby nap on the go.

RRP: £35 | Shop SnoozeShade →

Why It Won Gold

SnoozeShade Plus Extra combines sun protection, a darker space for naps and insect protection in one easy-to-use cover for stroller seats. Its breathable EziBreez® mesh blocks up to 97% of UV across the top and sides, while the zip-up see-out panel allows your child to look out while still providing UV protection. When it’s time for a nap, the additional snooze panel creates a darker, distraction-free space that blocks up to 94% of visible light.

It attaches in seconds, fits single-width pushchairs and buggies with a hood, and folds into its own storage pouch when not in use. With no need for batteries or complicated equipment, it’s a simple solution for sunny days, naps on the go and keeping insects at bay.

Key Features

Blocks up to 97% of UV with the double layer
See-out panel still blocks over 80% of UV
Snooze panel blocks up to 94% of visible light
Breathable, air-permeable EziBreez® mesh
Doubles as an insect and mosquito net
Fits single-width pushchairs and buggies with a hood
Works with the seat upright or reclined
Short straps with no long straps, toggles, magnets or buttons
Folds into a compact storage pouch
Tested to the Australian shade fabric standard AS 4174 and by ARPANSA
Trusted by over 500,000 families

Things to Consider

The Plus Extra is designed specifically for stroller seats rather than prams, carrycots or bassinets, so it’s worth checking which SnoozeShade model is right for your pushchair setup. It fits most single-width pushchairs and buggies with a hood, but compatibility can vary with some double pushchairs.

Silver Winner: Najell Stroller Gloves

Cold hands stop a lot of walks early. These are the reason yours doesn’t have to be one of them.

RRP: £50 | Shop Najell Stroller Gloves →

Why It Won Silver

Najell’s Stroller Gloves stay attached to the handlebar of any pram or pushchair, so you slip your hands in and out as you walk rather than fumbling with separate gloves every time you need to adjust a blanket or reach for a dummy. A soft fleece lining keeps hands warm, the windproof, water-repellent exterior stands up to real UK weather, and an inner layer means you’re never holding a freezing metal handlebar directly. They’re machine washable and universal fit, so they work whatever pushchair you own.

Key Features

Universal fit – stays attached to any stroller or pram handlebar
Soft fleece lining with windproof, water-repellent exterior
Inner layer means no direct contact with a cold handlebar
Wipeable surface, machine washable
Slip hands in and out instantly without removing the gloves
Available in fleece and down-insulated versions for colder climates

Things to Consider

They’re a seasonal purchase rather than a year-round essential, so most value comes through autumn and winter. Fit is designed to be universal, but it’s worth checking the handlebar diameter on unusually large or oddly shaped pushchairs before buying.

Bronze Winner: Lascal BuggyBoard

This product makes transporting a reluctant walker easy and fun!

RRP: £59.99 (Mini) to £135 (Maxi Plus with saddle) | Shop the Lascal BuggyBoard →

Why It Won Bronze

The BuggyBoard turns a single pushchair into transport for two, letting a tired toddler ride along rather than melting down mid-walk. It’s TÜV tested to the relevant European Standard, fits more than 99% of pushchairs via a universal connector system, and features a large anti-slip surface, side protection and a suspension system that smooths the ride over kerbs and doorways.

Key Features

Fits 99%+ of pushchairs via universal connectors
Suitable for children up to 20-22kg (approx. age 5)
Anti-slip standing surface with side protection
Built-in suspension and large wheels
Reflective decals for visibility
Strap and hook to clip the board out of the way when not in use
Optional saddle accessory for a seated ride

Things to Consider

It’s a genuine investment on top of the pushchair itself, and the strap-and-hook stowing position works better on some pushchairs than others – worth checking it doesn’t interfere with your own pushing position before buying.

Congratulations

Well done to Rockit, SnoozeShade, Najell and Lascal. Four accessories, each solving a genuinely different problem, and each earning its place on this podium.

Congratulations to our winners

A huge well done to every Gold, Silver and Bronze winner in Best on Wheels. The standard was high this year, and some categories came down to the smallest details.

If you’re choosing a pushchair or car seat, try before you buy if you can. Fold it, lift it into your boot and push it round the shop. For car seats, check it fits your car and your car’s seat belts or ISOFIX points before you buy. Many retailers will do a free fitting check.

Thank you to every brand that entered. Entry is always free, and I’m grateful to everyone who trusted me with their products.

Next, see the winners in Best in Nursery, Best in Feeding and Best in Carriers.