Help! Checklist for choosing a buggy?

[JudyJones]

Have been looking around at buggies, but feel helplessly confused. There are a few things I have picked up - like making sure it's not too wide (as I live in the city), not too heavy (as I live on the first floor), and that the baby can face me in the beginning. But are there any other killer considerations, or things you'd wished you thought of before you shelled out £400 . Any any recommendations on where to go for good service? I have been in to several Mothercares and one John Lewis, only to scurry away unenlightened after frustrating non-conversations with staff...

11 months (and 2 buggies and a sling later) I honestly think no one thing will do everything.

We have a travel system (mothercare own brand) which we used as a pram at first and as a buggy now (also still using the carseat), which is great for nipping up to the shops but which is HUGE and takes up the entire boot and we could have lived without until 5-6 months anyway because for tiny babies I think slings are much better (and about a thousand times cheaper/easier). We've also got a three-wheel buggy (also HUGE) which we use for walking 'off road'. We could really do with a cheap folding stroller as well, but that will have to wait. Fortunatley we were given/got second hand both of ours but I agree they're insanely pricey.

If I was to go back and start again I'd have a wrap sling to start with, and I'd get a cheap (second hand) pushchair as well.

I never bothered with the baby facing me
Get a maclaren techno and save yourself a few quid

I didn't have one where the baby could see me either. he looks at me all day in doors so thought I'd give him a break! Haha
Ds is 10m and am on 2nd pushchair now. We paid £140 for a Toy's r Us presto one that I really liked, it wasn't too heavy, was very narrow, had swivel wheels, laid flat, came with rain cover and parasol and from the moment I saw it I wanted it. Then after 8m's it started squeaking a bit which I could handle and then I just got a bit bored!
I'd try not to spend too much coz one day you'll want something lighter, brighter or just a new 1.

Also, when you running round shop testing it out, remember you'll have a change bag or something on the back so won't be able to get feet that close in RL IYSWIM.
Mistake I made, walked hunched over for months so look at the handle bar height too especially if you're taller than average

I had a maclaren for both mine - really lightweight - easy to get on buses ( I live in London - so lots of public transport and I live on 3rd floor). Only drawbacks are small shopping basket and after a couple of years the breaks are a bit rubbish