Mum of three, Nicola Mardell, tells MFM about her passion for buggies
Posted: 18 August 2011
by Nicola Mardell
I got seriously into buggies when I was searching for the perfect double for my newborn son Luka, and Tate, who was then 18 months. Too many had something I wasn’t happy with – they were either too wide, didn’t face towards me or weren’t cosy enough. I went through five different double buggies in six months.
“I finally found my dream double”
I sold each model as I bought a new one, and finally found a great one – a £389 Phil and Teds single that can be converted to a double. It was so light to use, I couldn’t tell whether I was pushing one of my boys or both. I sold my previous double and another of my pushchairs at the same time. I don’t drive, so my buggy is really important – and that double has been worth every penny.
“I always try buggies out in-store first”
I do my research by talking to other mums and scouring review websites. I always try buggies out in-store, too. My biggest gripe is buggies that are too heavy and hard to fold. I do see my buggy as an accessory, but I’d never pick one that looked nice if the boys weren’t comfortable in it.
In total, I’ve probably spent about £1,500 on buggies. I don’t know how much I’ve recouped by selling them. I wish I did, though – I may feel less guilty!
“All mums need two buggies”
I think there are two buggies a mum needs: a lightweight one for travelling and shopping, and one with air tyres if you walk a lot on harder ground.
Since the Phil and Teds, I’ve managed to sneak in a Mamas & Papas Ziko, two Silver Cross Pop buggies (lightweight and in two different prints) and a Maclaren Quest in a limited edition Lulu Guinness-designed colourway.
I’ve ended up keeping one Silver Cross Pop and the Maclaren Quest. I also still
have my Phil and Teds double. As each buggy has a different function, I reassure myself that it’s not a full-blown addiction, but just a hobby!
I’m always talking about my latest buy on the Internet forum. I love it when I’m asked for advice – I relish the challenge of finding someone the perfect buggy.
I’ve even considered setting up an online consultancy in the future, or a buggy exchange, where mums can update their buggies. But for now I’m just making the most of my buggy-buying days.”
Nicola’s tips
- Ask yourself practical questions about your buggy. Will you use it on public transport? How big is the space in your car boot for storage? Consider your partner, too – if he’s going to be using it a lot, think about whether you’ll need adjustable handlebars if he’s taller.
- Always try a buggy out in-store. See that your baby is comfy, that you can steer one-handed and the wheels don’t lock. Also, check what’s included – extra accessories can be costly.
- Don’t be persuaded by looks alone – functionality is ultimately more important. Don’t be surprised if you have to compromise – I’m still on a quest to find a buggy that scores 10 out of 10 in both categories.
