Urban vs. Rural: Choosing the Best Pram for Your Lifestyle

iCandy Pram & Pushchair Guide


We'll take you through your needs in a pram and the best models to suit your lifestyle.

Urban vs Rural Pram Guide


We'll take you through your needs in a pram and the best models to suit your lifestyle.

iCandy Pram & Pushchair Guide

We'll take you through your needs in a pram and the best models to suit your lifestyle.

When it comes to choosing the perfect pram for your little one, your lifestyle plays a major role in the decision. Whether you're navigating bustling city streets or exploring serene rural landscapes, the right pram can make all the difference. In this post, we’ll compare prams tailored for urban living and those designed for rural adventures, helping you choose the best option for your family’s needs.

From highlighting each models standout features to addressing common queries, we've got everything you need to know about this selection of sleek, stylish prams covering Bugaboo, Cybex, iCandy, Joolz, Mamas & Papas, Nuna, Oyster, Silver Cross, Stokke, & Thule. Insuring you're well-equipped to make an informed decision and invest in the best.

There is lots of information out there on compact city strollers but not as much prams, so join us as we explore the top features of a range of City & Rural Prams.


Prams for City Living

City living comes with its own set of challenges and delights. From navigating busy pavements to hopping on and off public transport, your pram needs to be lightweight, compact, and easily manoeuvrable. Here are the key features to look for in a city-friendly pram:

 

Key Features To Look For In A City Pram

 

  • Compact Design: With limited storage space in apartments and tight spaces on buses and trains, a compact pram is essential. City prams are often lightweight and easy to fold, making them perfect for small flats and crowded places.
  • Manoeuvrability: Urban environments can mean weaving through crowds or dodging obstacles. Look for prams with swivel wheels for easy turns and superior handling in tight spots.

  • Storage: Despite a small frame, city prams should offer ample storage for groceries, a diaper bag, or a shopping spree. A spacious basket underneath or a well-designed organiser can be a game-changer.

  • Suspension: Paved streets are the norm, but city pavements often have cracks or uneven spots. A pram with good suspension will make strolling over these bumps smooth and comfortable for your baby.

Prams for Rural Living

If you live in the countryside or enjoy spending weekends exploring rural areas, your pram needs to be ready for more than just smooth city streets. Whether you’re trekking through parks or navigating uneven paths, a sturdy, versatile pram with all-terrain capabilities will be your best friend.

Key Features To Look For In A Rural Pram

 

  • Large Wheels: Prams with larger wheels and all-terrain tires can handle bumpy paths, grass, gravel, and mud without a hitch. This feature ensures a smooth ride for both you and your baby.
  • Sturdy Frame and Suspension: A solid frame and high-quality suspension system will keep your baby comfortable, even on rougher surfaces. Look for prams with enhanced shock absorption for off-road adventures.

  • Weather Protection: If you’re venturing out in all kinds of weather, make sure your pram has a large canopy for sun protection or a rain cover for unexpected showers. Some models even have additional weatherproofing features to keep your little one cosy.

  • Durability: Rural prams need to stand up to the elements, so choose one built to last. Look for prams made from durable materials that can withstand rough handling and a variety of weather conditions.

Comparison Chart

City vs Rural Prams Feature Differences

CITY PRAMS

We've put together a curated selection of lightweight, compact, and easy-to-manoeuvre prams, designed to meet the needs of both you and your baby from birth. In this guide, we explore the unique features of each pram, covering key details such as weight, handlebar height, storage basket capacity, foldability, portability, and configurations. With this information, you'll be able to find the ideal city pram that perfectly suits your lifestyle and your little one’s needs.

Bugaboo Dragonfly

The Bugaboo Dragonfly is super lightweight at 7.9kg with the seat and 9.9kg with the carrycot. It can quickly fold in one motion with either the seat or carrycot, and is free-standing when folded, perfect for city lovers.

This remarkable pushchair is designed to revolutionise the way city-dwelling families navigate their bustling surroundings. Combining compact foldability, unrivalled comfort, and a sleek design.

 


Cybex Eezy S Twist

The Cybex Eezy S Twist weighs only 8.6kg, so it's lightweight, compact frame and one-hand folding system are perfect for navigating bustling streets, hopping on public transport, or storing in tight spaces. The unique 360° seat rotation lets you switch between parent-facing and forward-facing modes in seconds, ideal for adapting to your little one’s needs on the go. Compatible with a carrycot or the cocoon pod, the Eezy S Twist can be used from birth. It's all wheel suspension and one-pull harness create a smooth and secure ride and a sleek, stylish design, making both parent and baby happy!


Nuna Triv Next

The Nuna Triv Next is designed with convenience in mind, featuring a hassle-free, one-hand fold that transforms it into a compact, freestanding unit weighing just 8.7kg. The included carrycot adds to its appeal, equipped with a dreamy Dream Drape™ and a mesh window to ensure your baby enjoys peaceful, uninterrupted naps. For added practicality, the LYTL carrycot folds flat, making storage a breeze.  

Crafted with a lightweight aluminium frame and a generously wide wheelbase, the TRIV Next offers extra seating space for your little one without sacrificing manoeuvrability. Its spring suspension seat and all-terrain wheels make it a versatile choice, effortlessly handling city streets while being tough enough for off-road adventures. Perfectly blending urban convenience with robust performance, this pram is ready for whatever your day brings!

Oyster Gravity +

If you're fed up with wrestling to fold your pram, the Oyster Gravity + boasts innovative gravity fold mechanism, allowing it to fold with minimal effort. Weighing 9.5kg it's fairly lightweight and with its carry handle theres no more struggling with bulky equipment. It offers UPF 50+ canopy. It is also ideal for tall parents with a handlebar height of 108cm. With spacious storage you can carry upto 5kg capacity. Paired with the Oyster Carrycot or a car seat to make the perfect from birth lightweight city pram.


Mamas & Papas Vardo

The Mamas & Papas Vardo is a stylish and practical choice for city parents who need a reliable pram for urban life. Designed with smooth maneuverability, it handles tight corners and crowded streets with ease. Its compact fold makes it ideal for public transport or storing in small apartments, while the all-wheel suspension ensures a comfortable ride over uneven sidewalks. The spacious seat and adjustable recline keep babies comfortable on the go, and the large canopy provides excellent sun and rain protection. With a modern design and thoughtful features, the Vardo is a great blend of convenience and style for city living.


Mamas & Papas Vardo in Shell
Mamas & Papas Vardo in Noir

Silver Cross Dune 2

This urban pushchair is thoughtfully crafted to meet the needs of modern, on-the-go lifestyles. With its lightweight frame, ergonomic wheels, and flexible suspension, it glides effortlessly through busy streets and serene parks alike.

Designed with convenience in mind, it features a one-handed, self-standing fold that keeps the handlebar clean—perfect for city living. The pavement-gliding wheels provide a smooth ride, though at 11.7kg, it’s slightly on the heavier side for city prams. What sets the Dune 2 apart is its commitment to sustainability; the chic jersey fabric is crafted from recycled plastic bottles, blending eco-consciousness with style effortlessly.

 

Stokke YOYO 3

The Stokke YOYO 3 with Newborn Pack or Bassinet are both great prams for modern city living. Compact, ultra-lightweight, and incredibly versatile, it adapts to your needs from birth and beyond. The 0+ Complete Prams allow you to use the Yoyo 3 from birth, choose either the Newborn Pack which provides a snug, lie-flat environment for your baby, perfect for those first outings, while the Bassinet offers a roomy, cocoon-like space with enhanced airflow and comfort. Both options are easy to attach and switch out for the 6 month pack, giving you flexibility as your baby grows. You can also convert the Yoyo 3 into a double with the Yoyo 3 Connect. Designed for tight urban spaces, it folds down in a flash to fit into car boots, overhead lockers, or tiny storage areas. With its one-handed manoeuvrability, durable suspension, and carry strap, navigating busy streets and public transport has never been easier. The YOYO 3 combines sleek design with ultimate practicality—your go-to for stylish city adventures!

Thule Shine

The Thule Shine’s compact and lightweight design makes it incredibly easy to manoeuvre, lift, and store. Despite its slim profile, it provides plenty of room for your little one’s comfort. Navigating busy streets and the demands of city life is effortless thanks to its one-hand push and steering functionality. Equipped with all-wheel suspension, it smooths out bumps on cobblestones and uneven pavements for a comfortable ride. The spacious, easy-access basket holds up to 10kg, perfect for running errands hands-free. With its quick-fold mechanism and compact size, the Shine is perfectly suited for urban living. Plus, it seamlessly converts into a travel system with the addition of car seat adaptors.

UPPABABY CRUZ

The Uppababy Cruz V2 is the perfect city stroller for parents who want convenience, style, and practicality in one sleek design. Its narrow frame and lightweight construction make it ideal for navigating bustling streets, hopping on public transport, or weaving through tight spaces in cafés or shops. Equipped with advanced all-wheel suspension and large, durable wheels, the Cruz V2 delivers a smooth ride even on uneven urban terrain. The reversible toddler seat allows your little one to face you or explore the world ahead, while the adjustable canopy with UPF 50+ protection ensures they're shielded from the sun or light rain. The stroller’s oversized, easy-access basket offers ample space for all your essentials—think shopping bags, snacks, or a nappy bag—so you're always ready for city adventures. With a quick, one-step fold and a standing position when collapsed, it's easy to transport and store, whether you're in a small apartment or grabbing a ride-share.

Joolz Hub 2

The Joolz Hub 2 is an ultimate city pram! Its slim frame at a width of just 52cm allows it to fit through tight doorways, narrow liftsand public transport gates. Its easy to mavoeuvre and can be operated with just one-hand! It has a UPF 50+ sun protection and water repellent canopy. It has 4 wheel suspension and reflective elements, so even on bumpy cobblestones and darker evenings, you will be seen and baby will be comforbale! If you're a taller parent, this pram could be perfect for you with it's 4 height adjustable handlebar. It has a large storage basket with 10kg/24L capacity. It is one of the lightest prams available weighing less than 9kg, and has a carry strap, so it's light enough to put over your shoulder, freeing up your hands for stairs or multitasking.

Joolz Aer +

The Joolz Aer+ is an ultra-lightweight city pram, tipping the scales at just 6kg. Perfect for eco-conscious parents, it stands out with its 100% recycled fabrics. Designed for city life, it features a one-hand, one-second fold for ultimate convenience. The lightweight frame ensures effortless manoeuvrability, while its super-compact fold is cabin-approved, making it a great travel companion. Plus, with a handlebar height of up to 107cm, it offers comfortable pushing for parents of all heights.

 


City vs Rural Pram specification comparisons

The data above is colour-coded based on the following categories: weight, handlebar height, basket capacity, and the ability to convert from a single to a double pram.

  • Green: Performs well in its category

  • Orange: Falls within the mid-range for its category

  • Red: Positioned at the lower end of its category

 


Rural Prams

We've thoughtfully chosen a range of prams ideal for countryside adventures and exploring rural areas. This collection features sturdy, versatile models with all-terrain capabilities, ensuring there's a pram that complements your active rural lifestyle while matching your personal style.



iCandy Peach 7 All-Terrain

The iCandy Peach 7 All-Terrain is the ideal choice for parents who love exploring the outdoors. With a durable chassis and water-repellent UPF 50+ fabric, it’s built to handle the elements with ease. Its interchangeable front wheels allow you to switch between a 3-wheel or 4-wheel setup, while the enhanced rear-wheel suspension and larger wheelbase provide stability and a smooth ride on rough terrains or coastal paths. The carrycot, approved for overnight sleeping by the Lullaby Trust, adds extra convenience for parents on the go. Perfect for growing families, this pram seamlessly converts from a single to a double or twin with converter packs. It also features a generous 44L storage basket for all your essentials and an adjustable handlebar height of up to 102cm, making it comfortable for taller parents.


iCandy Orange 4

The iCandy Orange 4 is a single to double ready all-terrain pram, accommodating growing families without requiring extra adapters. It also has an intedgrated ride on board, providing a convenient solution for for parents with an older child. Holding upto 3 children without requiring additional attachments! The Orange 4 features enhanced suspension and maneuverability ensuring a smooth and comforatble ride for both parent and children. It also features a generous 60L storage basket holding upto 10kg for all your essentials and an adjustable handlebar height of up to 112cm, making it comfortable for taller parents. It's puncture proof PU tyres ensure the orange 4 is durable and reliable on uneven surfaces. It's water repellent UPF 50+ canopy ensures your little one is protected whatever the weather holds.


UPPAbaby Vista V3

The Uppababy Vista V3 is a highly adaptable multi-terrain stroller, designed to grow with your family. Whether you're expecting one child or planning to expand, it effortlessly converts from a single to a double pram. Built for all-season use, the stroller features an all-weather seat with a seasonal liner for cooler days and breathable mesh for warmer weather. The extendable, water-resistant UPF 50+ canopy ensures your little one stays protected from the sun, rain, or wind. Thanks to its Flexi-ride system, the Vista V3 delivers a smooth, comfortable ride for one, two, or even three children. Its puncture-proof tyres and front-lock wheels make it ideal for rural walks and hikes, while the stroller’s self-standing design and one-step fold provide added convenience for busy parents.


Joolz Geo 3

The Joolz Geo 3 is an exceptional all-terrain pram, designed to offer a smooth and comfortable ride across various surfaces like grass, gravel, and uneven paths. With its large puncture proof tyres, robust suspension system, and adjustable handlebar, it ensures easy maneuverability and comfort for parents. The pram’s versatile frame allows for both single and double configurations, perfect for growing families. Additionally, its sturdy build, spacious basket, and high-quality, ergonomic seat make it an ideal choice for outdoor adventures. With a stylish design and practicality, the Joolz Geo 3 is a reliable companion for any terrain.The Joolz Geo 3 is an exceptional all-terrain pram, designed to offer a smooth and comfortable ride across various surfaces like grass, gravel, and uneven paths. With its large air-filled tires, robust suspension system, and adjustable handlebar, it ensures easy maneuverability and comfort for parents. The pram’s versatile frame allows for both single and double configurations, perfect for growing families. Additionally, its sturdy build, spacious basket, and high-quality, ergonomic seat make it an ideal choice for outdoor adventures. With a stylish design and practicality, the Joolz Geo 3 is a reliable companion for any terrain.


Thule Urban Glide 3

The Thule Urban Glide 3 is an outstanding all-terrain pram, designed to provide a smooth, comfortable ride on a variety of surfaces. With large air-filled tyres and an adjustable suspension system, it effortlessly handles rough terrain like gravel, grass, and trails, ensuring a bump-free experience for your child. The front swivel wheel adds excellent maneuverability in tight spaces, and it can be locked for stability during jogging or more rugged use. Despite its durability, the pram is lightweight and easy to push, making long outings or active adventures much more manageable. It also features a one-hand fold for convenient storage and transport, and the well-padded seat offers adjustable recline positions to accommodate both newborns and older children. The large storage basket with a zip-top cover provides ample space for your essentials, while keeping your belongings secure during your journey. With safety features like a 5-point harness and handbrake, the Thule Urban Glide 3 is a perfect choice for active families seeking a versatile, high-performance stroller.


Silver Cross Reef 2

The versatile design of the Silver Cross Reef 2 Pram makes it perfect for adventerous families. Its innovative Fold-Any-Way feature creates extra space in your car boot, ensuring easy storage wherever you are. With large wheels and a strong 4-wheel suspension, it guarantees a smooth ride across all terrains, from city streets to country paths. Built to last, this robust stroller is your reliable companion for every adventure. It also offers multiple newborn options, adapting to your family's needs from day one. The extra-deep, wipe-clean storage basket provides plenty of room for all your essentials, making family outings a breeze. The all weather hood, puncture proof tyres and softer suspension mean you can enjoy your outing whatever the weather.


Oyster 4

The BabyStyle Oyster 4 features large turbine wheels filled with ER-foam making them both durable and puncture free. With all-round suspension as well as lockable swivel front wheels for multi terrain outings. The Ocarro Pram also features an extendable UPF 50 + canopy which has a flip out sun visor and ventilation window. If your looking for an All-Terrain Pram that won't break the bank the Oyster 4 is a great option.


Nuna Mixx Next

The Nuna Mixx Next is designed for convenience, featuring the Compact fold-away axle™, which neatly tucks the wheels away when folded. This creates a perfectly compact package, making it effortless to transition from strolling to storing.Positioned in the mid-range market, the Mixx Next offers an affordable alternative to high-end brands like Silver Cross, Bugaboo, and iCandy. It’s a tall pushchair, making it an excellent choice for taller parents, while the seat unit sits at table height, allowing it to double as a highchair when dining out.

Packed with practical features, the Mixx Next boasts a water-repellent UPF 50+ canopy with an extendable eye-shade for extra sun protection. The carrycot includes a Dream Drape™, ensuring a peaceful environment for naps on the go. No matter the season, the all-season seat keeps your little one cosy in winter and easily converts to a breathable mesh for summer comfort. For added convenience, there’s a handy storage pocket on the back of the seat—perfect for keeping essentials like keys and your phone within easy reach. And with front swivel lock wheels, you can confidently tackle any terrain, whether it’s city streets or countryside paths.


Cybex e-Priam

The Cybex e-Priam is a revolutionary all-terrain pram that blends luxury design with smart technology, making every journey effortless. Featuring built-in electric motors, it provides adaptive assistance when pushing uphill, navigating rough surfaces, or descending slopes, reducing strain on parents. The 4-wheel suspension and large, all-terrain wheels ensure a smooth ride across gravel, sand, cobblestones, and uneven terrain, while the swivel front wheels enhance maneuverability. Designed for both style and practicality, the e-Priam features a one-hand fold mechanism, a spacious reclining seat, and travel system compatibility with Cybex infant car seats. This intelligent pram automatically adjusts to the surface, providing a seamless and comfortable ride for both parent and child. In additon to this you can automatically rock you baby to sleep from the rocking function within the app. Whether tackling city streets or outdoor adventures, the e-Priam delivers power, comfort, and innovation, redefining what’s possible in a modern stroller.


Cybex e-Gazelle

The Cybex e-Gazelle S is a groundbreaking smart stroller designed for modern families, offering electronic assistance and versatile adaptability. Its integrated electric motors provide extra support when pushing uphill or over rough terrain, while an innovative rocking mode gently soothes babies with automated back-and-forth motion. With over 20 configuration options, the e-Gazelle S seamlessly transitions from a single to a double stroller, accommodating growing families with ease. Parents will appreciate the intuitive handlebar controls, which allow for effortless speed adjustments, rocking activation, and battery monitoring. The stroller also features dual storage baskets, offering a combined 23 kg capacity—perfect for shopping and daily essentials. An XXL sun canopy with UPF50+ protection shields little ones from the elements, and the adjustable handlebar caters to parents of all heights.


Comparison Summarisation

Rural vs City Pram Models