8 honest points to consider:

Family Size

This point is often overlooked, and for a good reason, as they are very few options available. Do you have more than one child, either with or without SEND, and require a mobility solution to accomodate the family ?

Puschairs

The majority of models cater to single users. However, the Special Tomato EIO stands out by accommodating an older child in a buggypod seat. While there are a few tandem and double seat options, they tend to be bulky and may not encourage interactive experiences between passengers.

The Beetle

The Beetle is an excellent choice for families with multiple children, offering options for both two-seater and four-seater configurations. The unique design ensures that the children face each other while riding, fostering enhanced social interactions among siblings or companions during outings. This dynamic seating arrangement not only promotes a sense of togetherness but also provides a conducive environment for shared experiences and bonding among the little passengers.

Jogger Pushchairs

Choices within this category are scarce, and unfortunately, there are no alternatives tailored to families with three children or more.

2. Testing Requiments

This refers to the various regulations and safety test requirements applicable to each product category.

Puschairs

Special Need Pushchairs are required to comply with the EU safety standard for Wheeled child conveyances (BS EN 1888-1:2018+A1:2022) and the General Product Safety Regulations 2005. Most importantly, they need to meet specific standards for medical devices, such as BS EN ISO 7176-19:20083, which specifies requirements and test methods for the safety and performance of wheelchair passenger.

The Beetle

This new product category developped in the US has very few models in the UK and Europe adapted for the EU safety standard for Wheeled child conveyances (BS EN 1888-1:2018+A1:2022). The Beetle is one of two brands in the UK having passed the UK and EU safety standards. The Beetle must also comply with the UK General Product Safety Regulations 2005, which require that any product intended for or likely to be used by consumers must be safe. However it is not made specifically for SEND children and is not classified nor tested as medical devices.

Jogger Pushchairs

These are wheeled vehicles that can be attached to a bicycle or used as a jogger pushchair. They are covered by the EU safety standard for Wheeled child conveyances (BS EN 1888-1:2018+A1:2022), and must comply with the General Product Safety Regulations 2005. Additionally, in some cases, they must meet the requirements of the Pedal Bicycles (Safety) Regulations 2010, which apply to any vehicle that is propelled solely or mainly by the muscular energy of the person on that vehicle, including any trailer drawn by that vehicle.

3. Load Bearing

This refers to how much weight the product can support. The ratings below consider the child’s current and future weight by using the UK WHO growth chart (here). It also considers the weight, size and attachment mechanisms of certain medical equipments, such as oxygen tanks, feeding pumps, or ventilators.

Puschairs

The maximum weight capacities vary widely, ranging from 25 to 100kg, depending on the specific model. It's important to note that the 25kg capacity is only suitable for children up to 4 years old. Regrettably, these products are often unsuitable for carrying heavy medical equipment due to constraints in both weight and space, and they may become unstable when loaded with additional weight or unplanned attachments. However, certain models, like the Mobiquip XL, feature adjustable footrests and backrests, allowing the product to accommodate the child's growth up to 10 years old.

The Beetle

The Beetle has two double seats, each with a maximum capacity of 75kg each, providing accommodation for older children. When a child surpasses the seat size, the seats can be detached, allowing the teenager to sit directly inside the wagon. High-end wagons have a total weight capacity of up to 150kg, featuring a spacious seating area. Additionally, they offer generous room for carrying medical equipment.

Jogger Pushchairs

The maximum weight capacities vary widely between 25 and 100kg, depending on the specific model. It's important to note that the 25kg capacity is only suitable for children up to 4 years old. Regrettably, joggers are often not conducive to transporting heavy medical equipment due to constraints in both weight and space, and they may become unstable when loaded with additional weight or unexpected attachments. Unlike pushchairs and stroller wagons, joggers do not adapt to your child's growth, necessitating the purchase of larger models as they grow.

4. Stability & Mobility

This section refers to how easy it is to steer, turn, and navigate the mobility solution in various spaces and situations. It also evaluates the product's risks of it tipping over in windy conditions, due to excessive behavior, or during physical activities (jogging).

Puschairs

Due to the lightweight design (often around 10kg) and the vertical structure of pushchairs, they are generally very easy to maneuver. However, these attributes make them at higher risk of tipping over. In fact, the NHS does not recommend the use of buggies for children above 4 years old due. It is not advised to run while pushing a buggy.

The Beetle

The Beetle has a wider base standing closer to the ground thus providing the highest level of safety and stability. However, because it is meant for 2-4 passengers, it is heavier than a single pushchair and more difficult to maneuver over obstacles. Hence it is not advise to run while pushing a wagon.

Jogger Pushchairs

This type of product is typically heavier than special needs pushchairs but lighter than stroller wagons. Its three-wheel design facilitates easy navigation over obstacles. The low, horizontal structure situated close to the ground, coupled with the wide spacing of the rear wheels, provides optimal stability. They typically have advanced suspension systems, which can absorb shocks and vibrations. Particularly advantageous for running with children with physical disabilities as it helps minimize the impact of uneven terrain.

5. Sensory Control

This refers to how well the mobility solution can reduce or eliminate the sensory stimuli that may overwhelm or distress your child, such as noise, light, or smell.

Puschairs

Pushchairs are often sold with accessories such as dark sun mesh cover, plastic rain cover, and light mosquito mesh cover. These accessories can help protect a child against mild weather conditions but do not adequately block the environment.

The Beetle

Petit Wagon's Beetle stands as the sole stroller wagon in the market featuring a flat-surfaced roof canopy accompanied by four concealed and retractable panels. These panels can be fastened against the frame to provide protection from winds, light, and rain while still allowing airflow. This unique design imparts a sense of security to the child, akin to being enclosed in a fortress.

Jogger Pushchairs

Similar to pushchairs, they are often sold with accessories such as dark sun mesh cover, plastic rain cover, and light mosquito mesh cover. However, some new jogger models also include full cover blocks with windows, which are convenient when pulled by a bicycle.

6. Comfort & Support

This section refers to how well it can provide a pleasant and relaxing experience for your child. We consider features such as reclining seats, spacious interiors, and soft cushions. We also consider special accomodation such as headrests, footrests, and side supports for children with physical disabilities.

Puschairs

As they adhere to wheelchair regulations, these pushchairs are best suited for children with physical disabilities necessitating neck support, postural assistance, or pressure distribution along the spine. They provide comfortable reclining positions and are frequently compatible with various accessories to enhance cushioning.

The Beetle

The Beetle provides a comfortable 95-degree angle and features more padding than pushchairs, but does not have a reclining feature. It is possible to purchase acessories for additional seat cushions and head support specifically designed for infants aged 6-12 months.

Jogger Pushchairs

Similar to pushchairs, some models are adequate for children with physical disabilities , most specifically children requiring to lay down for improved breathing patterns, or requiring all pressures to be relieved. However, they tend to have less padding and comfort than pushchairs.

7. Transport

This refers to how easy it is to store and transport the mobility solution in various situations and locations. This section considers features such as foldable frames, removable wheels, and carry handles that can make the mobility solution more compact and portable.

Puschairs

Most special needs pushchairs are lightweight, frequently featuring a compact fold measuring around 30cm, making them well-suited for small car boots, storage, and public transport. However, exercise caution and steer clear of products that do not disclose their folding dimensions, as this omission is often a cause for concern.

The Beetle

The Beetle has a compact standing fold, suitable for fitting into most trunk with more than 400 L capacity. Due to its upright folding design, it proves convenient for transportation on trams, trains, and buses. Make sure that the wagon's width is manageable according to your specific situation.

Jogger Pushchairs

Jogger pushchairs tend to be bulkier than standard puschchairs and more difficult to fit the boot of a car or on public transport. They commonly feature sizable all-terrain wheels, although not all of them come with "quick release" mechanisms. When choosing a jogger pushchair, ensure that the wheels can be effortlessly detached and reattached. This precautionary measure avoids the need for purchasing a new pushchair in case of a punctured, dislodged, or deteriorating wheel. Given that joggers may not fold as compactly as standard pushchairs, removing the wheels offers a more space-efficient storage alternative.

8. Pricing & Returns

This refers to how much the mobility solution costs, including VAT exceptions. This sections also evaluates the possibilities of returning the vehicle after purchase.

Puschairs

Prices vary from £250 to £1500 depending on the model. Notably, certain models impose an exorbitant charge of £250 for a footmuff accessory with no shame, a significant contrast to the typical £50 price for a footmuff for a standard buggy. Some manufacturers specifically cater to very particular Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) conditions, capitalizing on this niche by pricing their products in the thousands, potentially burdening families in need. Exercise caution to avoid deception and invest time in exploring substitutes and alternatives from more competitive markets like the US or Canada. Additionally, be cautious of labels such as "made to order," as they often imply restricted or heavily disputed return policies.

The Beetle

With a 30-day return window, the Beetle doubles the standard 14-day statutory period in the UK. Additionally, a wide array of accessories are available at prices comparable to those of standard buggies.

Jogger Pushchairs

If you intend to go running or cycling with your child, Jogger Pushchairs are the best options for you. They typically come with a considerable price tag, ranging from £900 to £2500 or more. If engaging in physical activities with your special needs child is not a priority, or if you already have or plan to have another child, it's worth exploring alternatives such as double pushchairs or 2/4 seater stroller wagons. They generally adhere to the UK statutory right allowing the return of any product within a 14-day period.