3 Wheeled Pushchairs
3 wheeled pushchairs are a ideal choice for mothers who love walking over diverse terrain. The larger front wheels on these buggies make them easier to manoeuvre and offer greater stability on rough ground.
If you intend to use your buggy on roads, pick a model that is air-filled tyres (sometimes called pneumatic). They are much more effective on surfaces that are not paved and are puncture-proof too.
Stability
Generally, the bigger the wheels on your pushchair is, the better it will deal with rough ground and terrain. This is because larger wheels have a bigger contact surface, and are therefore less likely to'skid' over dips and bumps. They also offer a more comfortable ride for your child. The downside is that extra wheels can take up space in your car boot, and some models of pushchairs with large front wheels may require to have them removed in order to put it away flat.
All-terrain strollers have features such as large puncture-proof tires and robust suspension that allows them to handle everything from busy high-street strolls to woodland hikes. These models are usually more expensive, but if your pushchair is used off the beaten path regularly, they may be worth the investment.
It is better to choose a pushchair with pneumatic (or air-filled) tyres if you plan on taking it off paved surfaces. They are better suited for rough terrain than solid rubber tyres. They are also less susceptible to punctures than tyres that are composed of hard plastic or metal.
Some pushchairs allow you to remove the front wheel when they are not in use. This makes them easier to store, especially if you only have the space for a small boot. Some models also feature a swivelling front wheel that can be locked to add stability on very rough terrain. It is important to determine how easy it is for you to use a pushchair that has this feature prior to buying.
It is crucial to think about the ease with which you can make it to add an additional seat or parent-facing unit to your pushchair. This is especially important when you have a child with you. Some models are designed to be quick and easy to change between these types of configurations, whereas others may require a little more patience.
Manoeuvrability
A 3-wheel pushchair is typically easier to steer and handle than a four-wheeler, with the single wheel on the front making it easy to maneuver over bumps or rough terrain. A lot of models come with suspension systems that are designed to absorb shocks and provide an easy ride for your child. MFM reviewer Kath put a three-wheeled buggy to the test and was awed by how well it handled bumpy roads, cobbles and dirt tracks. Kath found it easy to go up and down kerbs and the wheels were quick to maneuver over grass too.
There are three kinds of 3 wheeled pushchairs namely strollers (also known as joggers), all-terrain models, and all-terrain models. Strollers are ideal for urban environments due to their smaller frames and narrower wheels while joggers come with large wheels and are designed to take you off-road. They come with a handbrake, adjustable handlebars, and are ideal for off-road walks.
All-terrain strollers are a favorite among parents who like to explore the countryside and enjoy the outdoors. They typically have wheels that are larger and more durable than standard pushchairs. They're ideal for rough terrain and are typically used from birth, but you may need to buy car seat adapters if you are looking to connect a compatible infant carrier.
Some pushchairs appear to be 3-wheelers but are actually four wheels. Two small wheels are placed close together in front of the traditional central pair. This gives maneuverability and the stability of a four-wheeler.
Some 3-wheeled pushchairs come with a lockable and swivelable front wheel that makes them more mobile. This is particularly useful if you encounter difficult surfaces often, as you can avoid getting stuck or having obstacles to negotiate. 3 wheeler pushchair -terrain pushchairs come fitted with foam-filled 'never flat' tyres, which don't require pumping up, so they're more convenient and comfortable for long walks or frequent use. It's important to note that these types of pushchairs tend to be heavier and bigger than other options and it's crucial to consider how you'll be transporting them or storing them when deciding on your preferred model.
Weight
Generally speaking, 3-wheel pushchairs tend to be heavier and larger than standard pushchairs, especially when they have large back wheels. This makes it difficult to lift the pushchair once folded, like when loading into the car boot or climbing the stairs. This may also make the pushchair feel bulky when out and about, and can restrict the speed at which you can maneuver through narrow spaces or aisles in shops.
All-terrain pushchairs are built to withstand a variety of different terrains, including rough and uneven terrain as well as mud and gravel trails. They typically have large, puncture-proof tyres and a robust suspension system that will provide an enjoyable ride for your child. They will usually be quite much more expensive than normal pushchairs.
All-terrain pushchairs are a good option if you reside in the country or take your baby on regular walks in the woods or in country parks. These pushchairs typically have large tyres both front as well as back, and will be designed to handle many different terrains. They are usually a good option for wet and muddy weather, however we recommend checking the tyres regularly to avoid flat spots and air bubbles.
The iCandy Core is a great all-terrain stroller that checks off a lot of the boxes. It comes with a huge 10kg basket, a one-handed fold and an adjustable handlebar. Its large tyres are foam-filled and never flat, which means you won't need to worry about punctures or loss of air pressure. The seat is orientated to the world and is suitable from birth and it can be used with the carrycot or an infant carrier.
The Special Tomato Jogger is another alternative. It's a light and extremely mobile design. It's perfect for parents who like taking walks or jogging and has suspension that will give you a comfortable ride over different terrains. We also love how simple to clean it, with the fabric simply removing from the frame and washing in cold water.
Tyres
The tyres of a 3-wheeled pushchair tend to be larger than those on a 4-wheeled pram. This makes it easier to handle off-road terrain. The UPPAbaby Ridge for instance is equipped with large tyres filled with foam that never flatten and suspension systems. This makes it suitable for long-distance walks on rough terrain. It is also designed to be suitable to jog once your child is old enough. This is thanks to a 360-degree lockable front wheel and an adjustable suspension.
However, larger tyres can add weight to the pushchair, so you'll need to take this into consideration when selecting the model. You will also need to decide if you'd like a model with removable wheels so that it is more easily stored in your car boot. MFM reviewer Becky loved this feature as it made the process of navigating supermarket aisles much easier.