3 Wheeled Pushchairs
Three-wheeled pushchairs are a great alternative for moms who love walking on a variety of terrain. The larger front wheels on these pushchairs make them easier to maneuver and offer more stability on uneven ground.
If you intend to drive your buggy on surfaces other than paved tracks, choose one with air-filled tires (also known as pneumatic). These are more efficient and puncture-proof even on non-paved surfaces.
Stability
In general, the larger the wheels on your pushchair, the better it will be able to handle rough terrain and dirt. This is because larger wheels have a greater contact surface so are less likely to slide over bumps and dips. They also offer a more comfortable ride to your child. The downside is that the extra wheels can take up the space in your car boot, and some models with big front wheels might need to have them removed in order to store it flat.
All-terrain strollers come with features such as large puncture-proof tires as well as a sturdy suspension to allow them to handle everything from busy high-street strolls to forest hikes. These models are usually more expensive but if your child's pushchair is used off the beaten path often, they could be worth the investment.
It is recommended to select a pushchair equipped with pneumatic (or air-filled) tires if you intend to take it off paved surfaces. They are better suited for rough terrain than solid rubber tyres. They are also less prone to punctures than tyres that are composed of hard plastic or metal.
Some pushchairs let you remove the front wheel when not in use. This can make them easier to store, especially in the case of the space for a small boot. Some models also feature an swivelling front wheel that can be locked to add stability on rough terrain. It's important to know how easy it is for you to use a pushchair equipped with this feature prior to purchasing.
If you're thinking of adding a second seat, parent-facing unit or car seat adaptors to your pushchair, it is important to determine how it is easy to switch these components and fold/unfold the pushchair when you have the attached items, particularly as you might have to carry a baby on board. Some models are designed to be quick and easy to change between these types of configurations, whereas others might require more patience.
Manoeuvrability
A 3-wheel pushchair can be easier to steer and handle than a four-wheeler, with the single wheel in front making it easy to navigate over rough terrain or bumps. Many models also have suspension systems, which are designed to help absorb shocks and provide an easy ride for your baby. MFM reviewer Kath tried a tri-wheeled buggy to the test and was awed by the ease with which it negotiated bumpy cobbles, pavements, and dirt tracks. Kath found it easy to climb over and down kerbs and the wheels were quick to negotiate grass.
There are three kinds of three-wheeled pushchairs: strollers (also called joggers), all-terrain models, and all-terrain models. Strollers are best suited to urban areas due to their smaller wheels and narrower frames, while joggers have large wheels and are designed to be used off-road. They tend to come with a handbrake as well as adjustable handlebars. They are great for tackling off-road walks.
All-terrain pushchairs are a popular choice for parents who want to enjoy the outdoors and explore the countryside, and they generally come with larger and more durable wheels than standard pushchairs. They are ideal for terrains that are rough and are generally used from birth, however you might need to purchase car seat adapters if you need to attach an infant carrier.
Some pushchairs appear to be 3-wheelers, but actually have four wheels, with two smaller wheels that are close to each other in front instead of a traditional central pair. This provides manoeuvrability with the stability of a four-wheeler.
3 wheel pushchair -wheel pushchairs feature an swivelling and lockable front wheel, which makes them even more maneuverable. This is especially useful if you encounter difficult surfaces often, as you can avoid getting stuck or encountering obstacles to negotiate. Some all-terrain strollers are equipped with foam-filled "never flat" tyres, that do not require pumping. This makes them more comfortable and comfortable to use for long walks or for regular use. These types of pushchairs are generally heavier and larger than other models. It is crucial to take into consideration how you will transport them or store them when selecting the best model.
Weight
Generally speaking, 3-wheel pushchairs tend to be heavier and bigger than standard pushchairs. This is especially true when they are equipped with large rear wheels. It can be difficult to lift a pushchair while it is folded, like when loading into the trunk of a car or navigating the stairs. This can also make the pushchair feel a little weighty when you're out and about, and may hinder your ability to manoeuvre through small spaces or aisles in stores.
All-terrain strollers are designed to be used on a variety of terrains including rough and uneven ground as well as mud and gravel paths. These pushchairs typically come with large, puncture-proof tyres and a robust suspension system that will provide a comfortable ride for your child. They will usually be quite costly compared to regular pushchairs.
If you live in the countryside or frequently take your baby for walks through woodlands or country parks, an all-terrain pushchair may be a good option. These pushchairs are made to handle different terrains and will have large tyres on both the front and rear. These pushchairs are often a good option for muddy or wet weather, but we recommend making sure you check your tyres regularly to avoid air bubbles and flat spots.
The iCandy Core is a great all-terrain stroller which ticks a lot of the boxes. It has a generous basket that can carry up to 10kg, a one handed fold and adjustable handlebars. The large tyres are filled with foam tyres that will never flat. You won't have to worry about punctures. The seat is designed to be world-facing and suitable from birth, and can be used in conjunction with the carrycot or an infant carrier.
Another alternative is the Special Tomato Jogger, which features a light design and great maneuverability. It's perfect for parents who like walking or running and comes with a suspension to ensure a comfortable ride over different terrains. We also appreciate how easy to clean it is with the fabric taking off the frame and washing in cold water.
Tyres
The tyres on a 3-wheeled pushchair are usually larger than those of a four-wheeled pushchair. This helps it to navigate off-road terrain. The UPPAbaby Ridge for instance, has large foam-filled tyres that never flatten and a suspension system. This makes it suitable for long walks on rough terrain. It's also designed to be suitable for jogging once your baby is old enough, thanks to a 360-degree swivel lockable front wheel and a suspension that can be adjusted.
However, larger tyres can add weight to the pushchair, so you'll need to take this into account when deciding on the model. It is also important to think about whether you'd like a pushchair that has wheels that can be removed for storage space in your car boot. MFM reviewer Becky loved this feature as it made navigating around the supermarket aisles more convenient.