3 Wheeled Pushchairs
3 wheeled pushchairs are excellent choice for mothers who enjoy walking on varied terrain. These buggies are easier to maneuver and are more sturdy on rough terrain since they have larger front wheels.
If you intend to take your buggy off of paved tracks, pick a model that is air-filled tyres (sometimes called pneumatic). They are more effective on non-paved surfaces and are puncture-proof too.
Stability
In general, the larger the wheels on your pushchair is, the better it will be able to handle rough ground and terrain. 3 wheeler pushchairs is because the larger wheels have a greater contact surface so are less likely to'skid' over bumps and dips. The larger wheels also provide a more comfortable ride to your child. The downside is that additional wheels can take up the space in your car boot, and certain models of pushchair with large front wheels might need to be removed if you want to put it away flat.
All-terrain strollers come with features like large puncture-proof tires, as well as robust suspensions that allow them to withstand everything from busy high-street strolls to forest hikes. These types are typically more expensive however if your pushchair is utilized off the beaten track regularly, they may be worth the cost.
It is recommended to select a pushchair with pneumatic (or air-filled) tires if you intend to use it on paved surfaces. They are better suited for rough terrain than tyres made of solid rubber. These tyres are also less likely to puncture than those made of steel or hard plastic.
Some pushchairs allow you to remove the front wheel when not in use. This can make them easier to store, particularly when you have a small boot. Certain models come with a front wheel that can be locked into place to ensure stability when on rough terrain. It's worth checking how easy it is for you to use a pushchair with this feature before you buy.
If you're thinking of adding an additional seat, parent-facing unit or car seat adaptors to your pushchair, it's important to check how easy it will be to change these elements and fold or unfold the pushchair with them attached - especially as you may have to do this with a child on board. Some models are designed to be fast and simple to change between these configurations, while others may require a little more patience.
Manoeuvrability
A 3-wheel pushchair can be more maneuverable and manage than a 4-wheeler, due to the single front wheel making it easy to navigate over bumps and rough terrain. Many models also come with suspension systems, designed to absorb shocks and provide a smooth ride for your child. MFM's Kath tested a three-wheeled buggie and was amazed by the ease with which it handled uneven pavements, cobblestones and dirt tracks. Kath was able to easily get up and down kerbs and the wheels were quick to get over grass too.
There are three kinds of 3 wheeled pushchairs namely strollers (also known as joggers) and models with all-terrain surfaces and all-terrain models. Strollers have smaller wheels and shorter frames that are better suited to urban environments, whereas joggers are equipped with large wheels and are designed for off-road use. They typically feature a handbrake and adjustable handlebars. They are great for tackling off-road walks.
All-terrain pushchairs are popular for parents who want to take advantage of the outdoors and explore the countryside, and they generally have more robust and larger wheels than standard pushchairs. They are ideal for rough terrain, and are suitable from birth. However, you may require adaptors for your car seat to attach an infant car seat.
Some pushchairs act like 3-wheelers but actually have 4 wheels, with two smaller wheels positioned close together at the front in place of a traditional central pair. This provides manoeuvrability with the stability of a four-wheeler.
Some 3-wheeled pushchairs come with an adjustable and lockable front wheel that makes them more maneuverable. This is particularly useful if you regularly encounter difficult surfaces, since it can assist you in avoiding getting stuck or walking around obstacles. Certain all-terrain strollers come with foam-filled "never flat" tyres, which do not require pumping. This makes them more comfortable and comfortable to use for long walks or for continuous use. These kinds of pushchairs are generally heavier and bulkier than other choices. It is important to take into consideration the method you'll use to transport them or store them when you choose your preferred model.
Weight
Generally speaking, 3-wheel pushchairs tend to be heavier and larger than standard pushchairs, especially when they come with large back wheels. It can be a challenge to lift a pushchair when it is folded, for instance when loading into the car's boot or navigating steps. This can also make the pushchair feel heavy when you are out and about, and can limit how quickly you can manoeuvre through small spaces or aisles in stores.
All-terrain strollers are designed to be used on different terrains like uneven and rough ground such as mud, gravel, and paths. These pushchairs will typically feature large, puncture-proof tyres and an extremely sturdy suspension system to offer a safe and comfortable ride for your child. They are typically much more expensive than normal pushchairs.
If you reside in the countryside, or take your child regularly for walks in woodland or country parks A pushchair that is all-terrain could be a great choice. These pushchairs are built to be able to handle a variety of terrains, and will feature large tyres on the front and rear. They will often be the best option for wet and muddy conditions, but we suggest regular inspection of the tyres 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 large basket that can hold up to 10kg, a single hand fold and adjustable handlebars. The large tyres are filled with foam tyres that never go flat. You don't have to worry about punctures. The seat is orientated to the world and is suitable from birth and can be used with the carrycot or an infant carrier.
The Special Tomato Jogger is another alternative. It's a light and highly maneuverable design. It's ideal for parents who like walking or running and has a suspension to ensure an enjoyable ride on all terrains. The fabric can be removed from the frame and washed in cold water with a machine.
Tyres
The tyres on a 3-wheel pushchair are usually larger than those found on the 4-wheel model, which can help to deal with off-road terrain. For example, the UPPAbaby Ridge has large, foam-filled 'never flat' tyres and suspension systems that make it ideal for long walks and rough ground. It's also designed to be suitable for jogging once your baby is old enough due to a 360-degree pivoting lockable front wheel and an adjustable suspension.
However, larger tyres can increase the overall weight of the pushchair. You'll have to consider this when choosing your model. You'll also need to consider whether you'd like an infant stroller with wheels that are removable to make it easier to store in your car boot. MFM reviewer Becky especially liked this feature because it made maneuvering around the corners of supermarkets much easier.