3 Wheeled Pushchairs
Three-wheeled pushchairs offer an excellent option for mothers who enjoy walking on varied terrain. 3 wheeler pushchair on these pushchairs make them easier to maneuver and provide more stability when walking on rough terrain.
If you plan to use your buggy on surfaces other than paved tracks, select one with air-filled tires (also called pneumatic). These are more efficient and puncture-proof on non-paved surfaces.
Stability
The larger the wheels of your pushchair the better able they are to deal with rough terrain and the ground. It's because larger wheels are more likely to skid' on bumps and dips. The larger wheels also provide the most comfortable ride for your child. The downside is the extra wheels are a burden on the car boot. Some models of pushchairs that have large front wheels must be removed in order to keep them flat.
All-terrain strollers have features such as large puncture-proof tires and robust suspension that allows them to take on everything from bustling high-street strolls to hikes in the woods. These models are usually more expensive, but if your pushchair is utilized off the beaten track often, they could be worth the investment.
If you plan to take your pushchair off roads, it's worth opting for a pushchair that is fitted with air-filled tyres (sometimes called pneumatic tyres) since they are more suitable for rough ground than tyres made of solid rubber. These tyres are also less likely to break than ones made of steel or hard plastic.
Some pushchairs let you remove the front wheel when they are not in use. This makes them easier to store, particularly in the case of an empty boot. Certain models come with an front wheel that can be locked into place to ensure stability on uneven terrain. If you're thinking of buying a pushchair with this feature, you should check how it's operated 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 switch these components and fold/unfold the pushchair with the attached items, particularly as you may have to carry a baby on board. Some models are designed to allow rapid and simple modifications to the configuration, whereas others require more patience.
Manoeuvrability
A 3-wheel pushchair is often easier to steer and handle than a 4-wheeler, with the single wheel on the front making it easy to navigate over bumps or rough terrain. A lot of models have suspension systems that help to absorb shocks and provide your child with a smooth ride. MFM's Kath tested a three-wheeled buggie and was impressed by the ease with which it handled uneven pavements, cobblestones and dirt tracks. She found it easy to climb up and down kerbs, and the wheels were fast to negotiate grass.
There are three types of 3 wheel pushchair: strollers, joggers and all-terrain models. Strollers have smaller wheels and narrower frames that are better suited to urban environments, whereas Joggers have large wheels and are designed to be used off-road. 3 wheeler pushchair tend to come with a handbrake as well as adjustable handlebars. They are great for tackling off-road hikes.
All-terrain strollers are popular with parents who like to explore the countryside and enjoy the outdoors. They usually come with wheels that are larger and more durable than standard pushchairs. They're great for rough terrain and can usually be used from birth, but you might need to purchase car seat adapters if you are looking to connect a compatible infant carrier.
Some pushchairs appear to be 3-wheelers, but actually have four wheels, with two small wheels positioned close together in front instead of a traditional central pair. This allows for the maneuverability of a three-wheeler with the stability and safety of a four wheeler.
Some 3-wheel pushchairs come with a swivelling and lockable front wheel, which makes them even more maneuverable. This is particularly useful in areas where you face a lot of difficulty often, as you will avoid getting stuck or having obstacles to negotiate. Certain all-terrain pushchairs come equipped with foam-filled "never flat' tyres that do not need pumping up, so they're more comfortable and convenient for long walks or frequent use. It's important to remember that these kinds of pushchairs are typically heavier and bigger than other pushchairs which is why it's essential to think about how you'll be transporting them or storing them when choosing the model you want to use.
Weight
Generally speaking 3-wheel pushchairs tend be heavier and bigger than standard pushchairs. This is especially true when they have large back wheels. It can be a challenge to lift a pushchair when it is folded, like when loading it into the car's boot or when climbing the stairs. This makes the pushchair feel heavy and hinder your ability to maneuver in narrow spaces or aisles.
All-terrain strollers are designed to be used on different terrains like uneven and rough ground, mud, and gravel paths. These pushchairs will typically feature large, puncture-proof tyres along with a robust suspension system to offer an enjoyable ride for your child. They are typically expensive when compared with regular pushchairs.
If you reside in the countryside, or take your child regularly to walks in the woods or country parks, an all-terrain pushchair may be the best option. These pushchairs usually feature large tyres front as well as back, and will be designed to handle a wide variety of terrains. They are often an ideal option for wet and muddy conditions, but we suggest checking the tyres regularly to avoid flat spots and air bubbles.
The iCandy Core is a great all-terrain stroller that ticks off many of the boxes. It comes with a huge 10kg basket that folds with one hand and an adjustable handlebar. Its large tyres feature foam-filled tyres that are never flat. You won't have to worry about punctures. 3 wheeler pushchair is designed to be world-facing and suitable from birth, and it can be used with the carrycot or an infant carrier.
The Special Tomato Jogger is another option. It has a lightweight and highly mobile design. It's a great choice for active parents who like to go for walks or jogs with their child and also is equipped with suspension to provide the baby is comfortable on all kinds of terrain. We also appreciate how easy it is to clean by simply being removed from the frame and being machine washable in cold water.
Tyres
The tyres of a 3-wheel pushchair will often be larger than those found on a 4-wheeler that can help handle off-road terrain. The UPPAbaby Ridge, for example is equipped with large tyres filled with foam that never flatten and a suspension system. This makes it suitable for long walks over rough terrain. It's also designed to be suitable for jogging when your baby is old enough thanks to a 360 locking swivel front wheel that can be locked and an adjustable suspension.
You'll need to think about the weight of your pushchair when choosing a model. You will also need to decide if you want a model with removable wheels so that it is easier to store in your car boot. MFM reviewer Becky liked this feature because it made getting around supermarket corners more convenient.