3 Wheeled Pushchairs
Three-wheeled pushchairs are an ideal option for mothers who enjoy walking on varied terrain. The larger front wheels on these pushchairs allow them to be more maneuverable and offer more stability on uneven ground.
If you plan to use your buggy on other surfaces than the paved ones, you should choose one that has air-filled tires (also called pneumatic). They are more efficient and puncture-proof even on non-paved surfaces.
Stability
The bigger the wheels of your pushchair are, the better they will deal with rough terrain and the ground. This is because bigger wheels have a larger contact area, so they are less likely to'skid' over bumps and dips. They also provide a more comfortable ride for your child. The disadvantage is that the extra wheels are a burden on the car boot. Certain models of pushchairs with big front wheels must be removed in order to store them flat.
All-terrain pushchairs are built to withstand everything from high-street strolls to woodland walks, and are equipped with features that enable them to accomplish this, including strong suspension and tyres with puncture-proof treads that are large. They tend to be more expensive than other models, however if you regularly use your pushchair off the beaten track they could be worth the extra expense.
If you are planning to use your pushchair on roads, it's worth choosing one with air-filled tyres (sometimes called pneumatic tyres) since they are better suited to rough terrain than the solid rubber ones. These tyres are also less likely to puncture than those made of metal or hard plastic.
Some pushchairs let you to turn off the front wheel when not in use, making them more compact to store - ideal if you have a small car boot. Certain models come with a front wheel that can be locked in place to ensure stability on rough terrain. If you're thinking about purchasing a pushchair that has this feature, you should check how it's easy to use before you buy.
If you're thinking about adding an additional seat, parent-facing unit or car seat adaptors to your pushchair, it's important to know how easy it will be to change these elements and fold/unfold the pushchair with the attached items, particularly as you may have to carry a baby on board. Certain models are designed for simple and quick configuration changes, while others require more patience.
Manoeuvrability
A pushchair with three wheels is easier to handle and steer than a four-wheeler. The single front wheel makes it easy to navigate over bumps and rough terrain. A lot of models have suspension systems that help to absorb the shocks and give your child an easy ride. MFM's Kath tested a three-wheeled buggie and was awed by the ease with which it handled uneven pavements, cobblestones, and dirt tracks. Kath found it easy to get up and down kerbs, and the wheels were quick to negotiate over grass too.
There are three main types of 3 wheel pushchair such as joggers, strollers and all-terrain models. Strollers have smaller wheels and shorter frames that are more for urban environments, while joggers are equipped with large wheels and are specifically designed for use off-road. They typically come with a handbrake as well as adjustable handlebars, and are great for tackling off-road hikes.
All-terrain strollers are popular with parents who like to explore the countryside and take advantage of the outdoors. They typically have larger, more durable wheels than regular pushchairs. They are ideal for rough terrain, and can be used as early as the time of birth. However, you might need car seat adaptors to attach an infant carrier.
Some pushchairs resemble 3-wheelers but are actually four wheels. Two small wheels are set close in front, instead of the traditional central pair. This allows for the manoeuvrability of a three-wheeler, but the stability and safety of a four wheeler.
Some 3-wheel pushchairs feature the option of locking and swivelling the front wheel, making them even more maneuverable. This is especially beneficial if you encounter difficult surfaces often, as you can avoid getting stuck or having obstacles to negotiate. Some all-terrain pushchairs are also equipped with foam-filled 'never flat' tyres that do not require pumping, which means they're more comfortable and convenient for long walks or regular use. It's important to note that these kinds of pushchairs are typically larger and heavier than other models, so it's important to think about how you'll be transporting or storing them before selecting the best model for you.
Weight
In general 3-wheeled pushchairs are generally heavier and larger than normal pushchairs. This is especially true when they have large back wheels. It can be difficult to lift a pushchair once it is folded, like when loading into the trunk of a car or navigating steps. This makes the pushchair feel heavy and restrict your ability to maneuver through narrow spaces or aisles.
All-terrain strollers are designed to be used on a variety of terrains including rough and uneven terrain as well as mud and gravel paths. They typically have large, puncture-proof tyres and an extremely sturdy suspension system to provide a comfortable ride for your child. They are typically a lot more expensive than standard pushchairs.
All-terrain pushchairs are an excellent option if you reside in the countryside or take your child on regular walks through woods or country parks. These pushchairs typically have large tyres on both the front and back, and they are designed to withstand many different terrains. They will often be the best choice for muddy and wet weather as well, although 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 has a spacious basket that can hold up to 10kg, a single hand fold and adjustable handlebars. Its large tyres have foam-filled tyres that never go flat. You don't have to worry about punctures. The seat is designed to be world-facing and is suitable from birth and it can be used in conjunction with the carrycot or an infant carrier.
The Special Tomato Jogger is another option. It is lightweight and highly mobile design. It's an excellent choice for parents who are active and like to take walks or jogs along with their child, and it is equipped with suspension to provide the baby is comfortable on all types of terrain. The fabric can be removed from the frame, and washed in cold water by machine.
Tyres
The tyres of a three-wheeled pushchair are usually larger than those on a four-wheeled pram. This helps it to handle off-road terrain. For example, the UPPAbaby Ridge comes with large foam-filled 'never flat' tyres and a suspension system that make it great for long walks as well as rough ground. It's designed to be able for jogging after your child has grown old enough. This is because of the 360-degree lockable front wheel and adjustable suspension.
However, larger tyres could add weight to the pushchair, so you'll need to take this into consideration when deciding on the model. You'll also need to consider whether you'd like an infant stroller with wheels that are removable for easier storage in your car boot. MFM reviewer Becky loved this feature as it made the process of navigating supermarket corners more convenient.