3 Wheeled Pushchairs
Three-wheeled pushchairs can be an excellent option for mothers who enjoy walking on varied terrain. They are easy to maneuver and are more robust on rough terrain as they have larger front wheels.
If you intend to take your buggy off of paved tracks, opt for a model that has air-filled tyres (sometimes called pneumatic). These are much more efficient on non-paved surfaces, and are puncture-proof too.
Stability
The larger the wheels on your pushchair is, the better it will be able to handle rough terrain and uneven ground. It is because larger wheels are more likely to'skid' on bumps and dips. They also offer a more comfortable ride for your child. The downside is that extra wheels can take up the space in your car boot, and certain models of pushchair with large front wheels might need to remove them when you wish to store it flat.
All-terrain pushchairs are built to be able to take on anything from high street strolls to woodland walks, and are fitted with features that let them achieve this, like strong suspension and huge puncture-proof tyres. They are often more expensive than other models, however If you are regularly using your pushchair off the main track, they might be worth the extra investment.
If you intend to remove your pushchair from roads, it's worth choosing one that is fitted with air-filled tyres (sometimes called pneumatic tyres) because they are better suited to rough terrain than solid rubber ones. They are also less likely to break than ones made of steel or hard plastic.
Some models of pushchair allow you to click off the front wheel when in use, making them easier to store - useful for those with a small car boot. Some models also feature a swivelling front wheel that can be locked to give stability on rough terrain. It's important to know the ease of you to use a pushchair equipped with this feature before you buy.
It's important to consider how easy it will be it to add a second seat or a parent-facing unit to your pushchair. This is particularly true if you have a baby with you. Some models are designed to allow quick and easy configuration changes, while others require more patience.
Manoeuvrability
A 3-wheel pushchair can be more maneuverable and manage than a four-wheeler, with the single wheel on the front making it easy to navigate over bumps or rough terrain. Many models also come with suspension systems, which are designed to help absorb shocks and provide an easy ride for your child. MFM reviewer Kath put a three-wheeled buggy to the test, and was amazed by how well it sailed over bumpy pavements, cobbles and dirt tracks. Kath found it easy to go up and down kerbs, and the wheels were quick to get over grass too.
There are three types of 3 wheeled pushchair s namely 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 come with large wheels and are designed to be used off-road. They come with a handbrake and adjustable handlebars and are great for off-road strolls.
All-terrain strollers are popular with parents who want to explore the countryside and take advantage of the outdoors. They typically have wheels that are larger and more durable than standard pushchairs. They are ideal for rocky terrain and can be used from the time of birth. However, you might require car seat adaptors to attach an infant car seat.
Some pushchairs look like 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.
Some 3-wheel pushchairs have an swivelling and lockable front wheel, making them even more manoeuvrable. This is particularly useful in areas where you face a lot of difficulty often, as you can avoid getting stuck or encountering obstacles to navigate around. Certain all-terrain pushchairs are equipped with foam-filled 'never flat' tyres, which don't need pumping up, so they're more convenient and comfortable for long walks or continuous use. It's worth noting that these kinds of pushchairs tend to be larger and heavier than other options which is why it's essential to think about how you'll be transporting them or storing them when deciding on your preferred model.
Weight
In general, 3-wheeled pushchairs are larger and heavier than normal pushchairs. This is particularly true when they have big back wheels. This can make it difficult to lift the pushchair once folded, like when loading into the car boot or going up steps. This may also make the pushchair feel heavy when you are out and about, and could hinder your ability to navigate narrow spaces or aisles in stores.
All-terrain strollers are designed to be used on different terrains like rough and uneven ground as well as mud and gravel paths. They are fitted with large, puncture-proof tires and a sturdy suspension to provide a comfortable ride for your child. These pushchairs are generally expensive when compared to standard pushchairs.
All-terrain pushchairs are a good option when you reside in the countryside or take your baby for regular walks in the woods or country parks. These pushchairs typically have large tyres on both the front and back, and will be designed to handle many different terrains. They are usually a good option for wet and muddy conditions, but we recommend regular inspection of the tyres to avoid flat spots and air bubbles.
The iCandy Core, for example is a pushchair for all-terrain use that checks off a number of boxes. It comes with a huge 10kg basket, a one-handed fold and an adjustable handlebar. The large tyres are filled with foam and never flat, which means you won't need to worry about punctures or loss of air pressure. The seat can be used from birth and is suitable for all ages. It can also be used in conjunction with the carrycot as well as an infant carrier.
The Special Tomato Jogger is another alternative. It's a light and extremely mobile design. It's perfect for parents who enjoy walking or running, and comes with suspension that ensures the user a comfortable ride across all terrains. We also love how easy it is to clean by simply removing from the frame and being machine washable in cold water.
Tyres
The tyres of a 3-wheel pushchair will typically be bigger than those on a 4-wheeler, which can help to handle off-road terrain. For example, the UPPAbaby Ridge features large foam-filled tyres with a 'never flat' design and suspension systems that make it great for long walks and rough ground. It's designed to be able for jogging once your child is old enough. This is because of a 360-degree lockable front wheel, and an adjustable suspension.
You'll need to think about the weight of your pushchair when choosing the model. It is also important to decide if you want wheels that can be removed so that it is easier to store in your car boot. MFM reviewer Becky liked this feature because it made the process of navigating supermarket aisles much more convenient.