3 Wheeled Pushchairs
Three-wheeled pushchairs offer an ideal option for mothers who love walking on a variety of terrain. The larger front wheels on these pushchairs allow them to be more maneuverable and offer greater stability on rough ground.
If you intend to use your buggy on terrains other than paved tracks, choose one that has air-filled tires (also known as pneumatic). They are more effective and puncture-proof on surfaces that are not paved.
Stability
The larger the wheels of your pushchair, the better they will be able to handle rough terrain and even the ground. This is because bigger wheels are more likely to skid' on bumps and dips. The larger wheels also provide a more comfortable ride for your child. The disadvantage is that the extra wheels could take up the space in your car boot, and certain models of pushchairs with large front wheels might need to remove them if you want to keep it in a flat place.
All-terrain pushchairs are built to handle anything from busy high street strolls to woodland walks, and are fitted with features that allow them to do this, such as robust suspension and tyres with puncture-proof treads that are large. They can be more expensive than other models, but if you regularly use your pushchair off the beaten path, they may be worth the extra expense.
It's better to choose a pushchair with pneumatic (or air-filled) tyres if you plan on taking it off pavements. They are more suitable for rough terrain than tyres made of solid rubber. These tyres are also less likely to break than ones made of metal or hard plastic.
3 wheel pushchair of pushchair allow you to turn off the front wheel when not in use, making them more compact to store - ideal if you have an insufficient car boot. Some models also have a swivelling front wheel that can be locked to provide stability over very rough ground. If you're thinking of purchasing a pushchair that has this feature, you should check how it's easy to use before you buy.
It is crucial to think about how easy it will make it to add another seat or parent-facing unit to your pushchair. This is especially important if you have a baby with you. Some models are designed to allow rapid and simple modifications to the configuration, whereas others require more patience.
Manoeuvrability
A pushchair with three wheels is easier to steer and handle than a 4-wheeler. The single front wheel allows for easy maneuvering over bumps and rough terrain. Many models come with suspension systems that absorb shocks and provide your child with an easy ride. MFM reviewer Kath put a three-wheeled buggy to the test and was impressed with the ease with which it negotiated bumpy roads, cobbles and dirt tracks. She found it easy for her to climb up and down kerbs and the wheels were fast to navigate grass.
There are three types of three-wheeled pushchairs: strollers (also called Joggers) and models with all-terrain surfaces and all-terrain models. Strollers have smaller wheels and narrower frames that are better for urban environments, while joggers are equipped with large wheels and designed to be used off-road. They come with a handbrake and adjustable handlebars, and are ideal for off-road walks.
All-terrain strollers are popular among parents who want to explore the countryside and take advantage of the outdoors. They usually have larger, more durable wheels than standard pushchairs. They are ideal for terrains that are rough and can usually be used from birth, but you may need to purchase car seat adapters if you are looking to connect a compatible infant carrier.
Some pushchairs appear to be 3-wheelers, but they have four wheels. Two wheels are positioned close in front instead of the 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 have a swivelling and lockable front wheel, making them even more manoeuvrable. This is particularly useful if you regularly encounter difficult surfaces, as it could assist you in avoiding getting stuck or walking around obstacles. Certain all-terrain pushchairs are fitted with foam-filled 'never flat' tyres that do not require pumping, which means they're more convenient and comfortable for long walks or frequent use. These types of pushchairs are generally heavier and bigger than other choices. It is crucial to think about the way you'll transport them or store them when selecting the best model.
Weight
In general, 3-wheeled pushchairs are heavier and larger than standard pushchairs. This is especially the case when they have big back wheels. It can be a challenge to lift a pushchair when it is folded, like when it is loaded into the car's boot or navigating steps. This can also make the pushchair feel heavy when you are out and about, and could hinder your ability to manoeuvre through small spaces or aisles in stores.
All-terrain pushchairs are built to handle a range of different terrains, including rough and uneven ground as well as mud and gravel trails. They typically have large, puncture-proof tyres along with a robust suspension system to provide a safe and comfortable ride for your child. They are usually a lot more expensive than regular pushchairs.
If you reside in the countryside or regularly take your baby to walks in the woods or country parks, an all-terrain pushchair could be the best option. These pushchairs are designed to be able to handle a variety of terrains, and will have large tyres both on the front and rear. They are an ideal choice for wet or muddy 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 that ticks off all the boxes. It has a generous 10kg basket that folds with one hand and an adjustable handlebar. The large tyres are filled with foam and never flat, so you don't have to worry about punctures or loss of air pressure. The seat is designed to be world-facing and is suitable from birth and can be used with an infant carrycot or infant carrier.
The Special Tomato Jogger is another option. It's a light and highly mobile design. It's ideal for parents who love taking walks or jogging and has suspension that ensures a comfortable ride over different terrains. We also love how easy to clean it, with the fabric simply removing from the frame and washing in cold water.
Tyres
The tyres of a three-wheeled pushchair tend to be larger than those on a 4-wheeled pram. This can help it to navigate off-road terrain. For instance, the UPPAbaby Ridge comes with large, foam-filled tyres with a 'never flat' design and a suspension system that make it ideal for long walks as well as rough ground. It's also designed to be suitable for running after your baby has grown old enough, thanks to a 360-degree swivel lockable front wheel and adjustable suspension.
However, larger tyres can increase the overall weight of the pushchair so you'll need to take this into account when deciding on the model. You should also consider whether you'd prefer an infant stroller with wheels that are removable for easier storage in your car boot. MFM reviewer Becky particularly enjoyed this feature because it made manoeuvring around supermarket corners much simpler.