3 Wheeled Pushchairs
Three-wheeled pushchairs are an ideal option for mothers who love walking on a variety of terrain. The larger front wheels on these pushchairs make them easier to maneuver and offer greater stability on rough ground.
If you plan to drive your buggy on roads, opt for a model that has air-filled tyres (sometimes called pneumatic). They are more efficient and puncture-proof even on non-paved surfaces.
Stability
The larger the wheels on your pushchair is, the better it will cope with rough terrain and dirt. This is because larger wheels have a bigger contact surface, and are therefore less likely to skid over bumps and dips. The larger wheels also provide the most comfortable ride for your child. The downside is that additional wheels can take up the space in your car boot, and certain models with big front wheels might need to be removed when you wish to put it away flat.
All-terrain pushchairs are made to withstand everything from high-street strolls to wooded walks, and are equipped with features that allow them to achieve this, like robust suspension and tyres with puncture-proof treads that are large. These models are generally more expensive however if your pushchair is used off the beaten path regularly, they may be worth the cost.
It is better to choose a pushchair with pneumatic (or air-filled) tyres if you plan to take it off roads. They are more suitable for rough terrain than tyres made of solid rubber. They are also less susceptible to punctures than tyres that are made from hard plastic or metal.
Some pushchairs let you to turn off the front wheel when not in use, which makes them easier to store - useful for those with a small car boot. Certain models also come with the front wheel that swivels and can be locked to provide stability on rough terrain. If you're thinking about purchasing a pushchair that has this feature, you should check how easy it is to operate before you purchase.
If you're considering adding a second seat, parent-facing unit, or car seat adaptors to your pushchair, it's important to know how it is easy to switch these components and fold or unfold the pushchair with them attached, especially since you might have to do this with a baby on board. Some models are designed to be quick and easy to switch between these configurations, while others may require a little more patience.
Manoeuvrability
A 3-wheel pushchair is often easier to steer and maneuver than a 4-wheeler, with the single wheel on the front making it simple to navigate over rough terrain or bumps. Many models come with suspension systems that help to absorb shocks and give your baby a smooth ride. MFM reviewer Kath put a three-wheeled buggy to the test and was amazed by how well it handled bumpy pavements, cobbles and dirt tracks. Kath found it easy to go up and down kerbs, and the wheels were quick to negotiate over grass too.
There are three primary kinds of 3 wheel pushchairs: strollers, joggers and all-terrain models. Strollers are best suited to urban environments due to their smaller frames and narrower wheels while joggers come with large wheels and are designed to take you off-road. They are equipped 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 enjoy the outdoors. They usually come with bigger, more durable wheels than standard pushchairs. They are great for rough terrain, and can be used as early as the moment of birth. However, you might require adaptors for your car seat to connect an infant carrier.
Some pushchairs appear to be 3-wheelers, but have four wheels. Two wheels are placed close together in front of the traditional central pair. This allows for the maneuverability of a three-wheeler, but the stability and safety of a four-wheeler.
Some 3-wheeled pushchairs include an adjustable and lockable front wheel, making them more easily maneuverable. This is particularly useful when you have to navigate through rough terrain often, as you can avoid getting stuck or having obstacles to negotiate. Certain all-terrain strollers come with foam-filled "never flat" tyres, that don't require pumping. This makes them more convenient and comfortable to use on long walks or for continuous use. It's important to remember that these types of pushchairs are generally heavier and bigger than other models and it's crucial to think about how you'll be transporting or storing them before selecting the best model for you.
Weight
Generally speaking 3-wheel pushchairs tend be heavier and more spacious than standard pushchairs. This is especially true when they come with large back wheels. It can be difficult to lift a pushchair when it is folded, like when it is loaded into the boot of a car or when navigating steps. This may also make the pushchair feel bulky when out and about, and may hinder your ability to maneuver through narrow spaces or aisles in stores.
All-terrain strollers are designed to be used on different terrains like rough and uneven terrain as well as mud and gravel paths. They typically have large, puncture-proof tyres as well as a robust suspension system to offer an enjoyable ride for your child. They are usually much more expensive than standard pushchairs.
If you reside in the countryside or frequently take your baby to walks in the woods or country parks A pushchair that is all-terrain could be a great choice. These pushchairs usually have large tyres on both the front and back, and will be designed to handle all kinds of terrain. These pushchairs are usually a good option for wet or muddy weather however we suggest making sure you check your tyres regularly to avoid air bubbles and flat spots.
The iCandy Core is a great all-terrain stroller which ticks many of the boxes. It comes with a huge 10kg basket that folds with one hand and an adjustable handlebar. The large tyres are filled with foam tyres that are never flat. You don't have to worry about punctures. The seat is orientated to the world and suitable from birth, and can be used in conjunction with an infant carrycot or infant carrier.
The Special Tomato Jogger is another alternative. It's a light and extremely mobile design. It's perfect for parents who like walking or running, and comes with suspension that will give you a comfortable ride over different terrains. 3 wheel stroller travel system Pushchairs And Prams can be removed from the frame and washed in cold water using a machine.
Tyres
The tyres on a 3-wheeled pushchair are often larger than those on a four-wheeled pushchair. This helps it to navigate off-road terrain. The UPPAbaby Ridge for instance has tyres with large, foam-filled tyres that never flatten and a suspension system. This makes it ideal for long walks on rough terrain. It is also designed to be suitable to jog when your child is old enough. This is due to the 360-degree lockable front wheel and an adjustable suspension.
However, larger tyres may add weight to the pushchair. You'll have to take this into account when deciding on the model. You'll also have to decide if you would like wheels that can be removed to make it easier to store in your car boot. MFM reviewer Becky liked this feature as it made the process of navigating supermarket aisles much easier.