3 Wheeled Pushchairs
3 wheeled pushchairs are a ideal choice for mothers who like to walk over different terrains. These buggies are easier to maneuver and more robust on rough terrain as they have larger front wheels.
If you intend to drive your buggy on other surfaces than the paved ones, you should choose one with air-filled tires (also called pneumatic). These are much more efficient on non-paved surfaces, and are puncture-proof too.
Stability
The larger the wheels of your pushchair are, the better they will be able to handle rough terrain and even the ground. This is because larger wheels have a bigger contact surface, and are therefore less likely to slide over dips and bumps. They also provide a more comfortable ride for your child. The disadvantage is that the extra wheels can take up the space in your car boot, and certain models of pushchair with large front wheels might need to be removed in order to put it away flat.
All-terrain strollers have features like large puncture-proof tires and robust suspension that allows them to withstand everything from bustling strolls on the high streets to hikes in the woods. These models are generally more expensive however if your pushchair is used off the beaten path regularly, they may be worth the investment.
If you plan to remove your pushchair from paved surfaces, it's worth choosing one with air-filled tyres (sometimes called pneumatic tyres) as these are much more suitable for rough terrain than the solid rubber ones. Push Chairs & Prams are also much less susceptible to punctures than tyres which are made of metal or hard plastic.
Some pushchairs let you remove the front wheel when not in use. This makes them easier to store, especially if you only have a small boot. Some models also feature the front wheel that swivels and can be locked to provide stability over very rough ground. It's worth checking how easy it is for you to use a pushchair that has this feature before you buy.
If you're thinking of adding a second 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 them attached - especially as you may have to do this with a child on board. Some models are designed to be simple and quick to change between these types of configurations, whereas others may require more patience.
Manoeuvrability
A 3-wheel pushchair can be easier to steer and handle than a 4-wheeler, due to the single wheel on the front making it easy to maneuver over rough terrain or bumps. A lot of models come with suspension systems that are designed to help absorb shocks and ensure a smooth ride for your baby. MFM reviewer Kath tested a three-wheeled buggy to the test and was impressed with how well it sailed over bumpy pavements, cobbles and dirt tracks. Kath was able to easily get up and down kerbs, and the wheels were quick to get over grass too.
There are three types of 3 wheel pushchairs such as joggers, strollers and all-terrain models. Strollers have smaller wheels and narrower frames that are more for urban environments, whereas Joggers have large wheels and designed for use off-road. They come with a handbrake, adjustable handlebars, and are ideal for off-road strolls.
All-terrain pushchairs are popular for parents who wish to utilise the outdoors and explore the countryside. They generally come with larger and more durable wheels than standard pushchairs. They are suitable for rough terrain, and can be used from the moment of birth. However, you may need car seat adaptors to attach an infant carrier.
Some pushchairs look like 3-wheelers but are actually four wheels. Two wheels are set close in front, instead of the traditional central pair. This provides manoeuvrability with the stability of a four-wheeler.
Some 3-wheel pushchairs come with a swivelling and lockable front wheel, which makes them even more manoeuvrable. This is especially beneficial when you have to navigate through rough terrain often, as you will avoid getting stuck or encountering obstacles to navigate around. Certain all-terrain pushchairs come fitted with foam-filled 'never flat' tyres that don't need pumping up, so they're more comfortable and convenient for long walks or frequent use. These kinds of pushchairs are generally heavier and larger than other options. It is important to consider how you will transport or store them when choosing your preferred model.
Weight
Generally speaking, 3-wheel pushchairs tend to be heavier and bigger than standard pushchairs. This is especially true when they come with large back wheels. It can be a challenge to lift a pushchair when it is folded, for instance when loading into the boot of a car or when navigating steps. This makes the pushchair feel heavy and hinder your ability to maneuver in narrow aisles or spaces.
All-terrain strollers are designed to be used on various terrains, including rough and uneven terrain as well as mud and gravel paths. They typically have large, puncture-proof tyres as well as a sturdy suspension system to provide a comfortable ride for your child. They are typically much more expensive than standard pushchairs.
All-terrain pushchairs are an excellent choice if you live in the country or take your baby on regular walks through woods or in country parks. These pushchairs usually have large tyres on both the front as well as back, and are designed to handle a wide variety of terrains. They will often be the best choice for muddy and wet 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 large 10kg basket with a one-handed fold as well as an adjustable handlebar. The large tyres are filled with foam tyres that never go flat. You don't have to worry about punctures. The seat can be used from birth and is suitable for all ages. It can also be used in conjunction with an infant carrycot or infant carrier.
The Special Tomato Jogger is another alternative. It is lightweight and extremely mobile design. It's ideal for parents who enjoy taking walks or jogging and has suspension that will give you the user a comfortable ride across all terrains. The fabric can be removed from the frame, and then washed with cold water by machine.
Tyres
The tyres of a 3-wheel pushchair will typically be bigger than those found on a 4-wheeler and can help navigate off-road terrain. The UPPAbaby Ridge, for example is equipped with large tyres filled with foam that don't flatten, as well as a suspension system. This makes it ideal for long walks over rough terrain. It is also designed to be suitable to run after your child has grown old enough. This is because of a 360-degree lockable front wheel, and a suspension that can be adjusted.
However, larger tyres can increase the overall weight of the pushchair, so you'll need to take this into account when choosing your model. You should also consider whether you'd like an infant stroller with wheels that are removable for storage space in your car boot. MFM reviewer Becky particularly enjoyed this feature because it made manoeuvring around supermarket corners much simpler.