3 Wheeled Pushchairs
3 wheeled pushchairs are a excellent choice for mothers who like to walk over varied terrain. These buggies are much easier to maneuver and are 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 a model that has air-filled tires (also known as pneumatic). These are more efficient and puncture-proof on surfaces that are not paved.
Stability
The larger the wheels on your pushchair, the better it will deal with rough ground and terrain. This is because the larger wheels have a larger contact surface, and are therefore less likely to slide over dips and bumps. The larger wheels also provide the most comfortable ride for your child. The disadvantage is that the extra wheels could take up space in your car's boot, and certain models of pushchair with large front wheels might need to have them removed when you wish to keep it in a flat place.
All-terrain pushchairs are built to withstand everything from high-street strolls to woodland walks, and come equipped with features that let them achieve this, like sturdy suspension and huge puncture-proof tyres. These models are usually more expensive but if your child's pushchair is frequently used outside of the main roads frequently, they might be worth the cost.
If you intend to use your pushchair on roads, it's worth choosing one with air-filled tyres (sometimes called pneumatic tyres) since they are more suitable for rough terrain than tyres made of solid rubber. They are also less susceptible to punctures than tyres which are made of hard plastic or metal.
Certain models of pushchairs allow you to turn off the front wheel when in use, which can make them more compact to store - ideal if you have a small car boot. Certain models also come with an swivelling front wheel that can be locked to add stability over very rough ground. If you're considering purchasing a pushchair that has this feature, make sure to check how it's operated before purchasing.
If you're thinking of adding a second seat, parent-facing unit, or car seat adaptors to your pushchair, it's important to check how it is easy to change these elements and fold/unfold the pushchair with them attached - especially as you may need to do this with a child on board. Some models are designed to be simple and quick to switch between these types of configurations, whereas others may require more patience.
Manoeuvrability
A pushchair with three wheels is easier to maneuver and steer than a four-wheeler. The single wheel in the front makes it easy to navigate over bumps and rough terrain. Many models also come with suspension systems that are designed to absorb shocks and provide an easy ride for your baby. MFM's Kath tested a three-wheeled buggie and was amazed by how well it handled uneven pavements, cobblestones and dirt tracks. She found it easy to climb up and down kerbs and the wheels were quick to maneuver through grass.
There are three main types of 3 wheel pushchair : strollers, joggers and all-terrain models. Strollers are best suited for urban environments with their smaller frames and narrower wheels while joggers have large wheels and are designed to take you off-road. They typically feature a handbrake and adjustable handlebars, and are ideal for off-road hikes.
All-terrain pushchairs are a favorite for parents who want to utilise the outdoors and enjoy the countryside. They generally come with larger and more durable wheels than regular pushchairs. They are ideal for rocky terrain and can be used as early as the moment of birth. However, you may require car seat adaptors to attach an infant carrier.
Some pushchairs act like 3-wheelers but actually have 4 wheels, with two small wheels that are close to each other in front, instead of a traditional central pair. This gives maneuverability and the stability of a four-wheeler.
Some 3-wheeled pushchairs include an swivelable and lockable front wheel, making them more mobile. 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 pushchairs come equipped with foam-filled 'never flat' tyres that don't require pumping, which means they're more convenient and comfortable for long walks or regular use. It's important to note that these kinds of pushchairs are typically heavier and bigger than other models which is why it's essential to consider the method you'll use for transporting or storing them before selecting the best model for you.
Weight
In general, 3-wheeled pushchairs are larger and heavier than regular pushchairs. This is particularly true when they have big back wheels. It can be difficult to lift a pushchair while it is folded, for instance when loading into the boot of a car or when climbing stairs. This could make the pushchair appear bulky and limit the ability to move through narrow spaces or aisles.
All-terrain strollers are designed to be used on different terrains like rough and uneven terrain as well as mud and gravel paths. They are fitted with large, puncture-proof tires. They also have an extremely sturdy suspension that will provide an enjoyable ride for the child. They are usually costly compared to normal pushchairs.
If you reside in the countryside or frequently take your baby for walks in woodland or country parks, an all-terrain pushchair could be a good option. These pushchairs are designed to withstand a variety of terrains and will feature large tyres on the front and rear. These pushchairs are often a good option for wet or muddy weather However, we suggest regularly checking your tyres to avoid air bubbles and flat spots.
The iCandy Core is a great all-terrain stroller which ticks all the boxes. It has a spacious basket that can hold up to 10kg, a single hand fold, and a movable handlebar. The large tyres are filled with foam tyres that are never flat. It isn't necessary to worry about punctures. The seat is world-facing and suitable for babies from birth, and it can be used in conjunction with the carrycot or an infant carrier.
The Special Tomato Jogger is another option. It's a light and highly maneuverable design. It's perfect for parents who love going for walks or jogs 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 with a machine.
Tyres
The tyres of a 3-wheeled pushchair tend to be larger than those of a four-wheeled pram. This can help it to navigate off-road terrain. The UPPAbaby Ridge for instance is equipped with large tyres filled with foam that never flatten and suspension systems. This makes it suitable for long walks on rough terrain. It's also designed 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.
You should consider the weight of your pushchair when deciding on a model. It is also important to think about whether you want a pushchair that has wheels that can be removed for storage space in your car boot. MFM reviewer Becky particularly liked this feature as it made maneuvering around the corners of supermarkets much easier.