3 Wheeled Pushchairs
3 wheeled pushchair s are a ideal choice for mothers who like to walk over different terrains. 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 surfaces other than paved tracks, choose one with air-filled tires (also called pneumatic). These are more efficient and puncture-proof even on non-paved surfaces.
Stability
The bigger the wheels of your pushchair the better they are able to be able to handle rough terrain and even the ground. This is because bigger 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 disadvantage is that the extra wheels take up space in the car boot. Some models of pushchairs with large front wheels will need to be removed to store them flat.
All-terrain strollers come with features such as large puncture-proof tires, as well as robust suspension that allows them to handle everything from bustling high-street strolls to woodland hikes. They can be more expensive than other models, however If you are regularly using your pushchair away from the main path, they may be worth the extra cost.
If you are planning to remove your pushchair from pavements, you should consider opting for a pushchair that is fitted with air-filled tyres (sometimes called pneumatic tyres) since they are more suitable for rough ground than tyres made of solid rubber. They are also much 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 makes them easier to store - useful for those with a small car boot. Some models also have the front wheel that swivels and can be locked to give stability over very rough ground. If you're thinking about purchasing a pushchair that has this feature, it's worth seeing how it's operated before purchasing.
If you're thinking of adding a second seat, parent-facing unit, or car seat adaptors for your pushchair, it's important to know how easy it will be to change these elements and fold or unfold the pushchair with the attached items, particularly as you might have to do this with a baby 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 is typically easier to steer and maneuver than a 4-wheeler, with the single front wheel making it easy to navigate over rough terrain or bumps. Many models come with suspension systems that help to absorb the shocks and give your child a smooth ride. MFM reviewer Kath tried a tri-wheeled buggy to the test and was amazed by the ease with which it negotiated bumpy pavements, cobbles and dirt tracks. She found it easy to get up and down kerbs, and the wheels were quick to get over grass too.
There are three kinds of 3 wheeled pushchairs: strollers (also known as Joggers), all-terrain models, and all-terrain models. Strollers have smaller wheels and narrower frames that are better suited to urban environments, while joggers are equipped with large wheels and are designed for use off-road. They come with a handbrake and adjustable handlebars, and are ideal for walks off-road.
All-terrain strollers are popular with parents who love to explore the countryside and enjoy the outdoors. They usually come with wheels that are larger and more durable than regular pushchairs. They're great for rough terrain and are typically used from birth, however you may need to purchase car seat adaptors if need to attach an infant carrier.
Some pushchairs look like 3-wheelers, but they have four wheels. Two small wheels are placed close together in front of the traditional central pair. This gives maneuverability and the stability of a four-wheeler.
Some 3-wheeled pushchairs come with an swivelable and lockable front wheel that makes them more easily maneuverable. This is especially beneficial if you encounter difficult surfaces frequently, since you can avoid getting stuck or encountering obstacles to negotiate. Some all-terrain strollers are fitted with foam-filled "never flat" tyres, which do not require pumping. This makes them more convenient and comfortable to use for long walks or for continuous use. It's worth noting that these types of pushchairs tend to be heavier and bigger than other models and it's crucial to consider the method you'll use for transporting or storing them before deciding on your preferred model.
Weight
In general, 3-wheeled pushchairs are heavier and larger than standard pushchairs. This is particularly true when they have big back wheels. It can be a challenge to lift a pushchair while it is folded, such as when loading into the trunk of a car or when navigating stairs. This could make the pushchair appear heavy and hinder your ability to maneuver through narrow aisles or spaces.
All-terrain strollers are designed to be used on different terrains like rough and uneven ground as well as mud and gravel paths. These pushchairs will typically feature large, puncture-proof tyres as well as an extremely sturdy suspension system to offer an enjoyable ride for your child. These pushchairs are usually quite expensive when compared to standard pushchairs.
If you reside in the countryside, or frequently take your baby to walks in the woods or country parks, an all-terrain pushchair may be the best option. These pushchairs typically feature large tyres front and back, and they will be designed to handle many different terrains. These pushchairs are usually suitable for wet or muddy weather however we suggest regularly checking your tyres to avoid air bubbles and flat spots.
The iCandy Core, for example is a pushchair that can be used on all terrains that ticks a lot of boxes. It has a spacious basket that can carry up to 10kg, a single hand fold and adjustable handlebars. The large tyres are stuffed with foam and never flat, which means you won't need to be concerned about punctures or losing air pressure. The seat can be used from birth and is suitable for all different 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 has a lightweight and highly mobile design. It's ideal for parents who love going for walks or jogs and comes with a suspension to ensure the user a comfortable ride across all terrains. We also love how easy it is to clean, with the fabric simply taking off the frame and being machine washable in cold water.
Tyres
The tyres on a 3-wheel pushchair are usually larger than those found on a 4-wheel pram, which can help to navigate off-road terrain. For example, the UPPAbaby Ridge features large, foam-filled 'never flat' tyres and suspension that makes it ideal for long walks and rough terrain. It's also designed to be suitable for jogging once your baby is old enough, thanks to a 360 pivoting lockable front wheel and an adjustable suspension.
However, larger tyres could increase the 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 liked this feature because it made maneuvering around the corners of supermarkets much easier.