3 Wheeled Pushchairs
3 wheeled pushchairs are ideal choice for mothers who enjoy walking on diverse terrain. The larger front wheels on these pushchairs make them easier to maneuver and offer greater stability on uneven ground.
If you intend to take your buggy off of paved tracks, opt for a model that has air-filled tyres (sometimes called pneumatic). These are more efficient and puncture-proof on surfaces that are not paved.
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 bigger wheels have a larger contact surface so are less likely to skid over dips and bumps. They also offer a more comfortable ride for your child. The downside is that the extra wheels could take up the space in your car boot, and certain models with big front wheels may require to remove them when you wish to keep it in a flat place.
All-terrain strollers come with features such as large puncture-proof tires, as well as robust suspensions that allow them to withstand everything from bustling high-street strolls to woodland hikes. 3 wheeler pushchair can be more expensive than other models, however if you regularly use your pushchair off the beaten track, they might be worth the extra investment.
It's better to choose a pushchair with pneumatic (or air-filled) tires if you are planning on taking it off roads. They are better suited for rough terrain than tyres made of solid rubber. They are also much less susceptible to punctures than tyres that are composed from hard plastic or metal.
Some pushchairs allow you to remove the front wheel when not in use. This makes them easier to store, particularly in the case of a small boot. Certain models come with an front wheel that can be locked in place to give you extra stability on rough terrain. If you're thinking of buying a pushchair with this feature, make sure to check how it's operated before you buy.
If you're thinking about adding an additional seat, parent-facing unit, or car seat adaptors for your pushchair, it's important to check how it's going to be easy to change these elements and fold/unfold the pushchair when you have them attached - especially as you may have to do this with a baby on board. Some models are designed to be fast and simple to switch between these types of configurations, whereas others may require a little 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. Many models also have suspension systems, which are designed to help absorb shocks and provide a smooth ride for your child. MFM's Kath tried a tri-wheeled buggie and was awed by its ability to handle uneven pavements, cobblestones and dirt tracks. She found it easy to climb over and down kerbs and the wheels were quick to maneuver through grass.
There are three types of 3 wheeled pushchairs: strollers (also known as Joggers) and models with all-terrain surfaces and all-terrain models. Strollers have smaller wheels and shorter frames that are better designed for urban environments, while joggers are equipped with large wheels and are specifically designed to be used off-road. They are equipped with a handbrake, adjustable handlebars, and are ideal for walks off-road.
All-terrain strollers are popular with parents who like to explore the countryside and enjoy the outdoors. They usually come with bigger, more durable wheels than regular pushchairs. They are suitable for rocky terrain and are suitable from birth. However, you may require adaptors for your car seat to attach an infant carrier.
Some pushchairs look like 3-wheelers, but have four wheels. Two small wheels are placed close together in front instead of the traditional central pair. This provides manoeuvrability with the stability of a four-wheeler.
Some 3-wheeled pushchairs come with an swivelable and lockable front wheel, which makes them more easily maneuverable. This is particularly useful for those who frequently encounter challenging surfaces, since it can assist you in avoiding getting stuck or having to walk around obstacles. Certain all-terrain pushchairs come equipped with foam-filled "never flat' tyres that do not need pumping up, so they're more comfortable and convenient for long walks or continuous use. These kinds of pushchairs tend to be heavier and bigger than other choices. It is important to take into consideration how you will transport them or store them when choosing the best model.
Weight
In general, 3-wheeled pushchairs are larger and heavier than standard pushchairs. This is especially the case when they have big back wheels. It can be a challenge to lift a pushchair once it is folded, like when it is loaded into the car's boot or when climbing stairs. This may also make the pushchair feel heavy when you are out and about, and can limit how quickly you can navigate narrow spaces or aisles in stores.
All-terrain pushchairs are made to handle a range of different terrains, such as rough and uneven ground such as gravel and mud paths. They typically have large, puncture-proof tyres along with an extremely sturdy suspension system that will provide a safe and comfortable ride for your child. They are typically costly compared to normal pushchairs.
All-terrain pushchairs are a good choice for those who reside in the countryside or take your baby for regular walks in woods or in country parks. These pushchairs usually have large tyres on both the front and back, and they will be designed to handle a wide variety of terrains. These pushchairs are often 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 that ticks off many of the boxes. It has a generous basket that can hold up to 10kg, a single handed fold and adjustable handlebars. The large tyres are filled with foam and never flat, which means you won't need to worry about punctures or loss of air pressure. The seat is suitable for use from birth and is suitable for all ages. It can also be used with a carrycot and a compatible infant carrier.
The Special Tomato Jogger is another alternative. It's a light and extremely maneuverable design. It's a great choice for parents who are active and like to walk or jogs with their baby and has suspension that will ensure an enjoyable ride on all kinds of terrain. The fabric can be removed from the frame, and washed in cold water by machine.
Tyres
The tyres of a 3-wheel pushchair will often be larger than those on a 4-wheel pram, which can help to deal with off-road terrain. For example, the UPPAbaby Ridge comes with large, foam-filled tyres that are never flat and suspension systems that make it ideal for long walks as well as rough ground. It's also designed to be suitable for jogging once your baby is old enough due to a 360-degree locking swivel front wheel that can be locked and an adjustable suspension.
You'll need to think about the weight of your pushchair when deciding on a model. You will also need to decide if you would like a model with removable wheels to make it easier to store in your car boot. MFM reviewer Becky particularly liked this feature as it made maneuvering around the corners of supermarkets much easier.