3 Wheeled Pushchairs
3 wheeled pushchairs can be a excellent choice for mothers who love walking over diverse terrain. The larger front wheels on these buggies 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 effective on non-paved surfaces and are puncture-proof too.
Stability
Generally, the bigger the wheels on your pushchair is, the better it will be able to handle rough terrain and uneven ground. It's because larger wheels are more likely to skid over bumps and dips. They also offer a more comfortable ride for your child. The downside is the extra wheels are a burden on the car boot. Some models of pushchairs with large front wheels need to be removed in order to store them flat.
All-terrain strollers come with features such as large puncture-proof tires as well as a robust suspensions that allow them to withstand everything from bustling strolls on the high streets to woodland hikes. They tend to be more expensive than other models, but when you frequently use your pushchair off the beaten track, they might be worth the extra expense.
It is recommended to select a pushchair that has 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 much less vulnerable to punctures than tyres which are made from hard plastic or metal.
Some pushchairs allow you to remove the front wheel when they are not in use. This makes them easier for you to store, especially when you have a small boot. Some models also feature the front wheel that swivels and can be locked to add stability on very rough terrain. If you're thinking of buying a pushchair with this feature, you should check how easy it is to operate before purchasing.
If you're thinking about adding a second seat, parent-facing unit, or car seat adaptors to your pushchair, it's important to check how it is easy to switch these components and fold or unfold the pushchair with them attached - especially as you might have to do this with a child on board. Some models are designed to allow rapid and simple modifications to the configuration, whereas others require more patience.
Manoeuvrability
A pushchair with three wheels is easier to maneuver and steer than a four-wheeler. The single wheel on the front makes it easy to navigate over bumps and rough terrain. A lot of models come with suspension systems, designed to absorb shocks and ensure an enjoyable ride for your baby. MFM's Kath test-driven a three-wheeled buggie and was amazed by its ability to handle 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 types of 3 wheeled pushchairs: strollers (also known as Joggers) models that are all-terrain and all-terrain models. Strollers are equipped with smaller wheels and narrower frames that are more suited to urban environments, while joggers are equipped with large wheels and are designed for off-road use. They tend to feature a handbrake and adjustable handlebars, and are ideal for off-road hikes.
All-terrain strollers are a favorite among parents who like to explore the countryside and take advantage of the outdoors. They usually have larger, more durable wheels than regular pushchairs. They are suitable for rough terrain, and can be used from the time of birth. However, you might require car seat adaptors to attach an infant car seat.
Some pushchairs look like 3-wheelers, but have four wheels. Two small wheels are positioned close in front of the traditional central pair. This gives maneuverability and the stability of a four-wheeler.
Some 3-wheeled pushchairs have an adjustable and lockable front wheel, which makes them more easily maneuverable. This is especially useful if you encounter difficult surfaces frequently, since you can avoid getting stuck or having obstacles to negotiate. Some all-terrain strollers are fitted with foam-filled "never flat" tyres, that don't require pumping. This makes them more comfortable and comfortable to use on long walks or for frequent use. These kinds of pushchairs tend to be heavier and larger than other choices. It is important to take into consideration the method you'll use to transport them or store them when selecting your preferred model.
Weight
In general 3-wheeled pushchairs are generally heavier and larger than normal pushchairs. This is especially true when they have large back wheels. This can make it difficult to lift the pushchair while folded, like when loading it into the car boot or going up the stairs. This could make the pushchair feel bulky when out and about, and could restrict the speed at which you can manoeuvre through small spaces or aisles in shops.
All-terrain strollers are designed to be used on different terrains like uneven and rough ground such as mud, gravel, and paths. These pushchairs come with large, puncture-proof tires as well as a sturdy suspension to provide a comfortable ride for your child. They are usually much more expensive than regular 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 handle different terrains and will have large tyres on both the front and rear. These pushchairs are usually a good option for rainy or muddy conditions 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 a lot of the boxes. It comes with a large 10kg basket with a one-handed fold as well as an adjustable handlebar. Its large tyres feature foam-filled tyres that will never flat. It isn't necessary to worry about punctures. The seat can be used from birth and is suitable for all ages. It can also be used with a carrycot and a compatible infant carrier.
Another alternative is the Special Tomato Jogger, which features a light design and great maneuverability. It's ideal for parents who love going for walks or jogs, and comes with a suspension to ensure an enjoyable ride on all terrains. We also love how easy to clean it is with the fabric taking off the frame and then washing in cold water.
Tyres
The tyres of a 3-wheeled pushchair are often larger than those of a four-wheeled pushchair. This can help it to navigate off-road terrain. The UPPAbaby Ridge, for example has tyres with large, foam-filled tyres that don't flatten, as well as suspension systems. This makes it ideal for long walks over rough terrain. It's designed to be able 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 may increase the weight of the pushchair so you'll need to take this into consideration when deciding on the model. You will also need to decide if you want a model that has wheels that are removable so that it is easy to store in your car boot. MFM reviewer Becky liked this feature as it made getting around supermarket aisles much more convenient.