3 Wheeled Pushchairs
Three-wheeled pushchairs offer a great alternative for moms who love walking on a variety of terrain. They are easy to maneuver and more stable on rough terrain because they have larger front wheels.
If you intend to drive your buggy on terrains other than paved tracks, choose one with air-filled tires (also known as pneumatic). They are much more effective on non-paved surfaces and are puncture-proof as well.
Stability
The larger the wheels on your pushchair is, the better it can be able to handle rough terrain and uneven ground. This is because the larger wheels have a greater contact surface, and are therefore less likely to skid over dips and bumps. They also offer a more comfortable ride for your child. The drawback is that the additional wheels are a burden on the car boot. Some models of pushchairs that have large front wheels will need to be removed to store them flat.
All-terrain strollers come with features such as large puncture-proof tires and robust suspensions that allow them to handle everything from busy high-street strolls to forest hikes. They are often more expensive than other models, however if you regularly use your pushchair off the beaten path, they may be worth the extra expense.
It is recommended to select a pushchair equipped with pneumatic (or air-filled) tires if you intend on taking it off pavements. They are more suitable for rough terrain than solid rubber tyres. They are also less susceptible to punctures than tyres that are made of hard plastic or metal.
Some models of pushchair allow users to remove the front wheel when in use, making them more compact to store - ideal in the event that you have an insufficient car boot. Certain models also come with 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 prior to purchasing.
If you're thinking about adding an additional seat, parent-facing unit or car seat adaptors to your pushchair, it's important to know how easy it will be to switch these components and fold or unfold the pushchair with them attached, especially since you may 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 often easier to steer and handle than a 4-wheeler, with the single wheel in front making it easy to navigate over rough terrain or bumps. Many models also come with suspension systems, which are designed to help absorb shocks and provide an easy ride for your baby. MFM's Kath tested a three-wheeled buggie and was awed by the ease with which it handled uneven pavements, cobblestones and dirt tracks. Kath was able to climb up and down kerbs and the wheels were quick to navigate grass.
There are three main types of 3 wheel pushchairs that include joggers, strollers, and all-terrain models. Strollers are best suited to urban environments with their smaller frames and narrower wheels while joggers come with large wheels and are designed to take you off-road. They usually have a handbrake and adjustable handlebars, and are great for tackling off-road hikes.
All-terrain strollers are popular among parents who love to explore the countryside and enjoy the outdoors. They typically have larger, more durable wheels than standard pushchairs. They're ideal for rough terrain and are typically used from birth, although you may need to purchase car seat adapters if you are looking to connect a compatible infant carrier.
Some pushchairs appear to be 3-wheelers but actually have 4 wheels, with two smaller wheels that are close to each other in front instead of the traditional central pair. This allows for the maneuverability of a three-wheeler while maintaining the stability and safety of a four wheeler.
Some 3-wheel pushchairs feature a swivelling and lockable front wheel, making them even more manoeuvrable. This is particularly useful if you encounter difficult surfaces often, as you can avoid getting stuck or encountering obstacles to navigate around. Some all-terrain strollers are equipped with foam-filled "never flat" tyres, which don't require pumping. This makes them more convenient and comfortable to use for long walks or for frequent use. These kinds of pushchairs tend to be heavier and larger than other choices. It is important to consider the way you'll transport or store them when choosing the model you prefer.
Weight
Generally speaking 3-wheel pushchairs tend to be heavier and larger than standard pushchairs, especially when they are equipped with large rear wheels. This can make it difficult to lift the pushchair while folded, like when loading into the car boot or going up steps. This can also make the pushchair feel bulky when out and about, and can restrict the speed at which you can manoeuvre through small spaces or aisles in stores.
All-terrain pushchairs are designed to withstand a variety of different terrains, such as rough and uneven ground, mud and gravel paths. These pushchairs will typically feature large, puncture-proof tyres and a robust suspension system to provide an enjoyable ride for your child. These pushchairs are usually quite expensive when compared with regular pushchairs.
If 3 wheeler pushchair live in the countryside or frequently take your baby to walks in the woods or country parks, an all-terrain pushchair could be a great choice. These pushchairs typically have large tyres on both the front and back, and are designed to withstand all kinds of terrain. These pushchairs are usually an ideal choice for rainy or muddy conditions, but we recommend checking your tyres frequently to avoid air bubbles and flat spots.
The iCandy Core is a great all-terrain stroller which ticks many of the boxes. It has a generous 10kg basket, a one-handed fold and an adjustable handlebar. Its large tyres are foam-filled and never flat, which means you won't have to worry about punctures or loss of air pressure. 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.
Another option is another option is the Special Tomato Jogger, which has a lightweight design and outstanding maneuverability. It's an excellent choice for parents who love to take walks or jogs with their baby, and it is equipped with suspension to provide the baby is comfortable on all types of terrain. We also appreciate how easy to clean it, with the fabric simply being removed from the frame and washing in cold water.
Tyres
The tyres of a three-wheeled pushchair tend to be larger than those on a 4-wheeled pram. This makes it easier to cope with off-road terrain. The UPPAbaby Ridge, for example, has large foam-filled tyres that never flatten and suspension systems. This makes it perfect for long-distance walks on rough terrain. It is also designed to be suitable to jog when your child is old enough. 3 wheeled pushchair is thanks to a 360-degree lockable front wheel and adjustable suspension.
You'll need to think about the weight of your pushchair before deciding on a model. You'll also have to decide if you want wheels that can be removed to make it easy to store in your car boot. MFM reviewer Becky especially liked this feature as it made maneuvering around supermarket corners much easier.