3 Wheeled Pushchairs
Three-wheeled pushchairs are an excellent option for mothers who enjoy walking on varied terrain. The larger front wheels on these buggies make them easier to maneuver and offer greater stability on uneven ground.
If you intend to use your buggy on other surfaces than paved tracks, choose one that has air-filled tires (also known as pneumatic). They are more effective and puncture-proof even on non-paved surfaces.
Stability
The bigger the wheels of your pushchair the better able they are to be able to handle rough terrain and even the ground. This is because bigger wheels are more likely to skid on dips and bumps. They also provide a more comfortable ride for your child. The drawback is that the additional wheels can take up space in the car boot. Some models of pushchairs with big front wheels must be removed in order to keep them flat.
All-terrain pushchairs are built to be able to take on anything from high-street strolls to woodland walks, and are fitted with features that enable them to achieve this, like strong suspension and huge puncture-proof tyres. They tend to be more expensive than other models, but if you regularly use your pushchair off the beaten track, they might be worth the extra investment.
If you plan to remove your pushchair from paved surfaces, it's worth selecting a model that has tyres filled with air (sometimes called pneumatic tyres) as these are much better suited to rough terrain than tyres made of solid rubber. They are also less susceptible to punctures than tyres that are composed of hard plastic or metal.
Certain models of pushchairs allow you to click off the front wheel when in use, making them more compact to store - ideal in the event that you have a small car boot. Some models also feature an swivelling front wheel that can be locked to provide stability over very rough ground. It is important to determine how easy it is for you to use a pushchair that has this feature prior to purchasing.
It is crucial to think about how easy it will be it to add a second seat or a parent-facing pushchair to your. This is especially important if you have a baby with you. Some models are designed to be quick and easy to change between these configurations, while others might require more patience.
Manoeuvrability
A 3-wheel pushchair can be more maneuverable and manage than a four-wheeler, with the single front wheel making it simple to navigate over bumps and rough terrain. Many models also have suspension systems, designed to help absorb shocks and provide a smooth ride for your baby. MFM's Kath test-driven a three-wheeled buggie and was impressed by the ease with which it handled uneven pavements, cobblestones and dirt tracks. Kath found it easy for her to climb up and down kerbs, and the wheels were fast to maneuver through grass.
There are three kinds of 3 wheeled pushchair s: strollers (also known as Joggers) and models with all-terrain surfaces, and all-terrain models. Strollers are best suited to urban environments with their smaller wheels and narrower frames, while joggers have large wheels and are designed to be used off-road. They come with a handbrake, adjustable handlebars and are great for off-road strolls.
All-terrain pushchairs are a popular choice for parents who want to enjoy the outdoors and explore the countryside. They typically come with larger and more durable wheels than standard pushchairs. They're ideal for rough terrain and are generally used from birth, although you might need to purchase car seat adaptors if you want to attach a compatible infant carrier.
Some pushchairs look like 3-wheelers, but they have four wheels. Two wheels are placed close together in front instead of the traditional central pair. This allows for maneuverability while maintaining the stability of a four-wheeler.
Some 3-wheel pushchairs feature an swivelling and lockable front wheel, making them even more manoeuvrable. This is especially 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, that don't require pumping. This makes them more convenient and comfortable to use for long walks or for frequent use. It's important to remember that these types of pushchairs tend to be heavier and bigger than other models, so it's important to think about how you'll be transporting or storing them before choosing the model you want to use.
Weight
In general 3-wheeled pushchairs tend to be heavier and larger than regular pushchairs. This is especially the case when they have large back wheels. It can be a challenge to lift a pushchair once it is folded, such as when loading it into the car's boot or navigating steps. This can also make the pushchair feel a little heavy when you are out and about, and can restrict the speed at which you can maneuver through narrow spaces or aisles in shops.
All-terrain pushchairs are built to be able to navigate different terrains, including rough and uneven terrain such as gravel and mud paths. These pushchairs typically come with large, puncture-proof tyres and an extremely sturdy suspension system to offer an enjoyable ride for your child. These pushchairs are usually quite expensive when compared with regular pushchairs.
All-terrain pushchairs are a good option for those who live in the country or take your child on regular walks through woods or in country parks. These pushchairs usually feature large tyres front and back, and are designed to handle all kinds of terrain. They are usually a good option for wet and muddy weather, however we suggest inspecting the tyres frequently to avoid flat spots and air bubbles.
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. Its large tyres feature foam-filled tyres that will never flat. It isn't necessary to worry about punctures. The seat is designed to be world-facing and suitable from birth, and can be used in conjunction with a carrycot or a compatible infant carrier.
Another alternative is the Special Tomato Jogger, which features a light design and excellent manoeuvrability. It's a great option for parents who love to go for walks or jogs with their baby and also comes with suspension that will ensure a comfortable ride on different types of terrain. We also love how simple it is to clean, with the fabric simply taking off the frame and then washing in cold water.
Tyres
The tyres of a three-wheeled pushchair are usually larger than those on a 4-wheeled pram. This can help it to cope with off-road terrain. For example, the UPPAbaby Ridge comes with large, foam-filled tyres with a 'never flat' design and a suspension system that make it great for long walks as well as rough ground. It is also designed to run once your child is old enough. This is thanks to 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 consider this when deciding on the model. It is also important to think about whether you want a pushchair that has wheels that can be removed to make it easier to store in your car boot. MFM reviewer Becky loved this feature as it made getting around supermarket corners easier.