3 Wheeled Pushchairs
3 wheeled pushchairs are a ideal choice for mothers who love walking over varied terrain. These buggies are much easier to maneuver and are more stable on rough terrain because they have larger front wheels.
If you intend to use your buggy on surfaces other than paved tracks, choose one that has air-filled tires (also called pneumatic). They are more effective and puncture-proof on non-paved surfaces.
Stability
The bigger the wheels of your pushchair, the better they will handle rough terrain and ground. This is because larger wheels have a larger contact area, so they are less likely to slide over dips and bumps. They also offer a more comfortable ride for your child. The downside is that the additional wheels can take up space in your car boot, and some models of pushchair with large front wheels may need to be removed in order to keep it in a flat place.
All-terrain pushchairs are made to be able to take on anything from high-street strolls to woodland walks, and are fitted with features that enable them to do this, such as strong suspension and large puncture-proof tyres. They can be more expensive than other models, but when you frequently use your pushchair off the beaten track they could be worth the extra investment.
If you are planning to take your pushchair off paved surfaces, it's worth choosing one with air-filled tyres (sometimes called pneumatic tyres) as these are much better suited to rough terrain than the solid rubber ones. They are also much less vulnerable to punctures than tyres which are made of metal or hard plastic.
Some pushchairs let you to click off the front wheel when in use, which can make them easier to store - useful for those with a small car boot. Some models also feature the front wheel that swivels and can be locked to give stability over very rough ground. It is important to determine the ease of you to use a pushchair equipped with this feature prior to purchasing.
If you're thinking of adding an additional seat, parent-facing unit or car seat adaptors to your pushchair, it is important to determine how easy it will be to switch these components and fold/unfold the pushchair with them attached - especially as you may have to do this with a child on board. Some models are designed to be fast and simple to change between these configurations, while others may require more patience.
Manoeuvrability
A 3-wheel pushchair can be easier to steer and maneuver than a four-wheeler, with the single wheel in front making it easy to navigate over bumps or rough terrain. Many models also have suspension systems, designed to absorb shocks and ensure an enjoyable ride for your baby. MFM reviewer Kath put a three-wheeled buggy to the test and was impressed with how well it handled bumpy roads, cobbles and dirt tracks. Kath found it easy for her 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), all-terrain models, and all-terrain models. Strollers are ideal for urban environments with their smaller wheels and narrower frames, while joggers have larger wheels and are designed to be used off-road. They come with a handbrake, adjustable handlebars and are perfect for off-road strolls.
All-terrain strollers are a favorite among parents who like to explore the countryside and enjoy the outdoors. They usually come with larger, more durable wheels than regular pushchairs. They are suitable for rough terrain, and are suitable from birth. However, you might require adaptors for your car seat to connect an infant carrier.
Some pushchairs appear to be 3-wheelers, but they 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-wheel pushchairs come with an swivelling and lockable front wheel, making them even more maneuverable. This is especially beneficial if you regularly encounter difficult surfaces, as it could assist you in avoiding getting stuck or walking around obstacles. Some all-terrain pushchairs are also fitted with foam-filled 'never flat' tyres, which don't need pumping up, so they're more comfortable and convenient for long walks or regular use. These types of pushchairs are generally heavier and bigger than other options. It is important to take into consideration the method you'll use to transport them or store them when selecting the best model.
Weight
Generally speaking, 3-wheel pushchairs tend to be heavier and more spacious than standard pushchairs. This is especially true when they come with large rear wheels. This makes it difficult to lift the pushchair when folded, such as when loading it into a car boot or navigating the stairs. This can make the pushchair feel heavy and hinder your ability to maneuver in narrow aisles or spaces.
All-terrain strollers are designed to be used on a variety of terrains including rough and uneven terrain, mud, and gravel paths. They are fitted with large, puncture-proof tires and an extremely sturdy suspension that will provide an enjoyable ride for the child. These pushchairs are generally expensive when compared with regular pushchairs.
If you live in the countryside or take your child regularly for walks through woodlands or country parks, an all-terrain pushchair could be a great choice. These pushchairs are made to be able to handle a variety of terrains, and will feature large tyres on the front and rear. They are suitable for muddy or wet weather however we suggest regularly checking your tyres to avoid air bubbles and flat spots.
The iCandy Core, for example is a pushchair for all-terrain use that ticks a lot of boxes. It has a generous 10kg basket, a one-handed fold and an adjustable handlebar. The large tyres are stuffed with foam and never flat, which means you won't need to worry about punctures or loss of air pressure. The seat can be used from birth and is suitable for all different ages. It can also be used in conjunction with an infant carrycot or infant carrier.
three wheel pushchair is another alternative. It has a lightweight and highly maneuverable design. It's an excellent choice for parents who love to take walks or jogs along with their child and is equipped with a suspension system to ensure the baby is comfortable on all types of terrain. We also appreciate how easy to clean it is, with the fabric simply being removed from the frame and washing in cold water.
Tyres
The tyres on a 3-wheeled pushchair tend to be 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 a suspension system. This makes it ideal for long walks on rough terrain. It's also designed for jogging once your child is old enough. This is because of a 360-degree lockable front wheel, and adjustable suspension.
You'll need to think about the weight of your pushchair when deciding on the model. You'll also have to decide if you'd like a model that has wheels that are removable so that it is easy to store in your car boot. MFM reviewer Becky loved this feature as it made getting around supermarket aisles much more convenient.