3 Wheeled Pushchairs
Three-wheeled pushchairs are an ideal option for mothers who love walking on a variety of terrain. The larger front wheels on these pushchairs allow them to be more maneuverable and offer more stability on rough ground.
If you intend to use your buggy on terrains other than the paved ones, you should choose one that has air-filled tires (also known as pneumatic). They are more effective and puncture-proof on surfaces that are not paved.
Stability
In general, the larger the wheels on your pushchair is, the better it can cope with rough terrain and dirt. This is because bigger wheels are more likely to'skid on dips and bumps. They also offer 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 need to be removed to store them flat.
All-terrain strollers have features such as large puncture-proof tires, as well as robust suspensions that allow them to take on everything from busy high-street strolls to hikes in the woods. They tend to be more expensive than other models, but If you are regularly using your pushchair off the main path, they may be worth the extra expense.
If you intend to use your pushchair on pavements, you should consider selecting a model with air-filled tyres (sometimes called pneumatic tyres) because they are more suitable for rough ground than tyres made of solid rubber. They are also less susceptible to punctures than tyres that are composed of hard plastic or metal.
Certain pushchairs allow you to remove the front wheel when they are not in use. This can make them easier to store, particularly in the case of a small boot. Some models also have a swivelling front wheel that can be locked to give stability over very rough ground. It's worth checking the ease of you to use a pushchair that has this feature prior to 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 change these elements and fold/unfold the pushchair with them attached - especially as you may need to do this with a child on board. Some models are designed to be simple and quick to switch between these types of configurations, whereas others may require more patience.
Manoeuvrability
A 3-wheel pushchair can be easier to steer and maneuver than a 4-wheeler, due to the single front wheel making it simple to navigate over bumps and rough terrain. A lot of models come with suspension systems, designed to absorb shocks and provide a smooth ride for your baby. MFM's Kath tried a tri-wheeled buggie and was impressed by how well it handled uneven pavements, cobblestones, and dirt tracks. She was able to easily get up and down kerbs and the wheels were quick to maneuver over grass too.
There are three kinds of three-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 for urban environments, while joggers are equipped with large wheels and are specifically designed for off-road use. They tend to feature 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 take advantage of the outdoors. They usually come with bigger, more durable wheels than regular pushchairs. They are suitable for rocky terrain and are suitable from the moment of birth. However, you may need car seat adaptors to connect an infant carrier.
Some pushchairs resemble 3-wheelers, but have four wheels. Two small wheels are placed close together in front, instead of the traditional central pair. This gives maneuverability and the stability of a four-wheeler.
Some 3-wheel pushchairs feature an swivelling and lockable front wheel, which makes them even more manoeuvrable. This is especially beneficial when you have to navigate through rough terrain often, as you will avoid getting stuck or having obstacles to navigate around. Certain all-terrain pushchairs are fitted with foam-filled 'never flat' tyres, which don't require pumping, which means they're more convenient and comfortable for long walks or frequent use. These types of pushchairs tend to be heavier and bigger than other options. It is essential to think about how you will transport or store them when you choose the best model.
Weight
In general 3-wheeled pushchairs are generally heavier and more spacious than standard pushchairs. This is particularly true when they have big back wheels. This can make it difficult to lift the pushchair when folded, like when loading it into the car boot or climbing the stairs. This could make the pushchair appear heavy and restrict your ability to maneuver through narrow aisles or spaces.
All-terrain strollers are designed to be used on different terrains like rough and uneven ground such as mud, gravel, and paths. These pushchairs will typically feature large, puncture-proof tyres and an extremely sturdy suspension system that will provide a safe and comfortable ride for your child. These pushchairs are usually quite expensive when compared to standard pushchairs.
All-terrain pushchairs are a good option if you reside in the countryside or take your baby for regular walks in the woods or country parks. These pushchairs typically have large tyres both front as well as back, and are designed to withstand many different terrains. These pushchairs are often suitable for rainy or muddy conditions however we suggest making sure you check your tyres regularly to avoid air bubbles and flat spots.
The iCandy Core, for example, is an all-terrain pushchair that checks a lot of boxes. It comes with a huge 10kg basket, a one-handed fold and an adjustable handlebar. The large tyres are stuffed with foam and never flat, which means you don't have to be concerned about punctures or losing air pressure. The seat can be used from birth and is suitable for all age groups. It can also be used in conjunction with a carrycot and a compatible infant carrier.
Another alternative is the Special Tomato Jogger, which has a lightweight design and excellent manoeuvrability. It's a great option for parents who are active and like to go for walks or jogs with their child and comes with a suspension system to ensure the baby is comfortable on all kinds of terrain. The fabric can be removed from the frame and washed in cold water using a machine.
Tyres
The tyres on a 3-wheel pushchair will typically be bigger than those found on a 4-wheel pram, which can help to navigate off-road terrain. For instance, 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 and rough ground. It's also designed to be suitable for jogging once your baby is old enough due to a 360-degree pivoting lockable front wheel and adjustable suspension.
However, larger tyres may increase the overall weight of the pushchair, so you'll need to take this into consideration when selecting the model. It is also important to decide if you'd like wheels that can be removed so that it is more easily stored in your car boot. 3 wheel pushchair liked this feature as it made the process of navigating the supermarket aisles more convenient.