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 buggies allow them to be more maneuverable and offer greater stability on rough ground.
If you plan to use your buggy on terrains other than the paved ones, you should choose a model that has air-filled tires (also called pneumatic). These are much more efficient on non-paved surfaces and are puncture-proof as well.
3 wheel buggy 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 bigger contact area, so they are less likely to skid over bumps and dips. They also offer a more comfortable ride to your child. The disadvantage is that the extra wheels could take up space in your car's boot, and some models with big front wheels may require to remove them if you want to keep it in a flat place.
All-terrain strollers have features such as large puncture-proof tires as well as a robust suspension that allows them to handle everything from bustling high-street strolls to woodland hikes. These models are usually more expensive however if your pushchair is used off the beaten path often, they could be worth the cost.
If you intend to use your pushchair on pavements, you should consider opting for a pushchair that has tyres filled with air (sometimes called pneumatic tyres) because they are better suited to rough terrain than the solid rubber ones. They are also less prone to punctures than tyres that are made of hard plastic or metal.
Some pushchairs let you to click off the front wheel when in use, which can make them easier to store - useful if you have an insufficient car boot. Some models have front wheels that can be locked into place to give you extra stability when on rough terrain. It's worth checking how easy it is for you to use a pushchair that has this feature before you buy.
If you're thinking about adding a second seat, parent-facing unit or car seat adaptors for your pushchair, it's important to check how it's going to be easy to change these elements and fold/unfold the pushchair when you have the attached items, particularly as you might have to do this with a child on board. Some models are designed for simple and quick modifications to the configuration, whereas others require more patience.
Manoeuvrability
A pushchair with three wheels is easier to maneuver and steer than a 4-wheeler. The single wheel on the front allows you to easily navigate over bumps and rough terrain. Many models come with suspension systems that absorb shocks and provide your child with a smooth ride. MFM reviewer Kath put a three-wheeled buggy to the test and was awed by how well it handled bumpy roads, cobbles and dirt tracks. She found it easy to climb over and down kerbs and the wheels were quick to maneuver through grass.
There are three types of 3 wheeled pushchair s namely strollers (also called joggers) models that are all-terrain and all-terrain models. Strollers are ideal for urban environments due to their smaller frames and narrower wheels, while joggers have large wheels and are designed to take you off-road. They are equipped with a handbrake and adjustable handlebars and are perfect for walks off-road.
All-terrain pushchairs are popular for parents who want to take advantage of the outdoors and explore the countryside. They generally have more robust and larger wheels than standard pushchairs. They are great for rough terrain, and can be used as early as the moment of birth. However, you may require adaptors for your car seat to attach an infant car seat.
Some pushchairs look like 3-wheelers but are actually four wheels. Two small wheels are set close in front, instead of the traditional central pair. This gives maneuverability and the stability of a four-wheeler.
Some 3-wheeled pushchairs include an adjustable and lockable front wheel that makes them more maneuverable. This is especially useful for those who frequently encounter challenging surfaces, since it can assist you in avoiding getting stuck or walking around obstacles. Some all-terrain pushchairs are also equipped with foam-filled 'never flat' tyres that do not require pumping up, so they're more convenient and comfortable for long walks or regular use. It's important to remember that these kinds of pushchairs are typically heavier and bigger than other pushchairs, so it's important to consider the method you'll use for transporting or storing them before choosing the model you want to use.
Weight
Generally speaking 3-wheel pushchairs tend 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, for example when loading it into a car boot or navigating stairs. This makes the pushchair feel bulky and limit the ability to move through narrow aisles or spaces.
All-terrain strollers are designed to be used on different terrains like uneven and rough ground, mud, and gravel paths. They typically have large, puncture-proof tyres as well as an extremely sturdy suspension system to offer a comfortable ride for your child. These pushchairs are usually quite expensive when compared to standard pushchairs.
All-terrain pushchairs are an excellent choice if you live in the country or take your child on regular walks in the woods or in country parks. These pushchairs usually have large tyres on both the front as well as back, and are designed to handle a wide variety of terrains. They will often be an ideal choice for muddy and wet conditions, but we suggest inspecting the tyres frequently to avoid flat spots and air bubbles.
The iCandy Core, for example is a pushchair that can be used on all terrains that ticks a lot of boxes. It comes with a large basket that can hold up to 10kg, a one hand fold and adjustable handlebars. Its large tyres are foam-filled and never flat, so you won'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 with an infant carrycot or infant carrier.
Another alternative is the Special Tomato Jogger, which has a lightweight design and great maneuverability. It's a great option for active parents who like to go for walks or jogs with their baby and has suspension that will ensure a comfortable ride on different kinds of terrain. The fabric can be removed from the frame and washed in cold water by machine.
Tyres
The tyres of a three-wheeled pushchair are usually larger than those on a four-wheeled pram. This makes it easier to navigate off-road terrain. For instance the UPPAbaby Ridge features large foam-filled tyres with a 'never flat' design and suspension that makes it ideal for long walks and rough terrain. It's also designed to be suitable for jogging when your baby is old enough due to a 360-degree locking swivel front wheel that can be locked and an adjustable suspension.
You should consider the weight of your pushchair when deciding on the model. It is also important to decide if you would like wheels that can be removed so that it is easier to store in your car boot. MFM reviewer Becky loved this feature as it made navigating around supermarket aisles much more convenient.