3 Wheeled Pushchairs
Three-wheeled pushchairs are a great alternative for moms who like walking on different terrain. They are easy to maneuver and more robust on rough terrain as they have larger front wheels.
If you intend to use your buggy on roads, choose a model with air-filled tyres (sometimes called pneumatic). They are more efficient 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 have a larger contact surface, and are therefore less likely to'skid' over dips and bumps. They also offer a more comfortable ride for your child. The disadvantage is that the extra wheels can take up space in the car boot. Certain models of pushchairs that have large front wheels must be removed in order to keep them flat.
All-terrain strollers are equipped with features such as large puncture-proof tires and robust suspensions that allow them to handle everything from bustling high-street strolls to woodland hikes. These types are typically more expensive however if your pushchair is used off the beaten path frequently, they might be worth the investment.
If you are planning to take your pushchair off roads, it's worth selecting a model that has tyres filled with air (sometimes called pneumatic tyres) because they are more suitable for rough ground than the solid rubber ones. They are also much less prone to punctures than tyres which are composed of metal or hard plastic.
Certain pushchairs allow you to remove the front wheel when they are not in use. This makes them easier for you to store, especially if you only have an empty 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 that has this feature before you buy.
It is crucial to think about how easy it will make it to add another seat or parent-facing pushchair to your. This is especially true if you have a baby with you. Some models are designed to be simple and quick to change between these types of configurations, whereas others might require more patience.
Manoeuvrability
A 3-wheel pushchair can be easier to steer and handle than a 4-wheeler, with the single front wheel making it easy to maneuver over rough terrain or bumps. Many models also come with suspension systems that are designed to help absorb shocks and ensure an easy ride for your baby. MFM's Kath test-driven a three-wheeled buggie and was awed by the ease with which it handled uneven pavements, cobblestones and dirt tracks. She found it easy for her to climb up and down kerbs, and the wheels were quick to negotiate grass.
There are three kinds of 3 wheeled pushchairs namely 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 designed to be used off-road. They are equipped with a handbrake, adjustable handlebars, and are ideal for off-road strolls.
All-terrain pushchairs are popular for parents who want to take advantage of the outdoors and enjoy the countryside, and they typically have more robust and larger wheels than standard pushchairs. They are ideal for rough terrain, and can be used from birth. However, 3 wheeler pushchair may require car seat adaptors to attach an infant carrier.
Some pushchairs look like 3-wheelers, but actually come with four wheels, with two smaller wheels positioned close together in front, instead of a 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, which makes them even more manoeuvrable. This is especially useful in areas where you face a lot of difficulty often, as you will avoid getting stuck or having obstacles to navigate around. Certain all-terrain pushchairs come equipped with foam-filled "never flat' tyres that don't require pumping up, so they're more convenient and comfortable for long walks or regular use. These kinds of pushchairs are generally heavier and bigger than other models. It is important to think about how you will transport them or store them when choosing the best model.
Weight
In general, 3-wheeled pushchairs are larger and heavier than standard pushchairs. This is especially the case when they have big back wheels. This makes it difficult to lift the pushchair once folded, like when loading into the car boot or climbing steps. This could make the pushchair appear heavy and hinder the ability to move through narrow spaces or aisles.
All-terrain pushchairs are designed to withstand a variety of different terrains, such as rough and uneven ground as well as mud and gravel trails. These pushchairs will typically feature large, puncture-proof tyres along with a sturdy suspension system to provide an enjoyable ride for your child. They are typically expensive compared to regular pushchairs.
All-terrain pushchairs are a great choice when you reside in the countryside or take your child on regular walks through woods or in country parks. These pushchairs are designed to withstand a variety of terrains and will feature large tyres on the front and rear. They are usually the best choice for wet and muddy weather as well, although we suggest checking the tyres regularly to avoid flat spots and air bubbles.
The iCandy Core is a great all-terrain stroller that ticks off a lot of the boxes. It has a generous 10kg basket that folds with one hand and an adjustable handlebar. The large tyres are filled with foam and never flat, which means you won't need to worry about punctures or losing air pressure. The seat is designed to be world-facing and is suitable from birth and can be used with an infant carrycot or infant carrier.
Another alternative is the Special Tomato Jogger, which features a light design and excellent manoeuvrability. It's perfect for parents who love going for walks or jogs and has a suspension to ensure an enjoyable ride on all terrains. The fabric can be removed from the frame and washed in cold water using a machine.
Tyres
The tyres of a three-wheeled pushchair tend to be larger than those of a four-wheeled pushchair. This helps it to cope with off-road terrain. The UPPAbaby Ridge, for example is equipped with large tyres filled with foam that will never flatten and suspension systems. This makes it ideal for long-distance walks on rough terrain. It's also designed to be suitable for jogging once your baby is old enough, thanks to a 360-degree swivel lockable front wheel and a suspension that can be adjusted.
However, larger tyres could increase the 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 would like a model with removable wheels so that it is more easily stored in your car boot. MFM reviewer Becky loved this feature as it made navigating around supermarket corners more convenient.