3 Wheeled Pushchairs
Three-wheeled pushchairs can be an excellent option for mothers who like walking on different terrain. The larger front wheels on these buggies allow them to be more maneuverable and offer greater stability on uneven ground.
If you intend to drive your buggy on terrains other than paved tracks, select a model that has air-filled tires (also called pneumatic). They are more effective and puncture-proof even on non-paved surfaces.
Stability
In general, the larger the wheels on your pushchair, the better it will deal with rough terrain and dirt. This is because bigger wheels are more likely to'skid over bumps and dips. The larger wheels also offer the most comfortable ride for your child. The drawback is that the additional wheels are a burden on the car boot. Some models of pushchairs that have large front wheels will need to be removed to store them flat.
All-terrain strollers come with features such as large puncture-proof tires, as well as robust suspensions that allow them to handle everything from bustling high-street strolls to woodland hikes. They can be more expensive than other models, but if you regularly use your pushchair away from the main path, they may be worth the extra cost.
It is recommended to select a pushchair that has pneumatic (or air-filled) tires if you are planning to use it on pavements. They are more suitable for rough terrain than tyres made of solid rubber. They are also less likely to break than those made of metal or plastic.
Some pushchairs allow you to remove the front wheel when not in use. This can make them easier for you to store, especially if you only have an empty boot. Some models have front wheels that can be locked into place to give you extra stability on rough terrain. It's important to know how easy it is for you to use a pushchair 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 it's going to be easy to change these elements and fold/unfold the pushchair when you have them attached - especially as you may have to do this with a baby on board. Some models are designed to be quick and easy to change between these types of configurations, whereas others may require a little more patience.
Manoeuvrability
A 3-wheel pushchair is typically easier to steer and handle than a 4-wheeler, due to the single wheel on the front making it easy to navigate over bumps or rough terrain. Many models come with suspension systems that help to absorb shocks and give your baby a smooth ride. MFM's Kath tried a tri-wheeled buggie and was impressed by the ease with which it handled uneven pavements, cobblestones and dirt tracks. Kath was able to climb up and down kerbs, and the wheels were quick to negotiate grass.
There are three primary kinds of 3 wheel pushchairs such as joggers, strollers and all-terrain models. Strollers are best suited for urban environments with their smaller frames and narrower wheels while joggers come with large wheels and are designed to take you off-road. They are equipped with a handbrake and adjustable handlebars and are perfect for off-road strolls.
All-terrain strollers are popular with parents who want to explore the countryside and enjoy the outdoors. They usually have wheels that are larger and more durable than regular pushchairs. They are suitable for rocky terrain and can be used as early as the time of birth. However, 3 wheel buggy might require car seat adaptors to attach an infant carrier.
Some pushchairs look like 3-wheelers, but actually have four wheels, with two small wheels placed close to each other in front instead of the traditional central pair. This provides manoeuvrability with the stability of a four-wheeler.
Some 3-wheel pushchairs feature an swivelling and lockable front wheel, making them even more manoeuvrable. This is particularly useful for those who frequently encounter challenging surfaces, as it could help you avoid getting stuck or having to walk around obstacles. Certain all-terrain strollers come with foam-filled "never flat" tyres, that don't require pumping. This makes them more convenient and comfortable to use on long walks or for regular use. These kinds of pushchairs are generally heavier and larger than other options. It is essential to consider the method you'll use to transport or store them when choosing your preferred model.
Weight
In general 3-wheeled pushchairs are generally larger and heavier than standard pushchairs. This is especially the case when they have big back wheels. It can be difficult to lift a pushchair once it is folded, such as when loading it into the trunk of a car or when climbing steps. This may also make the pushchair feel a little weighty when you're out and about, and may restrict the speed at which you can navigate narrow spaces or aisles in stores.
All-terrain strollers are designed to be used on various terrains, including rough and uneven ground, mud, and gravel paths. These pushchairs typically come with large, puncture-proof tyres along with a sturdy suspension system to provide a safe and comfortable ride for your child. They will usually be quite much more expensive than normal pushchairs.
If you reside in the countryside or regularly take your baby for walks in woodland or country parks, an all-terrain pushchair may be the best option. These pushchairs are designed to withstand a variety of terrains and will have large tyres on both the front and rear. These pushchairs are usually suitable for wet or muddy weather 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 off a number of boxes. It comes with a large basket that can carry up to 10kg, a single hand fold, and a movable handlebar. The large tyres are filled with foam and never flat, so you won't have to worry about punctures or loss of air pressure. The seat is designed to be world-facing and is suitable from birth and it can be used in conjunction with the carrycot or an infant carrier.
The Special Tomato Jogger is another option. It's a light and extremely mobile design. It's a great choice for parents who love to walk or jogs with their baby and is equipped with suspension to provide the baby is comfortable on all kinds of terrain. We also love how easy to clean it with the fabric being removed from the frame and then washing in cold water.
Tyres
The tyres of a 3-wheeled pushchair tend to be larger than those of a four-wheeled pushchair. This makes it easier to navigate off-road terrain. For example the UPPAbaby Ridge has large, foam-filled tyres with a 'never flat' design and suspension that makes it ideal for long walks as well as rough ground. It's also designed to be suitable to jog when your child is old enough. This is due to a 360-degree lockable front wheel and a suspension that can be adjusted.
However, larger tyres could increase the overall weight of the pushchair, so you'll need to consider this when selecting the model. It is also important to think about whether you'd like a pushchair that has wheels that can be removed to make it easier to store in your car boot. MFM reviewer Becky particularly liked this feature because it made maneuvering around the corners of supermarkets much easier.