3 Wheeled Pushchairs
3 wheeled pushchairs can be a great option for mums who like to walk over diverse terrain. The larger front wheels on these pushchairs make them easier to manoeuvre and offer more stability on uneven ground.
If you intend to use your buggy on roads, opt for a model that has air-filled tyres (sometimes called pneumatic). They are more effective and puncture-proof on surfaces that are not paved.
Stability
The larger the wheels of your pushchair are the better able they are to handle rough terrain and ground. This is because bigger wheels are more likely to skid on dips and bumps. The larger wheels also provide the most comfortable ride for your child. The disadvantage is that the extra wheels could take up space in your car boot, and some models of pushchairs with large front wheels might need to remove them if you want to keep it in a flat place.
All-terrain pushchairs are made to withstand everything from high-street strolls to woodland walks, and come equipped with features that let them do this, such as robust suspension and large puncture-proof tyres. They tend to be more expensive than other models, but if you regularly use your pushchair off the beaten track they could be worth the extra expense.
It is recommended to select a pushchair equipped with pneumatic (or air-filled) tires if you intend on taking it off pavements. They are more suitable for rough terrain than solid rubber tyres. They are also less likely to puncture than those made of metal or hard plastic.
Some pushchairs let you remove the front wheel when they are not in use. This can make them easier to store, especially if you only have the space for a small boot. Certain models also come with an swivelling front wheel that can be locked to add stability on rough terrain. If you're thinking of buying a pushchair with this feature, it's worth seeing how easy it is to operate before you purchase.
If you're considering adding an additional seat, parent-facing unit or car seat adaptors to your pushchair it's important to check how it is easy to switch these components and fold/unfold the pushchair when you have them attached, especially since you may have to do this with a baby 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 maneuver over rough terrain or bumps. Many models come with suspension systems that absorb shocks and provide your child with an easy 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. She found it easy to get up and down kerbs and the wheels were quick to negotiate over grass too.
There are three main types of 3 wheel pushchairs: strollers, joggers and all-terrain models. Strollers are ideal for urban areas due to 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 ideal for walks off-road.
All-terrain strollers are a favorite among parents who love to explore the countryside and take advantage of the outdoors. They usually come with wheels that are larger and more durable than regular pushchairs. They are suitable for rough terrain, and can be used as early as the moment of birth. However, you may need car seat adaptors to connect an infant carrier.
Some pushchairs resemble 3-wheelers, but they have four wheels. Two small wheels are placed close together in front, instead of the traditional central pair. 3 wheeled strollers provides manoeuvrability with the stability of a four-wheeler.
Some 3-wheeled pushchairs come with an swivelable and lockable front wheel that makes them more maneuverable. This is particularly useful in areas where you face a lot of difficulty often, as you can avoid getting stuck or encountering obstacles to negotiate. Some all-terrain strollers are fitted with foam-filled "never flat" tyres that do not require pumping. This makes them more convenient and comfortable to use for long walks or for continuous use. It's important to remember that these types of pushchairs tend to be heavier and bigger than other options, so it's important to consider how you'll be transporting or storing them when selecting the best model for you.
Weight
In general 3-wheeled pushchairs are generally heavier and larger than standard pushchairs. This is especially the case when they have big back wheels. It can be a challenge to lift a pushchair once it is folded, such as when it is loaded into the boot of a car or navigating the stairs. This can make the pushchair feel bulky and limit your ability to maneuver through narrow spaces or aisles.
All-terrain pushchairs are designed to handle a range of different terrains, including rough and uneven terrain such as gravel and mud paths. They are fitted with large, puncture-proof tires and strong suspensions to ensure a comfortable ride for your child. These pushchairs are usually quite expensive compared to regular pushchairs.
All-terrain pushchairs are an excellent choice if you live in the country or take your baby on regular walks in the woods or in country parks. These pushchairs usually have large tyres on both the front and back, and they are designed to handle a wide variety of terrains. They are a good option for wet or muddy weather however we suggest checking your tyres frequently to avoid air bubbles and flat spots.
The iCandy Core is a great all-terrain stroller which ticks all the boxes. It comes with a large basket that can hold up to 10kg, a single hand fold and adjustable handlebars. Its large tyres have foam-filled tyres that never go flat. It isn't necessary to worry about punctures. 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.
The Special Tomato Jogger is another option. It has a lightweight and highly mobile design. It's ideal for parents who like walking or running and comes with suspension that will give you a comfortable ride over different terrains. We also love how simple to clean it by simply taking off the frame and then washing in cold water.
Tyres
The tyres on a 3-wheel pushchair are usually larger than those on a 4-wheeler that can help navigate off-road terrain. For example the UPPAbaby Ridge has large, foam-filled tyres that are never flat and suspension that makes it ideal for long walks as well as rough ground. It is also designed to be suitable to run once your child is old enough. This is because of the 360-degree lockable front wheel, and a suspension that can be adjusted.
However, larger tyres could add weight to the pushchair so you'll need to consider this when choosing your model. It is also important to decide if you would like a model with removable wheels to make it easy to store in your car boot. MFM reviewer Becky loved this feature as it made navigating around supermarket aisles much more convenient.