3 Wheeled Pushchairs
Three-wheeled pushchairs can be a great alternative for moms who love walking on a variety of terrain. These buggies are much easier to maneuver and more stable on rough terrain because they have larger front wheels.
If you plan to use your buggy on terrains other than paved tracks, choose one that has air-filled tires (also called pneumatic). They are more effective on surfaces that are not paved and are puncture-proof as well.
Stability
The bigger the wheels of your pushchair, the better they will 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 downside is the extra wheels are a burden on the car boot. Some models of pushchairs with big front wheels need to be removed in order to store them flat.
All-terrain pushchairs are designed to withstand everything from high street strolls to woodland walks, and are fitted with features that allow them to achieve this, like sturdy suspension and large puncture-proof tyres. These models are generally more expensive but if your child's pushchair is utilized off the beaten track regularly, they may be worth the cost.
If you intend to take your pushchair off roads, it's worth choosing one that has tyres filled with air (sometimes called pneumatic tyres) because they are more suitable for rough ground than solid rubber ones. These tyres are also less likely to puncture than ones made of steel or hard plastic.
Certain models of pushchairs allow users to remove the front wheel when not in use, making them easier to store - useful if you have an insufficient car boot. Some models also feature a swivelling front wheel that can be locked to provide stability on very rough terrain. It's worth checking the ease of you to use a pushchair with this feature before you buy.
If you're considering adding a second seat, parent-facing unit, or car seat adaptors to your pushchair, it's important to know how it's going to be 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 simple and quick to switch between these configurations, while others may require a little more patience.
Manoeuvrability
A 3-wheeled pushchair is easier to maneuver and steer than a four-wheeler. The single front wheel allows for easy maneuvering over bumps and rough terrain. Many models come with suspension systems that absorb the shocks and give your child a smooth ride. MFM's Kath tried a tri-wheeled buggie and was impressed by its ability to handle uneven pavements, cobblestones and dirt tracks. She was able to easily get up and down kerbs, and the wheels were quick to negotiate over grass too.
There are three types of three-wheeled pushchairs: strollers (also called Joggers) and models with all-terrain surfaces, and all-terrain models. Strollers are ideal for urban environments due to their smaller frames and narrower wheels, while joggers have larger wheels and are designed to take you off-road. They usually have a handbrake and adjustable handlebars. They are ideal for off-road walks.
All-terrain strollers are a favorite among parents who love to explore the countryside and take advantage of the outdoors. They usually come with larger, more durable wheels than standard pushchairs. They are suitable for rocky terrain and are suitable from the moment of birth. However, 3 wheeled pushchair may require adaptors for your car seat to connect an infant carrier.
Some pushchairs act like 3-wheelers, but actually come with four wheels, with two smaller wheels that are close to each other at the front in place of a traditional central pair. This allows for the maneuverability of a three-wheeler, but the stability and safety of a four-wheeler.
Some 3-wheel pushchairs feature a swivelling and lockable front wheel, making them even more manoeuvrable. This is particularly useful if you regularly encounter difficult surfaces, since it can help you avoid getting stuck or having to walk around obstacles. Certain all-terrain pushchairs are equipped with foam-filled 'never flat' tyres that don't need pumping up, so they're more comfortable and convenient for long walks or continuous use. It's worth noting that these kinds of pushchairs tend to be heavier and bigger than other pushchairs which is why it's essential to think about how you'll be transporting or storing them before selecting the best model for you.
Weight
In general 3-wheeled pushchairs tend to be heavier and more spacious than standard pushchairs. This is particularly true when they have big back wheels. It can be a challenge to lift a pushchair once it is folded, like when loading into the car's boot or when climbing stairs. This could make the pushchair appear heavy and hinder your ability to maneuver through narrow spaces or aisles.
All-terrain pushchairs are designed to withstand a variety of different terrains, such as rough and uneven terrain such as gravel and mud paths. These pushchairs typically come with large, puncture-proof tyres along with a sturdy suspension system that will provide an enjoyable ride for your child. They are typically much more expensive than regular pushchairs.
All-terrain pushchairs are an excellent choice when you reside in the country or take your baby for regular walks in woods or in country parks. These pushchairs are made to withstand a variety of terrains and will have large tyres on both the front and rear. They will often be a good choice for wet and muddy conditions, but we recommend inspecting the tyres frequently to avoid flat spots and air bubbles.
The iCandy Core, for example, is an all-terrain pushchair that checks off a number 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, 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 ages. 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 outstanding maneuverability. It's perfect for parents who like going for walks or jogs and has suspension that will give you an enjoyable ride on all terrains. We also love how easy it is to clean by simply removing from the frame and being machine washable in cold water.
Tyres
The tyres of a 3-wheel pushchair will often be larger than those of a 4-wheel pram and can help handle off-road terrain. For instance, 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's also designed to be suitable for running once your baby is old enough thanks to a 360-degree swivel lockable front wheel and an adjustable suspension.
You'll need to think about the weight of your pushchair when choosing a model. You should also consider 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 loved this feature as it made the process of navigating supermarket corners more convenient.