3 wheeler pushchair -wheeled pushchairs offer a great alternative for moms who love walking on a variety of terrain. These buggies are much easier to maneuver and more robust on rough terrain as they have larger front wheels.
If you intend to use your buggy off paved tracks choose a model with air-filled tyres (sometimes called pneumatic). They are more effective on surfaces that are not paved and are puncture-proof too.
Stability
The bigger the wheels of your pushchair are the better they are able to deal with rough terrain and the ground. This is because larger wheels have a bigger contact surface so are less likely to slide over dips and bumps. The larger wheels also offer the most comfortable ride for your child. The disadvantage is that the additional wheels can take up space in your car's boot, and some models of pushchair with large front wheels might need to have them removed in order to keep it in a flat place.
All-terrain strollers have features such as large puncture-proof tires as well as a sturdy suspension to allow them to handle everything from busy high-street strolls to hikes in the woods. These models are usually more expensive however if your pushchair is frequently used outside of the main roads regularly, they may be worth the investment.
It is recommended to select a pushchair equipped with pneumatic (or air-filled) tires if you intend to use it on pavements. They are more suitable for rough terrain than solid rubber tyres. They are also less vulnerable to punctures than tyres that are composed from hard plastic or metal.
Certain pushchairs allow you to remove the front wheel when not in use. This can make them easier to store, particularly if you only have the space for a small boot. Some models have an front wheel that can be locked in place to provide extra stability on rough terrain. If you're considering purchasing a pushchair that has this feature, make sure to check how it's operated before you purchase.
If you're considering adding an additional seat, parent-facing unit or car seat adaptors for your pushchair, it is important to determine how it's going to be easy to switch these components and fold/unfold the pushchair when you have the attached items, particularly as you may have to do this with a child on board. Some models are designed to allow rapid and simple configuration changes, while others require more patience.
Manoeuvrability
A 3-wheel pushchair is typically more maneuverable and manage than a 4-wheeler, due to the single wheel on the front making it simple to navigate over bumps or rough terrain. Many models also come with suspension systems, designed to help absorb shocks and provide a smooth ride for your child. MFM's Kath tested 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 over and down kerbs and the wheels were fast to navigate grass.
There are three types of three-wheeled pushchairs: strollers (also called Joggers), all-terrain models and all-terrain models. Strollers are best suited for urban environments with their smaller frames and narrower wheels while joggers have larger wheels and are designed to take you off-road. They typically come with a handbrake as well as adjustable handlebars, and are ideal for off-road hikes.
All-terrain pushchairs are a popular choice for parents who want to utilise the outdoors and enjoy the countryside. They generally have larger and more sturdy wheels than standard pushchairs. They are ideal for rough terrain, and are suitable from the time of birth. However, you may require car seat adaptors to attach an infant carrier.
Some pushchairs look like 3-wheelers, but actually come with four wheels, with two small wheels that are close to each other in front instead of a traditional central pair. This allows for the manoeuvrability of a three-wheeler with the stability and safety of a four wheeler.
Some 3-wheeled pushchairs have an adjustable and lockable front wheel, which makes them more mobile. This is particularly useful if you encounter difficult surfaces often, as you will avoid getting stuck or having obstacles to navigate around. Some all-terrain pushchairs are also equipped with foam-filled 'never flat' tyres that don't require pumping, which means they're more comfortable and convenient for long walks or regular use. It's worth noting that these types of pushchairs tend to be larger and heavier than other models and it's crucial to think about how you'll be transporting them or storing them when deciding on your preferred model.
Weight
Generally speaking 3-wheel pushchairs tend be heavier and larger than standard pushchairs, especially when they come with large rear wheels. It can be a challenge to lift a pushchair when it is folded, like when loading into the boot of a car or when climbing stairs. This could make the pushchair feel a little bulky when out and about, and may restrict the speed at which you can navigate narrow spaces or aisles in shops.
All-terrain pushchairs are built to withstand a variety of different terrains, including rough and uneven ground as well as mud and gravel trails. These pushchairs typically come with large, puncture-proof tyres as well as a robust suspension system that will provide a comfortable ride for your child. They are typically expensive when compared with regular pushchairs.
All-terrain pushchairs are a good choice for those who reside in the countryside or take your child on regular walks in the woods or in country parks. These pushchairs are designed to handle different terrains and will have large tyres on both the front and rear. They will often be the best choice for wet and muddy weather as well, although we suggest inspecting the tyres frequently to avoid flat spots and air bubbles.
The iCandy Core, for example is a pushchair for all-terrain use that checks off a number of boxes. It comes with a large basket that can carry up to 10kg, a one hand fold and adjustable handlebars. Its large tyres are foam-filled and never flat, so you don't have to worry about punctures or loss of air pressure. The seat is suitable for use from birth and is suitable for all age groups. It can also be used in conjunction with a carrycot and a compatible infant carrier.
The Special Tomato Jogger is another alternative. It's a light and extremely mobile design. It's an excellent choice for parents who love to walk or jogs along with their child and comes with suspension to provide an enjoyable ride on all types of terrain. We also love how simple it is to clean by simply removing from the frame and being machine washable in cold water.
Tyres
The tyres on a 3-wheel pushchair are usually larger than those on a 4-wheeler and can help handle off-road terrain. For example, the UPPAbaby Ridge comes with large, foam-filled 'never flat' tyres and suspension that makes it ideal for long walks and rough ground. It's also designed for jogging when your child is old enough. This is because of the 360-degree lockable front wheel, and adjustable suspension.
You should consider the weight of your pushchair when choosing the model. You'll also have to decide if you want a model with removable wheels to make it more easily stored in your car boot. MFM reviewer Becky liked this feature because it made navigating around supermarket aisles much more convenient.