3 Wheeled Pushchairs
3 wheeled pushchairs can be a great option for mums who like to walk over different terrains. The larger front wheels on these buggies make them easier to manoeuvre and offer greater stability on rough ground.
If you intend to drive your buggy on surfaces other than paved tracks, select one that has air-filled tires (also called pneumatic). These are much more efficient on surfaces that are not paved and are puncture-proof too.
Stability
The bigger the wheels of your pushchair, the better they will deal with rough terrain and the ground. This is because bigger wheels have a greater contact surface so are less likely to'skid' over dips and bumps. The larger wheels also provide a more comfortable ride for your child. The drawback is that the additional wheels can take up space in the car boot. Certain models of pushchairs with big front wheels need to be removed in order to store them flat.
All-terrain strollers come with features like large puncture-proof tires as well as a robust suspensions that allow them to take on everything from busy high-street strolls to hikes in the woods. These models are usually more expensive however if your pushchair is used off the beaten path regularly, they may be worth the investment.
If you intend to use your pushchair on paved surfaces, it's worth opting for a pushchair with air-filled tyres (sometimes called pneumatic tyres) as these are much better suited to rough terrain than tyres made of solid rubber. They are also less likely to puncture than those made of metal or hard plastic.
Certain pushchairs allow you to remove the front wheel when not in use. This can make them easier for you to store, particularly in the case of an empty boot. Certain models also come with a swivelling front wheel that can be locked to give stability over very rough ground. If you're considering purchasing a pushchair that has this feature, you should check how it's easy to use before purchasing.
If you're thinking of adding an additional seat, parent-facing unit, or car seat adaptors to your pushchair it's important to check how it's going to be easy to change these elements and fold/unfold the pushchair when you have them attached, especially since you might have to do this with a child on board. Some models are designed to be quick and easy to switch between these configurations, while others might require more patience.
Manoeuvrability
A 3-wheeled pushchair is easier to steer and handle than a 4-wheeler. The single front wheel allows you to easily navigate over bumps and rough terrain. A lot of models have suspension systems that absorb shocks and give your baby a smooth ride. MFM's Kath test-driven a three-wheeled buggie and was impressed by its ability to handle uneven pavements, cobblestones, and dirt tracks. She was able to climb over and down kerbs and the wheels were quick to navigate grass.
There are three primary types of 3 wheel pushchairs such as joggers, strollers and all-terrain models. Strollers have smaller wheels and narrower frames that are better for urban environments, whereas Joggers have large wheels and are specifically designed for off-road use. They are equipped with a handbrake, adjustable handlebars and are perfect for off-road walks.
All-terrain pushchairs are a favorite for parents who want to enjoy the outdoors and explore the countryside. They usually have more robust and larger wheels than standard pushchairs. They're great for rough terrain and are generally used from birth, but you may need to purchase car seat adaptors if need to attach an infant carrier.
Some pushchairs look like 3-wheelers, but actually come with four wheels, with two smaller wheels placed close to each other in front, instead of the traditional central pair. This allows for the manoeuvrability of a three-wheeler with the stability and safety of a four-wheeler.
best 3 wheel pushchair pushchairsandprams -wheel pushchairs feature an swivelling and lockable front wheel, making them even more manoeuvrable. This is particularly useful in areas where you face a lot of difficulty frequently, since you can avoid getting stuck or encountering obstacles to negotiate. Some all-terrain pushchairs are also fitted 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 types of pushchairs are generally heavier and bigger than other models. It is essential to consider how you will transport or store them when choosing your preferred model.
Weight
Generally speaking, 3-wheel pushchairs tend to be heavier and larger than standard pushchairs. This is especially true when they have large back wheels. It can be difficult to lift a pushchair while it is folded, for instance when loading into the boot of a car or when navigating stairs. This could make the pushchair appear heavy and restrict the ability to move through narrow aisles or spaces.
All-terrain pushchairs are built to be able to navigate different terrains, such as rough and uneven ground, mud and gravel paths. They are fitted with large, puncture-proof tires as well as a sturdy suspension to provide a comfortable ride for your child. They will usually be quite costly compared to normal pushchairs.
All-terrain pushchairs are a good choice for those who live in the country or take your baby for regular walks in the woods or in country parks. These pushchairs typically feature large tyres front as well as back, and will be designed to handle a wide variety of terrains. They will often be the best choice for wet and muddy weather, however we recommend checking the tyres regularly 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 has a generous 10kg basket that folds with one hand and an adjustable handlebar. Its large tyres are foam-filled and never flat, so you won't need to worry about punctures or loss of air pressure. The seat can be used from birth and is suitable for all age groups. It can also be used in conjunction with an infant carrycot or infant carrier.
Another option is the Special Tomato Jogger, which has a lightweight design and great maneuverability. It's ideal for parents who enjoy taking walks or jogging and comes with a suspension to ensure a comfortable ride over different terrains. The fabric can be removed from the frame and then washed with cold water by machine.
Tyres
The tyres of a 3-wheeled pushchair tend to be larger than those of a four-wheeled pushchair. This makes it easier to handle off-road terrain. The UPPAbaby Ridge for instance is equipped with large tyres filled with foam that will never flatten and a suspension system. This makes it perfect for long walks over rough terrain. It is also designed for jogging after your child has grown old enough. This is thanks to the 360-degree lockable front wheel, and a suspension that can be adjusted.
However, larger tyres may increase the weight of the pushchair, so you'll need to take this into account when selecting the model. It is also important to think about whether you'd like a pushchair with removable wheels for storage space in your car boot. MFM reviewer Becky especially liked this feature as it made manoeuvring around the corners of supermarkets much easier.