3 Wheeled Pushchairs
Three-wheeled pushchairs offer a great alternative for moms who like walking on different terrain. The larger front wheels on these buggies make them easier to manoeuvre and offer more stability on rough ground.
If you intend to use your buggy on surfaces other than paved tracks, choose one that has air-filled tires (also known as pneumatic). These are much more efficient on non-paved surfaces, and are puncture-proof too.
Stability
The larger the wheels of your pushchair are the better able they are to be able to handle rough terrain and even the ground. It's because larger wheels are more likely to'skid' on bumps and dips. They also provide a more comfortable ride for your child. The drawback is that the additional wheels take up space in the car boot. Some models of pushchairs that have large front wheels must be removed in order to store them flat.
All-terrain pushchairs are designed to handle anything from busy high street strolls to woodland walks, and come equipped with features that let them do this, such as sturdy suspension and huge puncture-proof tyres. These models are usually more expensive but if your child's pushchair is utilized off the beaten track often, they could be worth the investment.
If you plan to remove your pushchair from pavements, you should consider choosing one that has tyres filled with air (sometimes called pneumatic tyres) as these are much more suitable for 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 they are not in use. This can make them easier to store, especially in the case of the space for a small boot. Some models also feature an 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 that has this feature before you buy.
If you're thinking about adding a second seat, parent-facing unit, or car seat adaptors for your pushchair, it's important to know how it is easy to switch these components and fold/unfold the pushchair when you have the attached items, particularly as you may have to carry a baby on board. Some models are designed to be simple and quick to change between these types of configurations, whereas others may require a little more patience.
Manoeuvrability
A 3-wheel pushchair can be more maneuverable and manage than a 4-wheeler, due to the single wheel in front making it easy to navigate over rough terrain or bumps. Many models come with suspension systems that absorb the shocks and give your child a smooth ride. MFM's Kath test-driven a three-wheeled buggie and was amazed 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 kinds of 3 wheel pushchairs that include joggers, strollers, 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 come with a handbrake and adjustable handlebars, and are ideal for off-road strolls.
All-terrain pushchairs are a favorite for parents who want to utilise the outdoors and explore the countryside, and they usually come with larger and more durable wheels than standard pushchairs. They are ideal for rocky terrain and can be used as early as the time of birth. However, you may need car seat adaptors to connect an infant carrier.
Some pushchairs appear to be 3-wheelers but are actually four wheels. Two wheels are positioned close in front, instead of the traditional central pair. This allows for the maneuverability of a three-wheeler with the stability and safety of a four wheeler.
Some 3-wheel pushchairs have an swivelling and lockable front wheel, making them even more maneuverable. This is especially beneficial in areas where you face a lot of difficulty often, as you will avoid getting stuck or having obstacles to negotiate. Some all-terrain pushchairs are also fitted with foam-filled 'never flat' tyres, which don't need pumping up, so they're more convenient and comfortable for long walks or regular use. These kinds of pushchairs tend to be heavier and larger than other options. It is crucial to take into consideration the way you'll transport or store them when choosing the best model.
Weight
In general, 3-wheeled pushchairs are larger and heavier than normal pushchairs. This is particularly true when they have large back wheels. It can be a challenge to lift a pushchair once it is folded, like when loading into the trunk of a car or when climbing steps. This can make the pushchair feel heavy and restrict the ability to move through narrow spaces or aisles.
All-terrain strollers are designed to be used on different terrains like rough and uneven ground, mud, and gravel paths. These pushchairs come with large, puncture-proof tires. They also have a sturdy suspension to provide a comfortable ride for your child. These pushchairs are generally expensive when compared to standard pushchairs.
All-terrain pushchairs are a good choice when you reside in the countryside or take your baby for regular walks in woods or country parks. These pushchairs are built to handle different terrains and will feature large tyres on the front and rear. They are often a good choice for muddy and wet weather, however we recommend checking the tyres regularly 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 large basket that can hold up to 10kg, a one hand fold, and a movable handlebar. The large tyres are stuffed with foam and never flat, so you won't need to worry about punctures or losing air pressure. three wheeled buggies is world-facing and suitable from birth, and can be used with the carrycot or an infant carrier.
The Special Tomato Jogger is another alternative. It has a lightweight and extremely mobile design. It's a great option for parents who are active and like to go for walks or jogs along with their child and has suspension that will ensure an enjoyable ride on all kinds of terrain. The fabric can be removed from the frame, and then washed with cold water by machine.
Tyres
The tyres on a 3-wheeled pushchair are often larger than those of a 4-wheeled pram. This helps it to navigate off-road terrain. The UPPAbaby Ridge for instance, has large foam-filled tyres that don't flatten, as well as suspension systems. This makes it suitable for long walks on rough terrain. It's also designed to be suitable for running when your baby is old enough due to a 360-degree swivel lockable front wheel and an adjustable suspension.
However, larger tyres can add weight to the pushchair, so you'll need to take this into consideration when choosing your model. You'll also need to consider whether you'd prefer an infant stroller with wheels that are removable for easier storage in your car boot. MFM reviewer Becky loved this feature as it made getting around supermarket aisles much easier.