3 Wheeled Pushchairs
3 wheeled pushchairs can be a ideal choice for mothers who enjoy walking on varied terrain. The larger front wheels on these buggies make them easier to manoeuvre and provide more stability when walking on rough terrain.
If you intend to drive your buggy on surfaces other than paved tracks, choose a model that has air-filled tires (also known as pneumatic). They are more efficient and puncture-proof even on non-paved surfaces.
Stability
The larger the wheels on your pushchair is, the better it will deal with rough ground and terrain. This is because bigger wheels have a larger contact surface so are less likely to skid over dips and bumps. They also offer the most comfortable ride for your child. The disadvantage is that the additional wheels can take up the space in your car boot, and certain models of pushchair with large front wheels may need to remove them if you want to store it flat.
All-terrain pushchairs are designed to be able to take on anything from high-street strolls to wooded walks, and are equipped with features that allow them to accomplish this, including strong suspension and huge puncture-proof tyres. They are often more expensive than other models, however If you are regularly using your pushchair away from the main track, they might be worth the extra expense.
It's better to choose a pushchair equipped with pneumatic (or air-filled) tires if you are planning to take it off pavements. They are better suited for rough terrain than tyres made of solid rubber. These tyres are also less likely to break than those made of metal or plastic.
Certain models of pushchairs allow users to remove the front wheel when in use, making them easier to store - useful in the event that you have an insufficient car boot. Some models also feature an swivelling front wheel that can be locked to give stability on very rough terrain. It is important to determine the ease of you to use a pushchair equipped with this feature prior to purchasing.
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 is easy to change these elements and fold/unfold the pushchair with the attached items, particularly as you might have to carry a baby on board. Some models are designed to be simple and quick to switch between these types of configurations, whereas others may require more patience.
Manoeuvrability
A 3-wheeled pushchair is much easier to handle and steer than a four-wheeler. The single wheel on the front makes it easy to navigate over bumps and rough terrain. A lot of models come with suspension systems, designed to absorb shocks and ensure a smooth ride for your child. MFM's Kath test-driven a three-wheeled buggie and was impressed by its ability to handle uneven pavements, cobblestones and dirt tracks. She found it easy to climb up and down kerbs and the wheels were fast to navigate grass.
There are three types of 3 wheeled pushchair s namely strollers (also known as Joggers), all-terrain models, and all-terrain models. Strollers have smaller wheels and shorter frames that are better suited to urban environments, while Joggers have large wheels and are specifically designed to be used off-road. They are equipped with a handbrake and adjustable handlebars, and are ideal for off-road walks.
All-terrain pushchairs are a favorite for parents who want to utilise the outdoors and explore the countryside. They usually come with larger and more durable wheels than standard pushchairs. They are suitable for rough terrain, and can be used as early as birth. However, you might require adaptors for your car seat to attach an infant carrier.
Some pushchairs appear to be 3-wheelers but actually have 4 wheels, with two smaller wheels positioned close together in front, instead of the traditional central pair. This allows for the manoeuvrability of a three-wheeler, but the stability and security of a four-wheeler.
Some 3-wheeled pushchairs include a lockable and swivelable front wheel, making them more easily maneuverable. This is particularly useful if you encounter difficult surfaces often, as you can avoid getting stuck or having obstacles to navigate around. Certain all-terrain pushchairs come equipped with foam-filled 'never flat' tyres that don't need pumping up, so they're more convenient and comfortable for long walks or frequent use. These kinds of pushchairs tend to be heavier and bigger than other choices. It is essential to take into consideration the method you'll use to transport or store them when selecting your preferred model.
Weight
Generally speaking, 3-wheel pushchairs tend to be heavier and bigger than standard pushchairs. This is especially true when they come with large back wheels. It can be a challenge to lift a pushchair while it is folded, such as when loading it into the car's boot or navigating stairs. This makes the pushchair feel heavy and hinder the ability to move through narrow spaces or aisles.
All-terrain pushchairs are built to be able to navigate different terrains, such as rough and uneven terrain as well as mud and gravel trails. These pushchairs come with large, puncture-proof tires as well as an extremely sturdy suspension that will provide an enjoyable ride for the child. They are typically a lot more expensive than standard pushchairs.
If you live in the countryside or take your child regularly for walks in woodland or country parks, an all-terrain pushchair could be a great choice. These pushchairs are designed to handle different terrains and will have large tyres both on the front and rear. They are usually an ideal choice for muddy and wet weather as well, although we suggest 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 has a spacious basket that can hold up to 10kg, a one hand fold and adjustable handlebars. Its large tyres have foam-filled tyres that will never flat. You won't have to worry about punctures. The seat is designed to be world-facing and is suitable from birth and can be used with an infant carrycot or infant carrier.
The Special Tomato Jogger is another option. 3 wheel buggy has a lightweight and highly maneuverable design. It's perfect for parents who enjoy walking or running and has a suspension to ensure an enjoyable ride on all terrains. We also appreciate how easy to clean it is, with the fabric simply removing from the frame and being machine washable in cold water.
Tyres
The tyres on a 3-wheel pushchair will typically be bigger than those of the 4-wheel model, which can help to deal with off-road terrain. For example, the UPPAbaby Ridge has large, foam-filled 'never flat' tyres and a suspension system that make it ideal for long walks as well as rough ground. It's also designed to be suitable for jogging once your baby is old enough, thanks to a 360 pivoting lockable front wheel and an adjustable suspension.
However, larger tyres can add weight to the pushchair, so you'll need to consider this when deciding on the model. You'll also have to decide if you want a model that has wheels that are removable to make it easy to store in your car boot. MFM reviewer Becky liked this feature because it made navigating around supermarket aisles much more convenient.