3 Wheeled Pushchairs
Three-wheeled pushchairs are an excellent option for mothers who enjoy walking on varied terrain. They are easy to maneuver and more robust on rough terrain as they have larger front wheels.
If you intend to drive your buggy on other surfaces than the paved ones, you should 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 bigger the wheels of your pushchair the better able they are to be able to handle rough terrain and even the ground. This is because bigger wheels are more likely to'skid on dips and bumps. They also offer a more comfortable ride for your child. The drawback is that the additional wheels take up space in the car boot. Certain models of pushchairs that have large front wheels will need to be removed in order to store them flat.
All-terrain strollers come with features like large puncture-proof tires and sturdy suspension to allow them to withstand everything from busy high-street strolls to woodland hikes. They are often more expensive than other models, but if you regularly use your pushchair off the beaten path, they may be worth the extra cost.
If you are planning to remove your pushchair from paved surfaces, it's worth selecting a model that has tyres filled with air (sometimes called pneumatic tyres) because they are better suited to rough terrain than the solid rubber ones. They are also less prone to punctures than tyres which are composed of hard plastic or metal.
Certain models of pushchairs allow you to turn off the front wheel when not in use, which makes them easier to store - useful for those with a small car boot. Certain models also come with a swivelling front wheel that can be locked to give stability on rough terrain. If you're considering buying a pushchair with this feature, it's worth seeing how it's easy to use before you buy.
If you're thinking of adding a second seat, parent-facing unit or car seat adaptors for your pushchair, it's important to know how it's going to be 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 fast and simple to change between these types of configurations, whereas others might require more patience.
Manoeuvrability
A 3-wheeled pushchair is easier to maneuver and steer than a 4-wheeler. The single wheel on the front allows for easy maneuvering over bumps and rough terrain. A lot of models have suspension systems that help to absorb the shocks and give your child an easy ride. MFM's Kath tried a tri-wheeled buggie and was awed by how well it handled uneven pavements, cobblestones, and dirt tracks. Kath found it easy for her to climb up and down kerbs and the wheels were fast to navigate grass.
There are three primary types of 3 wheel pushchair that include joggers, strollers, and all-terrain models. Strollers are best suited to urban areas due to their smaller frames and narrower wheels while joggers come with large wheels and are designed to take you off-road. They typically feature a handbrake and adjustable handlebars. They are great for tackling off-road walks.
All-terrain strollers are a favorite among parents who want to explore the countryside and enjoy the outdoors. They usually come with bigger, more durable wheels than regular pushchairs. They are great for rough terrain, and are suitable from the moment of birth. However, you might require adaptors for your car seat to attach an infant car seat.
Some pushchairs look like 3-wheelers but are actually four wheels. Two wheels are positioned close 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 have a lockable and swivelable front wheel, making them more easily maneuverable. This is especially beneficial if you encounter difficult surfaces often, as you will avoid getting stuck or having obstacles to navigate around. Some all-terrain strollers are fitted with foam-filled "never flat" tyres, that don't require pumping. This makes them more convenient and comfortable to use on long walks or for continuous use. These types of pushchairs tend to be heavier and bulkier than other choices. It is important to consider the way you'll transport or store them when selecting the best model.
Weight
In general 3-wheeled pushchairs are generally heavier and more spacious than standard pushchairs. This is particularly true when they feature large back wheels. This makes it difficult to lift the pushchair when folded, such as when loading into a car boot or navigating stairs. This can also make the pushchair feel a little weighty when you're out and about, and can hinder your ability to maneuver through narrow spaces or aisles in stores.
All-terrain strollers are designed to be used on a variety of terrains including rough and uneven ground, mud, and gravel paths. These pushchairs typically come with large, puncture-proof tyres along with a sturdy suspension system to provide an enjoyable ride for your child. They are usually much more expensive than standard pushchairs.
All-terrain pushchairs are a good choice if you reside in the countryside or take your baby on regular walks in the woods or in country parks. These pushchairs are built to withstand a variety of terrains and will feature large tyres on the front and rear. These pushchairs are usually suitable for wet or muddy weather However, we suggest checking your tyres frequently to avoid air bubbles and flat spots.
The iCandy Core is a great all-terrain stroller that ticks off a lot of the boxes. It comes with a huge 10kg basket, a one-handed fold and an adjustable handlebar. The large tyres are filled with foam and never flat, so you don't have to worry about punctures or loss of air pressure. The seat is designed to be world-facing and suitable from birth, and can be used with an infant carrycot or infant carrier.
The Special Tomato Jogger is another alternative. It is lightweight and extremely mobile design. It's perfect for parents who love walking or running, and comes with a suspension to ensure the user a comfortable ride across all terrains. The fabric can be removed from the frame and then washed with cold water using a machine.
Tyres
The tyres of a 3-wheeled pushchair are often larger than those on a four-wheeled pram. This can help it to handle off-road terrain. For example, the UPPAbaby Ridge comes with large foam-filled tyres that are never flat and a suspension system that make it ideal for long walks as well as rough ground. It is also designed for jogging once your child is old enough. This is thanks to a 360-degree lockable front wheel and a suspension that can be adjusted.
three wheeled pram should consider the weight of your pushchair when choosing a model. You should also consider whether you'd prefer an infant stroller with wheels that are removable for storage space in your car boot. MFM reviewer Becky loved this feature as it made getting around the supermarket aisles more convenient.