3 Wheeled Pushchairs
Three-wheeled pushchairs offer an ideal option for mothers who love walking on a variety of terrain. The larger front wheels on these buggies make them easier to manoeuvre and offer more stability on rough ground.
If you intend to drive your buggy on terrains other than paved tracks, select one that has air-filled tires (also known as pneumatic). They are more efficient and puncture-proof on surfaces that are not paved.
Stability
The larger the wheels on your pushchair is, the better it can deal with rough ground and terrain. This is because bigger wheels are more likely to skid' on bumps and dips. The larger wheels also offer a more comfortable ride to your child. The disadvantage is that the additional wheels can take up the space in your car boot, and certain models with big front wheels may need to be removed when you wish to store it flat.
All-terrain pushchairs are designed to withstand everything from high street strolls to woodland walks, and are equipped with features that let them achieve this, like strong suspension and huge puncture-proof tyres. These models are usually more expensive however if your pushchair is utilized off the beaten track regularly, they may be worth the investment.
It's better to choose a pushchair with pneumatic (or air-filled) tires if you are planning to use it on paved surfaces. They are better suited for rough terrain than solid rubber tyres. They are also less vulnerable to punctures than tyres that are composed of hard plastic or metal.
Some models of pushchair allow users to remove the front wheel when not in use, which can make them easier to store, which is useful for those with a small car boot. Certain models also come with the front wheel that swivels and can be locked to give stability on rough terrain. It's important to know the ease of you to use a pushchair that has this feature prior to purchasing.
If you're thinking of adding a second seat, parent-facing unit, or car seat adaptors to your pushchair, it is important to determine how easy it will be to switch these components and fold/unfold the pushchair when you have them attached - especially as you may need to do this with a baby on board. Some models are designed for simple and quick change of configurations, while others require more patience.
Manoeuvrability
A 3-wheeled pushchair is much 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 come with suspension systems, which are designed to absorb shocks and ensure an easy ride for your baby. MFM's Kath tried a tri-wheeled buggie and was awed by its ability to handle uneven pavements, cobblestones and dirt tracks. Kath found it easy to go up and down kerbs and the wheels were quick to negotiate over grass too.
There are three types of three-wheeled pushchairs: strollers (also called joggers) and models with all-terrain surfaces, 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 are equipped with a handbrake and adjustable handlebars and are great for off-road walks.
All-terrain pushchairs are popular for parents who want to enjoy the outdoors and explore the countryside. They typically have more robust and larger wheels than regular pushchairs. They are great for rough terrain, and can be used as early as birth. However, you might need car seat adaptors to connect an infant carrier.
Some pushchairs appear to be 3-wheelers, but actually have four wheels, with two small wheels placed close to each other in front, instead of the traditional central pair. This allows for the maneuverability of a three-wheeler while maintaining the stability and safety of a four-wheeler.
Some 3-wheel pushchairs come with a swivelling and lockable front wheel, which makes them even more manoeuvrable. This is especially useful if you regularly encounter difficult surfaces, since it can assist you in avoiding getting stuck or having to walk around obstacles. Some all-terrain strollers are fitted with foam-filled "never flat" tyres, which don't require pumping. This makes them more convenient and comfortable to use for long walks or for frequent use. These kinds of pushchairs are generally heavier and bulkier than other options. It is important to consider the method you'll use to transport them or store them when selecting the best model.
Weight
In general 3-wheeled pushchairs tend to be heavier and larger than standard pushchairs. This is particularly true when they feature large back wheels. It can be difficult to lift a pushchair when it is folded, like when loading into the trunk of a car or when navigating steps. This could make the pushchair appear heavy and restrict your ability to maneuver in narrow aisles or spaces.
All-terrain pushchairs are built to handle a range of different terrains, including rough and uneven terrain as well as mud and gravel trails. These pushchairs will typically feature large, puncture-proof tyres as well as an extremely sturdy suspension system to provide a safe and comfortable ride for your child. These pushchairs are usually quite expensive when compared with regular pushchairs.
If you live in the countryside or frequently take your baby for walks in woodland or country parks, an all-terrain pushchair could be the best option. These pushchairs are made to be able to handle a variety of terrains, and will have large tyres on both the front and rear. These pushchairs are usually a good option for wet or muddy weather, but we recommend regularly checking your tyres to avoid air bubbles and flat spots.
The iCandy Core, for example, is an all-terrain pushchair that checks a lot of boxes. It has a generous basket that can carry up to 10kg, a one handed fold and adjustable handlebars. The large tyres are filled with foam tyres that are never flat. three wheel pushchair isn't necessary to worry about punctures. The seat is suitable for use from birth and is suitable for all age groups. It can also be used in conjunction with the carrycot as well as an infant carrier.
Another alternative is another option is the Special Tomato Jogger, which has a lightweight design and outstanding maneuverability. It's ideal for parents who love taking walks or jogging, and comes with suspension that ensures a comfortable ride over different terrains. We also appreciate how easy to clean it, with the fabric simply being removed from the frame and washing in cold water.
3 wheel pushchair on a 3-wheeled pushchair are often larger than those of a four-wheeled pram. This can help it to cope with off-road terrain. The UPPAbaby Ridge for instance, has large foam-filled tyres that never flatten and suspension systems. This makes it ideal for long walks on rough terrain. It's also designed for jogging when your child is old enough. This is because of the 360-degree lockable front wheel and an adjustable suspension.
You'll want to consider the weight of your pushchair before deciding on a model. You'll also need to consider whether you'd prefer a pushchair that has wheels that can be removed for storage space in your car boot. MFM reviewer Becky particularly liked this feature because it made maneuvering around supermarket corners much easier.