3 Wheeled Pushchairs
3 wheeled pushchairs can be a excellent choice for mothers who love walking over different terrains. The larger front wheels on these pushchairs allow them to be more maneuverable and offer more stability on rough ground.
If you intend to take your buggy off of paved tracks, choose a model with air-filled tyres (sometimes called pneumatic). They are more efficient and puncture-proof on surfaces that are not paved.
Stability
The bigger the wheels of your pushchair are the better able they are to handle rough terrain and ground. This is because the larger wheels have a greater contact surface, and are therefore less likely to'skid' over bumps and dips. The larger wheels also offer a more comfortable ride for your child. The disadvantage is that the extra wheels can take up space in your car boot, and some models of pushchairs with large front wheels may need to remove them if you want to put it away flat.
All-terrain strollers are equipped with features like large puncture-proof tires as well as a robust suspension that allows them to take on everything from busy high-street strolls to woodland hikes. They can be more expensive than other models, however If you are regularly using your pushchair off the main path, they may be worth the extra expense.
It's better to choose a pushchair with pneumatic (or air-filled) tyres if you plan to use it on paved surfaces. They are better suited for rough terrain than tyres made of solid rubber. They are also less likely to break than those made of steel or hard plastic.
Some pushchairs allow you to remove the front wheel when they are not in use. This can make them easier to store, particularly when you have a small boot. Some models also have the front wheel that swivels and 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.
It's important to consider how easy it will be it to add another seat or parent-facing unit to your pushchair. 3 wheel pushchairs is especially true when you have a child with you. Some models are designed to be quick and easy to change between these types of configurations, whereas others may require a little more patience.
Manoeuvrability
A 3-wheeled pushchair is easier to maneuver and steer than a 4-wheeler. The single wheel in the front allows you to easily navigate over bumps and rough terrain. A lot of models have suspension systems that absorb the shocks and give your child a smooth ride. MFM's Kath tried a tri-wheeled buggie and was amazed by how well it handled uneven pavements, cobblestones, and dirt tracks. Kath was able to climb up and down kerbs and the wheels were quick to negotiate grass.
There are three types of three-wheeled pushchairs: strollers (also called joggers) and models with all-terrain surfaces, and all-terrain models. Strollers are best suited for urban environments with their smaller frames and narrower wheels, while joggers have large wheels and are designed to take you off-road. They typically feature a handbrake and adjustable handlebars. They are ideal for off-road trails.
All-terrain strollers are popular with parents who love to explore the countryside and take advantage of the outdoors. They typically have wheels that are larger and more durable than standard pushchairs. They're ideal for rough terrain and are typically used from birth, however you may need to buy car seat adaptors if are looking to connect a compatible infant carrier.
Some pushchairs appear to be 3-wheelers, but actually have four wheels, with two smaller wheels that are close to each other in front, instead of the traditional central pair. This provides manoeuvrability with the stability of a four-wheeler.
Some 3-wheeled pushchairs have an swivelable and lockable front wheel, which makes them more maneuverable. This is especially useful in areas where you face a lot of difficulty often, as you can 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 for long walks or for regular use. These kinds of pushchairs are generally heavier and bulkier than other options. It is crucial to think about the method you'll use to transport them or store them when choosing the model you prefer.
Weight
Generally speaking 3-wheel pushchairs tend be heavier and larger than standard pushchairs, particularly when they have large back wheels. This makes it difficult to lift the pushchair once folded, like when loading into the car boot or going up the stairs. This could make the pushchair appear heavy and restrict your ability to maneuver in narrow spaces or aisles.
All-terrain strollers are designed to be used on different terrains like rough and uneven terrain such as mud, gravel, and paths. These pushchairs typically come with large, puncture-proof tyres as well as an extremely sturdy suspension system that will provide an enjoyable ride for your child. These pushchairs are generally expensive when compared to standard pushchairs.
If you reside in the countryside, or take your child regularly for walks through woodlands or country parks, an all-terrain pushchair may be the best option. These pushchairs are designed to withstand a variety of terrains and will have large tyres on both the front and rear. They are usually an ideal choice for wet and muddy weather, however we recommend regular inspection of the tyres to avoid flat spots and air bubbles.
The iCandy Core is a great all-terrain stroller that ticks off many of the boxes. It has a generous 10kg basket, a one-handed fold and an adjustable handlebar. The large tyres are filled with foam and never flat, which means you won't have to worry about punctures or loss of air pressure. The seat is designed to be world-facing and suitable for babies from birth, and it can be used in conjunction with the carrycot or an infant carrier.
Another alternative is another option is the Special Tomato Jogger, which features a light design and great maneuverability. It's ideal for parents who like taking walks or jogging and comes with a suspension to ensure an enjoyable ride on all terrains. The fabric can be removed from the frame and then washed with cold water with a machine.
Tyres
The tyres on a 3-wheel pushchair will typically be bigger than those of a 4-wheel pram that can help deal with off-road terrain. For example, the UPPAbaby Ridge has large foam-filled 'never flat' tyres and suspension that makes it great for long walks and rough ground. It is also designed to be suitable for jogging when your child is 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 overall weight of the pushchair. You'll have to consider this when deciding on the model. You should also consider whether you'd like a pushchair that has wheels that can be removed for storage space in your car boot. MFM reviewer Becky especially liked this feature as it made manoeuvring around supermarket corners much simpler.