3 Wheeled Pushchairs
Three-wheeled pushchairs offer an ideal option for mothers who enjoy walking on varied terrain. The larger front wheels on these buggies allow them to be more maneuverable and offer more stability on rough ground.
If you intend to drive your buggy on terrains other than paved tracks, choose a model 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 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 the larger wheels have a bigger contact surface, and are therefore less likely to skid over bumps and dips. They also offer a more comfortable ride to your child. The downside is the extra wheels are a burden on the car boot. Some models of pushchairs with big front wheels must be removed in order to keep them flat.
All-terrain pushchairs are made to withstand everything from high street strolls to woodland walks, and are fitted with features that let them accomplish this, including robust suspension and huge puncture-proof tyres. These models are generally more expensive, but if your pushchair is frequently used outside of the main roads regularly, they may be worth the investment.
It's better to choose a pushchair equipped with pneumatic (or air-filled) tires if you are planning to use it on roads. They are more suitable 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 let you remove the front wheel when not in use. This can make them easier to store, especially in the case of the space for a small boot. Certain models come with an front wheel that can be locked in place to give you extra stability on rough terrain. It's important to know the ease of you to use a pushchair equipped with this feature prior to buying.
It is important to think about how easy it will make it to add another seat or parent-facing unit to your pushchair. This is particularly true for parents who have children with you. 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-wheel pushchair is often more maneuverable and manage than a four-wheeler, with the single wheel in front making it simple to navigate over bumps and rough terrain. A lot of models have suspension systems that help to absorb shocks and provide your child with 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 was able to easily get up and down kerbs, and the wheels were quick to get over grass too.
There are three types of 3 wheeled pushchairs namely strollers (also called joggers), all-terrain models and all-terrain models. Strollers are best suited to urban environments due to their smaller wheels and narrower frames, while joggers come with large wheels and are designed to take you off-road. They typically have a handbrake and adjustable handlebars, and are great for tackling off-road walks.
All-terrain strollers are popular with parents who want to explore the countryside and enjoy the outdoors. They typically have larger, more durable wheels than standard pushchairs. They are suitable for rough terrain, and can be used from the moment of birth. However, you may require adaptors for your car seat to attach an infant car seat.
Some pushchairs appear to be 3-wheelers but actually have 4 wheels, with two small wheels that are close to each other at the front in place of a traditional central pair. This allows for the manoeuvrability of a three-wheeler, but the stability and safety of a four-wheeler.
Some 3-wheeled pushchairs have an adjustable and lockable front wheel that makes them more mobile. This is especially useful if you encounter difficult surfaces frequently, since you can avoid getting stuck or having obstacles to negotiate. Certain all-terrain pushchairs come equipped with foam-filled 'never flat' tyres that don't require pumping up, so they're more convenient and comfortable for long walks or continuous use. It's important to note that these types of pushchairs are typically larger and heavier than other options and it's crucial to consider the method you'll use for transporting them or storing them when selecting the best model for you.
Weight
Generally speaking 3-wheel pushchairs tend be heavier and more spacious than standard pushchairs. This is especially true when they have large rear wheels. It can be a challenge to lift a pushchair when it is folded, for instance when it is loaded into the car's boot or navigating stairs. This can also make the pushchair feel heavy when you are 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 different terrains like rough and uneven ground as well as mud and gravel paths. These pushchairs come with large, puncture-proof tires and an extremely sturdy suspension that will provide an enjoyable ride for the child. They are typically costly compared to standard pushchairs.
If you reside in the countryside or regularly take your baby for walks through woodlands or country parks, an all-terrain pushchair could be a good option. These pushchairs will generally have large tyres on both the front and back, and are designed to withstand many different terrains. They are a good option for rainy or muddy conditions however we suggest regularly checking your tyres 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. my webpage are stuffed with foam and never flat, which means you won't need to worry about punctures or losing air pressure. The seat can be used from birth and is suitable for all ages. It can also be used with a carrycot and a compatible infant carrier.
Another option is the Special Tomato Jogger, which has a lightweight design and excellent manoeuvrability. It's an excellent choice for parents who are active and like to take walks or jogs with their child and also comes with suspension that will ensure an enjoyable ride on all types of terrain. We also love how easy to clean it is with the fabric removing from the frame and then washing in cold water.
Tyres
A 3-wheel pushchair's tyres will typically be bigger than those of the 4-wheel model and can help handle off-road terrain. For instance the UPPAbaby Ridge has large, foam-filled tyres with a 'never flat' design and a suspension system that make it great for long walks and rough ground. It's also designed to run after your child has grown old enough. This is due to the 360-degree lockable front wheel, and adjustable suspension.
You'll need to think about the weight of your pushchair before deciding on the model. You will also need to decide if you'd like a model with removable wheels so that it is easier to store in your car boot. MFM reviewer Becky loved this feature as it made the process of navigating the supermarket aisles more convenient.