3 Wheeled Pushchairs
Three-wheeled pushchairs are a great alternative for moms 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 take your buggy off paved tracks choose a model with air-filled tyres (sometimes called pneumatic). They are more effective on non-paved surfaces, and are puncture-proof too.
Stability
The bigger the wheels of your pushchair, the better they will be able to handle rough terrain and even the ground. This is because bigger wheels have a larger contact surface so are less likely to skid over dips and bumps. They also offer a more comfortable ride for your child. The disadvantage is that the additional wheels can take up the space in your car boot, and some models of pushchair with large front wheels might need to remove them if you want to keep it in a flat place.
All-terrain pushchairs are built to withstand everything from high-street strolls to wooded walks, and come equipped with features that let them do this, such as robust suspension and large puncture-proof tyres. They can be more expensive than other models, but when you frequently use your pushchair away from the main track they could be worth the extra expense.
It is recommended to select a pushchair that has pneumatic (or air-filled) tyres if you plan to take it off roads. They are better suited for rough terrain than solid rubber tyres. They are also less likely to puncture than ones made of metal or hard plastic.
Some models of pushchair allow you to turn off the front wheel when in use, which makes them more compact to store - ideal in the event that you have an insufficient car boot. Some models have an front wheel that can be locked into place to provide extra stability when on rough terrain. It's important to know how easy it is for you to use a pushchair with this feature prior to purchasing.
It is crucial to think about the ease with which you can make it to add a second seat or a parent-facing unit to your pushchair. This is especially important when you have a child with you. Some models are designed to be simple and quick to switch between these configurations, while others may require more patience.
Manoeuvrability
A 3-wheel pushchair is typically more maneuverable and manage than a 4-wheeler, with the single wheel in front making it simple to navigate over bumps and rough terrain. Many models also have suspension systems, designed to help absorb shocks and provide an enjoyable ride for your child. MFM's Kath tested a three-wheeled buggie and was amazed by the ease with which it handled uneven pavements, cobblestones and dirt tracks. Kath was able to climb up and down kerbs, and the wheels were fast to maneuver through grass.
There are three kinds of 3 wheel pushchairs: strollers, joggers and all-terrain models. Strollers are ideal for urban environments with their smaller frames and narrower wheels while joggers have large wheels and are designed to take you off-road. They are equipped with a handbrake and adjustable handlebars and are great for walks off-road.
All-terrain pushchairs are a favorite for parents who want to take advantage of the outdoors and enjoy the countryside, and they usually come with larger and more durable wheels than standard pushchairs. They are ideal for rocky terrain and are suitable from the moment of birth. However, you may require car seat adaptors to attach an infant carrier.
Some pushchairs look like 3-wheelers, but actually come with four 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 while maintaining the stability and safety of a four-wheeler.
Some 3-wheel pushchairs feature a swivelling and lockable front wheel, making them even more maneuverable. This is especially useful when you have to navigate through rough terrain frequently, since you can avoid getting stuck or encountering obstacles to negotiate. Certain all-terrain pushchairs come equipped with foam-filled 'never flat' tyres that do not need pumping up, so they're more comfortable and convenient for long walks or frequent use. It's important to remember that these kinds of pushchairs tend to be heavier and bigger than other models, so it's important to consider how you'll be transporting or storing them when choosing the model you want to use.
Weight
In general 3-wheeled pushchairs tend to be heavier and more spacious than normal pushchairs. 3 wheel buggy is especially the case when they feature large back wheels. This can make it difficult to lift the pushchair once folded, for example when loading it into the car boot or climbing steps. This can also make the pushchair feel bulky when out and about, and can restrict the speed at which you can manoeuvre through small spaces or aisles in stores.
All-terrain pushchairs are built to withstand a variety of different terrains, including rough and uneven terrain such as gravel and mud paths. They typically have large, puncture-proof tyres as well as a robust suspension system that will provide an enjoyable ride for your child. They are typically expensive when compared with regular pushchairs.
If you live in the countryside or take your child regularly for walks through woodlands or country parks, an all-terrain pushchair could be a great choice. These pushchairs typically have large tyres on both the front as well as back, and will be designed to handle a wide variety of terrains. These pushchairs are often a good option for rainy or muddy conditions However, we suggest checking your tyres frequently to avoid air bubbles and flat spots.
The iCandy Core, for example is a pushchair for all-terrain use that ticks a lot of boxes. It has a spacious basket that can hold up to 10kg, a one hand fold, and a movable handlebar. The large tyres are stuffed with foam and never flat, so you won't need to worry about punctures or losing air pressure. The seat can be used from birth and is suitable for all age groups. It can also be used with the carrycot as well as an infant carrier.
Another alternative is the Special Tomato Jogger, which features a light design and excellent manoeuvrability. It's an excellent choice for active parents who like to take walks or jogs with their child and also has suspension to provide an enjoyable ride on all types of terrain. We also appreciate how easy to clean it by simply being removed from the frame and then washing in cold water.
Tyres
The tyres of a 3-wheeled pushchair are often larger than those of a four-wheeled pram. This can help it to cope 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 terrain. It is also designed to jog when your child is old enough. This is because of the 360-degree lockable front wheel, and a suspension that can be adjusted.
You'll want to consider the weight of your pushchair when choosing a model. You will also need to decide if you would like wheels that can be removed so that it is easier to store in your car boot. MFM reviewer Becky especially liked this feature as it made manoeuvring around supermarket corners much easier.