3 wheeled pushchair Wheeled Pushchairs
3 wheeled pushchairs are excellent choice for mothers who like to walk over diverse terrain. The larger front wheels on these pushchairs make them easier to manoeuvre and offer more stability on uneven ground.
If you plan to use your buggy on other surfaces than paved tracks, choose one that has air-filled tires (also known as pneumatic). They are more efficient and puncture-proof even on non-paved surfaces.
Stability
Generally, the bigger the wheels on your pushchair, the better it will be able to handle rough terrain and uneven 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 are a burden on the car boot. Certain models of pushchairs that have large front wheels need to be removed in order to keep them flat.
All-terrain pushchairs are built to handle anything from busy high-street strolls to woodland walks, and are fitted with features that enable them to do this, such as robust suspension and large puncture-proof tyres. These types are typically more expensive however if your pushchair is used off the beaten path regularly, they may be worth the cost.
If you plan to remove your pushchair from paved surfaces, it's worth choosing one that is fitted with air-filled tyres (sometimes called pneumatic tyres) as these are much better suited to rough terrain than the solid rubber ones. They are also less susceptible to punctures than tyres that are made of hard plastic or metal.
Some pushchairs let you remove the front wheel when not in use. This makes them easier for you to store, especially if you only have an empty boot. Some models also have an swivelling front wheel that can be locked to add stability over very rough ground. It is important to determine the ease of you to use a pushchair that has this feature before you buy.
If you're considering adding a second seat, parent-facing unit, or car seat adaptors to your pushchair, it's important to check how it is easy to change these elements and fold or unfold the pushchair with them attached - especially as you might have to do this with a baby on board. Some models are designed to be simple and quick to change between these configurations, while others may require a little more patience.
Manoeuvrability
A 3-wheel pushchair is often more maneuverable and manage than a four-wheeler, with the single wheel on the front making it easy to navigate over bumps and rough terrain. Many models also come with suspension systems, which are designed to absorb shocks and provide a smooth ride for your child. 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 climb up and down kerbs and the wheels were fast to navigate grass.
There are three wheeler pushchair types of three-wheeled pushchairs: strollers (also known as joggers) models that are all-terrain and all-terrain models. Strollers have smaller wheels and shorter frames that are more designed for urban environments, while Joggers have large wheels and designed for off-road use. They come with a handbrake and adjustable handlebars and are perfect for off-road strolls.
All-terrain strollers are popular among parents who want to explore the countryside and take advantage of the outdoors. They usually come with larger, more durable wheels than regular pushchairs. They are ideal for rocky terrain and can be used as early as birth. However, you may require adaptors for your car seat to attach an infant carrier.
Some pushchairs appear to be 3-wheelers, but actually come with four wheels, with two small wheels positioned close together at the front in place of a traditional central pair. This gives maneuverability and the stability of a four-wheeler.
Some 3-wheeled pushchairs come with a lockable and swivelable front wheel, which makes them more easily maneuverable. This is especially beneficial if you regularly encounter difficult surfaces, as it can assist you in avoiding getting stuck or walking around obstacles. Some all-terrain strollers are fitted with foam-filled "never flat" tyres that do not require pumping. This makes them more convenient and comfortable to use on long walks or for frequent use. It's important to note that these types of pushchairs are typically heavier and bigger than other options and it's crucial to consider how you'll be transporting them or storing them when deciding on your preferred model.
Weight
In general, 3 wheeled pushchair-wheeled pushchairs are heavier and more spacious than regular pushchairs. This is particularly true when they have large back wheels. It can be difficult 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 may restrict the speed at which you can manoeuvre through small spaces or aisles in stores.
All-terrain pushchairs are made to be able to navigate different terrains, such as rough and uneven terrain such as gravel and mud paths. These pushchairs will typically feature large, puncture-proof tyres as well as a robust suspension system to offer a safe and comfortable ride for your child. They will usually be quite costly compared to standard pushchairs.
If you reside in the countryside or take your child regularly to walks in the woods or country parks, an all-terrain pushchair may be a great choice. These pushchairs are designed to handle different terrains and will have large tyres both on the front and rear. They are often the best 3 wheel stroller choice for wet and muddy conditions, but we recommend inspecting the tyres frequently to avoid flat spots and air bubbles.
The iCandy Core is a great all-terrain stroller that ticks off a lot of the boxes. It has a spacious basket that can carry up to 10kg, a one handed fold and adjustable handlebars. The large tyres are filled with foam and never flat, so you don't have to be concerned about punctures or losing air pressure. The seat is designed to be world-facing and is suitable from birth and it can be used in conjunction with an infant carrycot or infant carrier.
The Special Tomato Jogger is another option. It's a light and highly maneuverable design. It's ideal for parents who like going for walks or jogs and comes with suspension that ensures a comfortable ride over different terrains. We also appreciate how easy to clean it is with the fabric removing from the frame and being machine washable in cold water.
Tyres
The tyres on a 3-wheeled pushchair are usually larger than those of a 4-wheeled pram. This can help it to cope with off-road terrain. The UPPAbaby Ridge for instance has tyres with large, foam-filled tyres that will never flatten and a suspension system. This makes it perfect for long-distance walks on rough terrain. It's also designed to be suitable for running after your baby has grown old enough due to a 360-degree locking swivel front wheel that can be locked and a suspension that can be adjusted.
You should consider the weight of your pushchair when choosing a 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 especially liked this feature as it made manoeuvring around supermarket corners much simpler.