The Benefits and Drawbacks of a 3 Wheeled Pushchair
If you regularly walk through rough terrain, or want to exercise on a treadmill, a three-wheeled pushchair is the best option. These are the best for those who need a pushchair that can tackle any terrain, from busy streets to forest tracks.
For more manoeuvrability, look for a design with locks or swivelling front wheels. The rear and front wheels that are larger offer an easier ride on various surfaces.
Manoeuvrability
Manoeuvrability is one of the major advantages of a three wheel pushchair. The wheels are placed close together allowing the chassis to move and turn more easily than a conventional four wheel pushchair. 3 wheel pushchair makes them perfect for busy streets and shopping. Some even have a pair of front wheels that can be locked and swivelled to provide additional maneuverability when required. The Roma Atlas, for example, has two wheels positioned close together in front, and an ingenious swivel lock that gives the ability to maneuver like a 3-wheeler, but with added stability.
Many of our most loved 3 wheelers are able to be converted from stroller, pram, toddler seat and car-seat carrier as your child grows. This is great if you're planning on travelling with your family or taking frequent trips to the shops. One such example is the Baby Jogger Nipper pushchair that features Hauck's XL air wheels with a 360-swivel lockable front wheel and suspension that allows it to be used on all terrains including off-road and jogging once your baby is old enough to be able to join in with you!
Another option is the ickle bubba Nipper which is an all-terrain pushchair with excellent suspension and large puncture-proof tyres, which make it suitable for off-road adventures as well as smooth city pavements. It is suitable for use from birth (in the seat unit that is reversible or with a carrycot that is compatible) and features a handy quick fold that can be folded with one hand for boot storage and airport travel.
It is essential to select the correct wheels for your pushchair depending on where it will be used most. Moulded wheels work well in the city, but not so on more rugged terrain. If you plan to get your pushchair off the pavement, opt for pneumatic tyres. They are able to handle rough terrain.
If you're looking for a model that can be used in both rural and urban environments, then take a look at our top-rated Bugaboo Fox 5 All Terrain pushchair. It has all the fantastic suspension and large wheels of an all-terrain model but it's also a fantastic urban pushchair with a super lightweight frame, a lockable front wheel, and a one-handed fold.
Stability
You can improve the stability of your buggy by looking for certain features. For example, some designs come with a swivelling front wheels that can lock in place to provide extra stability on rough terrain. This can be especially useful for those who will be using your pushchair off-road, or for running, as it gives you the confidence to go on varying surfaces easily.
Another great stability feature is suspension - this makes your buggy more comfortable for both you and baby especially on uneven terrain. Some brands allow you to swap out different tyres so that you can tailor the performance of your pushchair to the terrain you'll be taking it on.
If you're in the market for a 3 wheeled pushchair that is able to perform on any terrain, you should consider investing in a model with air-filled tyres. These will provide an easier ride over bumps and are less vulnerable to punctures than solid wheels. They also permit you to navigate tracks that aren't paved and will carry your buggy over a variety of surfaces including grass, sand and mud.
All-terrain pushchairs tend to be a little wider than standard models however there are a few great options to choose from that won't compromise on stability or manoeuvrability. One of our favorites is the UPPAbaby Ridge comes with numerous amazing features that make it suitable for off-road use and jogging when your child reaches a certain age. It has large, foam-filled, never-flat tyres and adjustable suspension as well as a quick one-handed fold.
Another excellent all-terrain pushchair is the Bugaboo Fox 5 - this is similar to the UPPAbaby Ridge and features great suspension, large puncture-proof tyres and the ability to fold with one hand. It's also compatible with a wide selection of car seats and is able to accommodate an infant carrier or carrycot as well. It's a little heavier than other 3-wheelers, but it's an excellent option for parents who want to use their pushchair on all types of terrain.
Weight
The disadvantage of 3 wheeled strollers is that they can be heavy, especially when you need to maneuver through bumpy terrain and kerbs. The bigger rear wheels on a 3-wheeler also contribute to a heavier total weight than 4-wheelers, which means that you'll require more strength to lift them, especially when folding.
If you need an infant stroller that can withstand rough terrain and tarmac that is rocky the all-terrain model might be worth considering. These models usually come with specific features like a sturdy suspension system and large puncture-proof tires. Nowadays, manufacturers are developing all-terrain pushchairs using foam or gel-filled tyres that are not designed to roll flat, so they don't require inflating.
UPPAbaby's Ridge all-terrain pushchair comes with an excellent selection of parent-friendly features that allow it navigate a variety of terrain with ease. The Ridge all-terrain pushchair is equipped with many features for parents, including the ability to lock the front wheel, a simple fold with one hand with a large basket and a movable handlebar. MFM reviewer Becky found that the Ridge was "very good on trails in the woods, gravel tracks and market town cobbles".
Another brand to offer an all-terrain pushchair range is iCandy. The Core, their most recent all-terrain pushchair, is ideal for infants from birth. It can be fitted to a car seat or a carrycot. The iCandy Core is packed with features that make it an excellent stroller that is all-terrain. It has large foam-filled tyres that don't flatten and a great suspension. The Core is heavier than other all-terrain strollers yet light enough to maneuver in rough terrain.
Folding
All-terrain models are a great option if you want a pushchair to handle rough terrain. This kind of pushchair will come with large wheels both in the front and back, which will help you navigate rough terrain off-road. They'll often have a more durable suspension and larger puncture-resistant tyres to prevent them from getting clogged with grass, sticks or mud.
One excellent example of this type of pushchair is the Mountain Buggy Ridge. This all-terrain pushchair has many amazing features, such as a the smooth suspension, the spacious basket, one handed steering, and a fast, one-handed folding. It's also compatible with a carrycot and car seat (with adaptors) so can be used from birth or as early as six months, with the seat unit that faces the world.
Other all-terrain pushchairs include the Bugaboo Fox 5, which is a 3-wheeler with some seriously impressive off-road features. It comes with a huge 10kg basket, which can be folded in just one hand. The handlebar can also be adjusted with just one hand. It has a lockable wheel at the front, and never-flat foam-filled tyres.
The GB Maris is a new, eye-catching all-terrain pushchair which was recently launched at the Kind + Jugend trade fair. It is designed for children with mild to moderate mobility needs. It has soft adjustable components including a reclining seat, as well as a range of colour options. The front wheel can be locked and has a brake for foot to ensure security and control.
We have a variety of styles, features and sizes to fit any family. Many of the models we sell come with sturdy, durable frames and wheels that will last for a long time, as well as fantastic storage solutions for all of your baby's items. Plus, they can be folded up and put away in the trunk of your car or under the stairs when not being used. You'll be prepared for your next family vacation.