The Benefits and Drawbacks of a 3 Wheeled Pushchair
A three-wheeled pushchair is ideal for those who regularly walk on uneven terrain or jog. These are the best for those who need a pushchair that can tackle any terrain from busy streets to forest tracks.
Look for models with front wheels that can be locked or swivelled. This will give you more flexibility. Larger wheels on the front and back also offer a more comfortable ride over varying terrains.
Manoeuvrability
A 3-wheel pushchair is a great option for those who wish to be able to move easily. The wheels are set close together allowing the chassis to rotate and turn much more easily than a conventional four wheel pushchair, making them perfect for busy streets and shopping. Some models have smaller front wheels that are locked and swivelled for additional maneuverability. The Roma Atlas, for example is equipped with two wheels that are positioned closely together at the front and an innovative lock that can swivel to give it all the maneuverability of a 3-wheeler, but with added stability.
Many of our best-selling 3 wheelers are also 4-in-1 travel systems that can transform from a stroller to a toddler seat or car seat carrier as your child grows. This is a great option for those who plan to travel with your family or taking frequent shopping trips. The Baby Jogger Nipper is a perfect example. It has Hauck airwheels XL with a 360-degree locking swivel wheel, and a suspension that allows it to be used on any terrain.
Another option is the ickle Bubba Nipper which is an all-terrain pushchair with great suspension and large puncture-proof tyres, which make it suitable for off-roading as well as smooth city pavements. It can be used from birth using the reversible seat or a carrycot compatible. It also features an easy fold that can be folded with one hand for storage in the boot, and for airport travel.
Choosing the right wheels for your pushchair is important dependent on the location you'll be using it most. Moulded wheels are fine for city life but won't perform well on more rough terrain. If you are planning to get your pushchair off the roads, you should consider pneumatic tyres. They are able to handle rough terrain.
For a pushchair that's designed to handle both urban and rural environments, take a look at our top-rated Bugaboo 5 All-Terrain pushchair. It has all the suspension and large wheels you'd expect from an all-terrain pushchair but it's also a city pushchair that is extremely light with an adjustable front wheel lockable.
Stability
There are a number of features that you can look out for that will improve the stability of your buggy. For instance, some models have a swivelling front wheel that can lock in place for extra stability on rough terrain. This is particularly useful if you plan to use your pushchair to jog or off-road. It will give you confidence to navigate on different surfaces.
Suspension is another good feature for stability. It can make your buggy more comfortable ride, both for you and your baby, particularly on uneven terrain. Certain brands allow you to alter the tyres of their pushchairs so that they can be adapted to the terrain you will be using it on.
You should consider investing in a three-wheeled pushchair that has air-filled tires If you are looking for a pushchair that can handle any terrain. They will give you an easier ride over bumps and are less vulnerable to punctures than traditional wheels. They will also allow you to navigate tracks that aren't paved and will carry your buggy across a variety of surfaces including grass, sand and mud.
All-terrain pushchairs can be slightly wider than standard pushchairs, but there are plenty of excellent options that don't compromise the stability or maneuverability. One of our favorites is the UPPAbaby Ridge which has numerous impressive features that allow it to be used for both off-road walking and running (once your child is old enough). These include large, foam-filled tyres that are never flat, adjustable suspension and an easy one-handed fold.
The Bugaboo Fox 5 is another excellent all-terrain stroller. It has similar capabilities as the UPPAbaby and has great suspension, large puncture proof tires, and a one hand fold. It's also compatible with a wide variety of car seats and can accommodate the infant carrier or carrycot too. It's heavier than other 3-wheelers, however it's still a great option for parents who want their pushchair to be capable of traveling in any terrain.
Weight
The downside of 3 wheeled pushchairs is that they can be quite heavy, particularly when dealing with bumpy surfaces and kerbs. The larger rear wheels of a 3-wheeler add to the overall weight, which is higher than the 4-wheeler. This means that you will need more strength when lifting them.
All-terrain models are a good choice if you need an infant stroller that can handle rough terrain or rocky tarmac. These models typically come with specific features like strong suspension systems and large puncture-proof tires. Nowadays, manufacturers are developing all-terrain pushchairs with foam or gel-filled tyres which are not designed to go flat, and thus don't require inflation.
UPPAbaby's Ridge all-terrain pushchair comes with an excellent selection of parent-friendly features that allow it navigate a variety of terrain easily. It includes the possibility of locking the front wheel, a quick and simple one-handed fold, a large basket and an adjustable handlebar. MFM reviewer Becky said that the Ridge is "very suitable for walking in the woods, gravel roads and market town cobbles".
Another brand to offer a variety of all-terrain pushchairs is iCandy. Their latest all-terrain model, the Core is suitable from birth and can be coupled with a carrycot or car seat adaptors. The iCandy Core is packed with features that make it a great stroller for all terrains. It has large foam-filled tyres that don't flatten, and a superb suspension. The Core is a little heavier than some other pushchairs for all-terrain use, however it's still light enough to be manoeuvrable on more rough terrain.
Folding
If you're looking for a pushchair that will take the roughest of terrain, you may want to consider an all-terrain model. This type of pushchair features large wheels on both the front and back to aid in navigating rough off-road terrain. They usually have more durable suspension too and larger puncture-proof tyres that can prevent them from getting clogged up with grass, sticks or mud.
One excellent model of this kind of pushchair is the Mountain Buggy Ridge. This all-terrain pushchair comes with many impressive features, including smooth suspension, spacious basket, one-handed steering, and a fast, one-handed folding. It is also compatible with a car seat and carrycot (with adaptors), so it can be used as early as six months.
Bugaboo Fox 5 is another all-terrain stroller that comes with impressive off-road features. It has a massive 10kg basket that can be folded with one hand. The handlebar can be adjusted with just one hand. It has a lockable wheel on the front and never-flat, foam-filled tyres.
Lastly, the GB Maris is a new attractive all-terrain pushchair that was recently launched at the Kind + Jugend trade fair. It's made for children with moderate to light positioning needs and offers soft components that can be adjusted with a reclining seat as well as a range of colour options. The front wheel can be locked and it comes with an braking foot for additional control and safety.
If you're looking for a 3 wheeled pushchair or 4-wheeler, we have an array of styles and features to suit your family. The majority of the models we sell come with sturdy, durable frames and sturdy wheels that will last for a long time and provide fantastic storage solutions for all your baby's items. They can also be folded and stored in the trunk or under the steps of your car when they are not in use. You'll be ready for your next family vacation.