The Benefits and Drawbacks of a 3 Wheeled Pushchair
If you frequently walk on rough terrain, or wish to exercise on a treadmill, a three-wheeled pushchair is the ideal choice. They are great if you require a vehicle that can handle all types of terrain, from busy streets to woodland tracks.
For more manoeuvrability, look for a model that has locking or swivelling front wheels. Front and rear wheels that are larger also provide a more comfortable riding on different surfaces.
Manoeuvrability
A 3-wheel pushchair is an excellent option for those who wish to be able to maneuver easily. The wheels are set close to each other, allowing the chassis to move and turn more easily than a conventional 4 wheel pushchair, making them perfect for busy streets and shops. Some have small front wheels that are locked and swivelled for additional maneuverability. The Roma Atlas, for example is equipped with two wheels that are positioned close to each other at the front and a clever swivel lock that gives the flexibility of a 3-wheeler with added stability.
Many of our most loved 3 wheelers can be converted from pram, stroller, car seat, and toddler seat as your child grows. This is ideal if you intend to travel together as a family, or take frequent visits to the shops. The Baby Jogger Nipper is a great illustration. It has Hauck airwheels XL and a 360-degree lockable swivel wheel, and a suspension that allows it to be used on any terrain.
Another option is the ickle Bubba Nipper, an all-terrain pushchair with excellent suspension and large puncture-proof tyres that make it suitable for off-roading as well as smooth city pavements. It can be used from the beginning with the reversible seat, or carrycot compatible. It also features a one-handed fold for easy storage in the boot and for airport travel.
The wheels you choose for your pushchair is crucial depending on where you'll be using it most. Moulded wheels work well for city life but won't be able to handle rougher terrain. If you intend to move your pushchair off of paved surfaces, choose pneumatic tyres. They can handle rough terrain.
If you're looking for a pushchair built to be able to handle both rural and urban environments check out our top-rated Bugaboo 5 All-Terrain pushchair. It has all the fantastic suspension and big wheels of an all-terrain model but it's also a fantastic urban pushchair that has a lightweight frame, easy-to-use lockable front wheel and one-handed fold.
Stability
There are numerous features that you can look for that will increase the stability of your buggy. Some designs have a swiveling front wheel that can be locked to provide additional stability when driving on rough terrain. This is particularly helpful when you're planning to be using your pushchair off-road or jogging as it will give you the confidence to walk on varying surfaces with ease.
Another great stability feature is suspension - this can make your buggy far more comfortable to ride in for both baby and parents, especially on uneven ground. Some brands even allow you to swap out different tyres so that you can alter the performance of your pushchair according to the type of terrain you will be riding it on.
Consider investing in a 3-wheeled pushchair that has air-filled tires for a pushchair that can handle any terrain. These will provide a more comfortable ride on bumps and are less susceptible to punctures than solid wheels. They also permit you to tackle non-paved tracks and can carry your buggy across a variety of surfaces including grass, sand and mud.
All-terrain pushchairs can be a little wider than standard pushchairs but there are some excellent options that won't compromise on stability or manoeuvrability. One of our top picks is the UPPAbaby Ridge comes with numerous impressive features which make it suitable for off-road walking as well as jogging after your child reaches a certain age. These include large, foam filled never-flat tyres and adjustable suspension, and a simple one-handed folding.
Another excellent all-terrain pushchair model is the Bugaboo Fox 5 - this features the same all-terrain capabilities as the UPPAbaby Ridge. It has great suspension, large puncture-proof tyres and the ability to fold with one hand. It's also compatible with a broad variety of car seats and can accommodate a carrycot or infant carrier as well. It's heavier than other 3-wheelers. However, it's still an excellent choice for parents who wish to have their pushchair capable of traveling in any terrain.
Weight
The disadvantage of 3-wheeled pushchairs is that they can be heavy, especially when you're traversing bumpy terrain and kerbs. The bigger rear wheels on a 3-wheeler make up a higher overall weight than 4 wheelers which means you may need more strength to lift them, especially when folding them.
All-terrain models are a good choice if you need a pushchair to handle rough terrain or rocky tarmac. These typically come with special features, like a strong suspensions and big puncture-proof tyres. More and more, manufacturers are creating all-terrain pushchairs that have foam or gel-filled tyres that are designed not to go flat, and thus don't require inflation.
UPPAbaby's Ridge all-terrain stroller offers many features that are parent-friendly and will allow it to tackle different terrains with ease. Including the ability to lock the front wheel, an easy and simple one-handed fold, the 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 for use for babies from birth and is combined with a carrycot or car seat adaptors. The iCandy Core has a host of features that make it a fantastic all-terrain stroller, including big foam-filled tyres that never flatten and a great suspension system. The Core is a little heavier than other pushchairs that are all-terrain, but it's lightweight enough to maneuver on rougher ground.
Folding
All-terrain models are a good option if you want an option for a pushchair that can handle rough terrain. This type of pushchair has large wheels both on the rear and front to help it navigate bumpy off-road terrain. They'll usually have a more durable suspension as well as larger puncture resistant tyres to prevent them from getting blocked by sticks, grass, or mud.
The Mountain Buggy Ridge is a good example of a model similar to this. This all-terrain pushchair has numerous impressive features, including the smooth suspension, the spacious basket, one-handed steering, and quick one-handed folding. It's also compatible with a carrycot and car seat (with adaptors) and can be used from birth, or from six months with the world-facing seat unit.
Bugaboo Fox 5 is another all-terrain stroller with amazing off-road features. It has a massive 10kg basket, a quick one-handed folding, and a single-handed, adjustable handlebar. It also has the option of locking the front wheel as well as foam-filled, never-flat tyres, so you don't have to worry about punctures on rough terrain.
The GB Maris is a new, eye-catching all-terrain pushchair which was unveiled at the Kind + Jugend trade fair. It was designed for children with moderate to mild positioning requirements. pushchairsandpramsuk features soft, adjustable components and an adjustable reclining chair. The front wheel can be locked, and it comes with the option of a foot brake to provide control and security.
We have a variety of styles, features and sizes to fit any family. A majority of the models we sell have sturdy, long-lasting frames and sturdy wheels that will last for a long time and provide amazing storage solutions for all of your baby's items. They can also be easily folded and tucked into the boot of your car or under the stairs when they are not being used. This means you'll always be prepared for your next adventure with your family.