The Benefits and Drawbacks of a 3 Wheeled Pushchair
If you often walk across rough terrain or would like to run on a treadmill, a three-wheeled pushchair is the perfect choice. They are ideal if you need a buggy that can handle all types of terrain, from busy streets to tracks in the woods.
Look for designs with front wheels that can be locked or turned. This will allow you more flexibility. Larger wheels on the front and back can provide a more comfortable ride on varying terrains.
Manoeuvrability
A 3 wheel pushchair is a fantastic choice for those who want to be able to move easily. The wheels are positioned close together allowing the chassis to turn and twist much more easily than a conventional 4 wheel pushchair, making them ideal for busy streets and shopping. Some models even have a pair of front wheels that can be locked and swivelled for extra manoeuvrability when needed. The Roma Atlas, for example is equipped with two wheels that are positioned closely together at the front and a clever swivel lock that gives the flexibility of a 3-wheeler with added stability.
Many of our most popular 3 wheelers can be converted from pram, stroller or toddler seat and car-seat carrier as your child develops. This is a great option for those who plan to travel as a family, or take frequent visits to the shops. The Baby Jogger Nipper is a perfect illustration. 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, a pushchair that is all-terrain with a great suspension and huge puncture-proof tyres that allow it to be used for off-road excursions as well as smooth city pavements. It is suitable for use from birth (in the seat unit that is reversible or with a compatible carrycot) and features a handy quick fold that can be folded with one hand to store your boot and for airport travel.
Choosing the right wheels for your pushchair is essential dependent on the location you'll be using it most. Moulded wheels work well for city use but will not do well on rougher ground. If you're planning to take your pushchair off pavements choose tyres with air in them which are sometimes referred to as pneumatic tyres, which are capable of coping with rough terrain.
If you're looking for a pushchair designed to handle both urban and rural environments, take a look at our top-rated Bugaboo 5 All-Terrain pushchair. It's got all the fantastic suspension and big wheels of an all-terrain model but it's also an excellent urban pushchair that has a lightweight frame, easy-to-use lockable front wheel and a single-handed fold.
Stability
There are a number of features that you can look out for that will improve the stability of your buggy. Certain models have an swiveling front wheel that is locked to provide additional stability when driving on rough terrain. This is especially useful if you plan to use your pushchair to jog or off-road. It will give you confidence to take on different terrains.
Another good stability feature is suspension - this will make your baby's buggy more comfortable for both the baby and you particularly on uneven ground. Certain brands allow you to change the tyres on their pushchairs, allowing it to be tailored to the terrain you will be using it on.
If you're looking for a three-wheeled pushchair that can be used on any terrain, consider purchasing a model with air-filled tyres. These wheels will provide a smoother ride over bumps and are less likely to break than solid wheels. These wheels will permit you to ride your buggy on surfaces that are not paved and can be used on various surfaces such as grass or sand, as well as mud.
All-terrain pushchairs are generally slightly larger than standard models but there are plenty of excellent options that won't compromise on maneuverability or stability. One of our top picks, the UPPAbaby Ridge, has many remarkable features that make it suitable for off-road walking and jogging when your child reaches the appropriate age. This includes large, foam-filled, never-flat tyres with adjustable suspension, as well as the ability to fold with one hand.
Another excellent all-terrain pushchair is the Bugaboo Fox 5 - this has similar all-terrain capabilities to the UPPAbaby Ridge and features great suspension with large puncture-proof tyres as well as the ability to fold with one hand. It is compatible with many car seats, and also can accommodate a carrycot. It's a little heavier than other 3-wheelers, but it's still a great choice for parents who want their pushchair to be able to go on any terrain.
Weight
The downside of 3 wheeled pushchairs is that they can be heavy, particularly when dealing with bumpy surfaces and kerbs. The bigger rear wheels on a 3-wheeler also contribute to a heavier total weight than 4-wheelers, which means you may need more strength to lift them, especially when folding.
If you're looking for an infant stroller that can withstand rough terrain and tarmac that is rocky it might be worth a look. They typically have features, like strong suspensions and big puncture-proof tyres. More and more, manufacturers are creating all-terrain pushchairs with foam or gel-filled tyres that are designed not to go flat, so they don't require inflating.
UPPAbaby's Ridge all-terrain pushchair offers a great choice of parent-friendly features that will help to conquer all kinds of terrain easily. The Ridge all-terrain pushchair comes with many parent-friendly features, including the ability to lock the front wheel, an easy fold with one hand with a large basket and a movable handlebar. MFM reviewer Becky found that the Ridge was "very excellent for trails in the woods as well as gravel tracks and market town cobbles".
iCandy is another brand that offers a selection of all terrain pushchairs. Their latest all-terrain model the Core, is suitable from birth and can be combined with a carrycot or car seat adaptors. 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 superb suspension. The Core is heavier than other all-terrain strollers yet light enough to be able to move on rougher terrain.
Folding
If you're looking for a stroller that will take the roughest of terrain, then you may be interested in an all-terrain model. This type of pushchair features large wheels both on the front and back to help it navigate bumpy off-road terrain. They'll typically have more durable suspension as well as larger puncture-resistant tyres to ensure they don't get clogged with grass, sticks, or mud.
The Mountain Buggy Ridge is a great model of a pushchair similar to this. This all-terrain model comes with many amazing features, such as a smooth suspension, spacious basket, one handed steering, and a quick, one-handed folding. It's also compatible with a carrycot and car seat (with adaptors) which means it can be used from birth, or even from six months old with the world-facing seat unit.
Other all-terrain pushchairs include the Bugaboo Fox 5, which is a 3-wheeler with some truly impressive off-road features. It comes with a huge 10kg basket, which can be folded in one hand. The handlebar can also be adjusted with just one hand. It also has the option of locking the front wheel as well as foam-filled, never-flat tyres so you don't have to fret about punctures on rough terrain.
The GB Maris, a new all-terrain stroller that is eye-catching it was unveiled at the Kind + Jugend fair. It's made for children with moderate to light mobility needs. It has 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.
Whether you're shopping for a pushchair with 3 wheels or a 4-wheeler, we offer a wide range of designs and features that will fit your family. Our models are built with durable frames and wheels that are built to last for a lifetime. They also have great storage solutions to store everything your baby needs. Additionally, they can be folded up and put away in the trunk of your car or under the stairs when not in use. So you can always be ready to go on the next adventure with your family.