Need Inspiration? Try Looking Up 3 Wheel Compact Stroller
3 Wheel Compact Stroller Review
There are three-wheel strollers designed for all ages whether you're seeking a jogging stoller or a stroller for all-purpose use on a daily basis. Managing Editor Sentry and Senior Review Writer Wendy Schmitz put these models through the paces on both pavement and off-road surfaces as well as testing children's comfort in the seats.
Stroller Features
The most effective strollers have features that allow you to travel with your child much easier. Look for features that simplify life, such as a large bin for storage, a tray for parents with cup holders, a movable canopy, and so on, when shopping for the latest stroller. It's crucial to decide the features that are important to you and your family and those you can live without.
BOB Gear Wayfinder is our top-rated stroller for jogging. It comes with a variety of convenient features that will keep parents happy and comfortable. The handlebar adjusts to three different positions to accommodate caregivers of different sizes, and the wrist strap helps ensure that the stroller doesn't slide away when you're jogging. The Wayfinder also comes with the largest sunshade that we tested, with a clear window on top that lets kids look out while they're relaxing. Jenni's 3-year old found the seat to be comfortably padded, so bumps in the road don't make him feel too shaken.
The stroller is equipped with an automatic hand brake that can help you keep control on slippery surfaces. It can fold into a compact, slim package that will take only a tiny space in the trunk of your car. You can also convert it into a travel system by purchasing an adapter. It also works with the Uppababy Mesa V2 bassinet.
If you're planning on taking on rough terrain, tires are a must for strollers of all kinds. Solid tires are not as comfortable as spongy or air-filled tires, but they're perfect for navigating potholes and bumps.
3 wheel double stroller pushchairsandprams.uk folds down in just two easy steps. It locks in place when folded, and is compact enough to fit into the majority of elevators. It's not as simple as our other four-wheel strollers to maneuver, and the locking mechanism is a bit complicated. It involves clicking a button on the front of the stroller, closing a flap that is located near the foot area, and then lifting the handle. We'd prefer a simpler system that just clicks in place or opens by pulling.
Stroller Weight
The overall weight is an important consideration. A stroller that is heavier is more stable and will perform better on uneven terrain. However, many parents find that a stroller with a lighter weight is easier to maneuver and more suitable for everyday use.
The type and size of the wheels is an important feature. Some strollers come with larger wheels, like jogging ones that can make the ride smoother for your baby. The larger wheels can add weight to the stroller, making it difficult to fold, transport and store.
Some models in our selection have air-filled tires that are designed to offer a safe and comfortable ride for your child even over rough terrain. Air-filled tires are more prone to flattening, and you will need to replace them. If you plan to travel a lot with your stroller, we recommend a model with solid tires that can withstand frequent contact with different surfaces and last for a longer time.
Strollers with front wheels that swivel are ideal for walking up and down escalators and stairs safely. Falls on stairs or escalators are the most frequent stroller-related injuries and can be especially dangerous for infants. If you cannot avoid the stairs or escalator with your stroller, we advise using it only when the child is securely strapped in the seat and hold them close to you as you walk up or down.
Some strollers are a travel system which includes both the car seat and the stroller. These are typically more expensive and less convenient than their stand-alone counterparts and they may not be as effective in the long term. Additionally many parents regret purchasing a bundle because it may not include all of the features they desire or may turn out to be incompatible with their vehicle or child seat. If you plan to upgrade in the near future, we recommend that you buy a stroller separate from the car seat or capsule.
Stroller Folding
The most compact 3 wheel strollers fold up quickly and easily to make storage and transportation a breeze. Some even lock into the position automatically after you open them. This feature can be particularly useful for families who frequently use public transport or drive prior to taking a a walk.
Three-wheeled strollers can be maneuvered easily in tight spaces like aisles of grocery stores or other areas that are crowded. Many also come equipped with suspension systems that give an easier ride for your little one which is especially helpful on slippery sidewalks.
If you're seeking a jogging stroller that isn't heavy, the Guava Roam Crossover is a good alternative. It's a stylish stroller that can also be used as part of a travel system with car seat adapters to fit Nuna, MaxiCosi, Cybex, and Nuna infant carseats, as well as the Uppababy Bassinet. (Car seats and stroller boards are sold separately). The stroller has a simple two-step fold and can be locked once it is opened.
The Babyzen Yoyo 2 is another attractive 3-wheeled jogging stroller with a nice design. It's a bit more expensive than our top picks, however it's worth the cost if you love to travel or live in a city. The stroller is lightweight and folds down to a compact size (20.5 x 17.3 x 7.1) and has an adjustable, padded 5-point harness that is no-rethread and an ample basket. It can be used as a pram for newborns or toddlers (with an infant car seat adapter).
While the Babyzen comes with some nice features, like the spacious recline and the extra storage, some parents are dissatisfied with its performance. The seat isn't completely flat when reclined and there's no cups or a tray for snacks for children. The brakes are a bit difficult to activate and the handlebars are too high for certain moms.
The Graco Fastaction stroller is designed to be as lightweight as it is possible, but without losing comfort or ease of use. It's equipped with a lengthy list of impressive features like a huge basket and a one-handed fold. The only issue is that the brakes may be difficult to engage and don't stay locked when the stroller is folded.
Stroller Safety
The safety features of a stroller should keep your child safe while using it. Some of the top-scoring strollers we've reviewed have a five-point safety harness with adjustable, padding straps for crotch. This allows for a customized fit. Some have a cushioned seat cushion to safeguard your child's head in the event that they fall from the seat or fall off. Some strollers come with a safety brake that locks two wheels, which is particularly important for strollers that run jogging because it prevents them from slipping when they're going down escalators or stairs where they can be especially dangerous for children.
In our tests strollers' maneuverability was assessed in three different ways. We evaluated it based on the ability to turn and bounce when bumps or dips are encountered, its ease of use with a child on it, and its ability to navigate over rough terrain. We also evaluated the ease of opening and closing the safety harness folding and unfolding the stroller, changing its backrest and handlebar height as well as operating the brakes as being able to attach and remove car seats (if applicable).
We discovered that strollers with three wheels were easier to maneuver however, the advantages decreased as the weight of the baby increased. This is why we suggest choosing a model that has a hand brake that helps you slow down and come to a stop without as much exertion than using your body alone. However, the majority of top-scoring swivel wheel strollers do not have this option, and only one of our top fixed-wheel models comes with it.
It's also important to think about the frequency that you will need to transport your stroller down a set of stairs or an escalator and whether or not it's safe to do this while the stroller is in its place. Elevators and stairs are more hazardous because they have moving mechanical parts that make it difficult to control your stroller. If you can use an elevator or having an adult help you carry the stroller. Some of the best-rated strollers can be taken up a set or stairs with the safety brake engaged. However, it's safer to be safe rather than sorry.