10 Quick Tips For 3 Wheel Compact Stroller
3 Wheel Compact Stroller Review
There are three-wheel strollers that fit all ages whether you're looking for a jogging stroller or a stroller that you can use on a daily basis. The Managing Editor Sentry and Senior Review Writer Wendy Schmitz put these models through the paces on pavement and off-road surfaces as well test the comfort of children in the seats.
Stroller Features
The best strollers come with features that allow you to travel with your child easier. Whether you're shopping for a new 3-wheel stroller or a 4-wheel stroller look for features that make life easier, such as a large storage basket as well as a tray for the parent with cup holders, adjustable canopy and more. The trick is determining which features are essential to you and your family, and which ones you can be content with.
BOB Gear Wayfinder is our top-rated stroller for jogging. It has many convenient features that will keep parents comfortable and happy. The handlebar can be adjusted to three different heights to accommodate caregivers. A wrist strap prevents the stroller from rolling away while you jog. The Wayfinder also features the biggest sunshade that we tested with a clear view on top that lets kids look out while they're relaxing. And Jenni's 3-year-old found the seat to be comfortable cushioned, so bumps on the road don't cause him to shake.
This jogging stoller has a handbrake to help you keep control on slippery surfaces. It can be folded into a slim, compact package that takes only a tiny space in your car's trunk. It is also possible to convert it into an e-travel system by purchasing an adapter. It is also compatible with the Uppababy Mesa V2 Bassinet.
If you plan on tackling rough terrain, sturdy tires are a must-have for strollers of any kind. Although they don't offer the same level of comfort as foam-filled or air-filled tires, they're ideal for navigating bumps and potholes with ease.
This stroller is a jogging model and comes with a fold that requires just two steps. 3 wheeled buggies locks in place when folded, and is compact enough to fit into most elevators. However, it's not as easy to move around as our other strollers with four wheels, and the mechanism to lock it is a bit confusing. It requires pressing a button on the front of the stroller, opening a flap near the foot area, and lifting the handle. We'd prefer a simpler system where it just clicks into the position or opens when pulled.
Stroller Weight
The overall weight is a crucial aspect to consider. A heavier stroller is more stable and will perform better on uneven terrain. However, a lot of parents find that a lighter stroller is easier to maneuver and is more suitable for daily use.
Another important aspect of a stroller is the size of its wheels and the type. Some strollers have larger wheels, such as jogging ones which can make the ride smoother for your baby. The larger wheels can weigh more on the stroller and make it more difficult to fold and transport, as well as store.
Some models in our collection have air-filled wheels that offer a safe, comfortable ride for your child on rough terrain. However, air-filled tires could quickly become flat and need to be changed out. If you plan to travel a lot with your stroller, we suggest a model with solid tires that can withstand regular contact with different surfaces and last for a longer time.
Strollers with swivel wheel on the front are ideal for safely navigating escalators and stairs. Falls on stairs or escalators are the most common stroller-related injuries and can be particularly hazardous for infants. If you can't avoid taking the stairs or escalator while using your stroller, we suggest using it only if the child is securely strapped into the seat and hold them close to you as you walk up or down.
Some strollers come as an integrated travel system that incorporates both the car seat as well as the stroller. Although these strollers often have attractive price tags and offer convenience in terms of the time spent shopping, they are generally more expensive than standalone models and might not perform as well over the long haul. Many parents regret purchasing bundles because they may not have all the features they desire or be incompatible with their child's car seat or. If you plan to upgrade in the near future we suggest that you buy a stroller separate from the car seat or capsule.
Stroller Folding
The top 3 wheel compact strollers fold easily and quickly to make storage and transport easy. Some lock automatically into place when you open them. This feature is especially beneficial for families that frequently take public transportation or drive prior to going for a an outing.
Three-wheeled strollers can be pushed effortlessly in tight spaces, such as grocery store aisles or other areas that are crowded. They also have suspension systems that give an easier stroll for your child which is especially useful on sidewalks that are bumpy.
If you're looking for a stroller that is jogging-friendly that won't weigh you down the Guava Roam Crossover is an excellent option. It's elegant and 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 folds down in two steps and locks into position once opened.
Another nice-looking 3-wheel jogging stroller is the Babyzen Yoyo 2. It's a bit more expensive than some of our top choices, but it's worth the cost If you're a lover of travel or live in an urban area. The stroller is lightweight and folds down to a compact size (20.5 x 17.3 x 7.1) and comes with an adjustable, padded 5-point harness that is no-rethread and a large basket. It can be used as a stroller for infants and toddlers, if you have an infant car seat adapter.
While the Babyzen offers some great features, such as the spacious recline and the extra storage space, some parents are dissatisfied with its performance. The seat doesn't lay flat when reclined and there's no cupholders or snack tray for children. The brakes can be a little difficult to engage and the handlebars can be too high for certain moms.
The Graco Fastaction is another stroller that's designed to be as light as possible without sacrificing the comfort or convenience. It has an impressive list of features, including a large basket and a fold that is one-handed. The only issue is that the brakes may be a bit difficult to engage and do not remain locked when the stroller is folded.
Stroller Safety
The safety features of a stroller should help to keep your child secure during use. Some of the best-scoring strollers in our review have a five-point safety harness with adjustable and padding crotch straps. This allows for a customized fit. Some have a cushioned seat cushion to shield your child's head in the event that they fall out of the seat or roll off. Some strollers have the safety lock that locks both wheels. This is particularly important for those who run, since it prevents them from tumbling over while going up or down escalators or stairs.
In our tests, strollers' maneuverability was evaluated in three distinct ways. We scored it on the basis of a stroller's capability to turn and bounce when bumps and dips are encountered as well as its user-friendliness with a child loaded, and its ability to travel over rough terrain. We also looked at the ease of being able to open and close the safety harness, fold and unfold the stroller, adjust the backrest and handlebar height and brakes and attach and take off car seats (if necessary).
We discovered that strollers with three wheels were more maneuverable however, the advantages decreased as the weight of the baby increased. This is why we suggest choosing the model with a hand brake, which allows you to slow down and come to a stop without as much effort as relying on body power alone. However, a lot of the most efficient swivel wheel strollers come with this feature and only one of our top fixed-wheel models comes with it.
It is also important to consider how often you'll be required to utilize your stroller to go up and down stairs or escalators, and if it's safe to do so. Stairs and elevators are more hazardous because they have moving mechanical parts which make it difficult to control your stroller. If you're able to use an elevator or having another adult help you carry the stroller. Some of the most highly-rated strollers are able to be carried up the stairs or an escalator with their safety brakes engaged and locked, but it's always safer to be safe than not be.