You need an easy-to-use stroller when you love living life on the go and hate leaving your baby behind. But with so many to choose from, deciding which stroller to purchase can be difficult. First, consider whether a three- or four-wheel stroller is better for your growing family.
We have summarised the key differences between three wheel and four wheel prams, looking at benefits and drawbacks of each to help you determine which is best for your family.
Key Points
- A three wheel stroller may be better for a family than a four wheel stroller if the parents enjoy an active lifestyle
- A stroller with four wheels may not offer a smooth ride on uneven ground
- A four wheel stroller may be better for everyday use as the weight is distributed evenly across the chassis
- A stroller needs to enhance your daily life, not hinder it
Content In This Article:
- Are 3 Wheel Prams Better Than 4 Wheel Strollers?
- What Are The Advantages And Disadvantages Of 3 Wheel Prams?
- What Are The Advantages And Disadvantages Of 4 Wheel Prams?
- General Factors To Consider When Choosing A Stroller
Are 3 Wheel Prams Better Than 4 Wheel Strollers?
There is no definitive answer to whether three wheel strollers are better than four wheel strollers, as it all depends on your family’s individual needs. For example, a three wheel stroller is known for its manoeuvrability and taking up less space.
So, a three wheeler might be the best option if you have a smaller boot or apartment. They’re also excellent for city living, where you need to push them around tight corners and through small gaps.
On the other hand, four wheel strollers offer better stability and often have a higher weight limit. This makes them better for expanding families looking for a convertible stroller.
Another thing to consider is the terrain you’ll use the pram on. Three wheel prams are often quicker, but they might have a less effective suspension. Other considerations are your child’s size and your usual daily activities.
What Are The Advantages And Disadvantages Of 3 Wheel Prams?
Both stroller types offer pros and cons that some families will love while others may dislike. Explore the advantages and disadvantages below:
Advantages Of Three Wheel Strollers
- Better Manoeuvrability – Three wheeler strollers are generally more manoeuvrable than four wheeled strollers. The swivelling front wheel makes steering easier and faster than four wheelers, which is excellent for tight spaces and corners. The quickness and manoeuvrability make three wheels the best for jogging parents.
- All-Terrain – Three wheel strollers often have larger wheels to account for their stability, which makes them best for all-terrain adventures. The wheels often have excellent traction, and the lockable front wheel prevents the uneven ground from becoming too bumpy for your little one.
- Aesthetics – Three wheeler strollers often look sporty and attractive, which can double as an accessory for any parent who wants to be proud of the stroller they’re pushing.
Disadvantages Of Three Wheel Strollers
- Design Limitations – Three wheeler stroller designs are usually limited, which gives the parents less of a choice while shopping for the perfect stroller.
- Not Cost-Effective – Some three wheeler strollers can be more expensive than four wheeled strollers.
Can You Run With A 3 Wheel Pram?
Yes! In fact, most joggers prefer using a three wheel pram because of their excellent manoeuvrability and quickness. The built-in suspension is often impressive enough to withstand any terrain, keeping your little one comfortable as you jog.
Make sure you look for a three wheel stroller with a lockable front wheel for the best jogging capabilities, as this helps prevent the wheel from shaking the pram and disturbing your baby.
Are 3 Wheel Prams Safe And Stable?
The three wheel stroller has one less wheel than traditional strollers, so you might be wondering whether these strollers are safe for young babies. The answer is yes, three wheel strollers are just as safe and stable as other prams on the market. They will have been tested to ensure their safety before being introduced to the market, so you can rest assured that your baby is in a protective seat.
What Are The Advantages And Disadvantages Of 4 Wheel Prams?
Many parents consider the original stroller style when considering how many wheels they need. Let’s explore the advantages and disadvantages of a four wheel stroller:
Advantages Of Four Wheel Strollers
- Affordability – Four wheeler strollers are usually more affordable than three wheelers and offer a more extensive selection of style choices.
- Good Stability – These strollers are designed with four wheels and offer excellent stroller stability. The likelihood of a four wheel stroller tipping over if the weight is unevenly distributed is little to none.
Disadvantages Of Four Wheel Strollers
- Not Versatile – You won’t have an issue navigating a four wheeler stroller on flat surfaces. However, steering might become harder to control if you hit a few bumps in the road.
- Not Fit For All Terrains – A four wheeler stroller may end up holding you back if you decide to take a hike or go out for a jog. Typically, the wheels and design of a four wheel stroller are not as shock absorbent as three wheelers. This can present an uncomfortable, bumpy ride for you and your baby.
Can You Run With A 4 Wheel Pram?
While you can sometimes jog with four wheel strollers, this isn’t what they’ve been made for. The majority of jogging strollers on the market will have three wheels due to easier manoeuvrability. Four wheel strollers are heavier and are more difficult to push when travelling at a faster speed, so if you’re looking for a jogging stroller, we always recommend a three wheeler.
General Factors To Consider When Choosing A Stroller
Whether you decide on a three wheel vs. four wheel stroller, we’ve detailed the general factors you should consider below:
Lifestyle
Your lifestyle will determine how many wheels you need on your stroller. Many parents know how they want to bond with their children after birth, whether through trips to the park, baby classes, jogging, hiking, or more. Experienced joggers will find that a three wheel stroller is more helpful for training with their baby in tow.
Size
Three wheel strollers are often smaller and lighter than four wheel strollers. Consider the size of your car boot and storage space at home. A bulky four wheeler might not be the best choice for you if you don’t have much storage space to give up.
Weight
Similar to size, the weight of your chosen stroller is more important than you think. Whether you love to visit nature trails, a sandy beach, or your local zoo, selecting a lightweight stroller that’s easy to manoeuvre may make life easier. Are you planning on taking your little one out a lot on your own? Will you need to lift the stroller in and out of the car alone?
Safety
Always look for a stroller that has met all the necessary safety considerations to protect your little one. Make sure the pram you choose has a five-point safety harness, suitable padding, and a durable, stable chassis.
Durability
Choose a stroller made of high-quality materials that can withstand regular use. Investing in a high-quality stroller from the beginning may help you avoid having to replace or repair the stroller after frequent use. You’ll likely use the stroller almost daily, so choosing a durable pram can save you lots of money in the long run.
Features
Any added features are a plus, but some might be vital for your family. Some examples include adjustable handlebars, storage compartments, cup holders, and sunshades. While an added cup holder might not be essential, adjustable handlebars can benefit parents of different heights.
Price
Shopping for baby gear can be easy to get carried away. Set a budget for your stroller and stick to it as much as possible. Compare prices online and at local stores to get the best deal.
Final Thoughts On Three Wheel vs. Four Wheel Strollers
When choosing the best stroller for your family, you should consider your lifestyle, your plan for the stroller, how much storage space you have, and more. Safety is a vital consideration when it comes to choosing any stroller, so make sure you look at the safety standards.
Three wheel strollers are often better for jogging parents who live in the city and need a fast-moving stroller. On the other hand, four wheel strollers are better for parents who need a more stable and affordable stroller. They’re also more likely to be convertible, which is best for growing families.
Overall, there is no definitive answer to whether three or four wheel strollers are better. It all depends on the individual parents and which features are most important to them.