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All-terrain pushchairs
What is an all-terrain pushchair?An all-terrain pushchair is a three-wheel pushchair with pneumatic tyres designed to be used across all kinds of terrains – not just pavements. They are a relatively new development and work in the same way as a mountain bike – using chunky tyres and added suspension to give a more comfortable ride and more manageable push across bumpy, rough terrains. Do I need one?You are only likely to need an all-terrain pushchair if your lifestyle means that you regularly take your child across rough or difficult terrain – beaches, country tracks, muddy lanes, country walks. You may also find them lighter and easier to use if you intend to jog while pushing a pushchair. All-terrain pushchairs often have a much longer wheel base and much bigger wheels than conventional pushchairs and this means they are not always very practical around town. They have pneumatic tyres which means you can get punctures. These tyres give a smoother ride cross-country but can just be added hassle if you are not likely to get much rough terrain use. Some all-terrain pushchairs fully recline or can have a carrycot attached and so are suitable from birth. However, cross-country use is inevitably pretty bumpy and most authorities suggest true, rough country use should not be considered until the child is three to four months old. Up until then, a baby carrier is probably more appropriate. What to look forThe three-wheel, chunky style of the original all-terrain pushchair has now become quite fashionable and the look has been copied by manufacturers who have not necessarily designed their pushchairs for true rough country use. If you just like the look, then these may be fine and may in fact be best for you if you intend to use the pushchair mostly in town or on pavements. However if you are looking for a true all-terrain pushchair for regular use on rough ground, you should avoid these and go for a light, robust frame, good suspension, weather-tightness and easy-to-clean fabrics. Consider the ease of folding and assembly, the recline options, the number and quality of accessories, the size when collapsed and any special features. The size of the wheels vary – the bigger the wheel the smoother the ride cross-country, but the less compact and convenient the pushchair is for transporting by car or use around town. Features and accessories may include raincover, suncover, travel bag, handle bar extensions/adjusters, foot muffs, liners, foot and/or handbrakes, car seat attachments, clip-on carrycot and wrist straps. Wrist straps can be used to ensure the pushchair doesn't run away from you, but we found walking siblings liked to use this more than mums. Test results in brief |
