3 Wheel Compact Stroller Review
If you're a fitness fanatic seeking an jogging stroller, or simply looking for an all-purpose stroller for everyday use there's a compact three-wheel stroller that is suitable for you. Managing Editor Sentry and Senior Review Writer Wendy Schmitz put these models through the paces on both pavement and off-road surfaces, aswell 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 make life easier for you, like a large bin for storage, a tray for parents with cup holders, a movable canopy and more when looking for a new stroller. The trick is determining which features are essential to you and your family and which ones you could do without.
BOB Gear Wayfinder is our top-rated stroller for running. It has many convenient features that will keep parents comfortable and happy. The handlebar can be adjusted to three different positions to accommodate caregivers of all sizes and the wrist strap can help ensure that the stroller won't roll away when you're jogging. The Wayfinder also has the most extensive sunshade we've seen in our test group with a clear view on top that lets kids observe the world while they rest. And Jenni's 3-year-old found the seat to be comfortably cushioned, which means bumps on the road won't shake him up too much.
The stroller is equipped with a hand brake that helps you control slippery surfaces. It folds to an extremely compact and slim size that takes up very little space in the trunk of your car, and it can be converted into a travel system using certain infant car seats from brands such as Nuna, Maxi-Cosi, and Cybex with the purchase of an adapter. It also works with the Uppababy Mesa V2 Bassinet.
If you're planning to tackle rough terrain, sturdy tires are a must-have for any stroller. Although they don't offer the same degree of comfort as foam-filled or air-filled tires, they're great for navigating bumps and potholes effortlessly.
The stroller folds down in just two easy steps. It locks into position when folded and is compact enough to fit in most elevators. It's not as simple as some of our other four-wheel strollers to maneuver and the locking mechanism can be somewhat difficult to understand. It requires pressing an icon on the front of the stroller, closing a flap on the foot area, and then raising a handle. We'd prefer a simpler system that just clicks in place or opens by pulling.
Stroller Weight
The weight of the overall stroller is a significant factor to take into account. A heavier stroller tends to be more stable than a stroller that is lighter and can provide more performance on rough terrain. 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, such as those for jogging which makes the ride easier for your baby. Larger wheels can weigh more on the stroller, making it difficult to fold and transport, as well as store.
Certain models in our collection include air-filled tires that are designed to offer a safe and comfortable ride for your child even over rough terrain. However, air-filled tires could quickly become flat and require you to change them out. If you plan to travel with your stroller often, we suggest that you select one with solid wheels. These tires can be able to withstand contact with different surfaces more frequently and last longer.
Strollers with front wheels that swivel are ideal for navigating stairs and escalators safely. Falls on stairs or escalators are the most frequent injuries to strollers. They can be particularly hazardous for infants. If you are unable to avoid taking the stairs or escalator in your stroller, we recommend using it only if the child is securely strapped into the seat and is close to you when walking up or down.
Some strollers are an integrated travel system that incorporates both the car seat and the stroller. These types of products are usually more expensive and convenient than their stand-alone counterparts and they may not be as effective in the long-term. Many parents are disappointed when they purchase bundle products because they might not include all the features they would like or may not be compatible with their car or child's seat. We suggest that you purchase an infant stroller that can be purchased separately from the car seat or capsule if you'd like to upgrade to a more advanced model in the future.
Stroller Folding
The best 3 wheel compact strollers fold quickly and easily to make storage and transport effortless. Some locks automatically lock into place when you open them. This feature is particularly beneficial for families who regularly use public transportation or drive to walk.
Three-wheeled strollers can be maneuvered effortlessly in tight spaces, like aisles of grocery stores or other areas that are crowded. Many are also equipped with suspension systems that offer a smoother stroll for your child which is especially useful on sidewalks that are bumpy.
If you're seeking a jogging stroller that isn't heavy the Guava Roam Crossover is an excellent option. It's a stylish stroller that can be used as a travel system, with the car seat adapters for Nuna, Maxi-Cosi, and Cybex infant carseats and the bassinet Uppababy (car seats and stroller boards sold separately). The stroller features simple two-step fold, and locks into place once it is opened.
The Babyzen Yoyo 2 is another attractive 3-wheeled jogging stroller with a nice design. This stroller is more expensive than our top choices, but is worth it if often or live in the city. This stroller is lightweight and can be folded down to a small 20 x 17 x 7 inch size. It comes with a five-point, no-rethread, padded harness. It can be used as a stroller suitable for infants and toddlers, if you have an infant car seat adapter.
The Babyzen is a great product with a few nice features. It offers a large recline, and also has extra storage. However, some parents are disappointed by its performance. The seat isn't fully flat when reclined, and there are no cups or a snack tray for kids. The brakes can also be a bit difficult to activate and the handlebars can be 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 comes with a long list of impressive features like a huge basket and a single-handed fold. The only drawback is that the brakes could be difficult to engage and do not remain locked when the stroller is folded.
Stroller Safety
The safety features of a stroller will ensure your child's safety while using it. Some of the top-scoring products in our review have five-point harnesses with adjustable, padded crotch straps that allow for a customised fit. Others come with a cushioned seat cushion to shield your child's head in the event that they fall out of the seat or fall off. Some strollers are equipped with a safety lock that locks both wheels. This is crucial for walkers who jog, as they are less likely to fall over while going up or down stairs and escalators.
In our tests, strollers' maneuverability was rated in three different ways. We rated 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 looked at how easy it is to open and close the safety harness fold and unfold the stroller, adjust its backrest, handlebar height, operate the brakes, and then attach and remove car seats (if necessary).
We have found that 3-wheel strollers are simpler to maneuver than four-wheel models however this benefit diminishes as your baby grows heavier. That's why we recommend choosing a model that has hand brakes, which allows you to slow down and stop without as much exertion as relying on body power alone. However, 3 wheeler pushchair of top-scoring swivel wheel strollers do not have this option and only one of our top fixed-wheel models does.
It is also important to consider the frequency you'll have to utilize your stroller to go up or down escalators or stairs and if it's safe to do it. Elevators and stairs pose greater risk because they move mechanical components, making it difficult to control the movements of the stroller. We suggest finding a solution to these obstacles, such as an elevator, if you have one or have a person else take the stroller up and down with you. Some of the top-scoring strollers are able to be pushed up the stairs or an escalator, with their safety brakes engaged and locked, but it's always safer to be to be sorry.