All-Terrain Pushchair
If you live up an open country road or walk through muddy and rough paths, an all terrain pushchair might be the best option for your family. These models usually have 4 wheels and can handle all terrain types although not as well as prams that are classified as all-rounders.
Features
If you're walking through woodland or taking a country path or cruising along the high street, an all-terrain pushchair is a good option when you require a strong buggy with wheels for taking on rough terrain. All terrain pushchairs are equipped with a variety of features that ensure that your child is comfortable and has enough storage space for your baby equipment.
These pushchairs are typically designed with extra-large all terrain wheels. They can handle a variety of terrains and are ideally suited to rough terrain. They are also more comfortable than standard prams and buggies due to the fact that they have a higher suspension.
The type of tyres used is crucial when choosing an all-terrain pushchair. Most all-terrain pushchairs have air-filled tires similar to those found on bicycles. This creates a smoother ride, but they're also susceptible to punctures and you will need a spare set in your bag if you plan to use the pushchair regularly. All terrain pushchairs come with gel or foam tires that can withstand bumps, but are less likely to puncture.
Most all terrain pushchairs have hand brakes that are located on the right-hand side of the chassis. It is simple to use and works well on hills especially with a toddler riding on. You can also find pushchairs with a foot-operated brake which is ideal for slowing down on steep slopes.
The iCandy Core is an excellent all-terrain pushchair for parents who are active. It's available as a stand-alone pushchair or as part a six-piece starter bundle which includes the seat, chassis, carrycot and adaptors. It also has the ability to fold with one hand, and a spacious underseat basket.
The Special Tomato Jogger, a lightweight jogging pushchair that can be used on any terrain is ideal for active parents. It features a seat back that reclining, which can be adjusted from 10 through 15 degrees. It can be paired with padded backs and seat cushions (sold separately) to provide additional lateral trunk and pelvic support. It is suitable for babies from birth and can be used in combination with car seats or a baby carrier for a complete 3-in-1 travel system.
Suspension
If you're looking to purchase an all-terrain pushchair, the suspension is among the most important aspects to consider. This will allow your child to be relaxed and comfortable on bumpy or uneven terrain. It also helps reduce the impact of sudden stops, which means it's better for their little legs. It is recommended to look for suspension systems that have several levels of adjustment to determine the most suitable setting for your child.
All-terrain strollers have larger wheels that can absorb more bumps. A lot of models have air-filled tyres, which are perfect for all-terrain and off-road pushing but can be vulnerable to punctures, so make sure you have an repair kit. Others use foam or gel-filled tyres, which provide an easier ride, however they are heavier and could be more expensive than air-filled tyres.
The gb Qbit+ All-Terrain is designed for parents who require a lightweight and user-friendly pushchair that is able to take on rough terrain. It's easy to assemble, with no tools required, and is compact when folded. To fold the buggy, simply press the two white buttons on the handlebar to depress it. Then, pull it back. The buggy will then click into the unfolded position, and the seat will pop onto the top. The handbrake can be found on the right hand side of the handlebar. This makes it less likely that your baby is likely to kick the buggy when walking or running.
Another option is the UPPAbaby, which has a great range of features for parents, including large and padded tyres, an adjustable handlebar, a zipped pocket on the hood, and a large basket. It can be used in combination with a car, or carriedcot and is suitable for infants due to its adjustable suspension and lay-flat mode.
The Bugaboo Fox 5 all-terrain stroller is stylish and has large puncture-proof tires. It can be used in a single or double mode and has an adapter for car seats, making it a great option for families growing. Parents adored its smooth suspension and parent-friendly features that include a large 10kg basket, a simple fold with one hand and an adjustable handlebar.
Folding
All pushchairs that are terrain-specific must be able to handle more than just the smooth asphalt of the high-street. They are typically designed to cope with mud, gravel tracks and even market town cobbles and the wheels will be bigger than those on the standard stroller (with some being inflated to give extra height clearance over tussocks). You can also find some all-terrain models that are suitable for jogging when your baby is old enough. They are usually designed with a front wheel that is lockable and swivelable, which can be removed and replaced with a fixed wheel according to your requirements. They also come with big air-filled tires and excellent suspension.
The best all-terrain pushchairs have plenty of storage space that is designed with an active lifestyle in mind. You can expect to find clever pockets on the hood and seat backs, as well as under-seat baskets which are either huge or come with handy zip-off compartments. There are models that have an adjustable shopping bag that helps you keep your items organized and accessible.
All-terrain pushchairs are heavier than all-rounders. This is due to having a more robust and sturdy build to withstand the extra wear and tear of the rough terrains. Brands such as Mountain Buggy or Thule have mastered making their all-terrain pushchairs as compact and functional as they can, while not sacrificing quality.
There are even all-terrain pushchairs that fold down to a compact size that can fit into the trunk of your vehicle and are ideal for urban adventures. You can fold the body in half while leaving the rear swivel wheels and the front frame in place. www.pushchairsandprams.uk can then be tucked underneath.
UPPAbaby's Ridge all-terrain pushchair is a fantastic example. It is equipped with a variety of features to assist in navigating the tough terrain such as a lockable swivel rear wheel and large tyres with air-filled tires, the perfect ride for your child, and an integrated twist handbrake that is easy to use when in motion.
Stores
Designed to tackle everything the nature throws at it, 4-wheel all-terrain pushchairs are generally bigger and more durable than their all-rounder counterparts. These models will often have bigger front wheels, which allow them to maneuver over bumps as well as tree roots and high kerbs easily. They're also usually designed with a smaller wheel at the rear, which decreases overall bulk and can make them easier to manoeuvre on rough ground.
The type of tyre will be an important factor for parents who are choosing an all-terrain pushchair. A lot of brands offer tyres which are filled with foam or gel which are ideal for rough terrain, lumps and bumps. However, these kinds of tyres tend to be more prone to punctures, and will require regular maintenance. Other all-terrain strollers come with a standard tyre that is less likely to puncture, however it does not have the same grip when on rough terrain.
All-terrain pushchairs typically have plenty of storage space to stow everything you need to enjoy a day out. Look out for clever pockets located on the seatback and hood, as well as an under-seat basket that is large and has zippered compartments that keep your items secure.
There are also pushchairs that are all-terrain that can be used from birth, either with an additional carrycot or a built-in lying-flat seats. These models will typically have a newborn cocoon, which MFM reviewer Alice describes as "padded and comfortable, as well as breathable."
All-terrain strollers are a compromise between the ability to go off-road and street-useability. These models usually have a high-quality suspension and big wheels but they'll be designed with a more conventional pushchair style, like reversible seats or full carrycot options. They might even give a nod to fashion with their fabrics and design.