3 Wheel Compact Stroller Review
There are three-wheel strollers designed for all ages, whether you're looking for a jogging stroller or a stroller that you can use every day. Wendy Schmitz, Senior Review Writer and Managing Editor at Sentry tested these models to the test on both pavement and off-road surfaces. They also tested the safety of the seats for children.
Stroller Features
The best strollers come with features that make traveling with your child easier. If you're shopping for a new 3-wheel or 4-wheel stroller, look for features that make life easier, such as a large storage basket and a tray for parents with cup holders, adjustable canopy, and more. The key is determining what features are non-negotiable for you and your family and which ones you're able to be content with.
The BOB Gear Wayfinder, our top-rated jogging stroller with plenty of convenient features to keep moms and dads content and comfortable. The handlebar can be adjusted to three different heights to accommodate caregivers. A wrist strap prevents the stroller from slipping when you're jogging. The Wayfinder also comes with the largest sunshade we've seen in our test group and has a large, clear window on top that lets kids look out while they're relaxing. And Jenni's 3-year-old found the seat to be comfortably padded, so bumps in the road don't cause him to shake.
This jogging stoller has a handbrake to help you keep control on slippery surfaces. It folds to a slim, compact package that takes up a tiny space in the trunk of your car. Additionally, it can be converted into a travel system with select infant car seats from brands such as Nuna, Maxi-Cosi, and Cybex by purchasing an adapter. It is also compatible with the Uppababy Mesa V2 Bassinet.
If you plan on tackling rough terrain, tires are a must-have for any stroller. Although they don't offer the same degree of comfort as air-filled or foam-filled tires, they're perfect to navigate potholes and bumps effortlessly.
This stroller for jogging features a fold-up that only requires two steps. It locks into place when folded, and it's small enough to fit into most elevators. However, it's not as easy to maneuver as our other 4-wheel strollers, and the mechanism for locking is a bit difficult to understand. It requires pressing the button in the foot area on the front of stroller and then lifting the handle. We'd prefer a simpler system that clicks into the position or opens when pulled.
Stroller Weight
The overall weight of a stroller is a significant factor to take into account. A stroller that is heavier is more stable and can perform better on uneven terrain. However, many parents discover that a lighter stroller is easier to maneuver and is more suitable for daily use.
The shape and size of the wheels is an important feature. Some strollers come with larger wheels, such as those for jogging, which can make the ride smoother for your baby. Larger wheels can weigh more on the stroller, making it more difficult to fold and store, transport and fold.
Some models in our selection have air-filled wheels that offer a safe, comfortable ride to your child even on rough terrain. However, air-filled tires can quickly become flat and require you to change them out. If you plan to take your stroller on the road a lot, we recommend that you select a model with solid wheels. These tires can withstand contact with different surfaces more often and last longer.
Strollers with swivel front wheels are ideal for navigating stairs and escalators safely. Falls on escalators or stairs are the most frequent stroller-related injuries. They can be especially dangerous for infants. If you are unable to avoid taking the stairs or escalator in your stroller, we suggest using it only when the child is securely strapped into the seat and is close to you as you walk up or down.
Some strollers are sold as complete travel systems where the car seat and stroller are sold as a single unit. While these types of products typically boast attractive price tags and offer convenience by cutting down on shopping time, they are generally more expensive than their standalone counterparts and may not perform as well over the long haul. Many parents are disappointed when they purchase a bundle product because it might not include all the features they would like or may not be compatible with their car or child's seat. If you are planning to upgrade in the near future we recommend you buy a stroller separate from the car seat or capsule.
Stroller Folding
The most compact 3 wheel strollers fold up quickly and easily to make storage and transport effortless. Some locks automatically lock into place when you open them. This feature is especially useful for families who frequently take public transportation or drive prior to going for a an outing.
Three-wheel strollers are designed to move around tight spaces like aisles in grocery stores and other crowded areas with ease. Many are also equipped with suspension systems that provide an easier stroll for your child, which can be especially helpful on bumpy sidewalks.
The Guava Roam is a light stroller that can be used for jogging. 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, as well as the bassinet Uppababy (car seats and stroller boards sold separately). The stroller comes with simple two-step fold, and locks in place when it is opened.
The Babyzen Yoyo 2 is another nice-looking 3-wheeled jogging stroller. It's a bit more expensive than our top picks, however it's well worth the money for those who love to travel or live in the city. This lightweight stroller can be folded down to a small 20 x 17 x 7 inch size. It comes with five-point, non-rethread, cushioned harness. It can be used as a stroller for infants and young toddlers with an infant car seat adapter.
The Babyzen is a great product with some nice features. It is spacious in its recline, and also has storage space. However, some parents are disappointed by its performance. The seat doesn't lie flat when reclined, and there aren't any cups or a tray for snacks for kids. The brakes can be a little difficult to engage and the handlebars can be too high for some moms.
The Graco Fastaction stroller is designed to be as light as it is possible, but without the comfort or convenience. It comes with a long list of amazing features like a huge basket and a one-handed fold. The only issue is that the brakes may be difficult to activate and don't remain locked when the stroller is folded.
Stroller Safety
The safety features of a stroller should aid in keeping your child safe while using it. Some of the best-scoring models in our test have a five-point harness with adjustable crotch straps that are padded and padded that allow for a customized fit. Some strollers come with a cushioned cushion that shields your child's head should they roll off or fall out of their seat. Some strollers come with the 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 escalators and stairs.
In our tests, we evaluated the strollers' maneuverability in three different ways: a product's ability to turn and bounce over dips and bumps, its ease of maneuvering when laden with a child and its capability to maneuver over rough surfaces. We also assessed how easy it was to open and close the safety harness, fold and unfold the stroller, adjust its backrest and handlebar height and brakes and attach and remove car seats (if appropriate).
We discovered that strollers with three wheels were more maneuverable however the advantages diminished as baby weight increased. That's why we recommend choosing a model that has a hand brake that helps you slow down and come to a stop without as much effort than using your body alone. Many of the top-scoring swivel-wheel strollers do not have this feature. Only 3 wheeler pushchair of our top-rated fixed wheel strollers comes with it.
It's important to consider how often you will require to transport your stroller down the stairs or an escalator, and if or not it will be safe to do this with the stroller in the same place. Stairs and elevators are more dangerous because they have moving mechanical components that make it difficult for you to control your stroller. We recommend looking for alternatives to these obstacles, such as an elevator, if you have one or have another adult carry the stroller up or down with you. Some of the best-rated strollers can be carried up a set or stairs with the safety brake activated. However, it's safer to be safe rather than sorry.