3 Wheel Compact Stroller Review

There are three-wheel strollers that fit everyone, whether you're looking for a jogging stoller or an all-purpose stroller to use on a daily basis. The Managing Editor Sentry and Senior Review Writer Wendy Schmitz put these models through the paces on both pavement and off-road surfaces as well test the comfort of children in the seats.

Stroller Features

The best 3 wheel pushchair strollers offer features that make traveling with your little one more convenient. Whether you're shopping for a brand new 3-wheel or a 4-wheel stroller, look for features that make life easier, such as an ample storage basket, parent tray with cup holders, a movable canopy, and more. It's crucial to decide the features that are important to you and your family, and those you can live without.

BOB Gear Wayfinder is our top-rated stroller for running. It has many convenient features that will keep parents happy and comfortable. The handlebar can be adjusted to three different heights to accommodate caregivers. A wrist strap helps keep the stroller from slipping away while you jog. The Wayfinder has the largest sunshade of the strollers we tested, and a large, clear opening at the top that allows children to look out when they're resting. Jenni's 3 wheel infant stroller-year old found the seat to be comfortably cushioned, so bumps on the road won't shake him up too much.

This jogging stoller has an automatic handbrake that helps you keep your grip on slippery surfaces. It folds to a slim, compact package that takes up very little space in the trunk of your car, and it can be converted into a travel set-up with select infant car seats from brands like Nuna, Maxi-Cosi, and Cybex by purchasing an adapter. It also works with the Uppababy Mesa V2 bassinet.

Solid tires are crucial for strollers that are used on terrains that are rough. Solid tires are not as comfortable as spongy-filled or air-filled tires but they're great for navigating potholes and bumps.

The stroller folds up in just two easy steps. It locks into position when folded and is compact enough to fit into most elevators. However, it's not as easy to maneuver as our other 4-wheel strollers and the lock mechanism is a bit confusing. It involves pressing a button near the foot area on the front of stroller, and then lifting the handle. We'd prefer a simpler method that simply clicks into place or opens by pulling.

Stroller Weight

The overall weight of a stroller is a significant factor to consider. A stroller that is heavier is more stable and will perform better on uneven terrain. Many parents find that a stroller with a lighter weight is easier to maneuver, and more suitable for day-to-day use.

The shape and size of the wheels is an important feature. Some strollers come with larger wheels, such as those for jogging that makes the ride easier for your baby. The larger wheels can weigh more on the stroller and make it more difficult to fold, transport and store.

Some models in our selection come with air-filled tires, which are designed to provide a safe and comfortable ride for your child, even over rough terrain. However, air-filled tires can easily become flat, which will need to be changed out. If you are planning to travel a lot with your stroller, we suggest an option with sturdy tires that can stand up to frequent contact with different surfaces and last for a longer time.

Strollers with swivel wheels at the front are great to safely navigate escalators and stairs. Falls on escalators or stairs are the most common injuries to strollers. They can be especially hazardous for infants. If you can't avoid using the escalator and stairs with your stroller, we recommend that you only use it when the child is securely strapped in the seat. Also ensure that they are close to you as you walk up or down.

Some strollers come as a travel system which includes both the car seat and the stroller. Although these strollers often have attractive price tags and offer convenience in terms of cutting down on shopping time, they are generally more expensive than their standalone counterparts and may not function 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 be incompatible with their car or child seat. If you plan to upgrade in the future we suggest that you purchase a stroller separately from a capsule or car seat.

Stroller Folding

The most compact 3 wheel strollers fold up quickly and easily to make storage and transport effortless. Some even lock into place automatically when you open them. This feature is especially beneficial for families who regularly take public transportation or drive before going on a walk.

Three-wheeled strollers are able to maneuver easily in tight spaces like grocery store aisles or other areas that are crowded. Many also come equipped with suspension systems that give a smoother stroll for your child, which can be especially helpful on slippery sidewalks.

If you're looking for a jogging stroller that isn't heavy, the Guava Roam Crossover is a good option. It's a stylish stroller that can be used as a part of a travel set-up with car seat adapters to fit Nuna MaxiCosi, Cybex, and Nuna infant carseats, as well as the Uppababy Bassinet. (Car seats and stroller boards sold separately). The stroller has a simple two-step fold and locks into place once it is opened.

Another stylish rear facing 3 wheel stroller (related resource site)-wheel jogging stroller is the Babyzen Yoyo 2. It's a bit pricier than our top picks, however it's worth the investment for those who love to travel or live in a city. The stroller is lightweight and can fold down to a smaller size (20.5 x 17.3 wheel all terrain buggy x 7.1) and comes with padding, a detachable five-point harness with no-rethread straps and an ample basket. It can even be used as a pram to carry newborns or toddlers (with an infant car seat adapter).

Although the Babyzen has some nice features, such as the spacious recline and the extra storage space, certain parents have been dissatisfied with its performance. The seat isn't fully flat when reclined, and there are no cup holders or a snack tray for children. The brakes are a bit difficult to engage, and the handlebar height is too high for a lot of short moms.

The Graco Fastaction is another stroller that's designed to be as light as is possible without skimping on comfort or ease of use. It's packed with a variety of features, including a large basket and a fold that is one-handed. The only downside to this stroller is that the brakes are a little difficult to activate, and they're not locking after the stroller is folded.

Stroller Safety

The safety features of a stroller should ensure your child's safety while using it. Some of the top-scoring strollers in our review have 5-point harnesses that are adjustable, padded crotch straps that allow for a custom fit. Some strollers come with a padded cushion that protects your child's head should they fall off or roll out of their seat. Some strollers have a safety lock that locks both wheels. This is especially important for jogging walkers, 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 stroller's ability to bounce and turn over dips and bumps, its ease of maneuvering when loaded with a child and its ability to traverse rough terrain. We also evaluated the ease of opening and closing the safety harness, folding and unfolding the stroller, altering its backrest and handlebar height and operating the brakes as being able to attach and remove car seats (if appropriate).

We found that strollers with best 3 wheel buggy wheels were easier to maneuver however the advantages decreased as the weight of the baby increased. We suggest choosing the model that has hand brakes. It can help you slow down or stop without having to exert the same effort as your body on its own. Many of the top-scoring swivel-wheel strollers do not come with this option. Only one of our top-rated fixed-wheel strollers comes with it.

It is also important to consider the frequency you'll have to use your stroller to go up and down stairs or escalators, and if it's safe to do this. Elevators and stairs are more risky because they contain moving mechanical parts which make it difficult to control your stroller. We recommend looking for alternatives to these hazards, like an elevator, if possible or have another adult take the stroller up and down with you. Some of the top-scoring strollers can be carried up or down a set of stairs with the safety brake engaged. However, it's safer to be secure rather than sorry.