All-Terrain Pushchair
All terrain pushchairs are perfect for families who live on country tracks or walk on rough grass and rutted trails. These types are typically equipped with 4 wheels and can handle most terrain types. However, they may not be as versatile like some prams categorized as all-rounders.
Features
If you're walking through woodland, taking on country paths or cruising along the main street, an all terrain pushchair is a good choice when you require a strong buggy with wheels to take on rough terrain. All terrain pushchairs come with a variety of features that will ensure your child is comfortable and that you have plenty of storage space for your baby gear.
Usually, they are designed with large all terrain wheels they are well-suited to rough terrain and can tackle a range of terrains with no difficulty. They also have more suspension than standard buggies and prams, which makes your ride more comfortable.
The type of tyres you choose is crucial when selecting an all-terrain pushchair. A lot of them have air-filled tyres similar to those used on bicycles. This creates a smoother but more puncture-prone ride. You will need to carry a spare set of tyres in case the pushchair is used regularly. You can also find all pushchairs for terrain with gel or foam tyres that can handle bumps with ease but are less prone to punctures.
Most terrain pushchairs feature a hand brake which sits on the right side of the chassis. This is a straightforward brake that is effective, especially when a toddler is riding along. There are also pushchairs with a foot-operated brake that is great for slowing down on steep slopes.
The iCandy Core is a fantastic all-terrain pushchair that is ideal for the active parent. It's available as a stroller on its own or as part of a six-piece set which includes the seat and the chassis, as well as adaptors. It also features the ability to fold with one hand, and a large underseat basket.
The Special Tomato Jogger is another lightweight all-terrain jogging style pushchair that is ideal for the active parent. It features a reclining seat that is flat back which can be adjusted between 10 and 15 degrees. Additional pelvic and lateral trunk supports can be added by adding a cushioned seat cushion and back (sold separately). It can be used as early as birth, and with a baby carrier or car seat to create a 3-in-1 complete system.
Suspension
The suspension is an important aspect to take into consideration when selecting an all-terrain pushchair. This lets your child feel comfortable and at ease on bumpy or uneven terrain. It also reduces sudden stops and is better for their legs. It is recommended to look for an adjustable suspension system that has different levels of adjustment in order to find the best setting for your child.
All-terrain pushchairs usually have larger wheels than a stroller or jogging buggy, which helps them to absorb more bumps and rough terrain. A lot of models have air-filled tyres, which are perfect for all-terrain or off-road pushing but can be susceptible to punctures so make sure to carry an repair kit. Others use foam or gel-filled tyres, which provide more comfort but are heavier and may be more expensive than air-filled tyres.
The Qbit+ All-Terrain gb is designed for parents who want a light and simple pushchair that can be used on rough terrain. It's easy to assemble and requires no tools and is small when folded. To fold, simply press two white buttons on the top of the handlebar down to release it and remove it from the chassis. The buggy will then click into its folded position and the seat will then be popped onto the top. The handbrake is located on the right side handlebar. This makes it less likely that your child will accidentally kick the buggy while running or walking.
The UPPAbaby's ridge is a second alternative. It comes with a variety of features that are parent-friendly with large and foam-filled tyres. It also has an adjustable handlebar and a large basket. It can be used combination with a car, or carriedcot, and is suitable for infants due to its adjustable suspension and lay-flat mode.
The Bugaboo Fox 5 is a stylish all-terrain pushchair that has sturdy chassis and large puncture-proof wheels. It can be used in single or double mode and comes with an adaptor for car seats making it an ideal option for families growing. Parents loved its smooth suspension, parent-friendly features such as a generous basket of 10kg, a simple fold with one hand, and an adjustable handlebar.
Folding
All terrain pushchairs need to be able to handle more than the smooth tarmac of the main street. They are often built to cope with gravel tracks, mud and even cobbles from markets and the wheels are likely to be bigger than those of the standard stroller (with some being inflated to give extra height clearance over tussocks). All strollers that are terrain-specific are able to be used for jogging once your child is old enough. These are often built with an adjustable front wheel that can be removed and replaced with a fixed wheel to meet your walking or jogging needs, plus large air-filled tyres as well as fantastic suspension.
All terrain pushchairs are made with storage space in mind. Expect to find clever pockets on the seat backs and hood as well as large or zipped under-seat storage baskets. There are best all terrain pram that have a bag for shopping that is removable, which helps you keep your items neat and easily accessible.
All-terrain pushchairs are heavier than all-rounders. This is because they have an extra robust and durable construction to withstand the added wear and tear of rough terrains. However, brands like Mountain Buggy and Thule have developed the art of making their all terrain pushchairs as compact as they can be without sacrificing quality or practicality.
All terrain pushchairs can be folded down to a compact size which will fit in your car's boot and are ideal for urban adventures. This is because you can keep the rear swivel wheel as well as the front frame section in place, while folding the main body of the pushchair down and placing the front wheel under to create a compact and flat unit.
The UPPAbaby Ridge stroller that is all-terrain is a great example. It comes with a wide range of features that help it cope with tough terrain such as a lockable swivel rear wheel as well as large air-filled tyres that provide a comfortable ride for your child and an integrated twist handbrake, which is simple to operate while moving.
Storage
All-terrain pushchairs with four wheels are usually larger and more durable. They typically have larger front wheels that enable them to easily negotiate bumps, tree roots and high kerbs. These models are usually designed with smaller wheels in the back, which could reduce their overall bulk and make them easier for to maneuver over rough terrain.
The type of tyre will be an important aspect for any parent who is choosing an all-terrain pushchair. There are many brands that offer tyres that are filled with foam or gel, which are great for rough terrain and lumps and bumps. However, these types of tyres tend to be more susceptible to punctures and require more frequent maintenance. Other all-terrain pushchairs will have the standard pneumatic tyre which is less susceptible to punctures, but does not provide as much grip on slick ground.
The majority of strollers with all-terrain features have plenty of storage space for your possessions. Look out for clever pockets that are dotted around the hood and seatback and a large under-seat basket with zipped compartments to keep items secure.
There are also pushchairs that are all-terrain that can be used from birth, whether with a separate carrycot or inbuilt lying-flat seats. These pushchairs will typically come with a newborn cocoon, which MFM reviewer Alice describes as "padded and comfortable, as well as breathable."
All-terrain strollers are a compromise of off-road capabilities and street-ability. These models typically have excellent suspension and big wheels but they'll be designed with a more typical pushchair style, such as fully carrycot or reversible seat options. Fabrics and details may be a nod to fashion.