Are you finding it difficult to choose between a 3 wheel vs 4 wheel stroller? Are you wondering what the difference is? Don’t worry, this is perfectly normal.
While a four-wheel stroller is often a better choice for many parents, the rise of its other competitor has increased the chances of possibilities for most parents and guidance.
Since both 3 wheels and 4 wheel strollers have their anomaly parents need to carefully study the pro and cons before deciding on which stroller to buy.
In this article, we discuss all you need to know about strollers, the pros, and cons of the 3 wheel and 4 wheel strollers. Understanding the differences will help make your decision process a little easier.
What is a Stroller?
A stroller is also known as a pushchair is essentially a foldable chair on wheels used to push a baby or transport a baby around, especially for recreational purposes.
There are two main types of strollers available in the market, which are 3 wheel strollers also called the tri-skates, and the 4 popular wheel strollers.
Interestingly, 3 wheel strollers were introduced a few years ago. They are seen as an upgrade to 4 wheel strollers due to their higher level of technicality. This is one reason why the 4 wheel stroller has remained a popular choice among parents.
3 Wheel Vs 4 Wheel Stroller – 4 Major Differences
Although parents are more used to 4 wheel strollers, the 3 wheel strollers are now becoming competitive in the race of best stroller choice.
One significant point that has influenced parent’s choice, is that the 3 wheel strollers have been proven to offer more comfort and ease as compared to the normal 4 wheel strollers.
The following are the major differences between a 3 wheel stroller and a 4 wheel stroller.
1. Number of Skates
The number of skates is one of the major differences between the 3 wheel stroller vs 4 wheel stroller. The three-wheel stroller has three wheels, while the 4 wheel strollers have four wheels. This is one of the major distinguishing factors between the two strollers.
2. Speed
The speed of both strollers is also a major difference to consider. The 3 wheel stroller is way faster than the 4 wheel stroller.
According to stroller experts, this is because the 4 wheel stroller has an additional wheel which adds more friction and slows it down.
3. Versatility
The 3 wheel strollers are more versatile in design than the 4 wheels strollers. They often have more compartments and are manufactured to be higher in design.
Stroller versatility is an important factor for any parent to keep in mind when shopping for a stroller.
4. Size
Usually, strollers with 3 wheels are generally bigger than 4 wheel strollers. Therefore, when you sight a big stroller from a distance, there is every chance that the stroller is a 3-wheeler.
The size of the stroller is also an important factor to consider when choosing between 3 wheel vs 4 wheel stroller.
Read Also: Best Strollers For Tall Parents
3 Wheel Vs 4 Wheel Stroller – Pros and Cons
3 Wheel Strollers – Pros
1. Suits All Terrains
A 3 wheel stroller is specifically designed to suit all kinds of surfaces. They’re very effective for off-roading, whether you are out on the trails, on a sandy seashore, a grassy park, or a rocky road.
The stroller suspension is generally better and helps protect your valuable cargo from bumps and plunges as compared to traditional strollers, whose wheels are significantly bigger.
A 3 wheel stroller is made from rubber and air-filled, they work similarly to bike tires.
When on an uneven surface, they tend to retain the impact. To prevent a puncture, always check and pump up your tires when necessary.
2. Prefect for Active Parents
Running or jogging is an effective method to ditch the baby’s weight. A three-wheel stroller makes workouts possible while the kids are close by.
And with the help of the stroller’s good suspension, and oversized wheels they tend to give your baby a smooth ride while you focus on your workout.
Safety Hint:
Before putting on your sneakers with your baby, ensure your baby has clocked at least six months old and can hold up his head.
3. Easy To Navigate
If you’re fed up with stiff handling on a stroller, a stroller with 3 wheels can be so easy to navigate in tight corners and can also maintain a straight line easily.
The swiveling front wheels spin a full 360 degrees which helps to direct the larger wheels behind to achieve and maintain easy navigation regardless of the terrain and navigation requirements in the environment.
Additionally, 3 wheeler stroller’s steering is very easy to control. You can push the stroller with one hand while sipping your cup of coffee.
4. Stroller Attraction
If styles and designs are important to you, then these strollers will blow your mind. 3 wheeler strollers are stylish and sporty, separating them from the traditional “mom look” every parent considers.
Of course, if Madonna and British royalty found it good enough, then it’s good enough for you too.
3 Wheel Strollers – Cons
1. They’re Quite Costly
3 wheel strollers are quite more costly than 4 wheel strollers. If you’re a mom that is into jogging or outdoor activities, you’ll need a stroller that’ll help achieve your objective. This could mean spending more than you planned.
2. They’re Bulky and Heavy
3 wheel strollers are usually bulkier, and heavier to transport or store than 4 wheel strollers.
Although they’re quite easy to fold, the jumbo wheels and bulkiness make it difficult to load into the trunk of a car.
If you have a tight space, you may need to detach the wheels to fit the stroller in. When you’re dealing with a squirming child, this can make life a little difficult.
Although this stroller is great for outdoor activities such as exercise, some parents still prefer the 4 wheel strollers because they want a stroller they can carry around.
Note:
Before deciding on which stroller to go for, make sure the stroller is going to fit in your car, also always check the dimensions when folded.
3. Less choice
You may have observed that selection is limited when shopping around for a stroller in the 3 wheel category.
Getting what you want could be a daunting task. A large number of these models cater for exercise and going off-road for day-to-day activities, which can make it fall short of expectations.
Read Also: Do I Need a Bassinet for Stroller? Explained
Four-Wheel Strollers – Pros
1. They are Affordable
If you are on a budget but want a good stroller that can take your baby around without compromising on quality, then you should go for the 4 wheel strollers.
Unlike the 3-wheel strollers, the 4-wheel strollers are a great option to jump on since they offer the same purpose and most importantly you get to save a lot more money.
2. They Have a Variety of Choices
As mentioned earlier 4 wheel strollers are the traditional types of strollers and have been around for years.
So, there are many varieties for one to choose from. Ranging from multi-seat systems to umbrella and easy-fold varieties, you have one that will always match your taste and preference.
3. They’re Easy to Fold and Store
This is one major reason why some parents go for 4-wheel strollers because they usually collapse easily and take up less room in the trunk of your car or when storing them away.
They’re regularly lighter in weight too, making them a perfect choice for parents who travel regularly.
Some 4-wheel strollers are so compact that you can fold them up and put them in your backpack. This one from Pockit folds to about 11.8 x 7 x 13.8 inches and weighs just 9.5 pounds.
4. Good Stability
Although this is usually a subject of discussion, when it comes to stability, generally 4 wheels are better than three. The weight is distributed accordingly, so the chance of it tripping over is less.
Another thing also could be the area where you plan on using the stroller. If you’re navigating around your environment, bumping up and down curbs, you need to have two wheels on the ground.
Four-Wheel Strollers – Cons
1. Lack of Versatility
A 4 wheel stroller is a great choice for use on level surfaces. If you come in contact with a bumpy stretch, they will be hard to push, and maneuver and your baby gets an unpleasant ride.
4 wheel strollers are not designed to cope with all terrains and are more suited for city life. There are also not designed for running.
However, this does not mean you can’t use the stroller for outdoor activities, walking is a great way to keep your body fit. But you may be confined to paved trails around the recreation center.
Another thing to consider also is the comfort of your child. A four-wheel stroller will shake your baby around on bumpy surfaces. They don’t have the suspension and wheel type benefits of their 3 wheel counterparts.
2. Not Ideal for Jogging
It’s a cute thing to see couples take their babies in a stroller for a morning jog. Well, if you are thinking about doing this, a 4 wheel stroller is not your choice.
This is because 4 wheel strollers are not meant for jogging or outdoor activities.
Read Also: How To Mold Out Of Fabric in a Stroller
Factors To Keep in Mind When Choosing a Stroller
Setting to the side the 3 wheel vs 4 wheel stroller comparison, here are some fundamental aspects you may need to keep in mind.
- Lifestyle: Would you consider yourself living in an urban area, or do you like the great outdoors? One of the most important things to keep in mind is how well the stroller fits into your daily activities and where you’ll get the most use from it.
- Safety: While manufacturers are required to follow proper recommended standards, do not forget to make your checks too. Five-point harnesses are a bit difficult for children to unfasten. Examine the brakes for a safe hold and look over the frame for any potential “tiny finger” traps.
- How easy it is to use: Is the stroller simple to fold, transport, and store? Will you be able to lift it into your car or carry it without needing help from a stranger? Do you need to use both hands to navigate it, or can you manage using one?
- Comfort: A seat that completely leans back could be a handy option for naps on the go. In addition, adjustable handlebars should allow you to tailor the height for the user.
- Aftercare: Babies don’t stay clean for long no matter how hard you try, and neither will the stroller. Before buying anyone checks if the seat covers can be removed and be able to be washed in a washing machine or spot clean Parents may also be interested to know if there is any unique regular maintenance needed.
- Features: Does it incorporate the additional items you need? That may include cup holders, a sun hood or canopy, wet weather gear, or enough basket space to carry your essentials, in addition to whatever space you need for shopping bags.
- Age: Can this stroller be used immediately a newborn arrives? Check for newborn-ready padded inserts or whether the specific model has a viable infant carrier.
Safety Tip:
If you’re using an infant carrier, always check to be sure that it’s securely locked before placing your baby into it.
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Wind Up: 3-Wheel Vs 4-Wheel Stroller
We hope this article has given an in-depth discussion to answer the question, 3 wheel vs 4 wheel stroller. As you have known, both strollers have their pros and cons.
The decision you take will depend on what’s important to you and where you plan to use it. A 3 wheel stroller seems to be a versatile option because it works effectively for jogging, outdoor activities, and it will cope better on rough terrain. It will also help keep babies snug and offer them a smooth ride.
The only disadvantage is that you may end up spending more than you planned and won’t have as much choice to choose from.
While 4 wheel stroller offers you more stability and a variety of options to choose from. They’re quite cheap, easy to fold, and are compact. Always take a good look at your lifestyle and decide on which one suits you and your baby best.