All Terrain Push Chair
All-terrain pushchair s are a great option for parents who may have their child covered in mud or dirt especially if they like going on walks. These pushchairs also come with larger wheels and puncture-proof tires.
Find a pushchair that has the seat that can recline flat and is able to be used as a newborn with an infant seat or a carrycot (not suitable for sleeping over night). It should come with a view panel as well as an extended hood.
Features
The all-terrain pushchair does exactly what it says on the tin - it's built to handle rough terrain, and typically comes with excellent suspension, large wheels and puncture-proof tyres. You may think they're only suitable for woodland walks or National Trust excursions, but this is not necessarily the case - several of these models, such as the Bugaboo Cameleon 3 and the iCandy Core, feature an older-style pushchair design with reversible seats, full carrycot options and even nods to fashion with their fabrics.
The key characteristics to look out for are a front wheel that swivels and locks into a straight position which is useful on bumpy tracks. It is also worthwhile to look for models with a handbrake that sits up on the handlebar, so you can use it to reduce speed on steep descents. This is a fantastic feature to have when you reside in a hilly area or take frequent long walks with a child on the bike.
If you're searching for a pushchair that can be used all-terrain, check that it has an adjustable height handlebar, as if both parent and child are of different heights, this makes it easier to use. You may want to look for a wrist-strap that will lower the chance of your pushchair rolling off on cliff edges or slopes.
All-terrain strollers are heavier than regular strollers. If weight is a concern then look for models that can be folded into a small boot. As these pushchairs can be extremely wet and muddy, they're often made with washable fabrics that dry quickly and easy to clean.
The Mamas & Papas Ocarro is a perfect example of a multi-terrain stroller that fulfills all the requirements. It's suitable from birth thanks to the one-metre-long XXL-sized seat and can be used with a compatible baby car seat or carrycot to create a complete 3-in-1 travel system. Dual suspensions are able to handle the bumps and dips in the road. The hood features a view panel that lets you keep an eye on your child.
Design
As opposed to standard pushchairs, which may struggle on rough ground, all-terrain buggies usually feature robust suspension and large wheels that are puncture-proof. They also typically come with additional features that make them ideal for woodland walks or mud and gravel tracks as well as market town cobbles and other difficult terrains.
Find models that have lockable front wheels and foam-filled tyres that never need airing (a big plus when you're planning on running with your kid in the future). All-terrain pushchairs typically have larger rear wheels than city pushchairs. This allows them to handle bumpy off-road terrain. A broad handlebar will aid in maintaining the control in rough terrain.
A handbrake is an additional useful feature that will be found on some all-terrain pushchairs. It is perfect for easing down steep slopes or coming to a halt in a rocky area with your child on board and shopping in the basket below! Some all-terrain pushchairs also feature recline seats which can be lowered to a lie-flat position for your infant or toddler.
When folded all-terrain strollers are typically very large and bulky. Mountain Buggy and Thule offer some excellent compact folding options. You should look for models that can tuck the front wheel and frame section underneath the main body, which can help to reduce the overall dimensions of the pushchair, allowing for easier storage.
Some all-terrain pushchairs like the iCandy Core, are designed specifically to be a daily pushchair that can be transformed into an all-terrain stroller suitable for strolls through the woods and market town strolls. It features a 'hammock' seat design, which means that the fabrics are suspended from the chassis rather than attached to a separate frame for the seat. This creates a higher weight limit, better directional handling on uneven ground, and a more comfortable ride for your child.
The UPPAbaby Fox 5 is a true all-terrain pushchair that has impressive mudguards, a massive wheelbase, smooth suspension and great parent-friendly features including a large extendable hood, a spacious 10kg basket and one-handed fold. It can be used with an adaptor for a UPPAbaby car or carrycots starting at birth. It also offers the option of turning into a twin pushchair that faces parents.
Safety
If you're looking for a stroller to tackle rough terrain, an all-terrain pushchair might be the perfect choice. These pushchairs are equipped with large wheels that are able to better cope with bumpy or muddy terrain than regular pushchairs. Additionally, they usually have suspension that helps to absorb the impact of rough surfaces. Some all-terrain pushchairs come with a lockable front wheel which is ideal for walking on uneven or rough pavements. Some even have foam-filled, never flat tyres, which are designed to withstand punctures.
These features can make all-terrain pushchairs more comfortable to both parents and children. They are larger and heavier, however, than other pushchairs. This makes them difficult to maneuver in small spaces or aisles in shops. The larger rear wheels of some strollers with all-terrain tires can make it difficult to move up and down stairs and escalators.
Another important safety feature of an all-terrain pushchair is the possibility of connecting a carrycot or infant car seat. All-terrain strollers are equipped with an adapter that is universal for infant carriers. A lot of all-terrain strollers come with seats that can be reversible, meaning you can decide whether your child is facing you or away.
A true all-terrain vehicle is designed specifically to tackle rough terrain as well as rutted fields and forest pathways effortlessly. It has a different look than a standard pushchair with more extreme off-road capability. If you're not sure whether you're in need of something this extreme, you can find a range of pushchairs that have excellent all-terrain capabilities without the additional cost of an offroader.
These all-terrain pushchairs have large wheels that are ideal for rough terrain and have an abrasive feel than a standard pushchair. They fold neatly, but are lighter than the extreme off-roaders. They also have reclined seats and large storage bins, which make them more comfortable for your child. Some of these pushchairs are all-terrain. come with adjustable leg rests as well as a sunshade that protects your child from the sun.
Storage
All terrain pushchairs are usually heavier than regular buggies. Make sure you have enough space in your car boot to hold one when it's not in use. Make sure the chassis is easily lifted to and from the car boot.
Another important feature to look for is storage - all-terrain pushchairs tend to have large shopping baskets underneath the seat, and an easy-to-zipped pocket on the hood, and smaller mesh pockets in the handlebar. There could even be a parent tray for snacks or drinks.
The design of the handle should be taken into consideration. Look for ergonomic handles and grips that are suited to your height. Some brands offer single-hand brakes that are simpler to use and operates with one hand. Some brands have dual lock brakes which is more secure and easier for two fingers to control.
A lot of all-terrain strollers come with adjustable leg rests that aid in keeping your child in an ergonomic position. You can also alter the recline to suit your child's temperament. Also, you can choose a flat bed for infants or toddlers, allowing them to lie flat.
If you're planning to use your pushchair for country walks or outdoor activities, then it's a good idea purchase a model that has decent suspension. This will ensure your little one has a smooth ride and isn't jolted awake by every bump in the road.
UPPAbaby's all-terrain pushchair, the Ridge is a standout model with a few distinctive features that help it move from hill to high street with its large tyres filled with foam and its impressive suspension. It's also suitable for children because it comes with a separate carrycot, and seats that can be placed flat. MFM reviewers were awed by the Ridge's other features including its easy one-handed folding, spacious shopping basket and adjustable handlebar. It's compatible with the iCandy Jane car seat and carrycot to create a stroller that can be used right from the moment of birth.