3 Wheel v 4 Wheel Strollers

Should you buy a three wheel or a four wheel pram? And what exactly is the difference between the two? Three wheel strollers exploded in popularity in New Zealand in the early 2,000's and you couldn't walk down the street without bumping into one, but in recent years there has been a swing towards the four wheeled variety. Three wheelers are sporty and good for off road and bumpy terrain, but four wheeled strollers are easier to maneuver.

Three wheeled strollers

• Faster so better for running (we never recommend running before baby is six months old due to shaking the baby)
• Better for rough terrain as the wheels are off-set
• Usually have air tyres, which again makes them better for rough terrain, though does make them heavier.
• Good for off road and running
• Usually the child is facing away from the parent

Four wheeled strollers

• More stable- won't tip
• Easy to maneuver in tight spaces like cafes
• Usually have a more compact fold, so can fit in the boot of smaller cars
• With most models you can hang things from the handlebar without the stroller tipping backwards
• Good for streets, malls, parks and paths
• Often have adjustable seats, so that you can have the child facing you

Our advice

Have a look online and choose a few strollers that you like the look of. Go into the shop and try the strollers out, push them around in a circle and see how they move in a tight space. Try folding and unfolding the push chair, and try lifting it into the boot of your car. You're going to be pushing that stroller around for years, so make sure you choose something that you like the look of, and find easy to use.