All Terrain Push Chair
An all terrain push chair (
here.) is a fantastic option for parents who will cover their children in mud and dirt, especially if they like walking. These pushchairs also have bigger wheels and puncture-proof tires.
Look for a stroller which can be used in conjunction with a carrycot or seat unit from birth. (Not suitable for overnight sleeping). It should have an open-air panel and an adjustable hood.
Features
All terrain pushchairs are made to be able to handle the rough terrain. They have large wheels, puncture-proof tires and fantastic suspension. You might think that they're only suitable for walking in the woods or National Trust trips, but that's not the case. some of these models, including the Bugaboo Cameleon 3 and the iCandy Core, have an older-style pushchair design with reversible seats and full carrycot options, and even a nod to fashion in their fabrics.
A front wheel that can be rotated and locked into a straight position is an important feature to look for. This will help when you're riding on rough roads. Also, look for models with a handbrake mounted on the handlebar, so that you can slow down on steep slopes. This is a great feature to have if you reside in areas with hills or often venture on long walks with a child on the bike.
If you are looking for a
stroller all terrain that is all-terrain, make sure it has an adjustable handlebar. adjusted in height. This makes it easier to maneuver if parents and children are of different heights. You may want to look for a wrist strap that will reduce the risk of your child's pushchair falling off on slopes or cliff edge.
All-terrain strollers weigh a lot more than normal strollers. If weight is a concern, look for models that can be folded into a small boot. Also, since these models can get very muddy and wet, they're often made with washable fabrics which dry quickly and easy to clean.
The Mamas & Papas Ocarro is the perfect example of a multi-terrain stroller that ticks all boxes. It's suitable from birth due to the one-metre-long XXL-sized seat and can be used with a compatible baby car seat or carrycot to make a complete 3-in-1 travel set-up. Dual suspensions are able to handle the bumps and dips in the road, and the Hood has a view-through panel that allows you to keep an eye on your child.
Design
Unlike regular pushchairs which might 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 great for woodland walks, mud and gravel tracks as well as market town cobbles and other terrains that are difficult to navigate.
Look out for models that have lockable front wheels and foam-filled tyres which don't need airing (a huge advantage when you're planning on running around with your kid in the near future). Most all-terrain pushchairs have larger rear wheels than their city pushchair counterparts because this helps them cope well with off-road terrain that is bumpy. Similarly, a wide handlebar can help you maintain the control on rough terrain.
Certain all-terrain
strollers for rough terrain come with a handbrake. This is helpful for stopping in a hilly area with your child in the pushchair, and shopping in the basket. Some all-terrain strollers also have reclined seats which can be folded down into an upright position for your child or toddler.
True all-terrain pushchairs are often very large and bulky when folded. Mountain Buggy and Thule offer some excellent compact folding options. Look for models that allow you to tuck in the front frame and
4 wheel all-terrain pushchair section underneath the main body. This will reduce the overall size to make it easier for storage.
Certain all-terrain prams like the iCandy Core are designed to be a day-to-day pushchair that can be transformed into a all-terrain stroller for woodland walks and market town walks. It comes with a hammock seat design that means the fabrics are hung from the chassis instead of being connected to a separate frame for the seat. This enables a higher weight limit, better control of the direction and more comfort during the ride.
The UPPAbaby Fox 5 is an all-terrain stroller with impressive mudguards as well as a huge wheelbase. It also features a smooth suspension, a large extendable canopy, and a large basket that can hold up to 10kg. It can be folded in one hand. It can be used as early as birth with an UPPAbaby carrycot, or car seat adaptors. It also has the option of turning into a twin pushchair that faces the parent.
Safety
If you're looking for a pushchair that can handle rough terrain an all-terrain pushchair could be the ideal choice. These pushchairs have large wheels that can handle bumpy or muddy surfaces more efficiently than standard pushchairs. Additionally, they usually come with suspensions that help absorb the shock of rough surfaces. Some all-terrain pushchairs come with a lockable front wheel which is ideal for walking on rough or uneven pavements. Some models have foam-filled never flat tyres designed to be puncture proof.
These features can make all-terrain pushchairs more comfortable to both baby and parent. However, they do tend to be larger and heavier than other pushchairs. This makes them difficult to maneuver in narrow spaces or aisles in shops. Furthermore, the larger rear wheels on some all-terrain pushchairs can make it difficult to move them up and down stairs or escalators.
Another important safety aspect of an all-terrain pushchair is the possibility of connecting an infant car seat. Most all-terrain pushchairs have an adapter for car seats universally that allows you to connect most compatible infant carriers. Additionally, many all-terrain pushchairs have reversible seats so you can choose to face your child towards you or away from you.
A true all-terrain pushchair is designed specifically to tackle rough terrain, rutted fields and forest pathways with ease. It has a different look than a standard pushchair, with more extreme off-road ability. If you're unsure whether you're in need of something this extreme, you could find a selection of pushchairs that have an excellent all-terrain performance without the expense of an offroader.
These all-terrain strollers come with huge wheels which are perfect for rough terrain. They also have an agri-like feel than a standard pushchair. They fold neatly, but are lighter than off-roaders with extreme weights. These pushchairs also have reclined seats and large storage bins, which make them more comfortable for your child. Certain of these all-terrain pushchairs also have adjustable leg rests as well as a sunshade that protects your child from the sun.
Storage
All terrain push chairs are often much heavier than standard buggies, so make sure you have enough room in your car boot to fit one even when it's not in use. Make sure the chassis can be lifted easily to and from the car boot.
Another feature worth looking for is storage - pushchairs for all-terrains usually come with large shopping baskets beneath the seat, as well as handy zip pockets on the hood and smaller mesh pockets in the handlebar. There might even be a parent tray for snacks or drinks.
The design of the handle is an important aspect, too. Find ergonomic handles that feel comfortable in your hands and an ergonomic grip that is the perfect size for your height. Certain brands have a single hand-operated brake which is more accessible and can be operated by using just one hand. Some brands have dual lock brakes that is more secure and easy to operate with two fingers.
A majority of all-terrain strollers feature adjustable leg rests that assist in keeping your child in a comfortable position. You can also alter the recline to suit your child's needs. Also, you can choose a flat-bed for newborns or toddlers that allow them to lay on their backs.
If you are planning to take your pushchair on country walks and outdoor activities, it's best to choose a model that has decent suspension. This will ensure that your child gets a an easy and comfortable ride, not being affected by every bump on the road.
The all-terrain pushchair from UPPAbaby, the Ridge is a standout model with a few distinctive features that make it able to go from hill to high street with its large tyres with foam-filled tyres as well as its impressive suspension. It's also suitable from birth with a separate carrycot as well as a lie-flat seat that meets the requirements for babies from birth to toddlerhood. MFM reviewers were awed by the Ridge's other features such as its simple one-handed folding, spacious shopping basket and adjustable handlebar. It's also compatible with the iCandy Jane carrycot and car seat to create an all-terrain pram that can be used from birth.
