Why strollers are categorized into 3-wheel and 4-wheel?
Every parent has their own unique set of needs, and in order to cater to these needs, the stroller industry has categorized their strollers into three- and four-wheel models. These two types of strollers share a number of similarities, but they are significantly different as well.
The most noticeable difference between a 3-wheel and a 4-wheel stroller is that a 3-wheel stroller is relatively less expensive than the four-wheeler model. Apart from this, the tires used on the three-wheel strollers are significantly larger than the four-wheel stroller. They do this in order to increase the stability of the 3-wheel stroller so that it can handle rough terrains effortlessly.
Another difference between the two designs is that the three-wheel stroller usually comes with a front swivel wheel that is also lockable. That way, parents can lock it while jogging and unlock it during a regular stroll. The four-wheel stroller may not come with this feature. Typically, all wheels on a four-wheel stroller are swivel, and they do not have the lock option. This is why they are best suited for smooth surfaces.
Best three-wheel strollers
| Brand names | Weight (lbs) | Total weight capacity (lbs) | All-Terrain | Extra functions
| Price range | Amazon rating |
| BOB Gear Revolution Flex 3.0 Jogging Stroller | 28.5 | 75 | Yes | Suspension + Easy Fold + Adjustable Handlebar | $450-$500 | 4.8 |
| Thule Urban Glide 2 Jogging Stroller | 25.3 | 75 | Yes | Adjustable Handlebar + Large storage basket + Compact Fold | $400-$500 | 4.6 |
| Baby Jogger 2016 City Mini GT Single Stroller | 21.6 | 65 | Yes | Easy Fold +Adjustable Handlebar + UV 50+ sun canopy | $500-$550 | 4.7 |
Best four-wheel strollers
Brand names | Weight (lbs) | Total weight capacity (lbs) | All-Terrain | Extra functions
| Price range | Amazon rating |
| Chicco Bravo Trio Travel System | 25 | 50 | No | One-hand Fold + Large Adjustable Canopy + Lightweight frame | $350-$400 | 4.8 |
| Baby Jogger City Tour 2 | 14 | 45 | No | Lightweight rubber tires + Adjustable calf support+ One-hand Fold | $200-$300 | 4.5 |
| UPPAbaby G-Luxe stroller | 20 | 55 | No | Easy Fold + Convenient carry strap + Extendable UPF 50+ sunshade | $200-$300 | 4.7 |
Good sides of three-wheel strollers
- Suitable for all types of terrains
A three-wheel stroller is specifically designed to handle all types of surfaces. These types of strollers are ideal for off-roading, whether you wish to use them on the grass, gravel, beach, or even a rocky road. You can also find great suspensions on these strollers, which will help you protect your little one from random bumps and dips.
The bigger the wheels, the smoother the ride will be. This is the same philosophy that the manufacturers of three-wheel strollers apply. The three-wheel strollers are usually equipped with relatively larger wheels, which allows them to cruise on uneven surfaces smoothly.
- Great for running
Exercise is the best way to get rid of the baby weight. And when the baby is born, there is no time for parents to take care of themselves and get in shape. For active moms and dads, a three-wheel stroller is an ideal option. This is because the three-wheel design is made for running. You can simply lock the front swivel wheel, and you are good to go.
- Stability
A few years back, it was not very wrong to think that a three-wheel stroller is unstable. With constant innovation and improvements, the manufacturers have come up with a solution to fic the stability issues. Now, the risk of these strollers to tip over has been completely removed. A good-quality three-wheel stroller should not have problems with stability or sturdiness. Just make sure that you do not hang anything on the handlebar. This practice will bring discrepancies in the stroller’s center of gravity, which will ultimately affect the stability of your stroller.
- Maneuverability
If your priority is maneuverability, then the three-wheel stroller may appeal to you. This is because these strollers feature a front wheel that spins 360 degrees, which will allow you to turn smoothly around the corners. Steering these strollers are so easy that you could even use one hand to push them.
- Attractive design
If the style is of utmost importance to you, then the three-wheel stroller will definitely turn heads. Unlike traditional four-wheel strollers, these strollers are extremely sporty and stylish. If you are a new mom who does not want to look anything like a stereotype “mom,” then you should go for a three-wheel stroller.
Bad sides of three-wheel strollers
- Bulky and cumbersome
The three-wheel strollers are not very lightweight. You cannot even think about picking them up the stairs. Besides being so heavy, these strollers are also very cumbersome to fit in any car’s trunk. Many manufacturers will allow you to remove the front wheel in order to fold the stroller. This will help you fit the stroller in your car, but the additional work will be quite inconvenient.
- Not very budget-friendly
It is not a secret that a three-wheel stroller is more expensive than the four-wheel model. Since these strollers come with additional features such as huge air-filled tires, suspension systems, etc., you are supposed to pay a premium for them. You can certainly find some budget-friendly options too, but if you are going to be using the stroller regularly for running, then you might want to invest a little extra.
- Less Variety
If you have been searching the internet for a decent three-wheel stroller, you might know that there are not many options out there. Finding what’s on your mind can be challenging. You will find most of them ideal for running or going off-road, but not all of them can fulfill your expectations for everyday use.
Good sides of four-wheel strollers
- Affordability
If you are a parent on a budget, then the three-wheel model is not what you should be looking for. Even a low-end four-wheel stroller will offer plenty of features, and you will also not even have to compromise on the quality. This is one of the reasons why this particular type is so popular. You can find strollers suitable for any budget.
- Easy to fold
Four-wheel strollers are designed in a way that allows them to collapse effortlessly. They are not only easier to fold, but they will also take less space in the trunk of your car. These strollers are also extremely light in weight, which is why they are super convenient for parents.
- Better stability
People often debate which type of stroller is more stable than the other. We would say that both types are very stable. However, the four-wheel model offers better stability than the three-wheel model. This is because the weight on a four-wheel stroller is evenly distributed, and the chances of it tipping over are very low.
- Great variety
Although three-wheel strollers are becoming more and more popular these days, four-wheel strollers are what the majority of parents still prefer. These strollers are not only budget-friendly, but they are also the easiest to find. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes suitable for all kinds of needs.
Bad sides of four-wheel strollers
- Lacks versatility
A four-wheel stroller will operate perfectly on level surfaces, but if you hit a bumpy road, then pushing this stroller can become incredibly challenging. Just as they are not designed for all types of terrains, they are also not designed for jogging. You can say that a four-wheel stroller is not as versatile as a three-wheel model.
- Maneuverability
Maneuverability is, without a doubt, the biggest drawback of a four-wheel stroller. It takes quite a lot of effort in order to push and move these strollers. You cannot even think about steering them using one hand. It gets even more difficult to make sharp turns around the corners. So, if you want superior maneuverability, then go for a three-wheel stroller.
Some clues that will help you decide on choosing 3- or 4-wheel stroller
Let’s just put aside the difference between a 3-wheel and a 4-wheel stroller and think about some of the essential aspects you should consider while making a decision on which type of stroller to buy.
- Lifestyle:Before making any decision, you need to analyze your needs, and to start with, you need to look into your lifestyle first. If you are someone who will only be using the stroller to bring your baby to malls or grocery stores, then you should consider a four-wheel stroller. If you are someone who enjoys outdoors and going off-road, then a three-wheel stroller can be a great investment.
- Convenience:If you want a stroller that is easy to fold, store, and transport, then a four-wheel model may be ideal for you. A three-wheel stroller may not be able to offer all these features.
- Features:Before purchasing any stroller, you should make sure that it comes with the set of features you value the most. Some of the must-have features are cup holders, sun canopy, storage basket, adjustable handlebars, storage pockets, etc.
Conclusion
Now that we have mentioned everything you need to know about the three- and four-wheel strollers, it is time to address the question that you are so desperate to ask – Which type of the two strollers is the best?
There is no universal answer to this question. The answer may vary from person to person. To know which type of stroller is best, you need to start by looking at the different advantages and disadvantages of these two types of strollers. This way, you will have a clear understanding of the two types of strollers. However, the ultimate answer will depend on how do you plan on using your stroller. This is why you need to know about your current lifestyle and which type of stroller will best fit your unique lifestyle. No matter how great the stroller is, it won’t work for you if it is not a perfect fit for your lifestyle.
We hope that this article helped you decide which type of stroller you should buy for your family.