All Terrain Push Chair
An all terrain push chair is a fantastic option for parents who may have their child covered in dirt and mud, particularly if they enjoy walking. They also have larger wheels and puncture-proof tyres.
Find a stroller that can be used with a carrycot, or a seat unit from birth. (Not suitable for sleep overs). It should have an open-air panel and an extended hood.
Features
The most reliable all-terrain push chair does exactly what it says on the tin: it's designed to withstand rough terrain, and typically comes with excellent suspension, large wheels and puncture-proof tyres. You may think they're merely for National Trust walks or woods walks, but that's not the case. Many of these models come with an edgier pushchair design that includes reversible seating as well as a carrycot that is fully functional and even fabrics that suggest fashion.
A front wheel that can be swiveled and locked into a straight position is a key feature to look for. This will come in handy in the event of a bumpy road. It's also worth looking for models with a handbrake that sits up on the handlebar, which allows you to use it to slow down when you're on steep descents. This is a great feature to have when you reside in areas with hills or take frequent long walks with a child on board.
If you are looking for an all-terrain stroller, make sure it has a handlebar that can be adjusted in height. This will make it easier to maneuver in the event that the parent and child are different heights. It is also advisable to consider purchasing wrist straps that minimize the possibility of the pushchair falling off on cliff edges or slopes.
All-terrain strollers weigh a lot more than regular strollers. If you are concerned about weight you should look for models that fold into a compact 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, which was awarded the Mother and Baby Gold Award in 2016, is the perfect example of an all-terrain pushchair that meets all the criteria. It's suitable from birth thanks to the XXL seat's one-metre length and can be used in combination with a baby car seat or carrycot to create an entire 3-in-1 travel system. Its dual suspension expertly tackles the bumps and dips in the road, and the hood features a view panel that lets you keep an eye on your child.
Design
All-terrain buggies, unlike normal pushchairs, which can struggle on rough terrain generally come with large wheels and a sturdy suspension. They also have extra features that make them suitable for difficult terrains such as mud trails, gravel trails, market town cobbles, and woodland walks.
Be sure to look for models that have lockable front wheels and foam-filled tyres that never need airing (a huge advantage when you're planning on running with your child in the future). All-terrain pushchairs typically have larger rear wheels than their city pushchair counterparts because they can cope with off-road terrain that is bumpy. Additionally, a wider handlebar will help you stay in the control on rough terrain.
A handbrake is a useful feature included on many all-terrain pushchairs, which is ideal to slow down the descent 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 a recline seat that can be lowered to a flat position for your infant or toddler.
When folded all-terrain strollers are typically quite large and bulky. Mountain Buggy and Thule offer an array of compact folding options. Look for models that permit you to tuck in the front frame and wheel section underneath the main body. This will reduce the overall size and make it easier for storage.
Some all-terrain pushchairs, such as the iCandy Core, are designed specifically to be an everyday pushchair that can be transformed into an all-terrain stroller to enjoy markets and woodland strolls. It is a 'hammock-seat' design, which means the fabrics are hanged directly from the chassis and not connected to a separate frame. This creates a higher weight limit, improved control of the direction and a more comfortable ride.
The UPPAbaby fox 5 is a true, all-terrain stroller with impressive mudguards and a large wheelbase. It also comes with a smooth suspension, a large extendable canopy, and a large basket that can carry up to 10 kg. It can be folded in one hand. Best all-terrain stroller can be used as early as birth with an UPPAbaby car seat adaptors, and also has the option of turning to a twin pushchair with a parent-facing.
Safety
All-terrain pushchairs are the ideal option if you plan to use your pushchair in rough terrain. These pushchairs come with large wheels that can withstand bumpy or muddy surfaces more easily than regular pushchairs. They also come with suspensions to absorb the impact of rough surfaces. Certain all-terrain strollers feature wheels that lock on the front that can be used to walk on uneven or rough pavements. Some have tyres with foam-filled never flat tyres designed to be puncture proof.
These features can make pushchairs that are all-terrain more comfortable for both parents and children. They are more heavy and wider, however, than other pushchairs. They aren't easy to maneuver in narrow spaces or in aisles of shops. Furthermore the larger rear wheels on some all-terrain pushchairs may make it difficult to move them up and down stairs or escalators.
A carrycot or infant car seats can be attached to an all-terrain stroller. This is an crucial safety feature. Most all-terrain strollers have an adapter that is universal for infant carriers. Many all-terrain strollers have seats that can be reversible, meaning you can choose if your child faces you or away.
A true all-terrain stroller has been designed to tackle rough tracks as well as rutted paths and forest trails effortlessly. It has a different look than a standard pushchair, with more extreme off-road capabilities. If you're unsure if you need something so extreme, you could find a range of pushchairs that offer good all-terrain capability without the cost of an offroader.
These pushchairs for all-terrain use have large wheels that are ideal for rough ground and have a more rugged feel than a traditional pushchair. They still fold up neatly and are lighter than the extreme off-roaders. They also come with a variety of features that will ensure they are comfortable for your child, such as reclined seats and large storage baskets. Certain of these all terrain pushchairs have adjustable legrests and shade features to shield your child from sun.
Stores
All-terrain pushchairs are typically more bulkier than standard buggies. Make sure you have enough space in your boot to accommodate one when not in use. It's also important to ensure that the chassis is lightweight enough for you to lift out and into your car boot without difficulty.
Storage is a further feature. All-terrain strollers tend to have large shopping baskets beneath the seat. They also have handy zip pockets on the hood, as well as smaller mesh pockets at the handlebar. You might also find an adult tray that has drinks or snacks.
The design of the handle is an important factor, too. Choose ergonomic handles and grips that match your height. Some brands offer one-hand brakes that are easier to use and can be operated using one hand. Some brands have a dual lock brake that is more secure and easier to operate with two fingers.
A majority of all-terrain strollers feature adjustable leg rests which can aid in keeping your child in an ergonomic position. You can also alter the recline according to your baby’s mood. Or, you can choose a flat-bed for newborns or toddlers to allow them to lie on their backs.
If you're planning on using your pushchair for walks in the country or outdoor adventures, then it's a good idea choose a model with good suspension. This will ensure that your child gets a an easy and comfortable ride, without being jolted by every bump along the road.
The Ridge all-terrain stroller from UPPAbaby is equipped with distinctive features that make it a breeze to use on any terrain such as hills and city streets. This includes its large tyres filled with foam, and a stunning suspension. It's also suitable for infants since it comes with a separate carrycot and seats that can be positioned on a flat surface. The Ridge's many other features that wowed MFM reviewers include a simple fold using one hand, a large shopping basket, and an adjustable handlebar. It's also compatible with the iCandy Jane carrycot and car seat to create an all-terrain baby stroller that can be used from birth.