Best 3 Wheel Stroller
If you're a runner in search for a stroller or a parent who is just running errands, 3-wheel strollers offer plenty of flexibility. A majority of 3-wheel strollers come with the same features as 4-wheel ones like storage, a tray for the child, and a console for parents.
Guide writers put these strollers to the test on pavement and off, evaluating the smoothness of their rides. They also looked at convenience and comfort features such as a seat that reclines fully.
The Chariot Cross
Thule designed the Chariot Cross for families who do not want to be inside, and they created it with a solid structure that allows them to explore the outdoors without worrying about their children' safety or comfort. The adjustable suspension of the Chariot allows you to customize the ride to your child's comfort and level of readiness to take on new adventures.
The Chariot Cross is a favorite for joggers due to its smooth ride and exceptional maneuverability on all terrain types. It also offers ample storage space, including a drop-down cargo basket that can be compacted to reduce the impact on your stride when running. It's a great option for families who like to combine outdoor activities as you can use it along with cycling, strolling and skiing kits (all sold separately).
The Chariot is distinct from other 3 wheel strollers due to its superior comfort for the passengers. The seats have padded shoulders and sides. Passengers can adjust the reclining seats for the perfect position to relax or take in the scenery. The mesh ventilation on the Chariot lets passengers enjoy cool breezes which makes it an ideal option for hot temperatures.
Another advantage of the Chariot is that the front and back of the seat recline independently of one another, which is a nice feature for older children who want to stretch out or read on longer trips. The Chariot Cross has a large rear canopy, as well as a viewing panel unlike the D'Lite which only has a solid front panel.
The Chariot Cross Like other Thule products is easy to assemble. The instructions are simple and the process takes about 30-45 minutes. It's even small enough to gate check when traveling by plane, and it folds down compactly for easy transportation in the back of your car.
The only drawback of the Chariot is that it isn't compatible with infant car seats. This might make it less appealing to some parents. If you're looking for a double stroller that can be used with car seat carriers, you should check out the Joovy Twin Roo+. It's a comparable product that can also be used with a wide range of infant car seat brands, but it's a bit more expensive and doesn't give the same smooth ride as the Chariot.
The Evenflo Pivot Xplore
Evenflo's Pivot All-Terrain Modular Stroller Wagon is ideal for family outings or playground adventures. It's simple to transport your child with ease. By simply flipping the handle, this wagon transforms to be a push stroller or pull as a wagon and can hold two kids up to five years old in the front seat or car seat adapter (sold separately). All-terrain wheels are with you wherever you go, making it easy to navigate rough terrains such as gravel paths, sidewalks and other rough terrains.
The Xplore features a huge storage basket and dual-sided snack tray, allowing you to keep toys, snacks and other things close to hand. It's also much easier to fold and unfold than other models, although we found it still took longer than the standard wagon. The color indicator on the visual side will inform you when the wagon is fully folded and locked.
For parents who are looking for a stroller wagon that can handle naptime, this one could be worth the cost. A bassinet attachment is available for infants 6 months old and younger, while a larger UPF 50+ canopy can be expanded from two to three panels with the simple unzip for greater protection from harmful UV radiation. The footwell also gets a revamp with more space for active toddlers.
If you don't need a recliner seat for your child you can exchange the child seat included for a bench-style backrest that will allow them to sit higher and see the sights more easily. The Xplore is compatible with most infant car seats. This offers convenience and security to all members of the family.
Katrina Cossey, a commerce writer who has worked for years in broadcast journalism and is a fervent shopper, loves to write about the top products available for families and infants. She's looked up thousands of baby items, toys and gifts and has personally tried many, from diapers to strollers. She lives in Oklahoma with husband and son, age 3. Her work has been published in numerous online publications. She is proud to be doing a job that she loves and to be employed by an organization that is committed to the safety of our children.
The 3D Lite
This stroller is an excellent option for parents who want an lightweight, affordable, and compact stroller that won't cost a fortune. Summer Infant's 3D Lite, weighing just more than 14 pounds, is the lightest stroller. The model comes with a variety of features, including a 5-point harness as well as a multi-position reclining seat. The 3D Lite offers plenty of storage and convenient features for parents. It includes a child cup holder with snack tray as well as a cup holder to the parent, a zippered pocket and cushioned handles.
The Lite's light design makes it easy to push and maneuver. It scored well in our Strollers Test Program. It earned Very Good marks for the ease of use and maneuverability. 3 wheel pushchair scored high in the Stroller Safety Category. This category is comprised of features that ensure the safety and security of your child, including locking brakes, adjusting a safety harness as well as folding and unfolding and attaching or removing a compatible vehicle seat.
One thing to keep in mind is that it takes a little balance to fold the Lite. To fold it you need to lift one lever in the back center, step on another lever at the same time using your foot, and then push down on the handle using the other hand. The process takes approximately 4 seconds, and is slightly slower than other strollers that are lightweight we've tried.
The Lite, while an excellent stroller for traveling, has a small footprint and a comfortable carrying strap. However, it does not fold as compactly compared to other models that we have examined. The Bugaboo Ant, Babyzen YOYO+, and Zoe Traveler all fold smaller and are better suited for overhead bins in airplanes.
Lastly, the Lite is not convertible to a double stroller and does not come with a ride-along board for older children. If you're looking for a double stroller or one that can hold more than one child, we recommend taking a look at our Top Picks for Best Double Stroller or our Guide to the Top Double Strollers. With a cost under $150, the Lite is a great option for parents looking for a travel stroller with an umbrella-style fold and a variety of features for their little one.