All Terrain Push Chair

All-terrain pushchairs are a great option for parents who are likely to get their child covered in dirt or mud, particularly if they enjoy walking. They also have bigger wheels and puncture-proof tyres.

Look for a stroller which can be used in conjunction with a carrycot or seat unit from birth. (Not suitable for sleep overs). It should come with an open-air panel and an adjustable hood.

Features

All terrain pushchairs are built to handle rough terrain and have large wheels, puncture-proof tires, and great suspension. You may think they're merely for National Trust walks or woods walks, but that's not the situation. Many of these models come with an edgier pushchair design, with reversible seating and a full carrycot option, and even fabrics that suggest fashion.

A front wheel that can be rotated and locked into a straight position is a key feature to look for. This will help when riding on bumpy roads. Also, look for models that have a handbrake on the handlebar to slow down when you are on steep slopes. This is a fantastic feature to have for those who reside in a hilly area or take frequent long strolls with a toddler on board.

If you're searching for a pushchair with all-terrain capabilities make sure it has an adjustable height handlebar, as the child and parent have different heights, this makes it easier to use. You may also want to look for a wrist strap that minimises the risk of the pushchair rolling away from you on cliff edges or slopes.

All-terrain pushchairs are typically heavier than standard pushchairs, so if weight is a concern for you, think about models that fold down that can fit in a small boot. These pushchairs are typically constructed from washable fabrics which are easy to clean and dry quickly.

The Mamas & Papas Ocarro is the perfect example of a multi-terrain stroller that meets all the criteria. It's suitable from birth due to the one-metre-long XXL-sized seat and can be used in combination with a baby car seat or carrycot to make a complete 3 wheel all terrain pushchair-in-1 travel system. Dual suspensions are able to handle the bumps and dips in the road, while the hood has a viewing panel to allow you to keep an eye on your child.

Design

All-terrain buggies are different from regular pushchairs that may struggle on rough terrains generally come with large wheels and a robust suspension. They also come with extra features which make them ideal for challenging terrain such as mud and gravel trails and cobbles from the market town, and woodland walks.

Find models that have lockable front wheels and foam-filled tyres that don't require airing (a big plus when you're planning on doing some jogging with your kid in the near future). All-terrain pushchairs usually have larger rear wheels than city pushchairs. This helps them to cope with bumpy off-road terrain. A wider handlebar can help you to maintain control on rough terrain.

Some all-terrain strollers feature handbrakes. This is useful to stop in a hilly area with your child in the pushchair and shopping in the basket. Some all-terrain pushchairs come with a recline seat that can be lowered to a lying-flat position for your infant or toddler.

When folded all-terrain strollers are typically very large and bulky. However, there are excellent compact fold options available that are available from brands such as Mountain Buggy and Thule. Be sure to look for models that can fold the front wheel and frame under the main body, which can help reduce the overall dimensions of the pushchair, allowing for better storage.

Some all-terrain strollers, such as the iCandy Core are designed to be a day-to-day pushchair that can also be transformed into an all terrain stroller for woodland strolls and market town walks. It features a 'hammock seat' design, which means the fabrics are hung directly from the chassis and not connected to a separate frame. This creates a higher weight limit, better directional control on uneven terrain and a more comfortable ride for your child.

The UPPAbaby Fox 5 is a true all-terrain pushchair for rough terrain that has impressive mudguards, a massive wheelbase, smooth suspension and great features for parents, including an extended hood, a huge 10kg basket, and a one-handed fold. It can be used from birth using an UPPAbaby car seat adaptors, and also has the option of converting to a twin pushchair with a parent-facing.

Safety

If you're looking for a swivelling pushchair to tackle rough terrain, an all-terrain pushchair may be the perfect choice. These pushchairs come with large wheels that are able to better handle bumpy or muddy terrain than standard pushchairs. In addition, they typically come with suspensions that help absorb the shock of rough surfaces. Certain all-terrain strollers feature locks on the wheel at the front that can be used to walk on rough or uneven pavements. Some even have foam-filled, never flat tyres that are designed to withstand punctures.

lightest all terrain stroller-terrain pushchairs are comfortable for the baby and the parent. However, they do tend to be more heavy and wider than other pushchairs. They aren't easy to maneuver in tight spaces or in the aisles of shops. The larger rear wheels of certain strollers with all-terrain tires can make it difficult to move up and down escalators and stairs.

A car seat for infants or carrycots can be attached to an all-terrain stroller. This is an crucial safety feature. All-terrain strollers come with a universal adapter for infant carriers. A lot of all-terrain strollers come with reversible seats, so you can choose whether your child is facing you or away.

A true all-terrain vehicle is made specifically to conquer rough tracks or rutted fields, as well as forest paths effortlessly. It is different from the standard pushchair and comes with a more extreme off road capability. If you're unsure whether you're in need of something this extreme, you can still find a selection of pushchairs that have an excellent best all terrain travel system-terrain performance without the additional cost of an offroader.

These strollers are equipped with large wheels that are great for rough terrain and offer an agri-like feel than an ordinary pushchair. They fold up easily and are lighter than extreme off-roaders. They also have a number of features that make them comfortable for your child, such as reclined seats and large storage baskets. Certain of these all-terrain pushchairs come with adjustable leg rests and an umbrella to shield your child from sun.

Stores

All terrain pushchairs are usually much bulkier than regular 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 frame is light enough to be able to lift into and out of your car boot with ease.

Another thing to look for is storage - pushchairs that are all-terrain tend to have large shopping baskets under the seat, as well as an easy-to-zipped pocket on the hood, and smaller mesh pockets in the handlebar. There may even be a tray for parents for snacks or drinks.

The design of the handle is an important factor, too. Find ergonomic handles and grips that match your height. Some brands offer one-hand brakes that are easier to use and can be operated with one hand. Certain brands have a dual lock brake that is more secure and easy for two fingers to control.

Many all-terrain pushchairs have adjustable leg rests that help keep your child in a comfy position. They might also come with a recline which can be adjusted to suit your child's temperament or preferences. You can also choose an infant seat that is flat and toddlers that allow the child to lie flat.

If you plan to use your pushchair for outings and walks in the countryside it is recommended to select one with decent suspension. This will ensure your little one has a smooth ride and won't be disturbed by every bump in the road.

The all-terrain pushchair from UPPAbaby, the Ridge, has some standout features that allow it to move from hill to high-street and includes large tyres with foam-filled tyres as well as its impressive suspension. It's also suitable for babies as it has a separate carrycot and the seat can be placed in a flat position. MFM reviewers were impressed with 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 right from birth.