All Terrain Push Chair

All-terrain pushchairs are a great choice for parents who will likely be able to see their child covered in dirt or mud especially if they like walking. They also tend to have bigger wheels and puncture-proof tyres.

Choose a stroller with the seat that can recline flat, and can be used as a newborn with the use of a seat unit or carrycot (not suitable for sleeping overnight). It should have an extendable hood and a view panel in the hood.

Features

The most reliable all-terrain pushchair is exactly what it says on the tin - it's built to handle rough terrain and usually comes with an excellent suspension, big wheels and puncture-proof tyres. You might think they're just for National Trust walks or woodland walks, but this is not the case. A lot of these models feature an edgier pushchair design and come with reversible seating options as well as a carrycot that is fully functional and even fabrics that suggest fashion.

A front wheel that can be rotated and locked in a straight position is a crucial feature to look for. This can be useful when riding on bumpy roads. Also, consider models with a handbrake on the handlebar, so that you can slow down when you are on steep slopes. This is an excellent feature if you're living in an area that is hilly or you frequently go on long walks with your toddler.

If you're 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 child and parent have different heights. You might want to look for a wrist-strap to minimize the chance of your child's pushchair falling off on slopes or cliff edge.

All-terrain pushchairs tend to be heavier than standard pushchairs, so if weight is important to you, think about models that fold down that can fit in the boot of a small size. As these pushchairs can be extremely wet and muddy they're typically made of washable fabrics that are quick to dry and easy to clean.

The Mamas & Papas Ocarro, which won the Mother and Baby Gold Award in 2016 is a perfect example of an all-terrain pushchair that meets all the criteria. It's suitable from birth thanks to the one-metre-long XXL seat and can be used in combination with a baby car seat or carrycot to make a complete 3-in-1 travel set-up. Dual suspension is able to handle the bumps and dips that occur on the road. The hood also comes with a viewing window to let you keep an eye out for your child.

Design

All-terrain buggies are different from normal pushchairs, which can be unable to handle rough terrain typically come with large wheels and a robust suspension. They also include extra features that make them great for woodland walks, mud and gravel tracks such as cobbles from the market town and other challenging terrain.

Be sure to look for models that have lockable front wheels and foam-filled tyres that never need airing (a huge advantage if you're going to be doing some jogging with your little one in the near future). All-terrain pushchairs typically have larger rear wheels than city pushchairs. This allows them to handle rough terrain off-road. A wide handlebar can help you keep the control on rough terrain.

Certain all-terrain stroller lightweight strollers come with handbrakes. This is useful for stopping in a rocky area with your child in the pushchair and shopping in the basket. Some all-terrain strollers also have a reclined seat that can be adjusted to a flat position for your child or toddler.

True all-terrain pushchairs are often quite bulky and large when folded. Mountain Buggy and Thule offer an array of compact folding options. You should look for models that can tuck the front wheel and frame section underneath the main body, which can help reduce the overall size of the pushchair for better storage.

Some all-terrain prams, like the iCandy Core are designed to be a daily pushchair that can also be transformed into an all terrain stroller for woodland walks and market town walks. It has a 'hammock seat design, meaning that the fabrics are hung directly from the chassis, and not connected to an additional frame. This creates a higher weight limit, improved performance in directional handling, and more comfort during the ride.

The UPPAbaby Fox 5 is an all-terrain pushchair that has impressive mudguards, an enormous wheelbase with a smooth suspension, and great features for parents, including an expandable hood, a large 10kg basket, and a one-handed fold. It can be used from birth using an UPPAbaby car seat adaptors, and has the option of turning into a twin pushchair that faces the parent.

Safety

All-terrain pushchairs are a great option if you plan to use your pushchair on rough terrain. These pushchairs come with large wheels that are able to better cope with bumpy or muddy terrains better than standard pushchairs. In addition, they typically have suspension that helps absorb the shock of rough surfaces. Some all-terrain pushchairs also have an adjustable front wheel that is ideal for walking on rough or uneven pavements. Some have tyres with foam-filled tyres that are never flat and that are designed to resist puncture.

All-terrain pushchairs are comfortable for both the baby as well as the parent. They are larger and heavier but they are still smaller as opposed to other pushchairs. This makes them difficult to maneuver in narrow aisles or spaces in shops. The larger rear wheels on some all-terrain strollers can make them difficult to navigate up and down stairs and escalators.

A carrycot or infant car seats can be connected to an all terrain travel system-terrain stroller. This is an important safety feature. Most all-terrain pushchairs have an adapter for car seats universally that allows you to connect most compatible infant carriers. In addition, many all-terrain pushchairs feature convertible seats, so you can choose to face your child towards you or away from you.

A true all-terrain stroller has been designed to tackle rough tracks or paths that are rutted and forest trails effortlessly. It is different from an ordinary pushchair and features a more extreme off road capability. If you're unsure if you need something so extreme, you can find a range of pushchairs that have an excellent all-terrain performance without the additional cost of an offroader.

These pushchairs for all-terrain use have large wheels that are ideal for rough terrain and have more of a rugged feel than a traditional pushchair. They still fold up neatly and are lighter than off-roaders with extreme weights. They also have a range of features that will ensure they are comfortable for your child, such as reclined seats and large storage baskets. Some of these best all terrain travel system-terrain pushchairs have adjustable legrests and shade features to shield your child from sun.

Storage

All terrain pushchairs are usually more bulkier than regular buggies. Make sure you have enough space in your car boot to hold one when it's not in use. Check that the chassis is able to be lifted easily to and from the car boot.

Another thing to look for is storage - all terrain pushchair from birth-terrain pushchairs tend to come with large shopping baskets under the seat, and an easy-to-zipped pocket on the hood, and smaller mesh pockets in the handlebar. There may even be a parent tray for snacks or drinks.

Additionally, the design of the handle should be considered. Choose ergonomic handles that feel comfortable in your hands, and a grip that's the ideal size for your height. Some brands offer single-hand brakes that are simpler to use and can be operated with one hand. Some brands come with dual lock brakes which is more secure and easy for two fingers to operate.

A majority of all-terrain pushchairs come with adjustable leg rests that help keep your child in a comfortable position. They may also have a recline which can be adjusted to meet your child's needs or preference. You could also opt for a flat-bed chair for infants and toddlers that allows them to lay flat.

If you're planning to use your pushchair for country walks or outdoor activities, then it's a good idea get a model with decent suspension. This will ensure that your child has a smooth and comfortable ride, not being hit by every bump in the road.

The UPPAbaby all-terrain pushchair, called the Ridge, has some standout features that help it 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 with a separate carrycot and a lie-flat seat that meets standards for babies from birth to toddlerhood. The Ridge's other features that impressed MFM reviewers include an easy fold with 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 pram all terrain that can be used from birth.