3 Wheel Stroller vs 4 Wheel Stroller: Which is Best For You? (Pros and Cons)

When it comes to choosing a stroller, there are endless options to consider. You can opt for an elegant pram style stroller or a rugged all-terrain option.

You can select something with ample storage and endless configurations, or you can choose a simple and straightforward umbrella stroller. Style, size, price point, and adaptability are all factors that will help determine which stroller is right for you. 

When it comes to choosing a stroller design, the wheel configuration often makes the biggest difference. When considering stroller options you’ll want to weigh the choice between three wheels and four.

Getting Started with 3-Wheel Strollers: A Brief Overview 

Three-wheel strollers are commonly referred to as jogging strollers. They typically have one front tire that can either swivel or lock into place and two larger back tires. 

The larger tires and front suspension allow for a smooth ride on a variety of terrains while the sleeker profile provides maximum maneuverability.

Because jogging strollers are designed for, well, jogging, that means they’re typically not designed to accommodate young babies.

Most jogging strollers have a minimum age requirement of at least six months, and nine months in some instances.

If your three-wheel stroller allows for an infant car seat attachment, it can be used from birth—although you’ll want to save the jogging until your baby is able to sit independently.

Orbit Baby gives you the option to create a complete jogging travel system which includes a car seat and a travel bassinet.

How Do 3 Wheel Strollers Perform?

Three-wheel strollers get an A+ in agility and maneuverability. They perform well on a variety of surfaces, from city streets to gravel and dirt trails. They’re designed to handle responsively and intuitively.

One thing of note: while they’re good at traversing rough terrain smoothly, uneven surfaces can cause them to feel a bit more unstable than their four-wheel counterparts. 

This is especially true if you’re using an infant car seat adapter to accommodate a younger baby. Take care to always park your stroller on flat, even ground.

Our in-depth guide on the best strollers for gravel and all-terrain can help you make a decision.

Pros and Cons of 3 Wheel Strollers

Pros

• Better maneuverability, especially in tight spaces (make sure the front wheel swivels for this!)
• Ideal for navigating uneven terrain like gravel or dirt trails
• Great for walkers and runners

Cons

• Usually heavier and may not easily store in your trunk or other small spaces
• May not feel as stable as a four wheel stroller on certain terrain
• Without an infant car seat attachment, most can only be used when babies are six months or older

Introducing 4-Wheel Strollers: The Essentials

A four-wheel stroller is what most people picture when they think of a conventional, full-size stroller. These strollers have four tires that are all roughly the same size, although sometimes the two rear tires are larger to offer a smoother ride and better maneuverability.

Four-wheel strollers are considerably more versatile than their three-wheel counterparts. Most offer multiple seat and recline positions and can accommodate babies from birth well into the toddler years. 

They may have roomy storage bins under the seat and some can even be configured into double strollers or with an added toddler seat to accommodate additional children.

How Do 4 Wheel Strollers Perform?

The four-wheel stroller is your daily driver. It can handle most typical terrain with ease and offers features that are convenient for everyday life. 

Their ability to accommodate from the smallest babies (sometimes requiring an infant insert) to well into the toddler years makes them a versatile companion.

Speaking of versatility, four-wheel strollers are often adaptable into double strollers with additional attachments. 

And if you frequently need to fold and stow your stroller, the four-wheel stroller often offers a lighter frame and more compact folding design than bulkier three-wheel strollers do.

Pros and Cons of 4 Wheel Strollers

Pros

• Often more seating configurations & expandability
• Usually are lighter and fold more compactly
• Wide variety of styles and designs

Cons

• Less maneuverability
• Typically not designed to handle rougher terrain
• May offer less storage

3 Wheel vs 4 Wheel Strollers: Which Is Better?

Objectively speaking, neither a three-wheel nor a four-wheel stroller is better than the other. It comes down to personal lifestyle needs and preferences and which stroller option suits you best.

For example, an outdoorsy family that’s keen to keep up their hiking and off road excursions might opt for a three-wheel stroller. A family that loves to travel might choose a four-wheel stroller for its versatility and more lightweight design.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Stroller

• Terrain and primary use: off-road terrain demands different features than urban streets
• Number and age of children: four-wheel strollers are more adaptable and can accommodate the smallest babies
• Storage needs: If you live somewhere with more walking than driving, your stroller needs to double as a storage option
• Lifestyle and travel habits: where you will use the stroller, where you’ll store it, and how frequently you’ll be transporting it are all important to consider
• Budget

Three Wheel Stroller Vs Four Wheel: Which is Right For You?

When deciding if a three wheel or four wheel stroller is right for you, consider your lifestyle and the daily needs of your family.

For an on-the-go family who prioritizes maneuverability over any terrain, a three-wheel stroller might be the right choice. If versatility and a variety of style options matter more, than a four-wheel stroller is likely to be a better fit.

The right stroller will keep your family rolling through whatever comes next.