Best all-terrain prams: top off-road pushchairs to buy in 2024

Tested by Mumsnet: Read our full Out n About Nipper V5 review

When it comes to all-terrain prams that can withstand rough terrain whilst offering a comfy ride, UK-based brand Out N About stands out as an industry leader. Since their first Nipper in 2001, the brand has continued to improve its all-terrain range with the newly launched Nipper V5 model ticking all the boxes for busy parents on the go.  

Weighing just under 10kg, this pram is the lightest and most nimble pram on our list. Boasting improvements from the V4 model, it comes with an enhanced sun canopy, a set of fresh logos and more colour options too. 

Despite the lightweight frame, the V5 is very sturdy and has a five-point harness to keep your little one secure and comfy during off-road adventures. Negotiating uneven terrain becomes effortless, thanks to the all-wheel suspension and three large wheels with air-filled tyres. However, toggling the front wheel lock between rough and smooth paths can be a bit inconvenient, albeit practical.

Our tester, Rachel who used the pram consistently for eight weeks, says “If you live in a rural or suburban area and need a sturdy, all-terrain pushchair but don't mind the additional length, this is the ideal buy and I would highly recommend it to any new or existing parent.” 

The pram features an extra roomy seat, perfect for growing children, and offers versatile reclining options, including a lie-flat position, controlled by a toggle at the back of the seat. However, the recline function needs two hands to pull down, making it trickier to handle if your child is already in the pram.

Despite comfortably fitting essentials like baby bottles, snacks and a change of clothes, the storage basket underneath isn't big enough to fit a changing bag and access is limited. However, it has zip pockets integrated into the hood and a pouch at the rear of the seat unit.

The V5 is easy to push and manoeuvre with one hand, even whilst holding a basket of groceries and it is slim enough to fit between trees in the woodland – another handy bonus. Although the folding mechanism is a little tricky to master at first, it can also be done one-handed once you get the hang of it - simply pull down the safety clasps on each side, then pull the handle at the base of the seat to fold together. Once the pram is completely folded, there’s an auto-locking latch, which automatically and securely locks the buggy in place.

The brake system on this pram stands out for its user-friendly design and excellent performance, particularly on steeper inclines. Located conveniently on the back wheel bar, it's easily accessible, doesn’t jam, and effortlessly clicks on and off with any type of footwear.

Equipped with a detachable bumper bar, seat liner, and a single rain cover, this model offers a number of different accessories. It’s also baby car seat-compatible and for added convenience, and a carry cot and newborn insert are sold separately.

Read next: Best pushchairs for newborns and beyond

Hailed as the best three-wheel pushchair since 2012, according to Which?, the Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 is a classic in the Baby Jogger range. 

With the manufacturer’s claims that this all-terrain pram offers “uncompromising agility on any terrain,” the GT2 is considered the sportier version of the City Mini 2, which is primarily designed for smoother surfaces.

Compared to the City Jogger GT, the newly improved GT2 has a lighter, more compact frame, rubber foam-filled tyres (not air) that are more robust than traditional plastic tyres, plus its all-wheel suspension offers a smooth, comfy ride. The two large magnetic peekaboo windows offer more visibility than the Velcro windows of older models. We also like the adjustable handlebar and calf support for older children, making this pram good value for money. 

Like the Out n About Nipper V5, the GT2 has a large UV50+ extendable sun canopy that will offer your child essential protection from the elements, however keep in mind that the buggy doesn’t come with a rain cover.

Super versatile and great for newborns and toddlers alike, the seat on the GT2 is also taller and has a higher weight limit than the City Mini 2. Even though you can’t switch from world- to parent-facing, the seat is padded enough for daytime naps and boasts a near-flat recline that’s easy to pull down. For added comfort, consider purchasing the carrycot, sold separately, for newborns.

When it comes to city or country walks, pushing this pram one-handed is a breeze thanks to the lightweight frame and three-wheel design. Although this pram's smaller wheels offer enhanced manoeuvrability, facilitating easy navigation in tight spaces and precise corner turns, if you frequently come across rough, uneven surfaces, larger wheels may be more suitable.

A standout feature is the simple, one-handed fold that can be done whilst holding your baby, however keep in mind that this pram doesn’t stand up on its own once folded.  

Enhancing the City Mini GT2’s overall value is a range of optional extras (available separately) such as a belly bar, glider board for siblings and a convenient parent console (buggy organiser). Plus it's compatible with a variety of car seats like Britax, Cybex, Graco, Maxi-Cosi or Nuna, provided you purchase the correct adapters.

Read next: The best travel systems to buy

Tested by Mumsnet: Read our full Bugaboo Fox 5 review

With its ultra-smooth four-wheel suspension, the Bugaboo Fox 5 is a great all-terrain pram that’s suitable for both city and country living. It has excellent features designed to handle different terrain, such as large, puncture-proof wheels that glide over just about anything including gravel and grass, and a robust, yet lightweight frame that’s easy to manoeuvre in tight spaces.

As a parent of two young children, our tester Beccy knows all too well the challenges and demands of a growing family. “Finding the right pushchair that suits your lifestyle is imperative, and while the Bugaboo Box 5 is larger than other ones available, it certainly doesn’t feel like it when in use,” she says after putting this pram through its paces for eight weeks. “It’s perfect as a first pram for a new family, or for a growing family who has an older child who is walking. Offering longevity, the Bugaboo Fox 5 can be used from birth up to a hefty 22kg.”

Another standout feature for those who pack their changing bag full to the brim, is the extra-large storage basket that can comfortably manage 10kg. Plus, we like the easy one-handed fold and the adjustable handlebar. While the Bugaboo Fox 5 doesn’t have the most compact fold (with the seat attached), it can be folded in two pieces after removing the seat should you need more space in the boot.

Although the Bugaboo Fox 5 is one of the priciest all-terrain prams on our list, the carrycot (suitable from birth) is included in the price which increases its overall value. When your little one is ready to transition from carrycot to seat, the conversion process is a little cumbersome and takes around 15 minutes. However, the good news is that you’re only likely to do this once, unless you have a second child and need to use the pram from birth once again.

We also like that the seat can be both parent- and world-facing and impressively grows with your child, with its highest setting being 59cm from floor to seat. The footrest is also adjustable, allowing you to add or take away around 5cm of length. When it comes to the five-point harness, a possible downside is that it’s not magnetic, however it’s still simple enough to secure your child securely in place.

Read next: Best baby carrier, wraps and slings

Tested by Mumsnet: Read our full Mamas & Papas Ocarro review

You’d be forgiven for thinking that the Mamas & Papas Ocarro is too pretty to take on outdoor adventures because it’s one of the most eye-catching all-terrain prams on the market. But the truth is that both the frame and puncture-proof wheels are strong and durable, making it suitable for on and off-road terrain including gravel, grass and woodland.

Straight out of the box, it’s also one of the simplest prams to put together taking less than 10 minutes with easy-to-follow instructions. Once assembled, you’ll find it stands out with its stylish chassis, beautiful brown leather trim on the handlebar and bumper bar, and a large extendable canopy that can be zipped open or closed.

The luxurious seat material not only offers comfy padding for your little one, but it gives this buggy a high-end feel, with parents appreciating its thoughtful design. The Ocarro has a lie-back seat that can be used from birth to support natural sleep. However, it’s worth noting that this pram is a bit heavy at 13.3kg, almost four kilograms more than Out N About Nipper V5, which weighs only 9.8kg.

If you’re set on a pram with larger wheels, the Ocarro won’t let you down. The most notable feature is its larger back wheels that are specifically designed to optimise performance on uneven surfaces. The increased wheel size offers better traction, smoother rolling over bumps, and enhanced stability, reducing the risk of tipping on rough terrain. They also make pushing the pram more effortless, as they require less force to navigate various obstacles. The smaller front swivel wheels ensure easy manoeuvrability in tight spaces and the locking feature is great for added stability during brisk walks.

Available as a single pushchair or as part of a six-piece starter bundle which includes the chassis, seat, carrycot and adaptors, the Ocarro has plenty of options for growing families.

Read next: Best toddler car seats

Tested by Mumsnet: Read our full Thule Urban Glide 2 review (double)

Who said you have to give up running when you become a parent? With the Thule Urban Glide 2 you don’t have to, as your little one is guaranteed to have the comfiest ride while you clock in the miles. Offered in both single and double configurations, this three-wheel model boasts a contemporary design and stands out as one of the most lightweight, active all-terrain prams on the market.

With its large 16-inch back wheels, lockable swivel front wheel and robust frame with a low centre of gravity, you can rest assured that the Thule Urban Glide 2 offers you great control and a smooth ride for your small passenger, whether you’re jogging off road or strolling through the city. However, most experts agree that you should wait until your baby is at least six months old before jogging or running to ensure they have adequate head and neck control to handle bumps on the road. 

We also like the integrated twist handbrake that’s designed for easy and quick speed control, in addition to the existing footbrake. To engage the handbrake, simply twist the handlebar grip. Twisting it in one direction applies the brake, helping to slow down or stop completely, while twisting in the opposite direction releases the brake, allowing you to resume movement. 

Other great features of the Urban Glide 2 include the reflective wheel rims and canopy, an ergonomic, adjustable handlebar (wide enough to get a good grip whilst jogging), the vented reclining seat and sun canopy complete with side ventilation and magnetic peekaboo window. Given that it’s designed for the outdoors, this pram could do with a slightly bigger, more extendable canopy though. 

It's also good to know that the Thule Urban Glide 2 has tyres similar to those on a bicycle. To prevent punctures, you'll need to buy and use Slime Sealant inside or a patch kit. Just like bicycle tyres, you'll also need to pump them up regularly.

Read next: Best running buggies

Tested by Mumsnet: Read our full Mountain Buggy Duet V3.2 review

If you’re looking for a sleek, yet robust double buggy that can be trusted to handle all bumps in the road with two kids in tow, then the Mountain Buggy Duet V3.2 is a good option.  

Besides its robust, lightweight frame and spacious, comfy seats, this pram’s biggest selling point is its slim design in comparison to other side-by-side double buggies. With a measurement of only 65cm, it shares the width of a single pram, making it one of the most compact double prams on the market. 

Our parent tester Liz loved how well the Duet fitted into all aspects of her life. Despite having a narrow front door, she found it convenient to easily manoeuvre the Duet into her house. This proved particularly handy when prepping it before leaving or bringing it inside while her children were asleep.

When it comes to steering, the Duet handles on and off-road paths like a dream. Its four 10 inch air-filled tyres offer excellent all-round suspension which is what you’d expect from a pram that’s originally designed to handle New Zealand's challenging terrain. Because the Duet is both lightweight and easy to steer, it’s not intimidating to change direction quickly, and navigate curbs or uneven terrain like cobbled roads – even with it being a double pram.

The padded seats on the Duet are just 28cm wide, but still comfortable and spacious for older children who might be at the upper end of the pram's weight limit. The seats come with a bumper bar, which is easy to unclip and swing out of the way when getting your children in or out, and a leg rest that can be extended with one hand. 

Although the Duet comes with two individual UPF 50+ canopies with a pull-out mesh sun visor, they don't offer as much coverage as some of the other prams on our list like the Bugaboo Fox 5 or Out N About Nipper V5. However, they are water-repellent along with the rest of the pram’s polyester fabric. 

The Duet is adaptable as a travel system, accommodating up to two cocoons, carrycots that convert into parent-facing seats, and two car seats. It can also convert to a single pram with the Mountain Buggy Parenting Bag (sold separately), a nifty shopping basket with handles that replaces one of the seats. 

This versatility makes it suitable for both newborn twins and siblings of varying ages. But keep in mind, the seats can unzip and clip off. This might be a bit tricky if you like to change things around a lot.

Read next: Best 360 spin car seats

Tested by Mumsnet: Read our full UPPAbaby Vista V2 review

Launched in February 2020, the UPPAbaby Vista V2 is the newest version of the popular Vista series and is designed to grow with your family.

This all-terrain single pram can expand to a double in minutes to accommodate two kids, plus, with the addition of the Ride-Along Piggyback Board (sold separately), it can safely hold three children with ease. Although it’s quite heavy for an all-terrain pram, it’s aesthetically pleasing thanks to the genuine leather handlebar and bumper bar covers, plush seat fabric and sturdy aluminium frame.

When compared to the original UPPAbaby Vista, the V2’s toddler seat is 20 inches higher and the footrest is 2.5 inches deeper, thus creating a comfier, more spacious ride for growing children. To expand the Vista 2 to a double pram, simply attach the UPPAbaby Vista Rumble Seat (sold separately with the adaptors) in the lower position.  

One key point on the seats - the toddler seat on the single V2 is larger, accommodating up to 22 kilograms, while the smaller Rumble Seat maxes out at 15. So, if you’re a twin parent, you should be aware that as your kids grow older, one twin may have a slightly more comfortable seating option than the other.

When it comes to this pram’s handling abilities, the V2 offers great four-wheel suspension thanks to the large wheels which are eight inches in the front and 11.5 inches at the rear. Plus, it has an adjustable handle height, allowing you to navigate the high street or your local park seamlessly with one hand. Manufacturers have also introduced a non-re-thread harness that adjusts the harness height without the need to rethread the straps manually, making it easier to secure your child and go.

One of the most notable changes with the V2 is its new and improved UV 50+ sun canopy which is sturdier and made up of three panels. While the standard two-panel format offers plenty of protection from the elements, you can now unzip the canopy to reveal the third panel to get full coverage along with extra airflow through the large mesh window. The UPPAbaby Vista Carrycot also features a pop-out shade, providing ample sun protection. 

With a spacious storage basket underneath that can be accessed from the front and the back, it's ideal for carrying all your daytime essentials (like snacks and water bottles) as well as your baby changing bag.  

Included in the price of the UPPAbaby Vista 2 is the newborn carrycot, a pushchair seat, and accessories including a rain cover, sunshade and insect net. Plus, it’s available in 10 colours – all cleverly named after children.

Read next: Best buggy boards