Radio Flyer 3-in-1 EZ Fold Wagon Review

Since 1917, the company has been creating products. Based in Chicago, this family-owned business is dedicated to producing quality items that inspire adventures. Over the years, they have developed their brand and product range while remaining true to their unique heritage.

Ease of Use

This Radio Flyer is easy enough to use, but its simplified design isn't a plus.

While it's easy to fold, unfold, and get kids in and out, its simplicity also means it offers few features. Storage is minimal, and while using interior space to haul gear works, it reduces the room the kids have to sit comfortably.

Fold and Unfold

Folding the 3-in-1 EZ Fold Wagon has a virtually nonexistent learning curve. Its two-step folding process is super simple. Unfolding it was equally a breeze. The handle stays in place during storage and won't fall to the ground because it automatically locks into position.

However, there is no locking mechanism to keep it open or closed, so it accidentally collapsed when we weren't expecting it to, and pinch points can cause pain if hands or fingers are in the wrong places. It also opens on its own, which was frustrating when we needed it to stay closed.

Larger items, such as a diaper bag or extra gear, ride in the main wagon area of the Radio Flyer 3-in-1, alongside the kids.   Credit: Matt Lighthart

The Radio Flyer's cup holders are handy but limited, as not every bottle or cup will fit.   Credit: Matt Lighthart

Previous Next

Storage

While the 150-pound total weight capacity sounds generous, the lack of built-in organization is a downside, and this limit includes your children. It has no interior pockets for quick-grab items, and the single exterior pocket behind the seat is only useful for flat, lightweight items, such as sunscreen, snacks, or sunglasses. Because the fabric is thin, items stored there can press against a child's back, and that same pocket is often already occupied by the canopy. The two cup holders are approximately 5 inches deep, and their size limits what fits. In our tests, standard disposable water bottles fit best. Larger essentials, such as a diaper bag, we had to put in the wagon, which means trading kid space for cargo space. The storage setup feels minimal and less thoughtfully designed.

Maneuverability

It handles everyday terrain reasonably well. It fits through standard doors and handles smooth floors, thresholds, and cords easily.

The 360-degree front wheels make turning simple; however, tight corners can be challenging due to the wagon's length and pull handle design. Off-road, it handles grass and small debris with little trouble, but on hills and curbs, it requires more effort, and the pull handle can feel slick. However, the smaller plastic wheels lack any tread. We didn't like that it always had to be pulled, which meant we couldn't see if it got off-kilter or hung up on things in the path.

Transporting and Storing

The Radio Flyer 3-in-1 performed well in our tests for transporting and storing compared to the competition. It is lightweight and compact enough to fit into most trunks with extra space to spare.

However, there is no locking mechanism or strap to keep it folded during lifting and transport. While we didn't encounter many issues with it opening unexpectedly, any type of closure would have been nice.

Weight and Folded Size

Most double strollers are bulky and heavy, making this lightweight wagon a notable exception.

Kid Ride

The Radio Flyer 3-in-1 has no features for kids' comfort and works in much the same way as any wagon.

It works for basic transportation but doesn't include features designed to help kids settle in or stay comfortable for longer outings.

Seat

The 3-in-1 EZ Fold Wagon seats two kids and features higher seat backs for added support; however, it lacks footwells, leg rests, recline options, and padding.

Longer outings will require more comfort, and we can see little ones wanting to lie down and getting crabby when they fall asleep with their heads lolling around unsupported. It can convert into a bench, allowing kids to climb in and out on their own when the wagon is stationary, such as at a park, but even then, the lack of support and padding will not make it a prized seat.

Sunshade

While it's convenient that the sunshade telescoping poles store neatly in the wagon's frame, they can bend easily if not handled carefully. Also, folding the shape is awkward because you have to twist and roll it like a pop-up car shade. Once you get the hang of it, it does get easier, but not everyone finds it easy. The sunshade material does not list any UPF or SPF rating, so it will only provide shade, and the overhead design means it only protects from direct sun up high. Sure, it is better than not having a canopy, but we think it is more about checking the box than truly being designed to protect little ones from the sun's rays.

Continuous Sleeping Comfort

Generally, a wagon isn't the go-to if you are hoping your kids will nap during a long stroll, due to seat limitations. However, we tested it to see how often the Radio Flyer might wake a passenger while going over rough ground or small obstacles. It registered more extremely intense jolts that will wake a child from a sound sleep than most competitors. We think this is due to the lower-quality plastic wheels, the lack of suspension, and the low bench seat design.

Quality

Considering how basic this wagon is, the quality is better than you might expect. However, it is nothing to write home about, and spending a little more provides much better quality.

It has an all-metal frame with solid connection points, and the fabric has a plastic-like feel that's easy to clean and appears tough enough to withstand use. Some components, such as the wheels and canopy poles, feel cheap, but the wagon feels capable within its limitations. But it really is just a metal frame with plastic components and a stretch of fabric laid over the top. You get what you pay for here, and we suspect the longevity of this wagon will be limited.

Car Seat Compatibility

This wagon is incompatible with car seats and is not suitable for infants.

Ease of Setup

Setting up the Radio Flyer 3-in-1 EZ Fold Wagon is quick and straightforward, thanks to clear instructions and helpful visuals. It took us about 10 minutes to complete. The only tricky part is making sure you have the right tools.

Twins

The EZ Fold Wagon works fine for toddlers or small children riding together, but as they get older and bigger, they may feel more cramped. It is not suitable for infant twins, babies, or even toddlers who haven't developed the ability to sit upright unassisted with adequate head and neck control to withstand the bumps and jostling associated with a bare-bones plastic wheel with no suspension. Read the manual for the recommended age and other limitations.

Should You Buy the Radio Flyer 3-in-1 EZ Fold Wagon?

The Radio Flyer 3-in-1 EZ Fold Wagon doesn't stand out when compared to other double strollers or wagons we've tested. Most of the competition offers greater comfort, better performance, and essential safety features such as brakes. We don't recommend it (even to save money) primarily because it lacks a brake, which is a significant potential safety drawback.

What Other Double Stroller Should You Consider?

The other Radio Flyer in our review, the Radio Flyer City Luxe Stroll 'N Wagon, steps things up a bit with a brake system, more storage, a better harness, and a push bar instead of just a pull handle. Our favorite stroller will cost you more, but the Evenflo Pivot Xplore Wagon provides more storage outside of the riding space, a footwell so little ones don't kick each other, and two adjustable canopies, one for each passenger. This stroller can be pushed or pulled and is easy to fold. If you're looking for something better suited for longer walks or off-road adventures, a jogging stroller is often the easier choice. The Baby Trend Expedition Double is very reasonably priced, and its impressive maneuverability makes everyday outings feel less like a workout.

Manufacturer Video