3 Wheeler Buggies
A three-wheeled buggy is ideal for off-road terrain and offers the most comfortable ride for infants. They can also be easier to move and push than a four-wheel buggy especially if they have fabric sling seats or modular seat units that are positioned comfortably in the frame, offering the best geometry and weight distribution.
Stability
A three-wheel buggy has excellent stability, which is why it's a good choice for off road walking (especially with an all terrain or off-road style seat unit). They typically have larger front wheels that can deal well with bumps and kerbs and rough ground. Some models have a lockable wheel on the front to provide additional stability when driving on uneven terrain.
It's important to keep in mind that 3-wheel buggies can have a lower centre of gravity than 4-wheeled models, which can mean that they can tip over more easily. The best 3-wheeled pushchairs are built with the perfect geometry to ensure that they remain steady in any weather. They should be able turn on a dime and be easy to steer using one hand. They also come with a 360o rotating front wheel which makes them perfect for maneuvering over difficult terrain.
For extremely difficult surfaces be sure to choose an air-filled model which are also referred to as pneumatic tyres. They are designed to work on non-paved tracks and are able to deal with dirt, gravel, and more. Many all-terrain buggies include a swivelling wheel on the front that can be locked for extra stability when you're dealing with rough terrain.
A 3-wheeled pram is a great option for runners and those who like to walk fast uphill. This is particularly true if you are planning to connect a car seat or carrycot. The Roma Atlas is a great example, with a wide-facing seat that can recline flat and comes with a new 5-point harness as well as storage space for all your kit (plus an extension of 50+ sun hood). It's lightweight compact and safe to use from birth. It can be used in conjunction with a car seat or carrycot. It also handles some light jogging but isn't intended for serious joggers.
Weight
If you are looking for a buggy that can tackle terrain that is difficult, you should pick one with large tires. These are made to handle grass, cobbles and dirt tracks with ease and still provide smooth riding. They're also good for jogging because they come with suspension and are simple to climb and descend kerbs. However, the drawback is that they are quite heavy to push.
The most suitable 3 wheel buggy for rough terrain is the Mountain Buggy Urban Glide 2 (pictured above). This 3-wheel buggy has 16 rear wheels and an swivel wheel lockable to the front which makes it very maneuverable. It has air-filled tyres that need to be pumped up every now and then. It can carry children up until the age of three. MFM reviewer Kath said that her toddler enjoyed the shape of the seat, and she found it easy to steer even with her 3-year-old on the seat.
The Baby Jogger Versa GT is an alternative that is also a great choice. It comes with a movable handlebar, a high-quality hood that provides 50+ UV protection as well as a high-quality hood. It is also easy to move kerbs up and down and fits into a the car's boot space in a small size. It can also be used as a stroller along with an infant carrycot or toddlers.
Fabric slings are set in the frame and not on top of the frame like modular seats. This design has a lower centre of gravity that is at the ideal height, instantly making it easier to push and lighter to kerb pop (you cannot think about the amount of times you'll have to do this when you're a new parent!)
Seating
There are a variety of options for seating in three wheelers. For a newborn it is possible to use the carrycot (which MFM reviewer Alice says is a cosy and comfortable lying flat bed that can be used both on and off the buggy) and older infants and toddlers can be seated in the parent-facing or world-facing seat unit that is roomy and cushioned and has adjustable ventilation. It is important to note that the seats aren't fully reclined however, they can be lowered to the lowest setting that will still allow your child plenty of headroom and room to move around.
A sling made of fabric is also available. It's a benefit that it is positioned within the frame, rather than on top as a seat that is modular. This means that it has a lower centre of gravity and a perfect weight distribution. This makes it easier to push, particularly over bumpy terrain and curbs. MFM reviewer Kath liked the way this kind of seat dealt with obstacles.
This type of buggy has a large basket and other features that are useful such as an extendable hood with 50+ UV protection, a simple to use brake pedal, and a few innovative lights for visibility that can be positioned in front of occupants to increase safety on rough terrain.
If 3 wheel pushchair seeking a single stroller that will expand with your family There's a brand new sport(tm) that is a world's first that can take a single infant from day dot and then change to take two or even 3 after your baby has developed in the space of one buggy.
Storage
The 3-wheeled frame is much more stable and can be pushed with one hand. It's also better for difficult terrain. However, it does mean that the basket won't hold the same amount as a 4-wheeled buggy.
A good quality ATP will come with a great suspension, pneumatic tyres and an ergonomic handle that is cushioned to ensure your convenience. It should also be equipped to carry car seats and a carrycot which means you can use it right from birth.
MFM's reviewers have discovered that the 3-wheeler frame won't fit through all the doors in their homes, or small car boots - make sure you know the dimensions of the buggy once it's folded before buying in case you're concerned about space.
It's worth looking for a 3-wheeler that can take 2 (or even 3!) seats when your family grows. They are the best of both worlds and future proof your money. The iCandy Strawberry Sport is among the most popular. It can be used from day dot as a single buggie and then converted into twin buggies when your baby begins walking.
Tyres
Air filled tyres are designed to provide your child with more comfort while riding by cushioning bumps and uneven surfaces. They're commonly found on pushchairs like the Phil and Ted's Sport which MFM reviewer Kath found to offer "an outstanding ride for my toddler". She also noted that the grippy tyres make it easy to tackle cobbles and kerbs.
These tyres can sometimes prove difficult to maintain and must be filled regularly. These tyres are more susceptible to punctures, so you should always carry a repair kit and spare inner tube when you're out and about.
PU tyres are typically used on pushchairs because they are less expensive than air-filled tyres but are equally robust. PU tires are easily distinguished by their matte finish and supple feel. They also slide over flat and tidy surfaces.
If you move your hand over the tyres, you can tell if they're rubber or PU. If it feels as if it is sliding then it's a PU. You can also test whether your buggy is equipped with PU tyres by sliding them on an even, smooth surface. They should roll smoothly and fit snugly into the wheel hubs.
Foam tyres are commonly used in high-performance buggies and Joggers due to their ability to deal with the rough terrain that's associated with this kind of pushchair. The downside of this is that the foam could expand and cause your buggy to feel less stable, as it loses its springy feel. These tyres also make a lot of noise, as they make a lot noise when you turn or drive around the town.