3 Wheeler Buggies
A three-wheeled buggy is perfect for off-road terrain and provides an easy ride for babies. They are also simpler to push and manoeuvre than a four-wheel buggy, particularly those with fabric slings or seat units that are placed in a tight position within the frame to provide the most efficient shape and weight distribution.
Stability
Three-wheeled buggys are extremely stable, making them a great option for off-road walks (especially when they are equipped with a seat that is all-terrain or off-road). They often feature oversized front wheels, which can cope well with kerbs and bumps as well as rough ground. Some models have a lockable wheel on the front for additional stability while driving on uneven terrain.
It's important to remember that 3-wheel buggies have lower centers of gravity than the 4-wheeled versions and, therefore, can topple over more readily. However, the most reliable 3-wheel pushchairs are designed with perfect geometry and engineering to ensure that they remain stable in all conditions. 3 wheeled pushchairs should be able turn at a whim and be easy to steer with one hand. They also come with the ability to rotate 360o on the front wheel which makes them perfect for navigating difficult terrain.
Look for models with pneumatic tyres. These are made to handle nonpaved tracks, and should be able to handle rocks, mud, gravel and other debris. A majority of all-terrain buggies come with an adjustable front wheel that can be locked to provide stability when working on extremely rough terrain.
A tri-wheeled pram is a great option for those who run and love to speed up the hill. This is particularly true if you intend to attach an infant car seat or carrycot. The Roma Atlas is an excellent model. It has a flat-reclining seat with 5-point harness and plenty of storage space to keep all your equipment (plus the ability to extend 50+ of the sun hood). It's compact, lightweight and suitable for babies and can be used with the use of a car seat or carrycot. It can also be used for jogging with a light pace, but it's not designed for serious runners.
Weight
If you're seeking a buggy that can handle difficult terrain, then you'll need one with big wheels. These will cope well over cobbles, grass and dirt tracks while providing an enjoyable ride for all passengers. They are also great for jogging, as they come with built-in suspension and are able to climb up and down kerbs. However, they're a bit 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 a lockable swivel front wheel which makes it very maneuverable. It has air tyres which require pumping occasionally and it can be used to carry children until the age of 3. MFM reviewer Kath says that her toddler was awed by the seat shape and she was able to steer it easily with her 3-year-old on board.
The Baby Jogger Versa GT is an alternative that is also a great choice. It has an adjustable handlebar, a hood made of high-end materials that offers 50+ UV protection as well as a high quality hood. It is also easy to move kerbs up and down, and can fit into small car boot. It can be used as a stroller and baby carriers or toddlers.
Sling 3 wheeler pushchairs made of fabric fit snugly within the buggie's frame, as opposed to sitting on top of it as modular seats. This design has a lower centre-of-gravity, which is the right height. It is simpler to push and lighter to kerb-pop (you cannot underestimate how many times you'll need to do that as a brand new parent!).
Seating
The capacity for 3 wheelers is quite impressive and there are many different options to choose from. For newborns you have the option to use the carrycot (which MFM reviewer Alice says is a comfortable and cozy lying flat bed that can be used on and off the buggy) In addition, older babies and toddlers can be seated in the world-facing or parent facing seat unit that is roomy and cushioned and has adjustable ventilation. It's important to note that these seats do not recline completely however, they can be adjusted to the lowest level which will give 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 located within the frame, instead of on top as a modular seat. This means that it has a lower centre of gravity with perfect weight distribution. This makes it easier to push, especially on bumpy terrain or over curbs. MFM reviewer Kath liked the way this kind of seat handled obstacles.
This type of buggy has an extensive basket and other beneficial features like an extended hood with 50+ UV protection, an easy to use brake pedal, and some innovative visibility lights that can be placed in front of occupants for improved safety on difficult terrain.
If you're searching for a stroller that will grow with your family it's the sport(tm) is a first in the world that can take in infants and be modified to fit two or three children as they grow. All in one footprint.
Storage
The 3-wheeled model is more stable and can be pushed with just one hand. It's also ideal for terrains that are difficult to navigate. The shopping basket is smaller than a four-wheeler.
A good quality ATP will come with a great suspension, pneumatic tyres and an ergonomic handle that is cushioned for your ease. It will be able to accommodate a car seat, which means you can use it from birth.
MFM's reviewers discovered that the 3-wheeler frames didn't fit through their home doors or car boot. If you're worried about space, make sure to verify the dimensions of the buggy once it is folded before purchasing.
Find a 3-wheeler that has 2 (or 3!) seats. seats when your family grows. These are the best of both worlds and future proof your money. The iCandy Strawberry Sport is one of the most well-known. It can be used from day dot as a single buggie and later converted into twin buggies when your baby is walking.
Tyres
These tyres absorb bumps and uneven surfaces to make your child's ride more comfortable. They are commonly included on pushchairs such as the Phil & Ted’s Sport that MFM reviewer Kath said was "an outstanding ride for her toddler". She also said that the grippy tyres on the Phil & Ted's Sport made it easier for her to navigate the kerbs and other obstacles.
These tyres are sometimes tricky to keep inflated and need to be topped up frequently. These tyres are more susceptible to punctures, which is why it is recommended to always carry an repair kit and spare inner tube when you're out and about.
PU tyres can be seen on more pushchairs than air-filled tyres, yet they're still as durable. PU tyres are easily identified by their matte finish and soft feel. They also slide well on even and tied surfaces.
It's usually possible to discern the difference between PU and air-filled tyres by running your hand over each one, if it feels hard then it's made of rubber, If it slides, then it's a PU. You can also check whether your buggy comes with PU tyres sliding them onto a flat, clean surface. They should roll smoothly and fit snugly into wheel hubs.
Foam tyres can handle the rough terrain of high-performance buggies. The downside of this is that the foam could shrink and make your buggy feel less stable because it loses its springy feel. Additionally, these kinds of tyres can typically be noisy because they make lots of noise when you turn and make your way through the town.