3 Wheeler Buggies
A three-wheeled buggy is perfect for off-roading and provides the most comfortable ride for infants. They are also more convenient to maneuver and push than a four-wheel buggy especially if they have fabric sling seats or modular seats that are set perfectly in the frame, delivering the best ergonomics and weight distribution.
Stability
Three-wheeled vehicles are very stable, making them an excellent choice for off-road walking (especially when they are equipped with a seat that is all-terrain or off-road). They often feature oversized front wheels, which cope well with kerbs and bumps as well as rough ground. Some have a lockable wheels on the front for additional stability when driving on uneven terrain.
It is important to keep in mind that 3-wheel buggies have a lower center of gravity than 4-wheeled versions, which could mean they are more likely to fall over. The most reliable 3-wheeled pushchairs are designed with perfect design to ensure they stay steady in any weather. They should be able turn at a whim and be able to be controlled with one hand. They also feature a 360o rotating front wheel which makes them ideal for navigating difficult terrain.
Look for models that have pneumatic tyres. These are made to be able to navigate tracks that aren't paved and should be able to handle rocks, mud, gravel and more. Many all-terrain buggies feature a swivelling front wheel that can be locked to provide stability when working on extremely rough terrain too.
A 3-wheel pram is also a good option for runners or for those who like to walk quickly and uphill, especially if you're planning to attach an infant car seat or carrycot. The Roma Atlas is a great example, offering a world-facing seat that reclines flat and comes with a new 5-point harness as well as storage space for all your equipment (plus an extension of 50+ sun hood). It's light, compact and suitable from birth and can be used in conjunction with car seats or a carrycot. It can also handle a bit of light jogging but isn't intended for serious joggers.
Weight
If you're seeking a buggy that can handle difficult terrain, then you'll need one with big wheels. They will be able to handle grass, cobbles and dirt tracks while providing a smooth ride for anyone. They are also great for jogging because they have built-in suspension and are able to climb up and down kerbs. The downside is that they're quite heavy to push.
The Mountain Buggy Urban Glide 2 is the most suitable 3 wheel buggy you can use on rough terrain (pictured above). This 3-wheeler is highly maneuverable due to its 16 rear wheels as well as an adjustable front wheel that locks. It has air-filled tyres that need to be pumped up every now and then. It can accommodate children as young as the age of three. MFM reviewer Kath says that her toddler loved the seat shape and she found it easy to drive with her three-year-old on board.
The Baby Jogger Versa GT is another great option. It comes with a movable handlebar, a high-quality hood that offers 50+ UV protection, and a high-quality hood. It's also easy to move up and down kerbs and can fit into small car boot. It can be used as a stroller along with baby carriers or toddlers.
Fabric slings are positioned within the frame and not on top of the frame like modular seats. This design has an lower centre of gravity and a perfect height, instantly making it easier to push and lighter to kerb pop (you should never overestimate how often you'll be doing that as new parents!)
Seating
The capacity for 3 wheelers is quite impressive and there are many different options to pick from. For a newborn you have the option to use the carrycot plus (which MFM reviewer Alice says is a cosy and comfortable lying flat bed that can be used on and off the buggy) In addition, older babies and toddlers can use the parent or world-facing seat that is spacious and cushioned and has adjustable ventilation. It's worth noting that the seats do not recline completely, but they can be lowered to the lowest setting which should still give your child plenty of headroom and room to move around.
A fabric sling is also available. It is advantageous in that it is positioned inside the frame instead of on top as a modular seat. This means that it has a lower centre of gravity and a perfect weight distribution. This makes it easier to push, particularly on bumpy terrain or over curbs. MFM reviewer Kath liked the way this style of seat handled the obstacles.
This type of buggy comes with an extensive basket and other useful features such as an hood that can be extended with 50+ UV protection, a simple to use brake pedal, and some innovative visibility lights that can be positioned in front of the occupants to increase safety on rough terrain.
Alternatively, if three wheel pushchair are seeking a single stroller that can adapt to your family's needs There's a brand new sport(tm) which is the first of its kind to take a single infant from day dot and then adjust to take 2 or even 3 once your baby has developed in the space of a single buggy.
Storage
The 3-wheeled frame is more sturdy and can be moved by one hand. It's also better for terrains that are difficult to navigate. However, it does mean that the shopping basket can't hold the same amount as a 4-wheeled buggy.
A high-quality ATP will have excellent suspension, pneumatic tyres as well as an ergonomic handle that is cushioned to ensure your convenience. It will accept a carrycot or car seat, so 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 booties - make sure you know the dimensions of the buggy once it's folded prior to purchasing if you're worried about space.
It's worth looking into a 3-wheeler that can take 2 (or even 3!) seats when your family grows. These are the best of both worlds and can help you to save money in the future. The iCandy Strawberry Sport is among the most popular. It can be used from the day of birth as a single buggy, and later transformed into twin buggies once your baby is walking.
Tyres
These tyres absorb bumps and uneven surfaces to make your child's ride more comfortable. They are commonly found on pushchairs like the Phil and Ted's Sport that MFM reviewer Kath said provided "an exceptional ride for her toddler". She also mentioned that the grippy tires of the Phil and Ted's Sport made it easy for her to maneuver around the kerbs as well as other obstacles.
These tyres are sometimes difficult to maintain and will require having their air pressure maintained regularly. These tyres are more prone to punctures, which is why you should always carry a repair kit and spare inner tube when you're out and about.
PU tyres are more commonly found on pushchairs as they are less expensive than air-filled tyres, but they are equally durable. PU tyres are easily identified by their matte finish and supple feel. They also glide well on even and tied surfaces.
You can usually tell the difference between PU and air-filled tire by running your fingers over each one. If it feels hard then it's a rubber tyre, and if it slides then it's a PU. You can also check that your buggy is fitted with PU tyres by slipping the tyres onto an even, clean surface - they'll be able to roll easily and fit snugly in their wheel hubs.
Foam tyres are typically used in high-performance buggies and Joggers due to their ability to deal with the rough terrain that's common to this type of pushchair. This could make your buggy less stable because the foam will lose its springy feel. Also, these kinds of tyres can frequently be noisy, as they make a lot of noise as you turn and make your way through the town.