3 Wheeler Buggies
A three-wheeled buggy is perfect for off-road terrain and provides a smooth ride for baby. They are also easier to push and manoeuvre than a four-wheeler especially those equipped with fabric slings or modular seat units, which are placed in a tight position within the frame and deliver the best geometry and distribution of weight.
Stability
Three-wheeled buggys are very stable, and this makes them an excellent choice for off-road walking (especially when equipped with a seat unit that is all-terrain or off-road). They often feature oversized front wheels that can deal well with kerbs and bumps as well as rough ground. Some have a lockable wheel in the front to give you extra stability when driving on uneven terrain.
It is important to keep in mind that 3-wheel buggies have a lower center of gravity than the 4-wheeled versions and, therefore, can topple over more readily. But, the top 3-wheel pushchairs have perfect geometry and engineering to ensure they are stable in all conditions. They should be able of turning at a whim, be easy to steer with just one hand and have the front wheel rotate 360o that makes them great for maneuvering and navigating challenging terrain.
Look for models with pneumatic tyres. They are made to handle nonpaved tracks, and should be able to handle mud, gravel, rocks and more. Many all-terrain buggies feature an adjustable front wheel that can be locked to provide stability when tackling extremely rough terrain too.
A 3-wheel pram is also an excellent option for runners and those who prefer to walk quickly and uphill, particularly in the event that you're planning to connect a car seat or carrycot. The Roma Atlas is a great example, with a wide-facing seat that reclines flat and has improved 5-point harness and storage space for all your gear (plus an extension of 50+ sun hood). It's lightweight compact and safe to use from birth. It can be used in conjunction with the car seat or carrycot. It can also be used for light jogging, but it's not designed for serious runners.
Weight
If you're seeking a buggy that can take on difficult terrain, you should select one with large tires. They are designed to tackle dirt, cobbles, and grass tracks easily, while still providing smooth riding. They're also ideal for jogging because they come with suspension and are simple to climb and descend kerbs. However, the drawback is that they can be quite heavy to push.
The Mountain Buggy Urban Glide 2 is the best 3 wheel buggy to use on rough terrain (pictured above). This 3-wheeler is highly mobile due to its 16 rear wheels as well as an adjustable front wheel that locks. It has air tyres, that require occasional pumping, and it can carry children up to the age of 3. MFM reviewer Kath says that her toddler was awed by the shape of the seat, and she was able to steer it easily with her 3 year old riding along.
The Baby Jogger Versa GT is another great option. It comes with a movable handlebar, a high-quality hood that provides 50+ UV protection and a high quality hood. It is also easy to move kerbs upwards and downwards and fits into a small car boot. It can be used as a stroller along with an infant carrycot or toddlers.
three wheel pushchair are placed within the frame and not on top of the frame like modular seats. This design has a lower centre-of-gravity at the perfect height. It is easier to push and is lighter to kerb-pop (you don't know how many times you'll do this as a new parent!).
Seating
The seating capacity of 3 wheelers is impressive and there are many different choices to choose from. The carrycot included is perfect for newborns (which MFM reviewer Alice describes as a comfortable and cosy lay-flat bed that can be used both on and off the buggy). Older babies and toddlers will enjoy the large and comfortable seat unit with adjustable ventilation. It is important to note that the seats aren't fully reclined however, they can be adjusted to the lowest setting that will still allow your child plenty of headroom and room to move around.
A sling seat made of fabric is also available. It is set snugly inside the frame instead of over the top of the modular seat. This provides a lower center of gravity and perfect weight distribution. This makes it much easier and lighter to push, particularly over bumpy terrains or curbs. MFM reviewer Kath was impressed with the way this kind of seat handled these challenges.
This type of buggy has a large basket and other features that are useful like an extendable hood with 50+ UV protection, an easy to use brake pedal, and some innovative visibility lights which can be put in front of occupants for improved safety on difficult terrain.
Alternatively, if you are searching for a single baby buggy that can adapt to your family's needs There's a brand new sport(tm) that is the first in the world to take a single newborn from day dot and then adjust to take 2 or even 3 after your children have developed, all within the footprint of one buggy.
Stores
The 3-wheeled frame makes a buggy more stable and stable to push with one hand and also perfect for handling rough terrain. However, it means that the shopping basket doesn't hold as much as a four-wheeled buggy.
A high-quality ATP will have a top suspension, pneumatic tyres as well as a padded handle for your ease. It will be able to accommodate a car seat, so you can use it from the time of birth.
MFM's reviewers discovered that the 3-wheeler frames didn't pass through their doors at home or car boot. If you're concerned about space, make sure to verify the dimensions of the buggy when it is folded before purchasing.
It's worth looking into a 3-wheeler that can take 2 (or even 3!) seats when your family grows - these are the most efficient of both and will help you save money in the future. The iCandy strawberry sport is one of the top of them; it can be used as a single unit from day dot and then converts into twin buggies once your baby begins walking.
Tyres
These tyres absorb bumps and uneven surfaces to make your child's journey more comfortable. They are typically found on pushchairs like the Phil & Ted’s Sport, which MFM reviewer Kath said was "an exceptional ride for her toddler". She also mentioned that the grippy tyres of the Phil and Ted's Sport made it easier for her to navigate the kerbs and other obstacles.
They can be difficult to maintain and need to have their air pressure topped up regularly. They are also more susceptible to punctures than foam tyres so you'll need to make sure that you have repair kits, spare inner tube and pump on hand when you are you're out and about in your buggy.
PU tyres are typically found on pushchairs as they are less expensive than air-filled tyres, but they are just as durable. PU tyres are easily identified by their matte finish and supple feel. They also slide easily on smooth and tightly woven surfaces.
You can usually discern the distinction between air-filled and PU tires by running your hands over each one, if it feels hard then it's made of rubber, when it slides, it's a PU. You can also check if your buggy is fitted with PU tyres, by sliding them across an even, smooth surface. They should roll smoothly and fit comfortably into wheel hubs.
Foam tyres are typically used in high-performance buggies and Joggers due to their ability to deal with the rough terrain associated with this kind of pushchair. The downside of this is that the foam may shrink and make your buggy feel less stable as it loses its springy quality. These tyres also make a lot of noise, as they make lots of noise when you turn or drive around town.