3 Wheeler Buggies
A three-wheeled buggy is ideal for off-road terrain and provides an easy ride for babies. They are also easier to push and maneuver than a four wheel buggy and are especially suitable for those with slings made of fabric or modular seat units that are placed in a tight position within the frame and deliver the best shape and weight distribution.
Stability
A three-wheeled buggy offers excellent stability, which is why it's a good option for off-road walks (especially with an all-terrain or off-road style seat unit). They usually have large front wheels, which cope well with kerbs and bumps as well as rough terrain. Some models even feature a lockable front tire to give extra 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 models with four wheels which means that they topple over more easily. The most reliable 3-wheeled pushchairs are made with the best geometry to ensure they remain steady in any weather. They should be able to turn at a whim and be easy to steer with one hand. They also have a 360o rotating front wheel, which makes them perfect to navigate difficult terrain.
For extremely difficult surfaces be sure to choose an air-filled model also known as pneumatic tyres. They are designed to handle non-paved tracks and should cope with dirt, gravel, etc. A majority of all-terrain buggies come with an adjustable front wheel that can be locked to increase stability when tackling extremely rough terrain too.
A 3-wheel stroller is a good option for runners and those who prefer to walk quickly and uphill, especially if you're planning to attach 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 kit (plus an extension of 50+ sun hood). It's lightweight compact and safe for use from birth. It can be used with either a car seat or carrycot. It also allows for a bit of light jogging, but isn't designed for serious runners.
Weight
If you are looking for a buggy to take on difficult terrain, you should select one with big tires. They will be able to handle grass, cobbles and dirt tracks and provide an enjoyable ride for all passengers. They are also great for jogging since they come with suspension and are simple to climb and descend kerbs. The downside is that they're quite heavy to push.
The most suitable 3 wheel buggy for rough terrain is the Mountain Buggy Urban Glide 2 (pictured above). The 3-wheel buggy comes with 16 rear wheels, and a lockable swivel front wheel, so it's very manoeuvrable. It has air tyres that require occasional pumping and it can be used to carry a child up to 3. MFM reviewer Kath said that her toddler liked the shape of the seat, and she found it easy to steer with her 3-year-old on board.
The Baby Jogger Versa GT is another excellent option. It comes with an adjustable handlebar, a high-quality hood that offers 50+ UV protection, and a high-quality hood. pushchairsandprams.uk is also easy to move up and down kerbs and fits into a small car boot. It can be used as a stroller along with an infant carrycot or toddlers.
Fabric sling seats sit snugly within the frame of the buggie instead of on top of it like modular seats. This design has a lower centre of gravity at the perfect height. It is much easier to push, and is lighter to kerb-pop (you don't know how many times you'll do that as a brand new parent!).
Seating
The capacity for 3 wheelers is impressive and there are many different options to choose from. The included carrycot plus is perfect for newborns (which MFM reviewer Alice describes as a comfortable and cosy lying-flat bed that can be used on and off the buggy). Older infants and toddlers will love the spacious and comfortable seat unit that has adjustable ventilation. The seats are not able to fully recline, but they can be lowered to the lowest setting. This should still give your child plenty of room and headroom.
A sling seat made of fabric is also available, which is set snugly inside the frame rather than sitting on top as an open-back seat. This gives a lower centre of gravity and perfect weight distribution. This makes it much easier and lighter to push, especially over bumpy terrain or curbs. MFM reviewer Kath really liked the way this kind of seat handled these 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, an easy 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 you're seeking a single stroller that can adapt to your family's needs, there's the brand-new sport(tm) that's the first in the world to take a single newborn from the moment of birth and change to take two or even 3 once your children have grown in the space of a single buggy.
Stores
The 3-wheeled frame is more sturdy and can be moved with one hand. It's also better for terrains that are difficult to navigate. However, it also means that the shopping basket doesn't hold as much as a four-wheeled buggy.
A top-quality ATP will have excellent suspension, pneumatic tyres as well as an ergonomic handle that is cushioned for your convenience. It is also equipped to carry car seats and a carrycot and you can use it from the time you are born.
MFM's reviewers have discovered that the 3-wheeler frame doesn't pass through all doors in their homes, or small car booties - make sure to check the dimensions of the buggy once it's folded before purchasing for those who are concerned about space.
Look for a 3-wheeler with 2 (or 3!) seats. This is the most suitable option for your future and can save you money. The iCandy Strawberry Sport is one of the most sought-after. It can be used from day dot as a single buggy, and then converted into twin buggies after your baby starts to walk.
Tyres
Air filled tyres are made to provide your child with an easier ride by cushioning bumps and uneven surfaces. They are typically found on pushchairs like the Phil & Ted's Sport, which MFM reviewer Kath said offered "an exceptional ride for her toddler". She also said that the grippy tyres make it easier to handle cobbles and kerbs.
These tyres are sometimes difficult to maintain and require air pressure regularly topped up. They are also more susceptible to punctures than foam tyres so you'll need to ensure that you have a repair kit, spare inner tube and pump in case you go you're out and about in your buggy.
PU tyres are typically used on pushchairs because they are less expensive than tyres filled with air, but they are equally durable. PU tire are easily identifiable by their matte finish and soft feel. They also slide over smooth and tidy surfaces.
If you rub your hands over the tyres, then you can tell if they're PU or rubber. If it feels like it is sliding then it's a rubber or PU. You can also verify whether your buggy has PU tyres by sliding the tyres over a clean, flat surface They'll be able to roll easily and should fit comfortably in their wheel hubs.
Foam tyres are commonly utilized in high-performance buggies and joggers because they can cope with the rough terrain common to this type of pushchair. The downside of this is that the foam may expand and cause your buggy to feel less stable, since it loses its springy quality. Additionally, these tyres may often be noisy as they generate lots of noise when you turn and navigate your way around the town.