3 Wheeler Buggies
A three-wheeler is ideal for tackling off-road terrain and provides an easy ride for your baby. They are also simpler to push and manoeuvre than a four-wheeler especially those equipped with fabric slings or seat units that are tightly positioned in the frame and deliver the most efficient shape and weight distribution.
Stability
A three-wheeler has great stability, which is the reason it's an ideal option for off-road walking (especially with an all-terrain or off-road-style seat). They often feature oversized front wheels, which can cope well with kerbs and bumps as well as rough ground. Some have a lockable wheels in the front to give you extra stability when driving on uneven terrain.
It's worth bearing in mind that 3-wheel buggies can have a lower centre of gravity than 4-wheeled models, which can mean that they fall over more easily. The most reliable 3-wheeled pushchairs are built with the perfect design to ensure they stay stable in any condition. They should be able to turn at a whim and be easy to steer using one hand. They also come with a 360o rotating front wheel which makes them ideal to navigate difficult terrain.
For extremely difficult surfaces, look out for models with air-filled tyres which are also referred to as pneumatic tyres. They are made to handle roads that are not paved and can deal with dirt, gravel, and more. Many all-terrain buggies feature an swivelling front wheel that can be locked to increase stability when dealing with extremely rough terrain.
A 3-wheeled pram is a great option for those who run and enjoy walking fast uphill. This is especially true if you plan to attach to a car seat or carrycot. The Roma Atlas is an excellent example. It has an incline-reclining seat that is flat, with five-point harnesses, and plenty of storage space to keep all your equipment (plus an extendable 50+ sun hood). It is lightweight compact and safe to use from birth. It can be used in conjunction with a car seat or a carrycot. It also handles some moderate jogging, but it's not designed for serious runners.
Weight
If you're looking for a vehicle that can handle the tough terrain, then you'll need one with big wheels. These are made to handle dirt, cobbles, and grass tracks easily and still provide a smooth ride. They're also ideal for jogging as they have built in suspension and are simple to get up and down kerbs. However, the trade off is that they are 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-wheel buggy has 16 rear wheels, and an swivel wheel lockable to the front making it extremely maneuverable. It has air tyres, which require pumping occasionally, and it can carry a child up to 3. MFM reviewer Kath says that her toddler was awed by the seat shape and she found it easy to drive with her three-year-old riding along.
The Baby Jogger Versa GT is another great option. It comes with an adjustable handlebar, a top-quality hood that provides 50+ UV protection as well as a high-quality hood. It's also easy to get up and down kerbs and fit into small car boot. It can also be used as a pram, with an infant car seat for newborns and toddlers.
3 wheeler pushchair sling seats sit snugly within the frame of the buggie instead of on top of it like modular seats. This design provides an lower centre of gravity at the perfect height, making it easier to push and lighter to kerb pop (you should never overestimate how often you'll do this as a new parent!)
Seating
There are many options for seating in three wheelers. For newborns, there is the option to use the included carrycot (which MFM reviewer Alice says is a comfortable and cozy lie flat bed that can be used on and off the buggy), while older babies and toddlers can use the world-facing or parent facing seat unit that is roomy and padded and does have adjustable ventilation. The seats do not fully recline, but they can be adjusted to the lowest setting. This should still allow your child plenty of space and headroom.
A sling made of fabric is also available. It has the advantage that it is placed inside the frame instead of on top as a modular seat. This results in 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 beneficial features, such as an extendable hood with 50+ UV protection, an easy to use brake pedal, and a few innovative lights for visibility that can be placed in front of occupants to ensure safety when riding on rough terrain.
If you're seeking a single stroller that will grow with your family There's a brand new sport(tm) that's the first of its kind to take one baby from day dot and then adapt to take 2 or even 3 once your baby has developed and all within the footprint of a single buggy.
Storage
The 3-wheeled frame makes the buggy more stable and stable to push with one hand, and it's also great for handling rough terrain. However, it means that the shopping basket doesn't hold as much as a 4-wheeler buggy.
A top-quality ATP will come with pneumatic tyres, a padded grip for better comfort, and an excellent suspension. It will accommodate a car seat, so you can use it from the time of birth.
The MFM reviewers noted that the 3-wheeler frames didn't pass through their doors at home or car boot. If you're concerned about space, be sure to check out the dimensions when the buggy is folded before buying.
Look for a 3-wheeler with 2 (or 3!) seats. seats once your family grows. They are the best of both worlds and can help you to save money in the future. The iCandy strawberry sport is one of the best of these and can be used as a single from day dot and then converts to a twin buggies when your baby starts walking.
Tyres
Air filled tyres have been designed to provide your child with a more comfortable ride by cushioning out bumps and uneven surfaces. They are typically found on pushchairs like the Phil and Ted's Sport that MFM reviewer Kath said was "an amazing ride for her toddler". She also said that the grippy tires of the Phil & Ted's Sport made it easier for her to navigate the kerbs as well as other obstacles.
They can be difficult to maintain and must be filled regularly. These tyres are more susceptible to punctures, so you should always carry a repair kit as well as an spare inner tube with you when you're out and out and about.
PU tyres are more commonly found on pushchairs as they are less expensive than air-filled tyres, but they are just as durable. You can tell PU tire treads by their matte appearance and soft texture. They also slide on smooth and tidy surfaces.
If you run your hand over the tyres, then you can tell if they're rubber or PU. If it feels like it's moving, then it is a rubber or PU. You can also check that your buggy is fitted with PU tyres by slipping the tyres on a clean, flat surface They'll roll easily and should 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 associated with this type of pushchair. This could make your buggy less stable as the foam loses its springy nature. These tyres also make a lot of noise, as they make lots of noise when you turn and navigate around town.