3 Wheeler Buggies
A three-wheeled buggy is perfect for off-roading and provides an easy ride for babies. They can also be easier to maneuver and push than a four-wheel buggy, especially if they have fabric slings or modular seats that are set comfortably in the frame, offering the best geometry and weight distribution.
Stability
A three-wheeled buggy offers excellent stability, which is the reason it's an ideal choice for off road walking (especially with an all terrain or off-road style seat). These types of buggys typically have large front tires that can handle bumps, kerbs and rough terrain. Some models even feature a lockable front tire for extra stability on uneven terrain.
It is important to remember that 3-wheel buggies have a lower center of gravity than 4-wheeled models which means that they topple over more easily. However, the most reliable 3-wheel buggies have the an ideal geometry and design to ensure they are solid in all conditions. They should be able to turn on a dime and be easy to steer using one hand. They also come with a 360o rotating front wheel, which makes them perfect for navigating difficult terrain.
Find models with pneumatic tyres. They are made to work on tracks that are not paved, and are able to withstand rocks, mud, 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 three-wheeled stroller is a great choice for those who run or 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 the flat-reclining seat, five-point harnesses, and plenty of storage space to store all your equipment (plus an extendable 50+ sun hood). It's light compact and safe to use from birth. It can be used with either the car seat or carrycot. It can also be used for light jogging, but is not intended for serious runners.
Weight
If you're looking for a buggy that can handle difficult terrain, then you'll need one with large wheels. They can handle cobbles, grass and dirt tracks while providing the smoothest ride for anyone. These are also great for jogging, as they have a suspension built-in and are easy enough to climb up and down kerbs. However, the trade off is that they can be quite heavy to push.
The best 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 an swivel wheel lockable to the front, so it's very manoeuvrable. It has tyres with air that need to be pumped regularly. It can accommodate children until the age of three. MFM reviewer Kath said that her toddler enjoyed the shape of the seat, and she found it easy to steer even with her 3-year-old son on board.
The Baby Jogger Versa GT is another great option. It comes with a movable handlebar, a high-quality hood that provides 50+ UV protection as well as a high quality hood. 3 wheeled pushchair is also easy to move up and down kerbs and fits in a small car boot. It can also be used as a stroller and an infant carrycot or toddlers.
Fabric slings are placed inside the frame, not on top like modular seats. This style 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 new parent!).
Seating
The capacity for 3 wheelers is impressive and there are many different options to pick from. The included carrycot plus is perfect for newborns (which MFM reviewer Alice describes as a comfortable and cosy lay-flat bed that can be used in and out of the buggy). Older infants and toddlers will enjoy the spacious and padded seat unit with adjustable ventilation. It's worth noting that the seats do not recline completely 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 cloth is also available. It has the advantage of being placed snugly within the frame rather than on top like the modular seat. This provides a lower center of gravity and a perfect weight distribution. This makes it easier to push, especially on bumpy terrain or over curbs. MFM reviewer Kath liked the way this type of seat handled challenges.
In addition to a large shopping basket, this type of buggy typically has some very useful features like an extended 50+ UV hood, a simple brake pedal, and some games-changing visibility lights that appear from the handlebars and can be placed in front of the occupants to increase their safety when they are tackling difficult terrain.
If you're looking for a buggy that will grow with your family, the sport(tm) is a first in the world designed to accommodate a newborn and then be modified to accommodate two or three children as they grow. All within one footprint.
Storage
The 3-wheeled frame is much more stable and can be pushed with just one hand. It's also more suitable for difficult terrain. However, it means that the basket won't hold as much as a four-wheeled buggy.
A top-quality ATP will come with pneumatic tyres, a padded grip for comfort and excellent suspension. It will accommodate a carrycot or a car seat, so you can use it from birth.
MFM's reviewers found that the 3-wheeler frame didn't fit through their home doors or car boot. If you're concerned about space, be sure to check out the dimensions when the buggy is folded prior to purchasing.
Find a 3-wheeler that has 2 (or 3!) seats. This is the best option for your future and will help you save money. The iCandy Strawberry Sport is one of the most popular. It can be used from the day of birth as a single buggy and then converted into twin buggies once your baby starts to walk.
Tyres
Air filled tyres have been designed to give your child a more comfortable ride by cushioning bumps and uneven surfaces. These are used on pushchairs such as the Phil & Ted’s Sport which MFM reviewer Kath said provided "an exceptional ride for her toddler". She also said that the grippy tyres make it easy to navigate cobbles and kerbs.
These tyres are sometimes difficult to maintain and must be replenished regularly. These tyres are prone to punctures, and you should always carry a repair kit and spare inner tube when you're out and out and about.
PU tyres can be used on pushchairs since they are less expensive than air-filled tyres, but they are equally durable. PU tires are easily distinguished by their matte finish and supple feel. They also slide easily on even and tied surfaces.
If you run your hand over the tyres, then you can determine if they're PU or rubber. If it feels like it's moving, then it is a PU. You can also verify that your buggy is fitted with PU tyres by sliding the tyres on an even, clean surface - they'll be able to roll easily and should fit snugly into their wheel hubs.
Foam tyres can handle the rough terrain of high-performance buggies. This could make your buggy less stable because the foam will lose its springy quality. Also, these tyres may often be noisy as they create a lot of noise when you turn and make your way through town.