3 Wheeler Buggies
A three-wheel buggy is great for off-roading and provides an easy ride for your child. They can also be easier to maneuver and push than a four-wheel buggy, especially if they have fabric sling seats or seat units that are placed comfortably in the frame, delivering the most efficient geometry and weight distribution.
Stability
Three-wheeled buggys are extremely stable, making them an excellent option for off-roading (especially when they are equipped with a seat unit that is all-terrain or off-road). They typically have large front tires that can handle bumps, kerbs, and rough terrain. Some models have a lockable wheel in the front to give you additional stability when driving on uneven terrain.
It is important to remember that 3-wheel buggies may have a lower centre of gravity than 4-wheeled models which means that they can tip over more easily. The best 3-wheeled pushchairs are built with the perfect design to ensure they stay solid in all conditions. They should be able to turn on a dime and be able to be controlled with one hand. They also feature the ability to rotate 360o on the front wheel, which makes them ideal to navigate difficult terrain.
Look for models that have pneumatic tyres. They are made to handle nonpaved tracks, and should be able to handle dirt, gravel, rocks and more. Many all-terrain buggies come with a swivelling wheel on the front that can be locked for greater stability when dealing with rough terrain.
A 3-wheeler is an ideal option for runners or for those who like to walk fast and uphill, especially if you're planning to attach an infant car seat or carrycot. The Roma Atlas is a great example, with a wide-facing seat that reclines flat. It also has improved 5-point harness and storage space for all your kit (plus an extendable 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 is not intended for serious runners.
Weight
If you are looking for a buggy that can take on difficult terrain, you should choose one with large tires. They are designed to tackle cobbles, grass and dirt tracks with ease while providing smooth riding. They're also good for jogging as they're equipped with suspension and are easy to move up and down 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 for use on rough terrain (pictured above). This 3-wheeler has 16 rear wheels and a lockable swivel front wheel which makes it very maneuverable. It has air tyres, which do need occasional pumping, and it can carry children up to the age of 3. 3 wheeler pushchairs from birth says that her toddler was awed by the shape of the seat and found steering it easy even with her 3-year-old riding along.
Another option that is great is the Baby Jogger Versa GT, which has an adjustable handlebar and a high-quality hood with 50+ UV protection. It is also easy to move up and down kerbs and fits into a small car boot. It can also be used as a stroller with a carrycot for newborns or toddlers.
Fabric sling seats sit snugly within the frame of the buggie, as opposed to over it like modular seats. This model has a lower centre-of-gravity, which is the right height. It is easier to push and lighter to kerb-pop (you can't underestimate the number of times you will do that as a new parent!).
Seating
There are a variety of options for seating in three wheelers. For a newborn you have the option to use the carrycot (which MFM reviewer Alice says is a cozy and comfortable lie flat bed that can be used both on and off the buggy) In addition, older babies and toddlers can be seated in the parent or world-facing seat that is large and padded and does have adjustable ventilation. The seats don't recline completely, but can be adjusted to the lowest point. This should still allow your child to have plenty of room and headroom.
A sling made of fabric is also available. It's a benefit that it is located inside the frame rather than on top as a seat that is modular. This results in a lower centre of gravity, with a 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 that this style of seat dealt with these obstacles.
In addition to a large shopping basket, this type of buggy usually has pretty useful features such as an extended 50+ UV hood, an easy to use brake pedal and some games-changing visibility lights that come up from the handlebars and can be placed directly in front of the occupants to increase their safety when they are tackling difficult terrain.
Alternatively, if you are seeking a single stroller that will grow with your family, there's the brand-new sport(tm) which is the first of its kind to take a single newborn from day dot and then change to take two or even three once your little ones have developed and all within the footprint of a single buggy.
Storage
The 3-wheeled model is more stable and can be pushed by one hand. It's also ideal for difficult terrain. However, it means that the shopping basket can't hold the same amount as a 4-wheeled buggy.
A good quality ATP will come with a great suspension, pneumatic tyres and padding for the handle for your convenience. It will accept a carrycot or car seat, which means you can use it from birth.
The MFM reviewers noted that the 3-wheeler frame didn't fit through their home doors or car boot. If you're worried about space, make sure to check out the dimensions of the buggy when it is folded before buying.
Find a 3-wheeler that has 2 (or 3!) seats. seats as your family grows. They are the most efficient of both and will help you save money in the future. The iCandy strawberry sport is one of the most popular that can be used as a single seat from day dot and then converts to twin buggies when your baby starts walking.
Tyres
These tyres absorb bumps and uneven surfaces to make your child's journey more comfortable. You'll find these on pushchairs, such as the Phil and Ted's Sport which MFM reviewer Kath found to be "an exceptional ride for my toddler". She also said that the grippy tyres on it made it easy to navigate cobbles and kerbs.
They can be difficult to maintain and require having their air pressure topped up regularly. These tyres are more susceptible to punctures, which is why it is recommended to always carry a repair kit and spare inner tube with you when you're out and about.
PU tyres can be seen on more pushchairs than the air-filled tyres but they're just as sturdy. You can recognise PU tire treads by their matte appearance and soft texture. They also slide easily on smooth and tightly woven surfaces.
You can usually identify the difference between PU and air-filled tyres by running your hand over them, if it feels hard then it's made of rubber, if it slides then it's a PU. You can also confirm whether your buggy has PU tyres by slipping the tyres onto a clean, flat surface They'll roll easily and should fit snugly in their wheel hubs.
Foam tyres can handle the rough terrain that comes with high-performance buggies. The drawback is that the foam may expand and cause your buggy to feel less stable, as it loses its springy quality. These tyres are also noisy, as they make lots of noise when you turn and navigate around the town.