3 Wheeler Buggies
A three-wheeler is perfect for rough terrain providing a smooth ride for your baby. They are also easier to maneuver and push than a four-wheeler, especially those with fabric slings or modular seat units that are positioned perfectly in the frame, delivering the best geometry and weight distribution.
Stability
Three-wheeled buggys are very stable, making them an excellent option for off-road walks (especially when equipped with a seat unit that is all-terrain or off-road). These buggys often have oversized front tires that are able to handle bumps, kerbs, and rough terrain. Some have a lockable wheels on the front to provide 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, which could mean they can topple over more readily. That said, the best 3-wheel pushchairs have perfect geometry and engineering to ensure they are stable in all weather conditions. They should be able to turn on a dime and be able to steer with one hand and have 360o swivelling front wheels which makes them ideal for maneuvering and navigating difficult terrain.
Look for models with pneumatic tyres. They are made to work on tracks that are not paved, and should be able to take on rocks, mud, gravel, etc. A lot of all-terrain buggies have an swivelling wheel at the front that can be locked to provide greater stability when dealing with rough terrain.
A 3-wheel stroller is an ideal option for runners or those who like to walk fast and uphill, particularly in the event that you're planning to connect an infant car seat or carrycot. The Roma Atlas is a great example, with a wide-facing seat that can recline flat and features a more comfortable 5-point harness and storage space for all your gear (plus an extendable 50+ sun hood). It's light and compact, and is suitable for use from birth. It can be used with either a car seat or a carrycot. It can also be used for light jogging however, it isn't designed for serious runners.
Weight
If you're seeking a buggy that can handle difficult terrain then you want one with large wheels. They can handle cobbles, grass and dirt tracks and provide a smooth ride for any passenger. They are also great for jogging since they're equipped with suspension and are easy to move up and down kerbs. However, the drawback is that they are quite heavy to push.
The Mountain Buggy Urban Glide 2 is the most suitable 3 wheel buggy for use on rough terrain (pictured above). The 3-wheel buggy is extremely maneuverable because it has 16 rear wheels as well as a lockable front wheel. It has tyres with air which require pumping up from time to time. It can be used by children until the age of three. MFM reviewer Kath 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.
The Baby Jogger Versa GT is another great option. It comes with a movable handlebar, a hood made of high-end materials that provides 50+ UV protection as well as a high-quality hood. It is also easy to move up and down kerbs, and can fit into small car boot. It can also be used as a pram, with baby car seat for newborns and toddlers.
Fabric slings are placed in the frame and not on top as modular seats. This design provides a lower centre of gravity at the perfect height, instantly making it easier to push and lighter to pop the kerb (you cannot overestimate the amount of times you'll have to do this when you're a new parent!)
Seating
The capacity for seating of 3 wheelers is impressive and there are a variety of different choices to choose from. For newborns you have the option to use the included carrycot and (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 be seated in the parent or world-facing seat unit that is roomy and cushioned and has adjustable ventilation. The seats are not able to fully recline, but they can be adjusted to the lowest position. This should give your child plenty of headroom and space.
A fabric sling is also available. It is advantageous in that it is positioned inside the frame, instead of being placed on top of it as a modular seat. This creates a lower center of gravity with perfect weight distribution. This makes it easier to push, particularly over bumpy terrain and curbs. MFM reviewer Kath liked the way this type of seat dealt with the obstacles.
This type of buggy comes with an enormous basket, along with 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 placed on the front of the passengers to ensure safety when riding on rough terrain.
If you're searching for a single baby buggy that will expand with your family, there's the brand-new sport(tm) which is the first of its kind to take one baby from day dot and then adapt to take 2 or even 3 after your baby has developed in the space of one buggy.
Storage
The 3-wheeled frame makes the buggy much more sturdy to push one-handed and also perfect for handling terrain that is difficult to navigate. The shopping basket is smaller than a 4-wheeler.
A high-quality ATP will feature pneumatic tyres, a cushioned grip for comfort and excellent suspension. It will also be able to take car seats and a carrycot so you can use it from birth.
MFM's reviewers have found that the 3-wheeler frame doesn't fit through all the doors in their homes or small car booties - make sure you check the dimensions of the buggy once it's folded before purchasing in case you're concerned about space.
It's worth considering 3-wheelers that can accommodate 2 (or even 3!) seats when your family grows - these are the best of both worlds and future proof your money. The iCandy strawberry sport is one of the top of them and can be used as a single seat from day dot and then converts to twin buggies when your baby begins walking.
Tyres
Air filled tyres have been designed to provide your child with a more comfortable ride by cushioning bumps and uneven surfaces. They are commonly found on pushchairs like the Phil and Ted's Sport which MFM reviewer Kath said provided "an exceptional ride for her toddler". She also mentioned that the grippy tyres on the Phil & Ted's Sport made it simple for her to maneuver around the kerbs as well as other obstacles.
They can be 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 make sure that you have repair kits, spare inner tube and pump handy when traveling with your buggy.
PU tyres are typically used on pushchairs because they are a cheaper option than air-filled tyres, but they are equally robust. You can tell PU tires by their smooth appearance and soft, smooth feel. They also slide across flat and tidied surfaces.
If you move your hand over the tyres, then you can tell if they're PU or rubber. If it feels as if it's moving, then it's a rubber tyre, which is a. You can also verify that your buggy is fitted with PU tyres by slipping the tyres over flat, clean surfaces They'll roll easily and fit snugly in their wheel hubs.
Foam tyres can withstand the rough terrain associated with high-performance buggies. This could make your buggy less stable as the foam loses its springy quality. These tyres are also noisy because they generate a lot noise when you turn and drive around town.