3 Wheeler Buggies
A three-wheeler is perfect for tackling off-road terrain and provides the most comfortable ride for your baby. They are also more convenient to maneuver and push than a four-wheel buggy especially if they have fabric sling seats or seat units that are placed snugly in the frame, offering the best ergonomics and weight distribution.
Stability
Three-wheeled buggys are extremely stable, making them an excellent option for off-roading (especially when equipped with a seat unit that is all-terrain or off-road). They usually have large front wheels, which can cope well with bumps and kerbs as well as rough terrain. Some have a lockable wheels on the front for 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 and this can mean that they fall over more easily. That said, the best 3-wheel pushchairs are designed with an ideal geometry and design to ensure they are stable in all weather conditions. They should be able turn on a dime and be easy to steer with one hand. They also come with the ability to rotate 360o on the front wheel that makes them perfect for navigating difficult terrain.
Look for models with pneumatic tyres. They are made to handle nonpaved tracks, and are able to withstand mud, gravel, rocks, etc. Many all-terrain buggies have an adjustable front wheel that can be locked to increase stability when working on extremely rough ground too.
A 3-wheeler is a good option for runners or for those who prefer to walk quickly and uphill, particularly in the event that you're planning to connect a car seat or carrycot. The Roma Atlas is an excellent model. It has an incline-reclining seat that is flat, with 5-point harness and plenty of storage space to store all your equipment (plus the ability to extend 50+ of the sun hood). It is lightweight, compact, and suitable for use starting at birth. It can be used in conjunction with a car seat or a carrycot. It also allows for a bit of light jogging but isn't intended for serious joggers.
Weight
If you're seeking a buggy that will take on tricky terrain, you need one with large wheels. They will be able to handle cobbles, grass and dirt tracks while providing an enjoyable ride for anyone. They are also great for jogging because they come with built-in suspension and are easy to climb up and down kerbs. However, the downside is that they are quite heavy to push.
The best 3-wheel buggy for rough terrain is the Mountain Buggy Urban Glide 2 (pictured above). This 3-wheel buggy has 16 rear wheels, and an swivel wheel lockable to the front, so it's very manoeuvrable. It has air-filled tyres that need to be pumped up every now and then. It can be used by children as young as the age of three. MFM reviewer Kath said that her toddler loved the design of the seat, and she found it easy to steer with her 3-year-old son on the board.
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's also easy to get up and down kerbs and can fit into small car boot. It can also be used as a pram that comes with an infant car seat for infants and toddlers.
three wheel pushchair are set inside the frame, not on top like modular seats. This design provides an lower centre of gravity at the perfect height, making it easier to push and lighter to pop the kerb (you can never think about how often you'll be doing that as new parents!)
Seating
There are a variety of options for seating in three wheelers. The carrycot that comes with it is ideal for a newborn (which MFM reviewer Alice describes as a comfy and cozy lay-flat bed that can be used both in and out of the buggy). Older children and toddlers will enjoy the spacious and padded seat with adjustable ventilation. The seats don't fully recline, but they can be adjusted to the lowest position. This should still allow your child plenty of room and headroom.
A sling made of fabric is also available. It is advantageous in that it is positioned inside the frame, instead of on top as a seat that is modular. This results in a lower centre 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 obstacles.
This type of buggy comes with a large basket and other features that are useful such as an extended hood with 50+ UV protection, an easy to use brake pedal, and some unique visibility lights that can be placed in front of occupants to ensure safety when riding on rough terrain.
If you're looking for a buggy that can grow with your family The sport(tm), a world-first designed to accommodate infants and be modified to accommodate three or four children as they grow. All in one footprint.
Storage
The 3-wheeled frame makes the buggy more stable to push one handed and also perfect for handling difficult terrain. However, it also means that the basket won't hold as much as a 4-wheeler buggy.
A top-quality ATP will feature pneumatic tyres, a cushioned grip for added comfort, and a superb suspension. It will be able to accommodate a carrycot or a car seat, meaning you can use it from the time of birth.
MFM's reviewers have found that the 3-wheeler frame can't pass through all doors of their homes or small car booties - make sure you know the dimensions of the buggy once it's folded prior to purchasing in case you're concerned about space.
Find a 3-wheeler that has 2 (or 3!) seats. This is the most suitable option for your future and will help you save money. The iCandy Strawberry Sport is among the most popular. It can be used as early as day dot as a single buggy, and later transformed into twin buggies after your baby starts to walk.
Tyres
These tires cushion bumps and uneven surfaces to make your child's journey more comfortable. They are commonly found on pushchairs such as the Phil & Ted's Sport which MFM reviewer Kath discovered to provide "an amazing ride for my toddler". She also said that its grippy tyres made it easy to tackle cobbles and kerbs.
These tyres can sometimes prove difficult to maintain their inflation and need to be replenished regularly. These tyres are more prone to punctures, and you should always carry a repair kit as well as an spare inner tube with you when you're out and about.
PU tyres are found on more pushchairs than the air-filled tyres but they're just as durable. You can identify PU tires by their smooth appearance and soft texture. They also slide over flat and tidied surfaces.
If you rub your hands over the tyres, then you can determine if they're rubber or PU. If it feels as if it's moving, then it's a PU. You can also check whether your buggy comes with PU tyres by sliding them onto flat, clean surfaces. They should roll easily and fit snugly into wheel hubs.
Foam tyres can handle the rough terrain associated with high-performance buggies. This could make your buggy less stable as the foam loses its springy feel. These tyres are also noisy due to the fact that they create a lot noise when you turn and drive around town.