3 Wheeler Buggies
A three-wheeler is perfect for rough terrain providing a smooth ride for your baby. They are also more convenient to move and push than a four-wheel buggy particularly those with fabric slings or modular seat units that are placed comfortably within the frame, providing the best ergonomics and weight distribution.
Stability
Three-wheeled buggys are extremely stable, which makes them an ideal choice for off-road walking (especially when equipped with a seat that is all-terrain or off-road). They usually have large front wheels, which can cope well with kerbs and bumps and rough ground. Some have a lockable wheel in the front to give you additional stability while driving on uneven terrain.
It's important to keep in mind that 3-wheel buggies may have a lower center of gravity than 4-wheeled models and this can mean that they can tip over more easily. The most reliable 3-wheeled pushchairs are made with the best design to ensure they stay stable in any condition. They should be able turn at a whim and be able to be controlled with one hand. They also feature the ability to rotate 360o on the front wheel, which is ideal for navigating difficult terrain.
Find models with pneumatic tyres. These are designed to handle nonpaved tracks, and should be able to take on rocks, mud, gravel and other debris. Many all-terrain buggies feature a swivelling front wheel that can be locked to add stability when working on extremely rough terrain.
A 3-wheel pram is also a good option for runners or those who like to walk quickly and uphill, especially in the event that you're planning to connect an infant car seat or carrycot. The Roma Atlas is an excellent example. It features an incline-reclining seat that is flat, with a 5-point harness, and plenty of storage space to store everything you need (plus an extendable 50+ sun hood). It's lightweight, compact and suitable from birth and can be used with a carrycot or car seat. It also handles some moderate jogging, but it's not designed for serious runners.
Weight
If you're seeking a buggy that can take on difficult terrain, you should choose one with big tires. They can handle cobbles, grass, and dirt tracks and provide the smoothest ride for all passengers. They are also great for jogging because they're equipped with suspension and are simple to climb and descend kerbs. However, the downside is that they can be quite heavy to push.
The Mountain Buggy Urban Glide 2 is the best 3 wheel buggy you can 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 that require occasional pumping and it can be used to carry children up to 3. MFM reviewer Kath says that her toddler loved the seat shape and she was able to steer it easily with her 3-year-old in the seat.
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 simple to get up and down kerbs, and it can fit in small car boots. It can also be used as a pram, with baby car seat for infants and toddlers.
3 wheel running stroller are set inside the frame, not on top like modular seats. This design has an lower centre of gravity and a perfect height, making it easier to push and lighter to pop the kerb (you cannot overestimate the amount of times you'll have to do this as a new parent!)
Seating
There are many options for seating in three wheelers. For a newborn you have the option to use the carrycot and (which MFM reviewer Alice says is a cosy and comfortable lie-flat bed that can be used on and off the buggy), while older babies and toddlers can sit in the parent or world-facing seat that is spacious and cushioned and has adjustable ventilation. It is important to note that the seats do not recline completely however they can be lowered to the lowest level which should still give your child plenty of headroom and space to move around.
A sling made of fabric is also available. It is advantageous in that it is positioned within the frame, instead of being placed on top of it as a modular seat. This results in a lower centre of gravity, with a perfect weight distribution. This makes it easier and lighter to push, especially when you're on bumpy terrain or curbs and MFM reviewer Kath was impressed with the way this kind of seat dealt with these challenges.
Alongside a huge shopping basket, this type of buggy usually has very useful features like an extendable 50+ UV hood, an easy-to-use brake pedal, and some bright, game-changing lights that come up from the handlebar and can be placed directly in front of the occupants to ensure their safety when traversing difficult terrain.
Alternatively, if you are looking for a single buggy that will grow with your family There's the new sport(tm) that's the first of its kind to take one baby from the moment of birth and adapt to take 2 or even 3 after your baby has developed, all within the footprint of a single buggy.
Storage
The 3-wheeled frame is much more stable and can be pushed with just one hand. It's also ideal for difficult terrain. However, it means that the basket won't hold as much as a 4-wheeler buggy.
A high-quality ATP will have a top suspension, pneumatic tyres, and padding for the handle to ensure your ease. It should also be equipped with the form of a car seat and carrycot which means you can use it right from the time you are born.
MFM's reviewers have noticed that the 3-wheeler frame can't fit through all the doors in their homes or small car booties - make sure to check the dimensions of the buggy once it's folded before buying in case you're concerned about space.
It's worth looking for 3-wheelers that can accommodate two (or even 3!) seats as your family grows. They are the best of both worlds and future proof your money. The iCandy Strawberry Sport is among the most well-known. It can be used from the day of birth as a single buggie and later converted into twin buggies once your baby begins walking.
Tyres
Air filled tyres have been designed to give your child a more comfortable ride by cushioning bumps and uneven surfaces. They are commonly found on pushchairs such as the Phil & Ted's Sport which MFM reviewer Kath found to offer "an amazing ride for my toddler". She also mentioned that the grippy tires of the Phil & Ted's Sport made it simple for her to negotiate the kerbs and other obstacles.
These tyres can be difficult to maintain and will require having their air pressure maintained regularly. These tyres are more susceptible to punctures, so it is recommended to always carry a repair kit and spare inner tube when you're out and out and about.
PU tyres can be found on a lot more pushchairs than air-filled tyres, yet they're still as durable. You can identify PU tyres by their matte appearance and soft texture. They also slide easily on smooth and tightly woven surfaces.
If you move your hand over the tyres, you can tell if they are rubber or PU. If it feels like it is sliding then it's a rubber or PU. You can also verify that your buggy has PU tyres simply by sliding the tyres over flat, clean surfaces They'll be able to roll easily and fit snugly into their wheel hubs.
Foam tyres are able to withstand the rough terrain that comes with high-performance buggies. This could make your buggy less stable since the foam will lose its springy nature. These tyres also make a lot of noise because they generate lots of noise when you turn and navigate around the town.