3 Wheeler Buggies
A three-wheeled buggy is ideal for off-road terrain and offers the most comfortable ride for infants. They are also easier to push and maneuver than a four-wheeler, especially if they have fabric sling seats or modular seat units that are positioned comfortably in the frame, delivering the best geometry and weight distribution.
Stability
Three-wheeled vehicles are very stable, which makes 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 larger front wheels that can deal well with bumps and kerbs and rough ground. 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 can have a lower center of gravity than 4-wheeled models which means that they can tip over more easily. However, the most reliable 3-wheel pushchairs are designed with an ideal geometry and design to ensure they are stable in all conditions. They should be able to turn on a dime and be easy to steer with one hand. They also have an incline of 360o for the front wheel, which makes them ideal to navigate difficult terrain.
For surfaces that are extremely challenging you should look for models with air-filled tyres, also known as pneumatic tyres. These are made to handle non-paved tracks and are able to deal with mud, gravel, rock etc. A majority of all-terrain buggies come with an swivelling front wheel that can be locked to increase stability when working on extremely rough ground too.
A 3-wheel pram is also a good option for runners or for those who prefer to walk quickly and uphill, especially when you plan to attach a car seat or carrycot. The Roma Atlas is a great example, offering a world-facing seat that reclines flat and has improved 5-point harness and storage space for all your gear (plus an extendable 50+ sun hood). It's light, compact, and suitable to use from birth. It can be used with a 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 vehicle that will take on tricky terrain, then you'll need one with large wheels. These are designed to handle grass, cobbles and dirt tracks with ease and still provide an enjoyable ride. They are also great for jogging since they come with suspension and are simple to get up and down kerbs. However, the drawback is that they are quite heavy to push.
The Mountain Buggy Urban Glide 2 is the best 3 wheel buggy to use on rough terrain (pictured above). This 3-wheel buggy has 16 rear wheels with a lockable swivel front wheel making it extremely maneuverable. It has air tyres, that require occasional pumping and can hold children until the age of 3. MFM reviewer Kath said that her toddler enjoyed the shape of the seat, and she found it easy to steer even with her three-year-old child on the board.
The Baby Jogger Versa GT is another great option. It comes with an adjustable handlebar, a hood made of high-end materials that offers 50+ UV protection, and an extremely high-quality hood. It's also easy to move up and down kerbs and fit into small car boot. It can be used as a stroller and baby carriers or toddlers.
Fabric sling seats sit snugly inside the buggie's frame instead of sitting on top of it as modular seats. This design has a lower centre of gravity at the right height. It is easier to push and lighter to kerb pop (you cannot underestimate how many times you will do this as a new parent!).
Seating
There are many options for seating in 3 wheelers. The carrycot included is perfect for newborns (which MFM reviewer Alice describes as a comfortable and cosy lying-flat bed that can be used on and off the buggy). three wheel pushchair and toddlers will enjoy the spacious and comfortable seat unit with adjustable ventilation. It's worth noting that the seats don't recline fully, but they can be adjusted to the lowest position which should still give your child plenty of headroom and room to move around.
A fabric sling seat is also available. It is positioned snugly inside the frame, rather than on top like a modular seat and this gives a lower centre of gravity and a perfect weight distribution. 3 wheeled pushchair makes it easier to push, particularly on bumpy terrain or over curbs. MFM reviewer Kath liked the way this kind of seat handled obstacles.
This type of buggy comes with an extensive basket and other useful features like an hood that can be extended with 50+ UV protection, a simple to use brake pedal and some innovative visibility lights that can be positioned on the front of the passengers for improved safety on difficult terrain.
If you're searching for a stroller that will grow along with your family, the sport(tm), a world-first that can take in infants and be modified to fit three or more children as they grow, all within one footprint.
Storage
The 3-wheeled model is more sturdy and can be moved with just one hand. It's also better for terrain that is difficult. However, it means that the shopping basket doesn't hold as much as a 4-wheeler buggy.
A top-quality ATP will come with a great suspension, pneumatic tyres and a padded handle to ensure your convenience. It should be able to accommodate a car seat, meaning you can use it right from the time of birth.
MFM's reviewers found that the 3-wheeler frames didn't pass through their doors at home or car boot. If you're concerned about space, be sure to check out the dimensions of the buggy when it is folded before purchasing.
It's worth looking into 3-wheelers that can accommodate 2 (or even 3!) This is the best option for your future and will help you save money. The iCandy Strawberry Sport is one of the most sought-after. It can be used as early as day dot as a single buggy and then converted into twin buggies once your baby begins walking.
Tyres
These tires cushion bumps and uneven surfaces to make your child's ride more enjoyable. They're commonly found on pushchairs such as the Phil and Ted's Sport which MFM reviewer Kath discovered to provide "an exceptional ride for my toddler". She also noted that the grippy tires of the Phil and Ted's Sport made it simple for her to navigate the kerbs and other obstacles.
These tyres are sometimes tricky to keep inflated and need to be replenished regularly. They are also more susceptible to punctures than foam tyres. So you'll need to make sure that you have repair kits along with a spare inner tube and pump handy when traveling with your buggy.
PU tyres can be seen on a lot more pushchairs than air-filled tyres, but they are still just as robust. PU tyres are easily identified by their matte finish and supple feel. They also slide well on even and tied surfaces.
If you run your hand over the tyres, then you can tell if they are rubber or PU. If it feels as if it is sliding then it is a rubber or PU. You can also determine whether your buggy comes with PU tyres by sliding them on a flat, clean surface. They should roll smoothly and fit snugly into the wheel hubs.
Foam tyres are often used in high-performance buggies and Joggers due to their ability to deal with the rough terrain that's common to this type of pushchair. This can make your buggy less stable since the foam will lose its springy feel. You'll also find that these kinds of tyres can typically be noisy because they create a lot of noise as you turn and navigate your way through town.