3 Wheeler Buggies
A three-wheeled buggy is ideal for off-road terrain and provides a smooth ride for baby. They can also be easier to move and push than a four-wheeler, particularly those with fabric sling seats or seat units that are positioned perfectly in the frame, offering the most efficient geometry and weight distribution.
Stability
Three-wheeled buggys are extremely stable, which makes them an ideal choice for off-road walking (especially when they are equipped with a seat unit that is all-terrain or off-road). They usually have large front wheels, which cope well with kerbs and bumps and rough ground. Some models even feature a lockable front tire to provide extra stability on uneven terrain.
It is important to keep in mind that 3 wheel travel system-wheel buggies have lower center of gravity than 4-wheeled versions and, therefore, can topple over more readily. The best 3 wheel buggies-wheeled pushchairs have been built with the perfect geometry to ensure that they remain steady in any weather. They should be able turn on a dime and be easy to steer with one hand. They also have a 360o rotating front wheel that makes them ideal for maneuvering over difficult terrain.
Look for models that have pneumatic tyres. They are made to work on tracks that are not paved, and should be able to handle dirt, gravel, rocks and other debris. Many all-terrain buggies come with an swivelling wheel at the front that can be locked to provide extra stability when you're dealing with rough terrain.
A 3-wheel stroller is an excellent option for runners or those who prefer to walk quickly and uphill, especially in the event that you're planning to connect a car seat or carrycot. The Roma Atlas is a great example, offering a world-facing seat that reclines flat and comes with a new 5-point harness as well as storage space for all your kit (plus an extendable 50+ sun hood). It's compact, lightweight and suitable for babies and can be used in conjunction with a carrycot or car seat. It can also be used for jogging with a light pace, but is not intended for serious runners.
Weight
If you're seeking a buggy that will take on tricky terrain, then you'll need one with large wheels. These are made to handle grass, cobbles and dirt tracks easily and still provide an enjoyable ride. They're also ideal for jogging as they have built in suspension and are easy to get up and down kerbs. The downside is that they're a bit heavy to push.
The best 3 wheel buggy for rough terrain is the Mountain Buggy Urban Glide 2 (pictured above). The 3 wheeled pushchair-wheel buggy comes with 16 rear facing 3 wheel stroller wheels with an swivel wheel lockable to the front making it extremely maneuverable. It has air tyres which require pumping occasionally and can hold a child up to 3. MFM reviewer Kath said that her toddler liked the shape of the seat, and she found it easy to steer even with her 3-year-old on the seat.
Another option that is great is the Baby Jogger Versa GT, that comes with an adjustable handlebar and a hood made of high-quality with 50+ UV protection. It's also simple to get up and down kerbs and can fit in small car boots. It can also be used as a pram that comes with an infant car seat for newborns and toddlers.
Fabric slings are set inside the frame, not on top like modular seats. This design delivers a lower center of gravity and a perfect height, instantly making it easier to push and lighter to pop the kerb (you cannot underestimate how often you'll be doing this as a new parent!)
Seating
The seating capacity of 3 wheelers is quite impressive and there are many different choices to choose from. For newborns it is possible to use the included carrycot (which MFM reviewer Alice says is a cozy and comfortable lying flat bed that can be used on and off the buggy), while older babies and toddlers can be seated in the parent-facing or world-facing seat unit that is roomy and padded, and comes with adjustable ventilation. The seats are not able to recline completely, but can be adjusted to the lowest point. This should still allow your child plenty of space and headroom.
A fabric sling seat is also available. It has the advantage of being positioned snugly inside the frame, rather than over the top of the modular seat. This gives a lower centre of gravity as well as a perfect weight distribution. This makes it easier to push, particularly on bumpy terrain or over curbs. MFM reviewer Kath liked the way this kind of seat dealt with obstacles.
Alongside a huge shopping basket, this kind of buggy typically has some pretty useful features such as an extendable 50+ UV hood, an easy-to-use brake pedal, and some bright, game-changing lights that pop up from the handlebar and can be positioned in front of the passengers to improve their safety when tackling tricky terrain.
If you're looking for a single buggy that can adapt to your family's needs There's a brand new sport(tm) that's a world's first that can take a single newborn from day dot and then adapt to take 2 or even 3 once your baby has developed and all within the footprint of one buggy.
Storage
The 3-wheeled frame is more stable and can be pushed with one hand. It's also better for terrain that is difficult. The shopping basket is smaller than a four-wheeler.
A top-quality ATP will have pneumatic tyres, a padded grip for better comfort, and an excellent suspension. It will be able to accommodate a carrycot or a car seat, so you can use it right from the time of birth.
MFM's reviewers have noticed that the 3-wheeler frame won't fit through all the doors of their homes or small car boot - be sure you check the dimensions of the buggy when it's folded before purchasing if you're worried about space.
Choose a 3-wheeler with 2 (or 3!) seats. seats once your family grows - these are the best of both worlds and can help you to save money in the future. The iCandy Strawberry Sport is among the most well-known. It can be used from day dot as a single buggy, and then converted into twin 3 wheel stroller buggies after your baby begins walking.
Tyres
These tyres absorb bumps and uneven surfaces to make your child's ride more comfortable. You'll find these on pushchairs such as the Phil & Ted's Sport which MFM reviewer Kath found to be "an exceptional ride for my toddler". She also noted that the grippy tyres on it made it easier to handle cobbles and kerbs.
They can be difficult to maintain and require air pressure regularly topped up. They are also more prone to punctures than foam tyres. So you'll need to ensure that you have repair kits, spare inner tube and pump handy when you're out and about in your buggy.
PU tyres are typically used on pushchairs since they are a cheaper option than air-filled tyres but are equally robust. PU tires are easily distinguished by their matte finish and soft feel. They also slide across flat and tidied surfaces.
You can usually identify the difference between PU and air-filled tire by running your fingers over them, if it feels hard, then it's rubber and when it slides, it's a PU. You can also test if your buggy is fitted with PU tyres, by sliding them onto flat, clean surfaces. They should roll easily and fit comfortably into wheel hubs.
Foam tyres are often used in high-performance buggies as well as joggers because they can cope with the rough terrain associated with this type of pushchair. This can make your buggy less stable since the foam loses its springy nature. These tyres are also noisy because they generate lots of noise when you turn and navigate around town.