3 Wheeler Buggies
A three-wheeler is ideal for tackling off-road terrain providing a smooth ride for your infant. They are also more convenient to move and push than a four-wheeler, especially if they have fabric slings or modular seats that are set comfortably in the frame, offering the most efficient 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 that is all-terrain or off-road). They usually have large front wheels that can deal well with bumps and kerbs and rough ground. Some have a lockable wheels on the front to provide additional stability when driving on uneven terrain.
It's important to remember that 3-wheel buggies have a lower center of gravity than the 4-wheeled versions which means they are more likely to fall over. The most reliable 3-wheeled pushchairs are built with the perfect geometry to ensure they remain solid in all conditions. They should be able to turn on a dime and be easy to steer with just one hand and have 360o swivelling front wheels which makes them ideal for maneuvering and navigating difficult terrain.
Look for models with pneumatic tyres. 3 wheel pushchair are made to work on tracks that are not paved, and should be able to handle dirt, gravel, rocks and other debris. A lot of all-terrain buggies have an swivelling wheel on the front which can be locked for added stability when tackling very rough terrain.
A 3-wheel stroller is a good option for runners and those who like to walk fast 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 can recline flat and has improved 5-point harness and storage space for all your gear (plus an extendable 50+ sun hood). It is lightweight compact and safe for use from birth. It can be used in conjunction with the car seat or carrycot. It also handles a bit of 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 select one with large tires. They will be able to handle cobbles, grass and dirt tracks while providing an enjoyable ride for anyone. These are also great for jogging as they come with built-in suspension and are able to climb up and down kerbs. The downside is that they are quite heavy to push.
The Mountain Buggy Urban Glide 2 is the best 3 wheel buggy for use on rough terrain (pictured above). This 3-wheeler is highly maneuverable due to its 16 rear wheels and an adjustable front wheel that locks. It comes with air tyres which do need occasional pumping and can hold children up to 3. MFM reviewer Kath said that her toddler liked the design of the seat and found it easy to steer even with her 3-year-old son on board.
The Baby Jogger Versa GT is an alternative that is also a great choice. It has an adjustable handlebar, a top-quality hood that offers 50+ UV protection as well as a high quality hood. It's also easy to move up and down kerbs and can fit into small car boot. It can also be used as a stroller and a carrycot for newborns or toddlers.
Fabric sling seats are tucked within the buggie's frame, as opposed to on top of it like modular seats. This design delivers a lower centre of gravity and a perfect height, instantly making it easier to push and lighter to kerb pop (you cannot think about the amount of times you'll have to do this as a new parent!)
Seating
The seating capacity of 3 wheelers is impressive, and there are a number of different choices to choose from. For babies you have the option to use the included carrycot and (which MFM reviewer Alice says is a cozy and comfortable lie flat bed that can be used both on and off the buggy) and older infants and toddlers can sit in the parent-facing or world-facing seat that is large and padded, and comes with adjustable ventilation. It's worth noting that the seats don't recline fully however they can be adjusted to the lowest level which will give your child plenty of headroom and space to move around.
A fabric sling seat is also available. It is positioned snugly inside the frame instead of over the top of an open-back seat. This provides a lower center of gravity and a perfect weight distribution. This makes it easier to push, particularly over bumpy terrain and curbs. MFM reviewer Kath liked the way this kind of seat handled obstacles.
Alongside a huge shopping basket, this kind of buggy generally has very useful features like an extended 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 occupants to increase their safety when traversing difficult terrain.
If you're looking for a buggy that will grow along with your family, the sport(tm) is a world first, can accommodate a newborn and then be modified to accommodate three or more children as they grow. All within one footprint.
Stores
The 3-wheeled model is more stable and can be pushed with one hand. It's also better for difficult terrain. The shopping basket is smaller than a 4-wheeler.
A top-quality ATP will come with a great suspension, pneumatic tyres, and an ergonomic handle that is cushioned for your ease. It should be able to accept a carrycot or car seat, so you can use it from birth.
MFM's reviewers have noticed 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 when it's folded prior to purchasing if you're worried about space.
It's worth considering a 3-wheeler that can take two (or even 3!) This is the most suitable option for your future and will save you money. The iCandy Strawberry Sport is among the most well-known. It can be used from the day of birth as a single buggy, and later converted into twin buggies when your baby begins walking.
Tyres
Air filled tyres have been designed to give your child an easier ride by cushioning bumps and uneven surfaces. They're commonly found on pushchairs like the Phil and Ted's Sport which MFM reviewer Kath found to offer "an amazing ride for my toddler". She also said that the grippy tyres on it made it easy to navigate kerbs and cobbles.
They can be tricky to keep inflated and must be topped up frequently. These tyres are more susceptible to punctures, which is why it is recommended to always carry an repair kit and spare inner tube when you're out and out and about.
PU tyres can be used on pushchairs since they are a cheaper option than air-filled tyres, but they are equally durable. PU tire are easily identifiable by their matte finish and soft feel. They also glide well on even and tied surfaces.
It's usually possible to identify the difference between air-filled and PU tires by running your hands over each one. If it feels hard, then it's made of rubber, when it slides, it's a PU. You can also determine if your buggy is fitted with PU tyres by sliding them onto flat, clean surfaces. They should roll easily and fit snugly into wheel hubs.
Foam tyres are able to withstand the rough terrain associated with high-performance buggies. This could make your buggy less stable since the foam will lose its springy feel. You'll also find that these types of tyres can frequently be noisy, as they make a lot of noise when you turn and navigate your way through the town.