3 Wheeler Buggies
A three-wheeler is ideal for off-roading and provides the most comfortable ride for your infant. They are also easier to push and manoeuvre than a four-wheel buggy, particularly those with fabric slings or seat units, which are tightly positioned in the frame to provide the best shape 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 that is all-terrain or off-road). These types of buggys typically have large front tires that can handle bumps, kerbs, and rough terrain. Some even have a lockable front wheel to provide extra stability on uneven terrain.
It is important to remember that 3-wheel buggies have a lower centre of gravity than models with four wheels which means that they topple over more easily. The best 3-wheeled pushchairs have been made with the best geometry to ensure that they remain steady in any weather. They should be able to turn on a dime and be able to steer with one hand, and have a 360o swivelling front wheel which makes them perfect for maneuvering and navigating challenging terrain.
Look for models with pneumatic tyres. These are made to work on tracks that are not paved, and should be able to take on dirt, gravel, rocks and more. Many all-terrain buggies come with an swivelling wheel at the front which can be locked for greater stability when dealing with rough terrain.
A 3-wheel stroller is an excellent option for runners and those who like to walk quickly and uphill, particularly when you plan to attach an infant car seat or carrycot. The Roma Atlas is a great example, with a world-facing seat that can recline flat and features a more comfortable 5-point harness and storage space for all your kit (plus an extension of 50+ sun hood). It's light, compact and suitable for infants and can be used in conjunction with the use of a car seat or carrycot. It also handles some light jogging, but isn't designed for serious joggers.
Weight
If you're looking for a vehicle that can handle difficult terrain, you need one with large wheels. These will cope well over cobbles, grass and dirt tracks, while providing a smooth ride for any passenger. They're also good for jogging because they come with suspension and are easy to move up and down kerbs. However, the trade off is that they can be quite heavy to push.
The best 3 wheel buggy for rough terrain is the Mountain Buggy Urban Glide 2 (pictured above). This 3-wheeler is highly mobile due to its 16 rear wheels as well as a lockable front wheel. It has tyres with air which require pumping regularly. It can be used by children as young as the age of three. MFM reviewer Kath says that her toddler was awed by the shape of the seat and found steering it easy even with her 3 year old in the seat.
Another great option is the Baby Jogger Versa GT, which has an adjustable handlebar and a high-quality hood with 50+ UV protection. It is also easy to move up and down kerbs and fits in a the car's boot space in a small size. It can also be used as a pram, with a carrycot or infant car seat for infants and toddlers.
Fabric slings are positioned within the frame and not on top of the frame like modular seats. This design has an lower centre of gravity and a perfect height, instantly making it easier to push and lighter to kerb pop (you can never underestimate how often you'll do this when you're a new parent!)
Seating
There are many options for seating in three wheelers. The carrycot that comes with it is perfect for newborns (which MFM reviewer Alice describes as a comfortable and cosy lie-flat bed that can be used in and out of the buggy). Older children and toddlers will love the spacious and comfortable seat with adjustable ventilation. It's important to note that these seats do not recline completely, but they can be adjusted to the lowest level which will give your child plenty of headroom and space to move around.
A sling seat made of cloth is also available, which is placed snugly within the frame instead of over the top of a modular seat and this gives a lower centre of gravity and 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.
In addition to a large shopping basket, this type of buggy typically has some very useful features like an extended 50+ UV hood, a simple brake pedal, and some bright, game-changing lights that pop up from the handlebars and can be placed directly in front of the occupants to increase their safety when tackling tricky terrain.
Alternatively, if you are looking for a single buggy that will adapt to your family's needs There's the new sport(tm) that's the first in the world to take a single newborn from day dot and then adjust to take 2 or even three once your baby has developed and all within the footprint of one buggy.
Stores
The 3-wheeled frame is much more sturdy and can be moved with one hand. It's also ideal for difficult terrain. However, it also 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 a padded handle to ensure your convenience. It should also be equipped with a carrycot and car seat so you can use it right from the time you are born.
MFM's reviewers have discovered that the 3-wheeler frame doesn't fit through all the doors in 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 an SUV with three wheels that can fit two (or even 3!) seats as your family grows - these are the best of both worlds and future proof your money. The iCandy Strawberry Sport is one of the most popular. It can be used from day dot as a single buggy, and later converted into twin buggies once your baby starts to walk.
Tyres
These tires cushion bumps and uneven surfaces to make your child's ride more enjoyable. These are used on pushchairs such as the Phil and Ted's Sport, which MFM reviewer Kath said offered "an outstanding ride for her toddler". She also noted that the grippy tyres make it easy to tackle cobbles and kerbs.
These tyres are sometimes tricky to keep inflated and must be topped up frequently. 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 seen on a lot more pushchairs than air-filled tyres but they're still as durable. PU tires are easily distinguished by their matte finish and supple feel. They also slide on flat and tidy surfaces.
If you rub your hands over the tyres, then you can determine if they're PU or rubber. If it feels as if it's moving, then it is a PU. You can also check whether your buggy is equipped with PU tyres by sliding them across an even, smooth surface. pushchair 3 wheels should roll easily and fit snugly into the wheel hubs.
Foam tyres are able to withstand the rough terrain of high-performance buggies. The downside is that the foam could compress and make your buggy appear less stable as it loses its springy quality. You'll also find that these types of tyres can frequently be noisy, as they make a lot of noise as you turn and navigate your way through town.