3 Wheeler Buggies
A three-wheeled buggy is perfect for off-road terrain and offers an easy ride for babies. They can also be easier to maneuver and push than a four-wheel buggy, especially if they have fabric slings or modular 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 a great option for off-roading (especially when they are equipped with a seat unit that is all-terrain or off-road). These buggys often have oversized front tires that can withstand bumps, kerbs and rough terrain. Some have a lockable wheel on the front for additional stability when driving on uneven terrain.
It is important to remember that 3-wheel buggies can have a lower centre of gravity than models with four wheels and this can mean that they fall over more easily. But, the top 3-wheel pushchairs are designed with an ideal geometry and design to ensure that they remain stable in all weather conditions. They should be able to turn at a whim and be easy to steer with one hand. They also feature a 360o rotating front wheel, which makes them ideal to navigate difficult terrain.
For extremely difficult surfaces, look out for models with air-filled tyres, also known as pneumatic tyres. They are designed to work on non-paved tracks and are able to deal with rocks, mud, etc. A lot of all-terrain buggies have a swivelling wheel on the front that can be locked to provide greater stability when dealing with rough terrain.
A 3-wheeled pram is a great option for those who run and love to speed up the hill. This is particularly true if you intend to connect to a car seat or carrycot. The Roma Atlas is an excellent example. It has a flat-reclining seat with five-point harnesses, and plenty of storage space for all your gear (plus an extendable 50+ sun hood). It's light compact and safe for use from birth. It can be used in conjunction with a car seat or carrycot. It can also be used for jogging with a light pace, but is not intended for serious runners.
Weight
If you are looking for a buggy to take on difficult terrain, you should pick one with large tires. They will be able to handle cobbles, grass and dirt tracks, and provide an enjoyable ride for all passengers. They're also good for jogging since they have built in suspension and are easy to get up and down kerbs. However, they are quite heavy to push.
The best 3 wheel buggy for rough terrain is the Mountain Buggy Urban Glide 2 (pictured above). This 3-wheel buggy is very mobile due to its 16 rear wheels and an adjustable front wheel that locks. It comes with tyres filled with air which require pumping regularly. It can carry children until the age of three. MFM reviewer Kath said that her toddler liked the shape of the seat and she found it easy to steer with her 3-year-old on board.
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 is also easy to move kerbs up and down and fits into a the boot of a car that is small. It can be used as a stroller along with a carrycot for newborns or toddlers.
Sling seats made of fabric fit snugly inside the frame of the buggie, as opposed to on top of it 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 should never overestimate the amount of times you'll have to do this when you're a new parent!)
Seating
The capacity for seating of 3 wheelers is quite impressive and there are a variety of different options to choose from. The carrycot that comes with it is perfect for newborns (which MFM reviewer Alice describes as a comfy and cozy lay-flat bed that can be used both on and off the buggy). Older children and toddlers will appreciate the spacious and padded seat unit that has adjustable ventilation. It's worth noting that the seats do not recline completely, but they can be lowered to the lowest setting which should still give your child plenty of headroom and room to move around.
A fabric sling is also available. It has the advantage that it is placed within the frame, instead of being placed on top of it as a modular seat. This results in a lower centre of gravity and a perfect weight distribution. This makes it easier to push, particularly on bumpy terrain or over curbs. MFM reviewer Kath liked the way this type of seat handled obstacles.
This type of buggy has an extensive basket and other features that are useful, such as an hood that can be extended with 50+ UV protection, an easy to use brake pedal, and some unique visibility lights which can be put 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) is a world first that can take in the newborn, and later be modified to accommodate three or more children as they grow, all within a single footprint.
Stores
The 3-wheeled frame is more sturdy and can be moved by one hand. It's also more suitable for terrains that are difficult to navigate. However, it means that the basket won't hold as much as a four-wheeled buggy.
A top-quality ATP will have pneumatic tyres, a cushioned grip for added comfort, and a superb suspension. It will accommodate a car seat, which means you can use it from birth.
MFM's reviewers have noticed that the 3-wheeler frame doesn't pass through all doors of their homes or small car boots - make sure to check the dimensions of the buggy when it's folded before purchasing if you're worried about space.
pushchair 3 wheels looking into 3-wheelers that can accommodate two (or even 3!) seats as your family grows - these are the most efficient of both and will help you save money in the future. The iCandy strawberry sport is one of the top of them; it can be used as a single unit from day dot, and then transforms to twin buggies when your baby begins walking.
Tyres
Air filled tyres are made to provide your child with a more comfortable ride by cushioning out bumps and uneven surfaces. They are typically included on pushchairs such as the Phil & Ted’s Sport that MFM reviewer Kath said offered "an exceptional ride for her toddler". She also said that the grippy tyres of the Phil & Ted's Sport made it easier for her to negotiate the kerbs and other obstacles.
These tyres are sometimes difficult to maintain and need to have their air pressure topped up regularly. They are also more vulnerable to punctures than foam tyres. So it is essential that you have a repair kit, spare inner tube and pump on hand when you are you're out and about in your buggy.
PU tyres are typically found on pushchairs as they are less expensive than tyres filled with air, but they are just as robust. PU tires are easily distinguished by their matte finish and soft feel. They also slide across flat and tidy surfaces.
You can usually discern the difference between PU and air-filled tire by running your fingers over them, if it feels hard, then it's made of rubber, when it slides, it's a PU. You can also confirm that your buggy is fitted with PU tyres by slipping the tyres over flat, clean surfaces - they'll be able to roll easily and should fit comfortably in their wheel hubs.
Foam tyres are commonly used in high-performance buggies as well as joggers because they can cope with the rough terrain common to this type of pushchair. The downside is that the foam can compress and make your buggy feel less stable, as it loses its springy feel. These tyres are also noisy because they generate lots of noise when you turn or drive around town.