3 Wheeler Buggies
A three-wheeled buggy is perfect for off-road terrain and offers an easy ride for babies. They are also more convenient to push and maneuver than a four-wheel buggy, particularly those with fabric slings or modular seat units that are placed comfortably in the frame, delivering the best ergonomics and weight distribution.
Stability
A three-wheeled buggy offers excellent stability, which is why it is a great choice for off road walking (especially with an all terrain or off-road style seat unit). They typically have larger front wheels, which cope well with bumps and kerbs and rough ground. Some have a lockable wheel on the front to provide extra stability when driving on uneven terrain.
It's important to remember that 3-wheel buggies have lower centers of gravity than their 4-wheeled counterparts and, therefore, can topple over more readily. However, the most reliable 3-wheel buggies have the an ideal geometry and design to ensure they are stable in all conditions. They should be able to turn at a single click and be easy to steer using just one hand and have a 360o swivelling front wheel which makes them perfect for maneuvering and navigating difficult terrain.
For extremely difficult surfaces you should look for an air-filled model, also known as pneumatic tyres. These are designed to handle non-paved tracks and are able to deal with rocks, mud, and more. Many all-terrain buggies include a swivelling wheel on the front that can be locked to provide extra stability when you're dealing with rough terrain.
A 3-wheeler is an ideal option for runners or those who like to walk fast and uphill, especially if you're planning to attach a carrycot or car seat. The Roma Atlas is a great example, offering a world-facing seat that reclines flat. It also comes with a new 5-point harness as well as storage space for all your equipment (plus an extendable 50+ sun hood). It's compact, lightweight and suitable for babies and can be used with a carrycot or car seat. It also allows for a bit of moderate jogging, but it's not designed for serious runners.
Weight
If you're looking for a buggy that can handle difficult terrain, then you'll need one with big wheels. They can handle cobbles, grass and dirt tracks and provide an enjoyable ride for all passengers. They're also ideal for jogging since they come with suspension and are simple to climb and descend kerbs. The downside is that they're 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 mobile due to its 16 rear wheels as well as a lockable front wheel. It has tyres with air which require pumping up every now and then. It can be used by children up until the age of three. MFM reviewer Kath says that her toddler was awed by the shape of the seat, and she was able to steer it easily with her 3 year old on board.
Another option that is great is the Baby Jogger Versa GT, that comes with an adjustable handlebar as well as a hood that is of high-quality with 50+ UV protection. It is also easy to move up and down kerbs and fits in a small car boot. It can be used as a stroller with baby carriers or toddlers.
Fabric slings are set inside the frame and not on top as modular seats. This design provides an lower centre of gravity at the perfect height, making it easier to push and lighter to pop the kerb (you should never underestimate the amount of times you'll have to do this when you're a new parent!)
Seating
The capacity for 3 wheelers is quite impressive and there are a variety of different options to pick from. The included carrycot plus is ideal for a baby (which MFM reviewer Alice describes as a cozy and comfortable lie-flat bed that can be used both in and out of the buggy). Older infants and toddlers will appreciate the large and comfortable seat unit with adjustable ventilation. It's important to note that these seats aren't fully reclined, but they can be adjusted to the lowest level which should still give your child plenty of headroom and room to move around.
A sling seat made of fabric is also available. It offers the advantage of being positioned snugly inside the frame, rather than over the top of the modular seat. This provides a lower center of gravity and a perfect weight distribution. This makes it easier to push, especially on bumpy terrain or over curbs. MFM reviewer Kath liked the way this style of seat dealt with obstacles.
This kind of buggy comes with an extensive basket and other features that are useful, such as an extended hood with 50+ UV protection, a simple to use brake pedal and a few innovative lights for visibility which can be put on the front of the passengers to ensure safety when riding on rough terrain.
If you're searching for a single baby buggy that can adapt to your family's needs There's a brand new sport(tm) which is the first of its kind to take one baby from day dot and then adapt to take 2 or even 3 after your baby has developed, all within the footprint of one buggy.
Stores
The 3-wheeled frame makes a buggy much more stable to push one handed and also perfect for handling terrain that is difficult to navigate. The shopping basket is smaller than a 4-wheeler.
A high-quality ATP will have pneumatic tyres, a cushioned grip for comfort and excellent suspension. It should also be equipped to carry a carrycot and car seat so you can use it from birth.
The MFM reviewers noted that the 3-wheeler frames didn't fit through their home's doors or car boot. If you're worried about space, be sure you check the dimensions of the buggy once it is folded before purchasing.
It's worth looking for a 3-wheeler that can take two (or even 3!) This is the best choice for your child's future and will help you save money. The iCandy strawberry sport is one of the most popular and can be used as a single seat from day dot and then converts into twin buggies once your baby starts walking.
Tyres
These tires cushion bumps and uneven surfaces to make your child's ride more comfortable. They are commonly found on pushchairs like the Phil and Ted's Sport that MFM reviewer Kath said offered "an outstanding ride for her toddler". She also said that the grippy tyres of the Phil and Ted's Sport made it easy for her to maneuver around the kerbs as well as other obstacles.
These tyres are sometimes difficult to maintain their inflation and need to be topped up frequently. They are also more prone to punctures than foam tyres. So you'll need to make sure that you have a repair kit, spare inner tube and pump in case you go traveling with your buggy.
PU tyres are typically used on pushchairs since they are less expensive than tyres filled with air, but they are equally durable. PU tyres are easily identified by their matte finish and soft feel. They also slide easily on even and tied surfaces.
If you run your hand over the tyres you can determine if they're rubber or PU. If it feels as if it is sliding then it is a PU. You can also determine whether your buggy is equipped with PU tyres sliding them across an even, smooth surface. They should roll easily and fit snugly into wheel hubs.
Foam tyres are commonly 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 could make your buggy less stable as the foam loses its springy quality. You'll also find that these types of tyres can typically be noisy because they generate a lot of noise as you turn and navigate your way around town.