3 Wheeler Buggies
A three-wheeler is ideal for off-roading, offering a smooth ride for your infant. They are also easier to push and maneuver than a four-wheel buggy, especially those with fabric sling seats or modular seat units that are positioned comfortably within the frame, providing the best ergonomics and weight distribution.
Stability
Three-wheeled buggys are very stable, making them an excellent choice for off-road walking (especially when equipped with a seat that is all-terrain or off-road). They typically have larger front wheels, which cope well with kerbs and bumps and rough ground. Some have a lockable wheel on the front for additional stability while driving on uneven terrain.
It's important to keep in mind that 3-wheel buggies can have a lower centre of gravity than 4-wheeled models and this can mean that they can tip over more easily. The best 3-wheeled pushchairs have been designed with perfect design to ensure they stay stable in any condition. They should be able to turn on a dime and be easy to steer using one hand. They also have an incline of 360o for the front wheel that makes them perfect to navigate difficult terrain.
For surfaces that are extremely challenging you should look for models with air-filled tyres which are also referred to as pneumatic tyres, which are designed to handle roads that are not paved and can deal with dirt, gravel, and more. A majority of all-terrain buggies come with an adjustable front wheel that can be locked to add stability when tackling extremely rough terrain.
A 3-wheeled pram is a great choice for those who run or like to walk fast uphill. This is particularly true if you intend to connect to a car seat or carrycot. The Roma Atlas is an excellent model. It has an incline-reclining seat that is flat, with 5-point harness and plenty of storage space for everything you need (plus an extendable 50+ sun hood). It's light, compact and suitable for infants and can be used with a carrycot or car seat. It also allows for some moderate jogging, but it's not designed for serious runners.
Weight
If you're seeking a buggy that can tackle terrain that is difficult, you should choose one with big tires. They are designed to tackle cobbles, grass and dirt tracks easily, while still providing an enjoyable ride. These are also great for jogging as they come with built-in suspension and are easy enough to climb 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-wheeler has 16 rear wheels with an swivel wheel lockable to the front which makes it very maneuverable. It comes with air tyres which do need occasional pumping and it can be used to carry a child up to the age of 3. MFM reviewer Kath said that her toddler enjoyed the design of the seat and she found it easy to steer with her 3-year-old on the board.
3 wheeled pushchair is an alternative that is also a great choice. It comes with an adjustable handlebar, a top-quality hood that offers 50+ UV protection as well as a high quality hood. It's also easy to get up and down kerbs and fit in small car boots. It can also be used as a pram with an infant car seat for infants and toddlers.
Fabric slings are placed in the frame and not on top as modular seats. This design has a lower centre of gravity at the right height. It is much easier to push, and is lighter to kerb-pop (you can't underestimate the number of times you'll do that as a brand new parent!).
Seating
The capacity for 3 wheelers is impressive and there are a variety of different options to pick from. For babies, there is the option to use the included carrycot plus (which MFM reviewer Alice says is a cozy and comfortable lie-flat bed that can be used both on and off the buggy), while older babies and toddlers can be seated in the parent or world-facing seat unit that is roomy and padded and does have adjustable ventilation. It's worth noting that the seats do not recline completely however they can be adjusted to the lowest position which should still give your child plenty of headroom and room to move around.
A sling made of fabric is also available. It has the advantage that it is positioned within the frame, instead of on top 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 style of seat dealt with obstacles.
This type of buggy comes with an enormous basket, along with other useful features such as an hood that can be extended with 50+ UV protection, a simple to use brake pedal, and some unique visibility lights that can be placed in front of occupants to increase safety on rough terrain.
If you're looking for a buggy that can grow with your family it's the sport(tm) is a world first, can accommodate infants and be modified to fit three or four children as they grow. All within one footprint.
Stores
The 3-wheeled frame is more sturdy and can be moved with one hand. It's also more suitable for terrain that is difficult. However, it means that the shopping basket can't hold as much as a 4-wheeler buggy.
A top-quality ATP will have a top suspension, pneumatic tyres as well as padding for the handle for your comfort. It should also be equipped with car seats and a carrycot and you can use it from birth.
MFM's reviewers discovered that the 3-wheeler frame didn't fit through their home's doors or car boot. If you're concerned about space, be sure to verify the dimensions of the buggy when it is folded before buying.
Look for a 3-wheeler with 2 (or 3!) seats. This is the best option for your future and will save you money. The iCandy strawberry sport is among the best of these and can be used as a single unit from day dot, and then transforms into twin buggies once your baby begins walking.
Tyres
These tyres absorb bumps and uneven surfaces to make your child's journey more comfortable. They're commonly found on pushchairs, such as the Phil and Ted's Sport which MFM reviewer Kath found to offer "an outstanding ride for my toddler". She also noted that the grippy tyres on the Phil & Ted's Sport made it simple for her to negotiate the kerbs and other obstacles.
These tyres can be difficult to maintain and will require air pressure maintained regularly. These tyres are prone to punctures, which is why you should always carry a repair kit as well as an spare inner tube with you when you're out and out and about.
PU tyres are more commonly used on pushchairs since they are less expensive than air-filled tyres, but they are just as robust. You can recognise PU tyres by their matte appearance and soft, smooth feel. They also slide across smooth and tidy surfaces.
If you move your hand over the tyres you can determine if they're PU or rubber. If it feels as if it's moving, then it's a PU. You can also check if your buggy is fitted with PU tyres by sliding them onto flat, clean surfaces. They should roll smoothly and fit snugly into the wheel hubs.
Foam tyres are often used in high-performance buggies as well as Joggers due to their ability to deal with the rough terrain that's associated with this kind of pushchair. This can make your buggy less stable as the foam will lose its springy feel. Also, these types of tyres can typically be noisy because they make a lot of noise as you turn and make your way through town.