3 Wheeler Buggies
A three-wheeler is ideal for off-roading providing an easy ride for your infant. They are also easier to push and maneuver than a four-wheeler and are especially suitable for those with fabric slings or seat units that are placed in a tight position within the frame to provide the best design and weight distribution.
Stability
Three-wheeled vehicles are very stable, making them an ideal option for off-road walks (especially when equipped with a seat unit that is all-terrain or off-road). They typically have larger front wheels, which cope well with kerbs and bumps as well as rough ground. Some even have a lockable front wheel for extra stability on uneven terrain.
It is important to keep in mind that 3-wheel buggies have lower center of gravity than the 4-wheeled versions which means they could fall more easily. The best 3-wheeled pushchairs have been designed with perfect geometry to ensure they remain steady in any weather. They must be able to pivot on a dime, be easy to steer with just one hand, and have a 360o swivelling front wheel which makes them perfect for maneuvering and navigating difficult terrain.
For extremely difficult surfaces, look out for an air-filled model which are also referred to as pneumatic tyres. They are made to handle roads that are not paved and can deal with rocks, mud, etc. Many all-terrain buggies include an swivelling wheel on the front that can be locked for extra stability when you're dealing with rough terrain.
A 3-wheeled pram is a great option for those who run and like to walk fast uphill. This is especially true if you plan to attach an infant car seat or carrycot. The Roma Atlas is a great example, with a world-facing seat that reclines flat and 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 from birth and can be used in conjunction with a carrycot or car seat. It can also be used for light jogging but it's not designed for serious runners.
Weight
If you're seeking a buggy that can handle the tough terrain, then you'll need one with big wheels. They can handle cobbles, grass and dirt tracks while providing an enjoyable ride for anyone. These are also great for jogging because they have built-in suspension and are able to climb up and down kerbs. The trade-off is that they're a bit heavy to push.
The Mountain Buggy Urban Glide 2 is the most suitable 3 wheel buggy for use on rough terrain (pictured above). This 3-wheel buggy is very maneuverable because it has 16 rear wheels as well as the front wheel can be locked. It comes with air tyres which require pumping occasionally, and it can carry children up to the age of 3. MFM reviewer Kath said that her toddler liked the shape of the seat and found it easy to steer even with her 3-year-old son on the board.
Another great option is the Baby Jogger Versa GT, that comes with an adjustable handlebar and a high-quality hood with 50+ UV protection. It's also easy to move up and down kerbs, and it can fit into small car boot. It can also be used as a pram with baby car seat for infants and toddlers.
Sling seats made of fabric fit snugly within the buggie's frame instead of on top of it like modular seats. This design has a lower centre of gravity and a perfect height, making it easier to push and lighter to kerb pop (you cannot overestimate how often you'll do this as a new parent!)
Seating
There are many options for seating in 3 wheelers. The included carrycot plus is ideal for a baby (which MFM reviewer Alice describes as a comfy and cozy lie-flat bed that can be used both in and out of the buggy). Older babies and toddlers will love the spacious and padded seat unit that has adjustable ventilation. It's important to note that these seats don't recline fully however they can be lowered to the lowest setting which should still give your child plenty of headroom and room to move around.
A sling seat made of cloth is also available, which offers the advantage of being positioned snugly inside the frame, rather than on top like an open-back seat. This gives a lower centre of gravity and perfect weight distribution. This makes it much easier and lighter to push especially over bumpy terrain or curbs. MFM reviewer Kath was impressed with the way this type of seat negotiated these challenges.
In addition to a big shopping basket, this kind of buggy generally has quite useful features, such as an extendable 50+ UV hood, an easy-to-use brake pedal and some game-changing visibility lights that come up from the handlebars and can be placed directly in front of the occupants to improve their safety when tackling tricky terrain.
Alternatively, if you are seeking a single stroller that will grow with your family There's the new sport(tm) which is the first of its kind to take a single newborn from the moment of birth and adjust to take 2 or even 3 after your little ones have grown, 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 terrains that are difficult to navigate. However, it also means that the shopping basket can't hold as much as a 4-wheeler buggy.
A high-quality ATP will feature pneumatic tyres, a cushioned grip for comfort and excellent suspension. It will be able to accommodate a carrycot or a car seat, which means you can use it right from birth.
MFM's reviewers have found that the 3-wheeler frame can't fit through all the doors of their homes or small car booties - make sure to check the dimensions of the buggy once it's folded before purchasing for those who are concerned about space.
Find a 3-wheeler that has 2 (or 3!) seats. This is the best choice for your future and can save you money. The iCandy strawberry sport is one of the best of these that can be used as a single from day dot and then converts to twin buggies when your baby begins walking.
Tyres
These tyres absorb bumps and uneven surfaces to make your child's ride more comfortable. They are typically found on pushchairs like the Phil & Ted’s Sport, which MFM reviewer Kath said was "an outstanding ride for her toddler". She also said that the grippy tires of the Phil and Ted's Sport made it easier for her to negotiate kerbs and other obstacles.
They can be tricky to keep inflated and will need to be filled regularly. They are also more vulnerable to punctures than foam tyres, so it is essential that you have repair kits, spare inner tube and pump in case you go you're out and about in your buggy.
PU tyres are typically used on pushchairs since they are a cheaper option than air-filled tyres but are equally durable. You can tell PU tires by their smooth appearance and soft, smooth feel. They also slide easily on even and tied surfaces.
It's usually possible to discern the distinction between air-filled and PU tyres by running your hand over each one. If it feels hard then it's made of rubber, when it slides, it's a PU. You can also verify whether your buggy has PU tyres simply by sliding the tyres on a clean, flat surface - they'll be able to roll easily and fit snugly in their wheel hubs.
Foam tyres are typically used in high-performance buggies as well as joggers since they are able to cope with the rough terrain associated with this type of pushchair. This could make your buggy less stable because the foam will lose its springy nature. These tyres also make a lot of noise because they generate a lot noise when you turn or drive around town.