3 Wheeler Buggies
A three-wheeled buggy is perfect for off-road terrain and offers a smooth ride for baby. three wheel pushchair are also simpler to push and manoeuvre than a four-wheeler especially those equipped with fabric slings or modular seat units, which are positioned tightly in the frame and deliver the most efficient design and weight distribution.
Stability
A three-wheel buggy has excellent stability, which is the reason it's a good choice for off road walking (especially with an all terrain or off-road-style seat). They typically have larger front wheels that can deal well with kerbs and bumps and rough ground. Some models have a lockable wheel on the front for additional stability while driving on uneven terrain.
It's important to remember that 3-wheel buggies have lower centers of gravity than the 4-wheeled versions and, therefore, could fall more easily. However, the most reliable 3-wheel pushchairs have perfect geometry and engineering to ensure they are stable in all weather conditions. They must be able to pivot at a single click and be able to steer with just one hand and have a 360o swivelling front wheel that makes them great for maneuvering and navigating difficult terrain.
Look for models that have pneumatic tyres. These are designed to work on tracks that are not paved, and should be able to handle rocks, mud, gravel, etc. A lot of all-terrain buggies have a swivelling wheel on the front that can be locked to provide added stability when tackling very rough terrain.
A 3-wheel pram is also an ideal option for runners or for those who like to walk quickly and uphill, particularly in the event that you're planning to connect a carrycot or car seat. The Roma Atlas is a great example, with a world-facing seat that reclines flat. It also has improved 5-point harness and storage space for all your equipment (plus an extendable 50+ sun hood). It's compact, lightweight and suitable for infants and can be used in conjunction with a carrycot or car seat. It can also be used for light jogging but is not intended for serious runners.
Weight
If you're looking for a buggy that can handle the tough terrain then you want one with big wheels. These are designed to handle cobbles, grass and dirt tracks with ease while providing a smooth ride. They're also good for jogging because they're equipped with suspension and are easy to move 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-wheeler is highly maneuverable because it has 16 rear wheels as well as a lockable front wheel. It comes with air tyres that require occasional pumping and can hold a child until the age of 3. MFM reviewer Kath says that her toddler was awed by the seat shape and she found steering it easy even with her 3-year-old in the seat.
The Baby Jogger Versa GT is another great option. It comes with an adjustable handlebar, a high-quality hood that offers 50+ UV protection, and a high quality hood. It is also easy to move kerbs upwards and downwards, and can fit into small car boot. It can also be used as a stroller along with baby carriers or toddlers.
Fabric sling seats are tucked within the buggie's frame rather than over it like modular seats. This design delivers an lower centre of gravity that is at the ideal height, making it easier to push and lighter to kerb pop (you should never think about how often you'll be doing this when you're a new parent!)
Seating
The capacity for 3 wheelers is quite impressive, and there are a number of different choices to choose from. The carrycot that comes with it is ideal for a newborn (which MFM reviewer Alice describes as a comfy and cozy lay-flat bed that can be used both in and out of the buggy). Older babies and toddlers will appreciate the large and comfortable seat unit that has adjustable ventilation. It is important to note that the seats don't recline fully however they can be adjusted to the lowest position which will give your child plenty of headroom and space to move around.
A fabric sling is also available. It's a benefit that it is located within the frame, rather than on top as a seat that is modular. This means that it has a lower centre of gravity and a perfect weight distribution. This makes it easier to push, especially over bumpy terrain and curbs. MFM reviewer Kath liked the way this kind of seat handled the obstacles.
This type of buggy comes with a large basket and other useful features such as an extendable hood with 50+ UV protection, an easy to use brake pedal and some unique visibility lights which can be put in front of the occupants to increase safety on rough terrain.
If you're seeking a buggy that will grow along with your family it's the sport(tm) is a world first that can take in infants and be modified to accommodate three or four children as they grow, all within a single footprint.
Stores
The 3-wheeled frame makes the buggy more sturdy to push one-handed, and it's also great for handling difficult terrain. The shopping basket is smaller than a four-wheeler.
A high-quality ATP will feature pneumatic tyres, a padded grip for comfort and excellent suspension. It should be able to accept a carrycot or car seat, which means you can use it from birth.
MFM's reviewers found that the 3-wheeler frames couldn't fit through their home's doors or car boot. If you're worried about space, be sure to check out the dimensions of the buggy once it is folded before buying.
It's worth looking for 3-wheelers that can accommodate 2 (or even 3!) seats once your family grows. They are the best of both worlds and future proof your money. The iCandy strawberry sport is among the best of these and can be used as a single seat from day dot, and then transforms to twin buggies when your baby begins walking.
Tyres
Air filled tyres are designed to give your child an easier ride by cushioning bumps and uneven surfaces. They are commonly used on pushchairs such as the Phil and Ted's Sport, which MFM reviewer Kath said provided "an amazing ride for her toddler". She also noted that the grippy tyres make it easy to tackle kerbs and cobbles.
These tyres are sometimes difficult to maintain and will need to be filled regularly. They are also more prone to punctures than foam tyres, so you'll need to make sure that you have a repair kit with spare tubes and a pump in case you go traveling with your buggy.
PU tyres can be used on pushchairs since they are a cheaper option than air-filled tyres but are equally robust. You can recognise PU tyres by their matte appearance and soft, smooth feel. They also glide well on uneven and tied surfaces.
It's usually possible to discern the difference between PU and air-filled tire by running your fingers over each one. If it feels firm, then it's a rubber tyre, and if it slides then it's a PU. You can also test whether your buggy comes with PU tyres, by sliding them on an even, smooth surface. 3 wheeler pushchair should roll smoothly and fit comfortably into wheel hubs.
Foam tyres are able to withstand the rough terrain that comes with high-performance buggies. This could make your buggy less stable as the foam loses its springy feel. These tyres are also noisy because they generate lots of noise when you turn or drive around the town.