3 Wheeler Buggies
A three-wheeler is ideal for tackling off-road terrain and provides the most comfortable ride for your baby. They can also be easier to maneuver and push than a four-wheel buggy, especially those with fabric sling seats or seat units that are placed perfectly within the frame, providing the best ergonomics and weight distribution.
Stability
A three-wheel buggy has excellent stability, which is the reason it is a great option for off-road walks (especially with an all-terrain or off-road style seat). They typically have large front tires that can handle bumps, kerbs and rough terrain. Some models even have a lockable front wheel to provide extra stability on uneven terrain.
It is important to keep in mind that 3-wheel buggies have lower centers of gravity than 4-wheeled versions and, therefore, could fall more easily. But, the top 3-wheel pushchairs are designed with perfect geometry and engineering to ensure that they remain stable in all conditions. They should be able turn on a dime and be easy to steer using one hand. They also feature an incline of 360o for the front wheel, which makes them perfect for maneuvering over difficult terrain.
For extremely difficult surfaces, look out for models with air-filled tyres which are also referred to as pneumatic tyres. They are made to handle roads that are not paved and can deal with dirt, gravel, and so on. A majority of all-terrain buggies come with a swivelling front wheel that can be locked to add stability when dealing with extremely rough terrain too.
A tri-wheeled pram is a great choice for runners and those who enjoy walking 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. It also has improved 5-point harness and storage space for all your gear (plus an extension of 50+ sun hood). It is lightweight compact and safe for use starting at birth. It can be used in conjunction with the car seat or carrycot. It also handles some light jogging but isn't intended for serious runners.
Weight
If you're looking for a buggy to tackle difficult terrain, then you should select one with big tires. These are designed to handle grass, cobbles and dirt tracks easily, while still providing smooth riding. They are also great for jogging since they come with suspension and are simple to move up and down kerbs. The downside is that they're quite heavy to push.
The best 3-wheel buggy for rough terrain is the Mountain Buggy Urban Glide 2 (pictured above). The 3-wheel buggy comes with 16 rear wheels with a lockable swivel front wheel making it extremely maneuverable. It comes with tyres filled with air that require pumping regularly. It can accommodate children up until the age of three. MFM reviewer Kath said that her toddler liked the design of the seat and found it easy to steer with her 3-year-old son on the seat.
The Baby Jogger Versa GT is an alternative that is also a great choice. It comes with an adjustable handlebar, a high-quality hood that offers 50+ UV protection, and an extremely high-quality hood. It is also easy to move kerbs upwards and downwards and fits into a small car boot. It can be used as a stroller with baby carriers or toddlers.
Fabric sling seats are tucked inside the frame of the buggie, as opposed to over it like modular seats. This design has a lower center of gravity and a perfect height, instantly making it easier to push and lighter to kerb pop (you cannot underestimate the amount of times you'll have to do that as new parents!)
Seating
The capacity for 3 wheelers is impressive, and there are a number of different options to choose from. The carrycot that comes with it is ideal for a baby (which MFM reviewer Alice describes as a cozy and comfortable lie-flat bed that can be used on and off the buggy). Older babies and toddlers will love the large and comfortable seat unit that has adjustable ventilation. It is important to note that the seats aren't fully reclined however, they can be adjusted to the lowest position which will give your child plenty of headroom and space to move around.
A sling made of fabric is also available. It's a benefit that it is located within the frame, instead of being placed on top of it as a modular seat. This creates a lower center of gravity with perfect weight distribution. This makes it easier to push, especially over bumpy terrain and curbs. MFM reviewer Kath liked the way this type of seat handled the obstacles.
Alongside a huge shopping basket, this type of buggy typically has some pretty useful features such as an extendable 50+ UV hood, a simple brake pedal and some games-changing visibility lights that come up from the handlebars and can be placed directly in front of the occupants to ensure their safety when traversing difficult terrain.
Alternatively, if you are searching for a single baby buggy that can adapt to your family's needs, there's the brand-new sport(tm) that is the first of its kind to take a single newborn from day dot and then adjust to take 2 or even three once your children have developed and all within the footprint of one buggy.
Stores
The 3-wheeled frame is more stable and can be pushed with just one hand. It's also better for terrains that are difficult to navigate. However, it also means that the shopping basket can't hold as much as a four-wheeled buggy.
A high-quality ATP will have excellent suspension, pneumatic tyres and an ergonomic handle that is cushioned for your ease. It is also equipped to carry the form of a car seat and carrycot which means you can use it from the time you are born.
MFM's reviewers have noticed that the 3-wheeler frame doesn't pass through all doors in their homes, or small car booties - make sure you know the dimensions of the buggy once it's folded prior to purchasing for those who are concerned about space.
Find a 3-wheeler that has 2 (or 3!) seats. seats when your family grows - these are the most efficient of both and can help you to save money in the future. The iCandy strawberry sport is among the best of these; it can be used as a single seat from day dot and later converts into twin buggies once your baby starts walking.
Tyres
Air filled tyres have been designed to give your child more comfort while riding by cushioning out bumps and uneven surfaces. These are included on pushchairs such as the Phil and Ted's Sport, which MFM reviewer Kath said offered "an outstanding ride for her toddler". She also said that the grippy tyres on it made it easier to handle cobbles and kerbs.
These tyres are sometimes difficult to maintain and will require having their air pressure topped up regularly. These tyres are prone to punctures, and it is recommended to always carry an repair kit and spare inner tube when you're out and about.
pushchairsandprams.uk can be seen on a lot more pushchairs than air-filled tyres but they're still as sturdy. PU tires are easily distinguished by their matte finish and soft feel. They also glide well on uneven and tied surfaces.
It's usually possible to tell the difference between air-filled and PU tires by running your hands over each one. If it feels hard, then it's rubber and if it slides then it's a PU. You can also determine if your buggy is fitted with PU tyres sliding them on an even, smooth surface. They should roll smoothly and fit comfortably into wheel hubs.
Foam tyres can handle the rough terrain that comes with high-performance buggies. The downside of this is that the foam could expand and cause your buggy to feel less stable as it loses its springy feel. These tyres are also noisy due to the fact that they create a lot noise when you turn and navigate around the town.