3 Wheeler Buggies
A three-wheeled buggy is ideal for off-road terrain and provides an easy ride for babies. They are also easier to push and manoeuvre than a four wheel buggy especially those equipped with slings made of fabric or modular seat units that are placed in a tight position within the frame and provide the best geometry and distribution of weight.
Stability
Three-wheeled buggys are very stable, and this makes them a great choice for off-road walking (especially when they are equipped with a seat unit that is all-terrain or off-road). They typically have larger front wheels that can deal well with kerbs and bumps and rough ground. Some models even feature a lockable front tire to provide extra stability on uneven terrain.
It's worth bearing in mind that 3-wheel buggies can have a lower center of gravity than 4-wheeled models, which can mean that they can tip over more easily. The most reliable 3-wheeled pushchairs are built with the perfect geometry to ensure that they remain stable in any condition. They should be able of turning on a dime, be easy to steer using just one hand and have a 360o swivelling front wheel that makes them great for manoeuvring and navigating difficult terrain.
For extremely difficult surfaces, look out for models with air-filled tyres, also known as pneumatic tyres. They are designed to work on non-paved tracks and should cope with dirt, gravel, and so on. A lot of all-terrain buggies have a swivelling wheel on the front which can be locked for added stability when tackling very rough terrain.
A tri-wheeled pram is a great choice for those who run and enjoy walking fast uphill. This is especially true if you plan to attach an infant car seat or carrycot. The Roma Atlas is an excellent model. It features the flat-reclining seat, five-point harnesses, and plenty of storage space to store all your gear (plus the ability to extend 50+ of the sun hood). It's compact, lightweight and suitable from birth and can be used in conjunction with car seats or a carrycot. It also handles a bit of moderate jogging, but it's not designed for serious joggers.
Weight
If you're seeking a buggy that can tackle difficult terrain, then you should pick one with large tires. They can handle cobbles, grass and dirt tracks and provide a smooth ride for anyone. They're also ideal for jogging as they come with suspension and are easy to move up and down kerbs. However, they're quite heavy to push.
The Mountain Buggy Urban Glide 2 is the best 3 wheel buggy to use on rough terrain (pictured above). The 3-wheel buggy is extremely maneuverable due to its 16 rear wheels as well as the front wheel can be locked. It comes with tyres filled with air that require pumping regularly. It can carry children until the age of three. MFM reviewer Kath said that her toddler loved the design of the seat and she found it easy to steer even with her 3-year-old son on the seat.
3 wheel stroller 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 a high quality hood. It is also easy to move up and down kerbs and fits into a small car boot. It can also be used as a pram that comes with an infant car seat for infants and toddlers.
Fabric sling seats are tucked inside the frame of the buggie rather than over it like modular seats. This design has a lower centre-of-gravity at the right height. It is easier to push, and lighter to kerb pop (you can't underestimate the number of times you will do that as a brand new parent!).
Seating
There are many options for seating in three wheelers. The carrycot included is ideal for a baby (which MFM reviewer Alice describes as a cozy and comfortable lay-flat bed that can be used in and out of the buggy). Older children and toddlers will appreciate the spacious and comfortable seat unit with adjustable ventilation. It's important to note that these seats don't recline fully however, they can be adjusted to the lowest setting which will give your child plenty of headroom and space to move around.
A sling made of fabric is also available. It has the advantage that it is positioned inside the frame instead of on top as a modular seat. This results in a lower centre of gravity, with a perfect weight distribution. This makes it easier to push, especially over bumpy terrain and curbs. MFM reviewer Kath liked the way this style of seat dealt with obstacles.
This kind of buggy comes with a large basket and other beneficial features such as an extended hood with 50+ UV protection, an easy to use brake pedal, and some unique visibility lights that can be placed in front of occupants to ensure safety when riding on rough terrain.
Alternatively, if you are seeking a single stroller that will expand with your family, there's the brand-new sport(tm) that's a world's first that can take one baby from the moment of birth and adapt to take 2 or even 3 after your little ones have grown, all within the footprint of a single buggy.
Stores
The 3-wheeled frame makes a buggy much more sturdy to push one-handed and is also ideal for handling difficult terrain. However, it does mean that the shopping basket doesn't hold the same amount as a 4-wheeled buggy.
A top-quality ATP will feature pneumatic tyres with a padded grip for better comfort, and an excellent suspension. It will be able to accommodate a car seat, meaning you can use it right from the time of birth.
MFM's reviewers have noticed that the 3-wheeler frame won't pass through all doors of their homes or small car booties - make sure to check the dimensions of the buggy when it's folded prior to purchasing in case you're concerned about space.
It's worth looking into an SUV with three wheels that can fit 2 (or even 3!) seats as your family grows. These are the best of both worlds and will help you save money in the future. The iCandy strawberry sport is one of the top of them that can be used as a single from day dot and then converts into twin buggies once your baby begins walking.
Tyres
Air filled tyres have been designed to provide your child with an easier ride by cushioning bumps and uneven surfaces. You'll find these on pushchairs, such as the Phil & Ted's Sport which MFM reviewer Kath found to offer "an amazing ride for my toddler". She also said that the grippy tyres of the Phil and Ted's Sport made it easy for her to navigate the kerbs as well as other obstacles.
These tyres are sometimes difficult to maintain and require having their air pressure maintained regularly. They are also more vulnerable to punctures than foam tyres. So it is essential that you have repair kits with spare tubes and a pump in case you go you're out and about in your buggy.
PU tyres are found on more pushchairs than air-filled tyres, but they're just as sturdy. You can identify PU tyres by their matte appearance and soft, smooth feel. They also slide easily on uneven and tied surfaces.
If you run your hand over the tyres, you can tell if they are PU or rubber. If it feels like it is sliding then it is a PU. You can also confirm that your buggy is fitted with PU tyres by sliding the tyres on flat, clean surfaces - they'll be able to roll easily and fit snugly in their wheel hubs.
Foam tyres are able to withstand the rough terrain associated with high-performance buggies. The downside is that the foam can shrink and make your buggy appear less stable since it loses its springy nature. These tyres are also noisy, as they make lots of noise when you turn and drive around the town.