3 Wheeler Buggies
A three-wheeled buggy is perfect for off-road terrain and provides the most comfortable ride for infants. They can also be easier to maneuver and push than a four-wheeler, especially if they have fabric slings or modular seat units that are placed snugly in the frame, offering the most efficient geometry 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, which can cope well with kerbs and bumps as well as rough terrain. Some even feature a lockable front tire to provide extra stability on uneven terrain.
It's important to remember that 3-wheel buggies have lower centers of gravity than their 4-wheeled counterparts which means they could fall more easily. However, the most reliable 3-wheel buggies have the an ideal geometry and design to ensure that they remain solid in all conditions. They should be able to turn at a whim and be easy to steer with one hand. They also feature an incline of 360o for the front wheel which is ideal for navigating difficult terrain.
For surfaces that are extremely challenging be sure to choose an air-filled model, also known as pneumatic tyres, which are designed to work on roads that are not paved and can deal with mud, gravel, rock etc. A majority of all-terrain buggies come with an adjustable front wheel that can be locked to add stability when working on extremely rough terrain too.
A 3-wheel pram is also an ideal option for runners and those who like to walk fast and uphill, particularly when you plan to attach a carrycot or car seat. 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 all your equipment (plus the ability to extend 50+ of the sun hood). It's light, compact, and suitable to use from birth. It can be used in conjunction with a car seat or carrycot. It also allows for some light jogging but isn't intended for serious joggers.
Weight
If you're looking for a buggy that can handle the tough terrain, then you'll need one with large wheels. They can handle cobbles, grass and dirt tracks, while providing an enjoyable ride for anyone. 3 wheeled pushchair are also great for jogging, as they have built-in suspension and are able to climb up and down kerbs. However, the trade off is that they are quite heavy to push.
The Mountain Buggy Urban Glide 2 is the most suitable 3 wheel buggy you can use on rough terrain (pictured above). This 3-wheel buggy is very maneuverable due to its 16 rear wheels as well as a lockable front wheel. It comes with air tyres which require pumping occasionally and can hold a child until the age of 3. MFM reviewer Kath says that her toddler was awed by the shape of the seat, and she was able to steer it easily with her three-year-old on board.
The Baby Jogger Versa GT is another great option. It comes with a movable handlebar, a high-quality hood that provides 50+ UV protection and a high-quality hood. It's also easy to move up and down kerbs, and it can fit in small car boots. It can also be used as a stroller and baby carriers or toddlers.
Fabric sling seats are tucked inside the frame of the buggie instead of on top of it like modular seats. This model has a lower centre of gravity at the right height. It is easier to push, and is lighter to kerb-pop (you cannot underestimate how many times you'll need to do that as a new parent!).
Seating
The capacity for seating of 3 wheelers is impressive and there are many different options to choose from. For babies, there is the option to use the carrycot (which MFM reviewer Alice says is a cosy and comfortable lying flat bed that can be used both on and off the buggy) In addition, older babies and toddlers can use the parent or world-facing seat that is spacious and padded and does have adjustable ventilation. The seats do not fully recline, but they can be lowered to the lowest point. This should allow your child plenty of space and headroom.
A fabric sling is also available. It has the advantage that it is located inside the frame, instead of being placed on top of it as a modular seat. This means that it has a lower centre 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 style of seat handled challenges.
In addition to a big shopping basket, this kind of buggy typically has some very useful features like an extendable 50+ UV hood, a simple brake pedal, and a few games-changing visibility lights that come up from the handlebar and can be placed directly in front of the occupants to increase their safety when they are tackling difficult terrain.
If you're looking for a single buggy that will adapt to your family's needs There's the new sport(tm) which is a world's first that can take one baby from day dot and then change to take two or even 3 after your baby has developed, all within the footprint of one buggy.
Storage
The 3-wheeled frame is much more sturdy and can be moved with one hand. It's also better for terrain that is difficult. The shopping basket is smaller than a four-wheeler.
A good quality ATP will have a top suspension, pneumatic tyres and an ergonomic handle that is cushioned to ensure your comfort. It should be able to accommodate a carrycot or a car seat, so you can use it from birth.
MFM's reviewers have found that the 3-wheeler frame won't pass through all doors of their homes or small car boot - be sure you check the dimensions of the buggy when it's folded prior to purchasing in case you're concerned about space.
Look for a 3-wheeler with 2 (or 3!) seats. This is the most suitable option for your future and will help you save money. The iCandy strawberry sport is among the top of them; it can be used as a single seat from day dot and later converts into twin buggies once your baby begins walking.
Tyres
These tires cushion bumps and uneven surfaces to make your child's journey more comfortable. These are used on pushchairs such as the Phil & Ted's Sport that MFM reviewer Kath said offered "an exceptional ride for her toddler". She also noted that the grippy tires of the Phil and Ted's Sport made it simple for her to negotiate the kerbs and other obstacles.
These tyres are sometimes tricky to keep inflated and must be topped up frequently. These tyres are more susceptible to punctures, which is why you should always have an repair kit and spare inner tube with you when you're out and out and about.
PU tyres are found on more pushchairs than air-filled tyres, but they're still as sturdy. PU tires are easily distinguished by their matte finish and supple feel. They also slide well on even and tied surfaces.
It's usually possible to tell 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 check whether your buggy is equipped with PU tyres, by sliding them onto a flat, clean surface. They should roll smoothly and fit comfortably into wheel hubs.
Foam tyres can handle the rough terrain associated with high-performance buggies. This could make your buggy less stable as the foam loses its springy quality. The tyres can also be noisy because they generate lots of noise when you turn or drive around the town.