3 Wheeler Buggies
A three-wheeled buggy is perfect for off-roading and provides a smooth ride for baby. They are also easier to maneuver and push than a four-wheel buggy, particularly those with fabric slings or modular seat units that are placed snugly in the frame, offering the best geometry and weight distribution.
Stability
Three-wheeled buggys are extremely 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 usually have large front wheels that can deal well with kerbs and bumps as well as rough terrain. Some have a lockable wheel in the front to give you additional stability while driving on uneven terrain.
It's worth bearing in mind that 3-wheel buggies may have a lower centre of gravity than 4-wheeled models, which can mean that they can tip over more easily. The best 3-wheeled pushchairs have been designed with perfect geometry to ensure they remain stable in any condition. They should be able turn on a dime and be easy to steer with one hand. They also have a 360o rotating front wheel that is ideal for maneuvering over difficult terrain.
Look for models with pneumatic tyres. These are made to handle nonpaved tracks, and are able to withstand rocks, mud, gravel, etc. Many all-terrain buggies come with an swivelling wheel on the front that can be locked for greater stability when dealing with rough terrain.
A three-wheeled stroller is a great option for runners and those who enjoy walking fast uphill. This is particularly true if you intend to connect an infant car seat or carrycot. The Roma Atlas is a great example, with a world-facing seat that reclines flat and has improved 5-point harness and storage space for all your equipment (plus an extendable 50+ sun hood). It's light compact and safe for use starting at birth. It can be used with either the car seat or carrycot. It can also be used for light jogging but it's not designed for serious runners.
Weight
If you're looking for a vehicle that can handle difficult terrain, you need one with big wheels. These are made to handle dirt, cobbles, and grass tracks with ease while providing an enjoyable ride. These are also great for jogging as they come with built-in suspension and are able to climb up and down kerbs. However, the drawback is that they can be quite heavy to push.
The most suitable 3 wheel buggy for rough terrain is the Mountain Buggy Urban Glide 2 (pictured above). This 3-wheel buggy has 16 rear wheels, and an swivel wheel lockable to the front which makes it very maneuverable. It comes with tyres filled with air that require pumping up every now and then. It can carry children as young as the age of three. MFM reviewer Kath says that her toddler loved the shape of the seat, and she found steering it easy even with her 3 year old in the seat.
The Baby Jogger Versa GT is another excellent option. It has an adjustable handlebar, a top-quality hood that offers 50+ UV protection, and an extremely high-quality hood. It's also easy to move up and down kerbs and fit into small car boot. It can also be used as a pram, with a carrycot or infant car seat for infants and toddlers.
Fabric sling seats sit snugly inside the frame of the buggie rather than over it like modular seats. This design has a lower centre-of-gravity at the perfect height. It is much easier to push, and is lighter to kerb-pop (you don't know 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 pick from. For a newborn, there is the option to use the carrycot plus (which MFM reviewer Alice says is a comfortable and cozy lie-flat bed that can be used on and off the buggy) and older infants and toddlers can be seated in the parent or world-facing seat unit that is roomy and padded and does have adjustable ventilation. The seats are not able to recline fully, but they can be lowered down to the lowest setting. This should give your child plenty of space and headroom.
A sling seat made of fabric is also available. It is positioned snugly inside the frame, rather than sitting on top as the modular seat. This gives a lower centre of gravity as well as a perfect weight distribution. This makes it easier to push, especially on bumpy terrain or over curbs. MFM reviewer Kath liked the way this type of seat dealt with challenges.
This type of buggy comes with a large basket and other beneficial features like an hood that can be extended with 50+ UV protection, an easy to use brake pedal and a few innovative lights for visibility that can be positioned in front of the occupants to ensure safety when riding on rough terrain.
If you're looking for a buggy that will grow along with your family it's the sport(tm) is a first in the world, can accommodate a newborn and then be adapted to accommodate three or more children as they grow, all in one footprint.
Storage
The 3-wheeled frame is more stable and can be pushed by one hand. It's also better for terrains that are difficult to navigate. However, it does mean that the basket won't hold as much as a 4-wheeler buggy.
A high-quality ATP will come with pneumatic tyres, a cushioned grip for better comfort, and an excellent suspension. It will also be equipped with a carrycot and car seat and you can use it from the moment you are born.
MFM's reviewers have noticed that the 3-wheeler frame can't fit through all the doors in their homes or small car booties - make sure you check the dimensions of the buggy once it's folded before buying if you're worried about space.
Choose a 3-wheeler with 2 (or 3!) seats. seats as 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 one of the most sought-after. It can be used from the day of birth as a single buggy and then converted into twin buggies when your baby begins walking.
Tyres
These tyres cushion bumps and uneven surfaces to make your child's ride more comfortable. three wheel pushchair found on pushchairs like the Phil & Ted's Sport which MFM reviewer Kath discovered to provide "an amazing ride for my toddler". She also noted that the grippy tyres make it easier to handle kerbs and cobbles.
These tyres are sometimes difficult to maintain their inflation 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 along with a spare inner tube and pump handy when out and about with your buggy.
PU tyres can be used on pushchairs since they are less expensive than tyres filled with air, but they are just as robust. You can recognise PU tire treads by their matte appearance and soft, smooth feel. They also slide over flat and tidy surfaces.
If you move your hand over the tyres, then you can tell if they are rubber or PU. If it feels like it's sliding, then it is a rubber or PU. You can also check whether your buggy has PU tyres by slipping the tyres onto flat, clean surfaces They'll roll easily and fit snugly in their wheel hubs.
Foam tyres can withstand the rough terrain of high-performance buggies. This can make your buggy less stable because the foam loses its springy quality. Additionally, these tyres may typically be noisy because they create lots of noise when you turn and navigate your way through town.