3 Wheeler Buggies
A three-wheeler is ideal for off-roading and provides the most comfortable ride for your child. They are also more convenient to move and push than a four-wheeler, especially if they have fabric slings or modular seat units that are placed comfortably in the frame, offering the best geometry and weight distribution.
Stability
Three-wheeled buggys are very stable, making 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, which cope well with bumps and kerbs and rough ground. Some models even come with a lockable front wheel to provide extra stability on uneven terrain.
It is important to keep in mind that 3-wheel buggies have lower center of gravity than 4-wheeled versions and, therefore, could fall more easily. That said, the best 3-wheel pushchairs have an ideal geometry and design to make them very solid in all conditions. They should be able of turning at a single click, be easy to steer with just one hand, and feature a 360o swivelling front wheel that makes them great for maneuvering and navigating challenging terrain.
Look for models that have pneumatic tyres. These are designed to work on tracks that are not paved, and should be able to take on dirt, gravel, rocks, etc. A lot of all-terrain buggies have an swivelling wheel on the front which can be locked for added stability when tackling very rough terrain.
A 3-wheel pram is also an ideal option for runners or those who prefer to walk quickly and uphill, particularly in the event that you're planning to connect a car seat or carrycot. The Roma Atlas is an excellent example. It has the flat-reclining seat, five-point harnesses, and plenty of storage space to keep all your equipment (plus an extendable 50+ sun hood). 3 wheeled pushchairs , compact and suitable from birth and can be used in conjunction with a carrycot or car seat. It also handles a bit of light jogging, but isn't designed for serious joggers.
Weight
If you're looking for a buggy that can tackle terrain that is difficult, you should select one with large tires. These are designed to handle grass, cobbles and dirt tracks with ease, while still providing an enjoyable ride. These are also great for jogging because they come with built-in suspension and are able to climb up and down kerbs. However, they are quite heavy to push.
3 wheeled pushchair for rough terrain is the Mountain Buggy Urban Glide 2 (pictured above). This 3-wheeler has 16 rear wheels, and an swivel wheel lockable to the front, so it's very manoeuvrable. pushchair 3 wheels has air tyres that require occasional pumping and it can be used to carry a child up to 3. MFM reviewer Kath says that her toddler loved the shape of the seat and was able to steer it easily with her three-year-old in the seat.
Another option that is great is the Baby Jogger Versa GT, that comes with an adjustable handlebar and a hood made of high-quality with 50+ UV protection. It is also easy to move kerbs upwards and downwards and fits into a small car boot. It can be used as a stroller along with a carrycot for newborns or toddlers.
Fabric slings are set in the frame, not on top like modular seats. This style has a lower centre-of-gravity, which is the perfect height. It is easier to push, and lighter to kerb-pop (you can't underestimate the number of times you will do this as a new parent!).
Seating
There are a myriad of options for seating in 3 wheelers. The carrycot included is ideal for a baby (which MFM reviewer Alice describes as a comfortable and cosy lying-flat bed that can be used in and out of the buggy). Older children and toddlers will love the large and comfortable seat unit with adjustable ventilation. The seats do not recline completely, but can be lowered down to the lowest setting. This should give your child plenty of headroom and space.
A sling seat made of cloth is also available, which offers the advantage of being placed snugly within the frame instead of sitting on top as an open-back seat. This provides a lower center of gravity and a perfect weight distribution. This makes it easier and lighter to push especially when you're on bumpy terrain or curbs and MFM reviewer Kath really liked the way this type of seat dealt with these challenges.
This type of buggy comes with a large basket and other useful features such as an extended hood with 50+ UV protection, an easy to use brake pedal and some innovative visibility lights that can be placed in front of the occupants for improved safety on difficult terrain.
If you're seeking a buggy that can grow with your family The sport(tm) is a world first that can take in a newborn and then be modified to fit three or more children as they grow. All in one footprint.
Stores
The 3-wheeled frame makes a buggy more stable and sturdy to push one-handed and is also ideal for handling difficult terrain. The shopping basket is smaller than a four-wheeler.
A high-quality ATP will come with a great suspension, pneumatic tyres as well as a padded handle for your convenience. It will be able to accept a carrycot or car seat, which means you can use it from the time of birth.
MFM's reviewers have discovered that the 3-wheeler frame can't fit through all the doors of their homes or small car boots - make sure you check the dimensions of the buggy once it's folded before buying in case you're concerned about space.
It's worth looking for 3-wheelers that can accommodate two (or even 3!) seats once your family grows. These are the most efficient of both and future proof your money. The iCandy strawberry sport is among the top of them that can be used as a single unit from day dot and then converts to twin buggies when your baby starts walking.
Tyres
These tires cushion bumps and uneven surfaces to make your child's ride more enjoyable. They are typically found on pushchairs like the Phil & Ted’s Sport that MFM reviewer Kath said provided "an outstanding ride for her toddler". She also said that the grippy tyres on the Phil and Ted's Sport made it easy for her to maneuver around the kerbs as well as other obstacles.
They can be difficult to maintain and need to have their air pressure regularly topped up. They are also more vulnerable to punctures than foam tyres, so you'll need to ensure that you have a repair kit along with a spare inner tube and pump in case you go traveling with your buggy.
PU tyres are more commonly found on pushchairs as they are less expensive than tyres filled with air, but they are just as durable. PU tires are easily distinguished by their matte finish and soft feel. They also slide over flat and tidy surfaces.
You can usually discern the distinction between air-filled and PU tire by running your fingers over each one. If it feels hard then it's made of rubber, If it slides, then it's a PU. You can also confirm whether your buggy has PU tyres simply by sliding the tyres on a clean, flat surface - they'll be able to roll easily and fit snugly into their wheel hubs.
Foam tyres are typically used in high-performance buggies as well as joggers because they can cope with the rough terrain associated with this kind of pushchair. This could make your buggy less stable because the foam will lose its springy feel. The tyres can also be noisy, as they make lots of noise when you turn and drive around the town.