3 Wheeler Buggies
A three-wheeled buggy is ideal for off-roading and provides a smooth ride for baby. They are also easier to push and maneuver than a four-wheeler, especially those with fabric sling seats or modular seat units that are positioned comfortably in the frame, delivering the best geometry and weight distribution.
Stability
Three-wheeled buggys are extremely stable, and this makes them a great option for off-roading (especially when they are equipped with a seat unit that is all-terrain or off-road). These buggys often have oversized front tires that are able to handle bumps, kerbs and rough terrain. Some even come with a lockable front wheel to give extra stability when driving on uneven terrain.
It's important to remember that 3-wheel buggies have lower centers of gravity than 4-wheeled versions which means they can topple over more readily. But, the top 3-wheel buggies have the perfect geometry and engineering to ensure that they remain stable in all conditions. They should be able to turn at a whim and be easy to steer using one hand. They also have a 360o rotating front wheel which makes them ideal to navigate difficult terrain.
For really tricky surfaces, look out for models with air-filled tyres which are also referred to as pneumatic tyres, which are designed to handle non-paved tracks and should cope with mud, gravel, rock and so on. Many all-terrain buggies include an swivelling wheel on the front that can be locked to provide extra stability when you're dealing with rough terrain.
A 3-wheel stroller is an ideal option for runners or those who prefer to walk quickly and uphill, particularly if you're planning to attach an infant car seat or carrycot. The Roma Atlas is a great example, with a wide-facing seat that reclines flat. It also has improved 5-point harness and storage space for all your equipment (plus an extendable 50+ sun hood). It's lightweight, compact, and suitable to use from birth. It can be used with either a car seat or carrycot. It can also handle a bit of light jogging but isn't intended for serious joggers.
Weight
If you are looking for a buggy to take on difficult terrain, you should choose one with large tires. They are designed to tackle dirt, cobbles, and grass tracks easily while providing smooth riding. They are also great for jogging because they have built-in suspension and are easy to climb up and down kerbs. However, the trade off is that they are 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 making it extremely maneuverable. It comes with air tyres which do need occasional pumping and can hold children up to the age of 3. MFM reviewer Kath says that her toddler was awed by the seat shape and she was able to steer it easily with her three-year-old riding along.
Another great option is the Baby Jogger Versa GT, that comes with an adjustable handlebar and a hood made of high-quality with 50+ UV protection. 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 newborns and toddlers.
Fabric slings are placed in the frame, not on top like modular seats. This model has a lower centre of gravity at the perfect height. It is much easier to push and lighter to kerb pop (you don't know how many times you'll do this as a new parent!).
Seating
The capacity for seating of 3 wheelers is quite impressive, and there are a number of different options to choose from. The included carrycot plus is perfect for newborns (which MFM reviewer Alice describes as a comfy and cozy lie-flat bed that can be used in and out of the buggy). Older babies and toddlers will appreciate the spacious and comfortable seat with adjustable ventilation. It is important to note that the seats don't recline fully, but they can be lowered to the lowest setting which should still give your child plenty of headroom and room to move around.
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 provides a lower center of gravity and 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 handled challenges.
This kind of buggy comes with an extensive basket and other features that are useful, such as 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 occupants for improved safety on difficult terrain.
Alternatively, if you are seeking a single stroller that will grow with your family There's a brand new sport(tm) which is the first in the world to take a single infant from day dot and then adapt to take 2 or even 3 after your children have grown, all within the footprint of one buggy.
Storage
The 3-wheeled frame makes the buggy much more stable to push one handed and is also ideal for handling difficult terrain. However, it does mean that the shopping basket can't hold the same amount as a 4-wheeled buggy.
A good quality ATP will come with a great suspension, pneumatic tyres, and an ergonomic handle that is cushioned to ensure your ease. It should also be able to take car seats and a carrycot which means you can use it right from the moment you are born.
MFM's reviewers have discovered that the 3-wheeler frame won't fit through all the doors in their homes, or small car boot - be sure you know the dimensions of the buggy when it's folded before purchasing in case you're concerned about space.
Find a 3-wheeler that has 2 (or 3!) seats. This is the best option for your future and will save you money. The iCandy strawberry sport is one of the most popular; it can be used as a single seat from day dot and later converts to twin buggies when your baby begins walking.
Tyres
These tyres 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, which MFM reviewer Kath said provided "an exceptional ride for her toddler". She also said that the grippy tyres on it made it easy to tackle cobbles and kerbs.
These tyres can sometimes prove difficult to maintain their inflation and must be replenished regularly. They are also more susceptible to punctures than foam tyres so it is essential that you have repair kits along with a spare inner tube and pump handy when you're out and about in your buggy.
PU tyres are typically used on pushchairs since they are less expensive than air-filled tyres, but they are just as robust. You can tell PU tyres by their matte appearance and soft feel. They also glide well on even and tied surfaces.
It's usually possible to discern the distinction between air-filled and PU tires by running your hands over them, if it feels hard then it's made of rubber, If it slides, then it's a PU. You can also check that your buggy is fitted with PU tyres simply by sliding the tyres over a clean, flat surface - they'll be able to roll easily and fit snugly in their wheel hubs.
Foam tyres are able to withstand the rough terrain that comes with high-performance buggies. The drawback is that the foam could compress and make your buggy appear less stable as it loses its springy quality. You'll also find that these kinds of tyres can frequently be noisy, as they generate a lot of noise as you turn and navigate your way through town.