3 Wheeler Buggies
A three-wheel buggy is great for off-roading, offering an easy ride for your infant. They are also simpler to push and manoeuvre than a four-wheel buggy and are especially suitable for those with slings made of fabric or modular seat units, which are placed in a tight position within the frame to provide the most efficient geometry and distribution of weight.
Stability
Three-wheeled buggys are very stable, which makes them an excellent choice for off-road walking (especially when equipped with a seat that is all-terrain or off-road). These types of buggys typically have large front tires that are able to handle bumps, kerbs and rough terrain. Some even feature a lockable front tire for extra stability on uneven terrain.
It's important to keep in mind that 3-wheel buggies have a lower center of gravity than 4-wheeled models which means that they can tip over more easily. The most reliable 3-wheeled pushchairs are made with the best design to ensure they stay solid in all conditions. They should be able to turn on a dime and be easy to steer with one hand and have a 360o swivelling front wheel which makes them perfect for manoeuvring and navigating difficult terrain.
For extremely difficult surfaces you should look for an air-filled model which are also referred to as pneumatic tyres. They are made to handle roads that are not paved and can deal with rocks, mud, and more. Many all-terrain buggies include an swivelling wheel on the front that can be locked for added stability when tackling very rough terrain.
A tri-wheeled pram is a great choice for runners and those who enjoy walking fast uphill. This is particularly true if you are planning to attach a car seat or carrycot. The Roma Atlas is a great example, with a world-facing seat that reclines flat. It also comes with a new 5-point harness as well as storage space for all your gear (plus an extendable 50+ sun hood). It's lightweight and compact, and is suitable to use from birth. It can be used with either a car seat or a carrycot. It also allows for a bit of light jogging, but isn't designed for serious runners.
Weight
If you're looking for a vehicle that will take on tricky terrain, you need one with big wheels. They will be able to handle cobbles, grass and dirt tracks while providing an enjoyable ride for any passenger. These are also great for jogging, as they have built-in suspension and are able to climb up and down kerbs. The downside is that they're quite heavy to push.
The Mountain Buggy Urban Glide 2 is the most suitable 3 wheel buggy for use on rough terrain (pictured above). This 3-wheel buggy is very maneuverable because it has 16 rear wheels and a lockable front wheel. It has air tyres which do need occasional pumping and it can be used to carry a child up to 3. MFM reviewer Kath said that her toddler liked the shape of the seat, and she found it easy to steer with her 3-year-old on board.
Another great option is the Baby Jogger Versa GT, with a movable handlebar as well as a hood that is of high-quality with 50+ UV protection. It is also easy to move up and down kerbs, and can fit into small car boot. It can also be used as a pram, with an infant car seat for newborns and toddlers.
Fabric sling seats are tucked within the frame of the buggie instead of over it like modular seats. This style has a lower centre-of-gravity at the ideal height. It is much easier to push and lighter to kerb-pop (you can't underestimate the number of times you'll need to do this as a new parent!).
Seating
There are a myriad of options for seating in three wheelers. The included carrycot plus is ideal for a newborn (which MFM reviewer Alice describes as a cozy and comfortable lying-flat bed that can be used on and off the buggy). Older children and toddlers will love the spacious and comfortable seat unit that has adjustable ventilation. The seats do not recline fully, but they can be lowered to the lowest position. This should still allow your child to have plenty of space and headroom.
A sling seat made of fabric is also available. It is positioned snugly inside the frame instead of over the top of the modular seat. This provides a lower center of gravity and a perfect weight distribution. This makes it easier to push, especially over bumpy terrain and curbs. MFM reviewer Kath liked the way this kind of seat handled the obstacles.
This kind of buggy comes with a large basket and other beneficial features like an hood that can be extended with 50+ UV protection, a simple to use brake pedal and some innovative visibility lights which can be put on the front of the passengers for improved safety on difficult terrain.
If you're seeking a buggy that can grow with your family it's the sport(tm), a world-first that can take in the newborn, and later be modified to accommodate two or three children as they grow, all within a single footprint.
Storage
The 3-wheeled frame is more sturdy and can be moved 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 four-wheeled buggy.
A high-quality ATP will have pneumatic tyres, a cushioned grip for better comfort, and an excellent suspension. It will be able to accept a carrycot or car seat, meaning you can use it from the time of birth.
MFM's reviewers have discovered that the 3-wheeler frame doesn't fit through all the doors in their homes or small car booties - make sure you check the dimensions of the buggy when it's folded prior to purchasing if you're worried about space.
It's worth looking for 3-wheelers that can accommodate 2 (or even 3!) This is the most suitable option for your future and can help you save money. The iCandy strawberry sport is one of the top of them that can be used as a single seat from day dot and then converts into twin buggies once your baby starts walking.
Tyres
Air filled tyres are designed to provide your child with a more comfortable ride by cushioning bumps and uneven surfaces. These are found on pushchairs like the Phil & Ted’s Sport that MFM reviewer Kath said offered "an amazing ride for her toddler". She also said that the grippy tyres make it easy to tackle cobbles and kerbs.
They can be tricky to keep inflated and will need to be replenished regularly. These tyres are more prone to punctures, which is why you should always carry a repair kit as well as an spare inner tube with you when you're out and about.
PU tyres can be found on a lot more pushchairs than air-filled tyres, but they're just as sturdy. PU tyres are easily identified by their matte finish and soft feel. They also glide well on smooth and tightly woven surfaces.
If you rub your hands over the tyres you can tell if they are rubber or PU. If it feels as if it is sliding then it's a rubber or PU. You can also verify that your buggy has PU tyres by sliding the tyres on a clean, flat surface - they'll be able to roll easily and should fit snugly into their wheel hubs.
Foam tyres are commonly used in high-performance buggies as well as Joggers due to their ability to deal with the rough terrain common to this type of pushchair. This could make your buggy less stable since the foam loses its springy quality. Additionally, 3 wheeled strollers may frequently be noisy, as they create a lot of noise as you turn and navigate your way through the town.