3 Wheeler Buggies
A tri-wheeled stroller is ideal for off-roading and provides a smooth ride for baby. Learn Even more are also easier to push and maneuver than a four-wheeler, especially if they have fabric sling seats or seat units that are positioned perfectly within the frame, providing the best geometry and weight distribution.
Stability
A three-wheeler has great stability, which is the reason it's a good choice for off road walking (especially with an all terrain or off-road style seat unit). They typically have large front tires that can handle bumps, kerbs and rough terrain. Some have a lockable wheels on the front for additional stability when 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 fall over more easily. However, the most reliable 3-wheel buggies have the an ideal geometry and design to ensure that they remain stable in all weather conditions. They should be able turn at a whim and be able to be controlled with one hand. They also come with a 360o rotating front wheel which makes them ideal for navigating difficult terrain.
For really tricky surfaces, look out for an air-filled model which are also referred to as pneumatic tyres. They are designed to handle non-paved tracks and should cope with dirt, gravel, etc. A majority of all-terrain buggies come with a swivelling front wheel that can be locked to add stability when dealing with extremely rough terrain.
A 3-wheeled pram is a great choice for those who run and like to walk fast uphill. This is particularly true if you are planning to attach a car seat or carrycot. The Roma Atlas is an excellent model. It features an incline-reclining seat that is flat, with a 5-point harness, and plenty of storage space to keep everything you need (plus the ability to extend 50+ of the sun hood). It's light compact and safe for use starting at birth. It can be used with either a car seat or carrycot. It also handles a bit of light jogging but isn't intended for serious runners.
Weight
If you're looking for a vehicle that can handle difficult terrain, then you'll need one with big wheels. These are designed to handle dirt, cobbles, and grass tracks with ease and still provide an enjoyable ride. These are also great for jogging, as they have a suspension built-in and are able to climb up and down kerbs. However, the trade off is that they can be quite heavy to push.
The best 3-wheel buggy for rough terrain is the Mountain Buggy Urban Glide 2 (pictured above). This 3-wheeler has 16 rear wheels, and a lockable swivel front wheel making it extremely maneuverable. It has air tyres that require occasional pumping and it can be used to carry a child up to the age of 3. MFM reviewer Kath says that her toddler loved the seat shape and she found it easy to drive with her 3-year-old on board.
Another great option is the Baby Jogger Versa GT, which has an adjustable handlebar and a high-quality hood with 50+ UV protection. It is also easy to move kerbs up and down and fits into a the boot of a car that is small. It can also be used as a pram with an infant car seat for infants and toddlers.
Fabric slings are placed in the frame and not on top of the frame like modular seats. This design delivers a lower center of gravity that is at the ideal height, making it easier to push and lighter to pop the kerb (you should never think about the amount of times you'll have to do this as a new parent!)
Seating
There are a myriad of options for seating in 3 wheelers. For a newborn you have the option to use the carrycot and (which MFM reviewer Alice says is a comfortable and cozy lying flat bed that can be used on and off the buggy), while older babies and toddlers can be seated in the world-facing or parent facing seat unit that is roomy and padded and does have adjustable ventilation. The seats don't recline fully, but they can be lowered down to the lowest point. This should allow your child plenty of space and headroom.
A fabric sling is also available. It is advantageous in that it is positioned within the frame, instead of on top as a modular seat. This results in a lower centre 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 loved the way that this style of seat dealt with these challenges.
Alongside a huge shopping basket, this type of buggy usually has quite useful features, such as an extendable 50+ UV hood, an easy-to-use brake pedal and some game-changing visibility lights that come up from the handlebar and can be placed in front of the passengers to ensure their safety when tackling tricky terrain.
Alternatively, if you are seeking a single stroller that will adapt to your family's needs There's a brand new sport(tm) that is the first in the world to take one baby from day one and adapt to take 2 or even 3 after your little ones have developed and all within the footprint of a single buggy.
Stores
The 3-wheeled frame makes a buggy more sturdy to push one-handed and is also ideal for handling rough terrain. However, it means that the shopping basket can't hold as much as a 4-wheeler buggy.
A high-quality ATP will feature pneumatic tyres, a cushioned grip for better comfort, and an excellent suspension. It will accommodate a car seat, which means you can use it right from the time of birth.
MFM's reviewers discovered that the 3-wheeler frames didn't fit through their home's doors or car boot. If you're concerned about space, be sure you check the dimensions of the buggy when it is folded before purchasing.
Find a 3-wheeler that has 2 (or 3!) seats. This is the most suitable option for your future and will save you money. The iCandy Strawberry Sport is among the most popular. It can be used as early as day dot as a single buggy, and then converted into twin buggies once your baby is walking.
Tyres
Air filled tyres are designed to give your child more comfort while riding by cushioning bumps and uneven surfaces. They are typically used on pushchairs such as the Phil & Ted's Sport that MFM reviewer Kath said was "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 be difficult to maintain and require air pressure maintained regularly. These tyres are more susceptible to punctures, so 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 more pushchairs than the air-filled tyres but they're just as robust. You can recognise PU tyres by their matte appearance and soft, smooth feel. They also slide across flat and tidy surfaces.
If you move your hand over the tyres, you can tell if they are rubber or PU. If it feels as if it's moving, then it is a rubber or PU. You can also confirm that your buggy is fitted with PU tyres simply by sliding the tyres on an even, clean surface They'll roll easily and should fit comfortably in their wheel hubs.
Foam tyres can handle the rough terrain associated with high-performance buggies. The downside of this is that the foam could expand and cause your buggy to feel less stable as it loses its springy feel. The tyres can also be noisy, as they make a lot noise when you turn or drive around town.