3 Wheeler Buggies
A three-wheeled buggy is ideal for off-road terrain and provides a smooth ride for baby. They can also be easier to move and push than a four-wheeler, especially those with fabric sling seats or seat units that are placed comfortably within the frame, providing the best ergonomics and weight distribution.
Stability
Three-wheeled buggys are extremely stable, and this makes them an excellent option for off-roading (especially when they are 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 models even have a lockable front wheel for extra stability on uneven terrain.
It's important to remember that 3-wheel buggies have a lower center of gravity than their 4-wheeled counterparts and, therefore, can topple over more readily. The best 3-wheeled pushchairs have been made with the best geometry to ensure they remain steady in any weather. They should be able to turn on a dime and be easy to steer using one hand. They also feature a 360o rotating front wheel that is ideal to navigate difficult terrain.
Find models with pneumatic tyres. These are made to handle nonpaved tracks, and should be able to take on rocks, mud, gravel and other debris. Many all-terrain buggies include a swivelling wheel on the front which can be locked for added stability when tackling very rough terrain.
A 3-wheeler is an excellent option for runners or those who like to walk quickly and uphill, particularly if you're planning to attach a car seat or carrycot. The Roma Atlas is an excellent example. It features a flat-reclining seat with 5-point harness and plenty of storage space to store all your equipment (plus a 50+ extendable sun hood). It's light and compact, and is suitable for use from birth. It can be used in conjunction with a car seat or a carrycot. It can also be used for jogging with a light pace, but it's not designed for serious runners.
Weight
If you're looking for a buggy that will take on tricky terrain then you want one with big wheels. These will cope well over grass, cobbles and dirt tracks, and provide an enjoyable ride for any passenger. They're also good for jogging as they're equipped with suspension and are easy to move up and down kerbs. However, the trade off is that they are quite heavy to push.
The Mountain Buggy Urban Glide 2 is the most suitable 3 wheel buggy to use on rough terrain (pictured above). The 3-wheel buggy is extremely mobile due to its 16 rear wheels and the front wheel can be locked. It has air-filled tyres that need to be pumped up every now and then. It can carry children up until the age of three. MFM reviewer Kath says that her toddler loved the seat shape and she found steering it easy even with her three-year-old on board.
Another great option is the Baby Jogger Versa GT, that comes with an adjustable handlebar as well as a hood that is of high-quality with 50+ UV protection. It's also easy to move up and down kerbs and can fit in small car boots. It can be used as a stroller along with baby carriers or toddlers.
Fabric sling seats are tucked inside the buggie's frame rather than over it like modular seats. This design delivers a lower centre of gravity and a perfect height, instantly making it easier to push and lighter to kerb pop (you can never think about the amount of times you'll have to do this when you're a new parent!)
Seating
There are a variety of options for seating in 3 wheelers. For newborns, there is the option to use the included carrycot (which MFM reviewer Alice says is a comfortable and cozy lying flat bed that can be used both on and off the buggy) and older infants and toddlers can be seated in the parent-facing or world-facing seat that is spacious and padded and does have adjustable ventilation. The seats are not able to fully recline, but they can be adjusted to the lowest setting. This should allow your child to have plenty of space and headroom.
A fabric sling is also available. It's a benefit that it is placed inside the frame instead of on top as a seat that is modular. This creates a lower center of gravity, with a perfect weight distribution. This makes it easier and lighter to push, especially over bumpy terrain or curbs and MFM reviewer Kath loved the way this kind of seat handled these challenges.
This type of buggy has a large 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 some innovative visibility lights that can be positioned on the front of the passengers for improved safety on difficult terrain.
If you're searching for a stroller that can grow with your family, the sport(tm) is a world first designed to accommodate a newborn and then be adapted to accommodate three or four children as they grow. All within a single footprint.
Stores
The 3-wheeled frame is more stable and can be pushed with just one hand. It's also better for terrains that are difficult to navigate. However, it means that the shopping basket doesn't hold the same amount as a 4-wheeled buggy.
A good quality ATP will have excellent suspension, pneumatic tyres and an ergonomic handle that is cushioned to ensure your convenience. It will also be equipped with car seats and a carrycot so you can use it right from the time you are born.
3 wheeler pushchair have noticed that the 3-wheeler frame doesn't pass through all doors in their homes or small car boots - make sure to check the dimensions of the buggy when it's folded before buying in case you're concerned about space.
Choose a 3-wheeler with 2 (or 3!) seats. This is the best option for your child's future and will save you money. The iCandy Strawberry Sport is among the most sought-after. It can be used as early as day dot as a single buggie and then converted into twin buggies once your baby begins walking.
Tyres
These tyres absorb bumps and uneven surfaces to make your child's ride more enjoyable. They're commonly found on pushchairs like the Phil and Ted's Sport which MFM reviewer Kath discovered to provide "an outstanding ride for my toddler". She also noted that the grippy tyres on the Phil and Ted's Sport made it easy for her to negotiate kerbs and other obstacles.
These tyres are sometimes difficult to maintain and will require air pressure maintained regularly. They are also more susceptible to punctures than foam tyres, so it is essential that you have repair kits, spare inner tube and pump in case you go traveling with your buggy.
PU tyres are more commonly found on pushchairs as they are a cheaper option than tyres filled with air, but they are equally durable. You can identify PU tires by their smooth appearance and soft texture. They also slide on flat and tidy surfaces.
It's usually possible to discern the distinction between air-filled and PU tire by running your fingers over each one, if it feels hard, then it's rubber and If it slides, then it's a PU. You can also test whether your buggy is equipped with PU tyres by sliding them onto flat, clean surfaces. They should roll easily and fit snugly into wheel hubs.
Foam tyres can handle the rough terrain of high-performance buggies. This can make your buggy less stable since the foam will lose its springy quality. The tyres can also be noisy because they generate lots of noise when you turn or drive around the town.