3 Wheeler Buggies
A three-wheeled buggy is perfect for off-roading and provides the most comfortable ride for infants. They are also easier to push and maneuver than a four wheel buggy, particularly those with fabric slings or modular seat units, which are placed in a tight position within the frame to provide the best shape and weight distribution.
Stability
A three-wheel buggy has excellent stability, which is why it is a great option for off-road walks (especially with an all terrain or off-road-style seat). These types of buggys typically have large front tires that are able to handle bumps, kerbs, and rough terrain. Some models even feature a lockable front tire to provide extra stability on uneven terrain.
It is important to keep in mind that 3-wheel buggies have lower centers of gravity than 4-wheeled versions and, therefore, can topple over more readily. However, the most reliable 3-wheel buggies have the perfect geometry and engineering to ensure they are solid in all conditions. They should be able turn at a whim and be easy to steer using one hand. They also come with the ability to rotate 360o on the front wheel, which makes them perfect for navigating difficult terrain.
For surfaces that are extremely challenging, look out for a model with air-filled tyres also known as pneumatic tyres. They are designed to handle roads that are not paved and can deal with rocks, mud, etc. A lot of all-terrain buggies have an swivelling wheel at the front that can be locked to provide added stability when tackling very rough terrain.
A tri-wheeled pram is a great option for those who run or enjoy walking fast uphill. This is particularly true if you intend to attach an infant car seat or carrycot. The Roma Atlas is an excellent example. It features the flat-reclining seat, five-point harnesses, and plenty of storage space for all your equipment (plus the ability to extend 50+ of the sun hood). It's light, compact, and suitable for use from birth. It can be used with either the car seat or carrycot. It can also handle some light jogging but isn't intended for serious joggers.
Weight
If you're looking for a buggy that can take on difficult terrain, you should choose one with large tires. These are made to handle grass, cobbles and dirt tracks with ease while providing a smooth ride. These are also great for jogging, as they come with built-in suspension and are easy to climb up and down kerbs. The trade-off is that they're a bit 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 with a lockable swivel front wheel which makes it very maneuverable. It has air-filled tyres that require pumping regularly. 3 wheeled strollers can accommodate children up until the age of three. MFM reviewer Kath said that her toddler loved the shape of the seat, and she found it easy to steer even with her 3-year-old son on the seat.
Another option that is great 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 is also easy to move up and down kerbs and fits into a small car boot. It can also be used as a pram that comes with baby car seat for infants and toddlers.
Sling seats made of fabric fit snugly within the frame of the buggie, as opposed to over it like modular seats. This design has an lower centre of gravity and a perfect height, making it easier to push and lighter to pop the kerb (you can never underestimate how often you'll do that as new parents!)
Seating
The capacity for 3 wheelers is impressive, and there are a number of different options to pick from. For a newborn, there is the option to use the carrycot plus (which MFM reviewer Alice says is a comfortable and cozy lying flat bed that can be used both on and off the buggy), while older babies and toddlers can be seated in the parent-facing or world-facing seat that is large and padded and does have adjustable ventilation. It is important to note that the seats don't recline fully, but they can be lowered to the lowest level which will give your child plenty of headroom and space to move around.
A sling made of fabric is also available. It's a benefit that it is located within the frame, instead of being placed on top of it as a seat that is modular. This results in a lower centre of gravity with perfect weight distribution. This makes it easier and lighter to push especially over bumpy terrain or curbs. MFM reviewer Kath loved the way this type of seat handled these challenges.
In addition to a big shopping basket, this type of buggy generally has very useful features like an extended 50+ UV hood, a simple brake pedal and some game-changing visibility lights that appear from the handlebars and can be placed directly in front of the occupants to ensure their safety when they are tackling difficult terrain.
If you're seeking a single stroller that will grow with your family There's the new sport(tm) that's a world's first that can take a single newborn from day one and adapt to take 2 or even 3 after your children have grown in the space of one buggy.
Stores
The 3-wheeled frame makes the buggy much more stable to push with one hand, and it's also great for handling difficult terrain. The shopping basket is smaller than a 4-wheeler.
A top-quality ATP will come with pneumatic tyres, a padded grip for comfort and excellent suspension. It will also be able to take the form of a car seat and carrycot so you can use it right from the moment you are born.
MFM's reviewers have noticed that the 3-wheeler frame won't fit through all the doors in their homes or small car boot - be sure you check the dimensions of the buggy when it's folded before buying if you're worried about space.
It's worth looking into an SUV with three wheels that can fit two (or even 3!) This is the most suitable option for your child's future and will help you save money. The iCandy strawberry sport is among the most popular; it can be used as a single seat from day dot, and then transforms to a twin buggies when your baby starts walking.
Tyres
These tyres cushion bumps and uneven surfaces to make your child's ride more enjoyable. They are typically included on pushchairs such as the Phil and Ted's Sport, which MFM reviewer Kath said was "an amazing ride for her toddler". She also noted that the grippy tires of the Phil & Ted's Sport made it easier for her to navigate the kerbs and other obstacles.
They can be difficult to maintain and require having their air pressure topped up regularly. These tyres are prone to punctures, and you should always carry a repair kit as well as an spare inner tube when you're out and out and about.
PU tyres can be found on pushchairs as they are a cheaper option than tyres filled with air, but they are equally durable. You can tell PU tires by their smooth appearance and soft feel. They also slide across flat and tidied surfaces.
You can usually tell the difference between PU and air-filled tyres by running your hand over each one. If it feels hard, then it's made of rubber, when it slides, it's a PU. You can also check that your buggy has PU tyres by slipping the tyres onto an even, clean surface - they'll be able to roll easily and fit snugly into their wheel hubs.
Foam tyres are typically used in high-performance buggies and Joggers due to their ability to deal with the rough terrain that's common to this type of pushchair. The drawback is that the foam can compress and make your buggy feel less stable, since it loses its springy nature. These tyres also make a lot of noise due to the fact that they create a lot noise when you turn and navigate around the town.