3 Wheeler Buggies
A three-wheeled buggy is perfect for off-roading and provides a smooth ride for baby. They are also simpler to push and manoeuvre than a four-wheeler especially those equipped with slings made of fabric or modular seat units that are positioned tightly in the frame and deliver the most efficient shape and weight distribution.
Stability
Three-wheeled buggys are extremely stable, making them an excellent option for off-road walks (especially when they are equipped with a seat unit that is all-terrain or off-road). They typically have larger front wheels that can deal well with kerbs and bumps as well as rough ground. Some models even come with 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, which could mean they can topple over more readily. But, the top 3-wheel pushchairs have an ideal geometry and design to ensure that they remain stable in all weather conditions. They should be able to turn on a dime and be able to be controlled with one hand. They also come with a 360o rotating front wheel that makes them perfect for navigating difficult terrain.
Look for models with pneumatic tyres. These are designed to be able to navigate tracks that aren't paved and should be able to handle mud, gravel, rocks and more. Many all-terrain buggies include a swivelling wheel on the front that can be locked to provide added stability when tackling very rough terrain.
A 3-wheel stroller is an excellent option for runners and those who like to walk quickly and uphill, especially if you're planning to attach a car seat or carrycot. The Roma Atlas is an excellent model. It has a flat-reclining seat with 5-point harness and plenty of storage space to store everything you need (plus a 50+ extendable sun hood). It's compact, lightweight and suitable from birth and can be used with the use of a car seat or carrycot. It can also handle some moderate jogging, but it's not designed for serious joggers.
Weight
If you're looking for a buggy that can take on difficult terrain, you should pick one with big tires. They will be able to handle grass, cobbles and dirt tracks while providing the smoothest ride for anyone. These are also great for jogging because they have built-in suspension and are able to climb up and down kerbs. However, they're quite heavy to push.
The best 3 wheel buggy for rough terrain is the Mountain Buggy Urban Glide 2 (pictured above). The 3-wheel buggy is extremely maneuverable because it has 16 rear wheels as well as an adjustable front wheel that locks. It comes with tyres filled with air which require pumping regularly. It can be used by children up until the age of three. MFM reviewer Kath said that her toddler liked the design of the seat and she found it easy to steer with her 3-year-old son on the seat.
The Baby Jogger Versa GT is an alternative that is also a great choice. It comes with a movable handlebar, a high-quality hood that offers 50+ UV protection, and an extremely high-quality hood. It's also easy to get up and down kerbs and fit into small car boot. It can also be used as a pram, with baby car seat for infants and toddlers.
Fabric sling seats sit snugly inside the frame of the buggie, as opposed to on top of it like modular seats. This style has a lower centre-of-gravity, which is the perfect height. It is easier to push and is lighter to kerb-pop (you cannot underestimate how many times you'll need to do that as a new parent!).
Seating
There are a variety of options for seating in 3 wheelers. The included carrycot plus is perfect for newborns (which MFM reviewer Alice describes as a cozy and comfortable lay-flat bed that can be used both in and out of the buggy). Older babies and toddlers will enjoy the large and comfortable seat unit that has adjustable ventilation. It's worth noting 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 room to move around.
A fabric sling seat is also available, which offers the advantage of being set snugly inside the frame, rather than on top like an open-back seat. This gives a lower centre of gravity as well as a perfect weight distribution. This makes it easier and lighter to push especially when you're on bumpy terrain or curbs. MFM reviewer Kath was impressed with the way that this style of seat handled these challenges.
This type of buggy has an enormous basket, along with other useful features like an hood that can be extended with 50+ UV protection, a simple to use brake pedal and some unique visibility lights that can be positioned in front of the occupants to ensure safety when riding on rough terrain.
If you're seeking a single stroller that will adapt to your family's needs, there's the brand-new sport(tm) that's a world's first that can take one baby from day dot and then adjust to take 2 or even three once your baby has developed and all within the footprint of a single buggy.
Stores
The 3-wheeled frame is much more stable and can be pushed with just one hand. It's also better for terrain that is difficult. However, it means that the basket won't hold as much as a 4-wheeler buggy.
A top-quality ATP will have excellent suspension, pneumatic tyres, and padding for the handle for your ease. It will also be able to take a carrycot and car seat which means you can use it from the time you are born.
MFM's reviewers discovered that the 3-wheeler frame didn't fit through their home doors or car boot. If you're worried about space, be sure to check out the dimensions of the buggy when it is folded prior to purchasing.
Look for a 3-wheeler with 2 (or 3!) seats. This is the most suitable option for your future and can save you money. 3 wheel compact stroller is one of the best of these and can be used as a single seat from day dot and later converts into twin buggies once your baby begins walking.
Tyres
Air filled tyres are made to give your child a more comfortable ride by cushioning out bumps and uneven surfaces. They're commonly found on pushchairs such as the Phil & Ted's Sport which MFM reviewer Kath discovered to provide "an amazing ride for my toddler". She also mentioned that the grippy tyres on the Phil and Ted's Sport made it easier for her to negotiate the kerbs as well as other obstacles.
These tyres are sometimes difficult to maintain and require air pressure topped up regularly. They are also more prone to punctures than foam tyres, so you'll need to ensure that you have repair kits with spare tubes and a pump in case you go you're out and about in your buggy.
PU tyres can be found on a lot more pushchairs than air-filled tyres but they're just as robust. You can recognise PU tire treads by their matte appearance and soft feel. They also slide on flat and tidied surfaces.
You can usually tell the distinction between air-filled and PU tire by running your fingers over each one, if it feels firm, then it's made of rubber, If it slides, then it's a PU. You can also check whether your buggy is equipped with PU tyres, by sliding them across a flat, clean surface. They should roll easily and fit snugly into the wheel hubs.
Foam tyres can withstand the rough terrain that comes with high-performance buggies. This can make your buggy less stable as the foam will lose its springy quality. These tyres also make a lot of noise due to the fact that they create a lot noise when you turn and drive around town.