3 Wheeler Buggies
A three-wheeled buggy is ideal for off-roading and provides the most comfortable ride for infants. They are also more convenient to move and push than a four-wheel buggy, especially those with fabric sling seats or seat units that are positioned perfectly within the frame, providing the best geometry and weight distribution.
Stability
Three-wheeled vehicles are very stable, making them a great choice for off-road walking (especially when equipped with a seat that is all-terrain or off-road). They usually have large front wheels that can deal well with bumps and kerbs as well as rough terrain. Some models even feature a lockable front tire for extra stability on uneven terrain.
It's worth bearing in mind that 3-wheel buggies can have a lower centre of gravity than 4-wheeled models, which can mean that they topple over more easily. However, the most reliable 3-wheel pushchairs are designed with perfect geometry and engineering to make them very solid in all conditions. They should be able of turning at a single click and be easy to steer using just one hand and have 360o swivelling front wheels which makes them perfect for maneuvering and navigating challenging terrain.
Look for models with pneumatic tyres. These are made to handle nonpaved tracks, and are able to withstand dirt, gravel, rocks and more. A lot of all-terrain buggies have an swivelling wheel at the front which can be locked for added stability when tackling very rough terrain.
A 3-wheeler is an excellent option for runners or for those who like to walk fast and uphill, especially if you're planning to attach a car seat or carrycot. The Roma Atlas is an excellent model. It has an incline-reclining seat that is flat, with a 5-point harness, and plenty of storage space to store all your equipment (plus the ability to extend 50+ of the sun hood). It's light and compact, and is suitable for use starting at birth. It can be used with the car seat or carrycot. It can also be used for jogging with a light pace, but is not intended for serious runners.
Weight
If you're looking for a buggy that can handle difficult terrain, then you'll need one with large wheels. They can handle grass, cobbles, and dirt tracks while providing a smooth ride for anyone. They are also great for jogging because they have built in suspension and are simple to move up and down kerbs. The trade-off is that they're quite heavy to push.
3 wheeled pushchair 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, so it's very manoeuvrable. It has tyres with air which require pumping up from time to time. It can be used by children as young as the age of three. MFM reviewer Kath says that her toddler was awed by the shape of the seat and found it easy to drive with her three-year-old on board.
The Baby Jogger Versa GT is another great option. It has an adjustable handlebar, a high-quality hood that provides 50+ UV protection as well as a high-quality hood. It's also easy to get up and down kerbs, and it can fit in small car boots. It can also be used as a pram with an infant car seat for newborns and toddlers.
Fabric slings are positioned inside the frame and not on top as modular seats. This design provides an lower centre of gravity that is at the ideal height, making it easier to push and lighter to kerb pop (you cannot think about how often you'll be doing this as a new parent!)
Seating
There are many alternatives for seating options in 3 wheelers. For newborns, there is the option to use the carrycot and (which MFM reviewer Alice says is a comfortable and cozy lie flat bed that can be used both on and off the buggy), while older babies and toddlers can sit in the parent-facing or world-facing seat unit that is roomy and padded, and comes with adjustable ventilation. The seats are not able to fully recline, but they can be lowered down to the lowest point. This should allow your child plenty of room and headroom.
A fabric sling seat is also available. It is placed snugly within the frame rather than sitting on top as the modular seat. This gives a lower centre of gravity and perfect weight distribution. This makes it easier and lighter to push especially when you're on bumpy terrain or curbs and MFM reviewer Kath really liked the way this kind of seat negotiated these obstacles.
This kind of buggy comes with an extensive basket and other beneficial features, such as an extendable hood with 50+ UV protection, a simple to use brake pedal, and some unique visibility lights which can be put in front of occupants to ensure safety when riding on rough terrain.
Alternatively, if you are looking for a single buggy that can adapt to your family's needs There's a brand new sport(tm) which is a world's first that can take a single newborn from day one and change to take two or even 3 after your little ones have grown in the space of one buggy.
Stores
The 3-wheeled frame is much more stable and can be pushed with one hand. It's also ideal for terrain that is difficult. However, it does mean that the basket won't hold the same amount as a 4-wheeled buggy.
A high-quality ATP will come with pneumatic tyres with a padded grip for comfort and excellent suspension. It is also equipped with a carrycot and car seat and you can use it from the moment you are born.
MFM's reviewers found that the 3-wheeler frames couldn't fit through their home doors or car boot. If you're worried about space, be sure you check the dimensions of the buggy when it is folded before purchasing.
It's worth looking into 3-wheelers that can accommodate two (or even 3!) This is the best choice for your future and can help you save money. The iCandy strawberry sport is one of the most popular that can be used as a single unit from day dot and later converts into twin buggies once your baby begins walking.
Tyres
Air filled tyres are designed to give your child an easier ride by cushioning bumps and uneven surfaces. These are found on pushchairs like the Phil & Ted's Sport, which MFM reviewer Kath said offered "an amazing ride for her toddler". She also mentioned that the grippy tires of the Phil and Ted's Sport made it simple for her to navigate the kerbs and other obstacles.
These tyres can be difficult to maintain and will need to have their air pressure maintained regularly. They are also more vulnerable to punctures than foam tyres, so it is essential that you have a repair kit, spare inner tube and pump handy when out and about with your buggy.
PU tyres are found on a lot more pushchairs than air-filled tyres, yet they're just as durable. PU tires are easily distinguished by their matte finish and soft feel. They also glide well on smooth and tightly woven surfaces.
You can usually identify the difference between PU and air-filled tire by running your fingers over each one, if it feels hard, then it's made of rubber, when it slides, it's a PU. You can also check if your buggy is fitted with PU tyres, by sliding them onto an even, smooth surface. They should roll easily and fit comfortably into wheel hubs.
Foam tyres can handle the rough terrain that comes with high-performance buggies. The drawback is that the foam can shrink and make your buggy appear less stable because it loses its springy quality. These tyres are also noisy because they generate a lot noise when you turn and navigate around the town.