3 Wheeler Buggies
A tri-wheeled stroller is ideal for off-roading and provides an easy ride for babies. They are also easier to push and maneuver than a four-wheel buggy especially if they have fabric sling seats or modular seat units that are positioned snugly in the frame, delivering the best ergonomics and weight distribution.
Stability
Three-wheeled buggys are extremely stable, making them an excellent choice for off-road walking (especially when they are equipped with a seat unit that is all-terrain or off-road). These buggys often have oversized front tires that can withstand bumps, kerbs and rough terrain. Some even feature a lockable front tire to give extra stability when driving on uneven terrain.
It's important to keep in mind that 3-wheel buggies can have a lower centre of gravity than 4-wheeled models, which can mean that they can tip over more easily. The best 3-wheeled pushchairs have been designed with perfect geometry to ensure they remain stable in any condition. 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.
For really tricky surfaces be sure to choose an air-filled model, also known as pneumatic tyres, which are made to handle roads that are not paved and can deal with rocks, mud, etc. Many all-terrain buggies include a swivelling wheel on the front that can be locked to provide extra stability when you're dealing with rough terrain.
A 3-wheeled pram is a great choice for runners and those who like to walk fast uphill. 3 wheeler pushchairs is particularly true if you are planning to connect an infant car seat or carrycot. The Roma Atlas is an excellent model. It has an incline-reclining seat that is flat, with five-point harnesses, and plenty of storage space to store all your gear (plus a 50+ extendable sun hood). It is lightweight and compact, and is suitable to use from birth. It can be used with either a car seat or carrycot. It also allows for a bit of moderate jogging, but it's not designed for serious runners.
Weight
If you're seeking a buggy that will take on tricky terrain then you want one with big wheels. They can handle cobbles, grass and dirt tracks while providing an enjoyable ride for all passengers. They're also ideal for jogging as they're equipped with suspension and are simple to climb and descend kerbs. The downside is that they are quite heavy to push.
The best 3 wheel buggy for rough terrain is the Mountain Buggy Urban Glide 2 (pictured above). This 3-wheel buggy is very maneuverable due to its 16 rear wheels and the front wheel can be locked. It has air tyres, which do need occasional pumping, and it can carry a child up to 3. MFM reviewer Kath says that her toddler was awed by the seat shape and she found it easy to drive with her three-year-old on board.
The Baby Jogger Versa GT is another excellent option. It comes with a movable handlebar, a high-quality hood that provides 50+ UV protection, and a high-quality hood. It is also easy to move kerbs upwards and downwards and fits into a the car's boot space in a small size. It can also be used as a pram with an infant car seat for newborns and toddlers.
Fabric slings are positioned within the frame and not on top of the frame like modular seats. This style has a lower centre of gravity at the ideal height. It is simpler to push, and is lighter to kerb-pop (you don't know how many times you'll need to do that as a brand new parent!).
Seating
The capacity for seating of 3 wheelers is impressive and there are a variety of different choices to choose from. The carrycot included is perfect for newborns (which MFM reviewer Alice describes as a cozy and comfortable lying-flat bed that can be used in and out of the buggy). Older children and toddlers will love the large and comfortable seat unit that has 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 headroom and space.
A fabric sling seat is also available. It is set snugly inside the frame, rather than over the top of an open-back seat. This provides a lower center of gravity and a perfect weight distribution. This makes it easier and lighter to push, especially when you're on bumpy terrain or curbs. MFM reviewer Kath loved the way that this style of seat negotiated these challenges.
This type of buggy comes with an enormous basket, along with other beneficial features such as an extended hood 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 increase safety on rough terrain.
If you're seeking a buggy that will grow along with your family The sport(tm) is a world first, can accommodate a newborn and then be modified to accommodate three or four children as they grow, all in one footprint.
Storage
The 3-wheeled model is more sturdy and can be moved with just one hand. It's also better for difficult terrain. The shopping basket is smaller than a four-wheeler.
A top-quality ATP will come with pneumatic tyres with a padded grip for comfort and excellent suspension. It will also be equipped with a carrycot and car seat which means you can use it from birth.
MFM's reviewers have discovered that the 3-wheeler frame won't pass through all doors in their homes or small car boots - make sure you check the dimensions of the buggy when it's folded before purchasing in case you're concerned about space.
It's worth looking for an SUV with three wheels that can fit two (or even 3!) seats when your family grows - these are the most efficient of both and can help you to save money in the future. The iCandy strawberry sport is among the most popular; it can be used as a single seat from day dot and later converts to a twin buggies when your baby starts walking.
Tyres
These tyres cushion bumps and uneven surfaces to make your child's journey more comfortable. They're commonly found on pushchairs, such as the Phil and Ted's Sport which MFM reviewer Kath found to offer "an amazing ride for my toddler". She also said that the grippy tyres make it easy to navigate cobbles and kerbs.
They can be difficult to maintain and will need to be topped up frequently. These tyres are prone to punctures, and you should always carry an repair kit and spare inner tube when you're out and about.
PU tyres are more commonly used on pushchairs since they are a cheaper option than tyres filled with air, but they are just as robust. You can recognise PU tyres by their matte appearance and soft texture. They also slide easily on uneven and tied surfaces.
You can usually tell the difference between air-filled and PU tires by running your hands over them, if it feels hard then it's made of rubber, if it slides then it's a PU. You can also check that your buggy has PU tyres simply by sliding the tyres over flat, clean surfaces They'll roll easily and fit comfortably in their wheel hubs.
Foam tyres are typically used in high-performance buggies and joggers because they can cope with the rough terrain common to this type of pushchair. The drawback is that the foam could compress and make your buggy feel less stable as it loses its springy quality. Also, these kinds of tyres can typically be noisy because they make a lot of noise as you turn and make your way through the town.