3 Wheeler Buggies
A tri-wheeled stroller is ideal for off-road terrain and offers an easy ride for babies. They are also easier to push and maneuver than a four-wheel buggy especially if they have fabric slings or modular seat units that are positioned snugly in the frame, delivering the best geometry and weight distribution.
Stability
A three-wheeler has great stability, which is the reason it's an ideal choice for off road walking (especially with an all-terrain or off-road-style seat). These buggys often have oversized front tires that are able to handle bumps, kerbs and rough terrain. Some models even have a lockable front wheel to provide extra stability on uneven terrain.
It is important to remember that 3-wheel buggies have a lower center of gravity than models with four wheels which means that they topple over more easily. However, the most reliable 3-wheel pushchairs are designed with perfect geometry and engineering to ensure that they remain stable in all weather conditions. They must be able to pivot on a dime and be easy to steer using just one hand, and have a 360o swivelling front wheel that makes them great for manoeuvring and navigating difficult terrain.
For really tricky surfaces, look out for models with air-filled tyres which are also referred to as pneumatic tyres, which are designed to handle roads that are not paved and can deal with mud, gravel, rock and more. Many all-terrain buggies include an swivelling wheel on the front which can be locked for greater stability when dealing with rough terrain.
A three-wheeled stroller is a great choice for runners and those who love to speed up the hill. This is particularly true if you intend to attach a car seat or carrycot. The Roma Atlas is a great example, with a world-facing seat that reclines flat and comes with a new 5-point harness as well as storage space for all your equipment (plus an extendable 50+ sun hood). It's light, compact and suitable for infants and can be used with the use of a car seat or carrycot. It also allows for a bit of moderate jogging, but it's not designed for serious joggers.
Weight
If you're looking for a buggy that will take on tricky terrain, then you'll need one with big wheels. They will be able to handle cobbles, grass and dirt tracks, while providing an enjoyable ride for any passenger. They are also great for jogging as they come with suspension and are simple to move up and down kerbs. However, the drawback is that they can be 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 mobile due to its 16 rear wheels as well as a lockable front wheel. It has air-filled tyres which require pumping up from time to time. It can carry children as young as the age of three. MFM reviewer Kath said that her toddler liked the design of the seat, and she found it easy to steer even with her three-year-old child on the board.
Another option that is great is the Baby Jogger Versa GT, which has an adjustable handlebar and a hood made of high-quality with 50+ UV protection. It is also easy to move up and down kerbs, and can fit into small car boot. 3 wheeled pushchairs can also be used as a pram that comes with an infant car seat for newborns and toddlers.
Fabric sling seats sit snugly inside the frame of the buggie rather than over it like modular seats. This design has an lower centre of gravity at the perfect height, instantly making it easier to push and lighter to kerb pop (you should never overestimate how often you'll be doing that as new parents!)
Seating
The capacity for seating of 3 wheelers is quite impressive, and there are a number of different options to pick from. The included carrycot plus is ideal for a baby (which MFM reviewer Alice describes as a cozy and comfortable lying-flat bed that can be used both in and out of the buggy). Older babies and toddlers will love the large and comfortable seat with adjustable ventilation. The seats do not fully recline, but they can be adjusted to the lowest point. This should still allow your child to have plenty of headroom and space.
A sling made of fabric is also available. It is advantageous in that it is placed inside the frame rather than on top as a modular seat. This means that it has a lower centre of gravity with perfect weight distribution. This makes it easier and lighter to push particularly over bumpy terrains or curbs. MFM reviewer Kath really liked the way this type of seat dealt with these challenges.
In addition to a big shopping basket, this kind of buggy usually has pretty useful features such as an extendable 50+ UV hood, a simple brake pedal and some game-changing visibility lights that appear from the handlebar and can be placed directly in front of the occupants to increase their safety when traversing difficult terrain.
Alternatively, if you are seeking a single stroller that will grow with your family There's a brand new sport(tm) that is a world's first that can take one baby from day one and change to take two or even 3 after your little ones have grown, all within the footprint of one buggy.
Stores
The 3-wheeled frame is much more stable and can be pushed by one hand. It's also better for difficult terrain. However, it does mean that the shopping basket can't hold as much as a 4-wheeler buggy.
A good quality ATP will have excellent suspension, pneumatic tyres as well as a padded handle for your ease. It will also be equipped to carry the form of a car seat and carrycot which means you can use it from the moment you are born.
MFM's reviewers have noticed that the 3-wheeler frame doesn't fit through all the doors in their homes, or small car boots - make sure you check the dimensions of the buggy once it's folded prior to purchasing if you're worried about space.
It's worth looking into 3-wheelers that can accommodate two (or even 3!) seats as your family grows. They are the most efficient of both and future proof your money. The iCandy strawberry sport is one of the most popular and can be used as a single unit from day dot and then converts to twin buggies when your baby starts walking.
Tyres
These tires cushion bumps and uneven surfaces to make your child's journey more comfortable. You'll find these on pushchairs such as the Phil & Ted's Sport which MFM reviewer Kath found to be "an exceptional ride for my toddler". She also said that the grippy tires of the Phil and Ted's Sport made it simple for her to maneuver around the kerbs as well as other obstacles.
They can be difficult to maintain and will need to have their air pressure topped up regularly. These tyres are more prone to punctures, which is why you should always carry an repair kit and spare inner tube with you when you're out and about.
PU tyres can be found on more pushchairs than air-filled tyres, but they're still as durable. You can recognise PU tires by their smooth appearance and soft texture. They also slide over flat and tidied surfaces.
If you rub your hands over the tyres, you can tell if they're PU or rubber. If it feels like it is sliding then it's a rubber or PU. You can also determine if your buggy is fitted with PU tyres, by sliding them on an even, smooth surface. They should roll easily and fit comfortably into wheel hubs.
Foam tyres can withstand the rough terrain associated with high-performance buggies. This can make your buggy less stable as the foam loses its springy quality. The tyres can also be noisy because they generate lots of noise when you turn and navigate around town.