3 Wheeler Buggies
A tri-wheeled stroller is ideal for off-road terrain and provides an easy ride for babies. They are also simpler to push and manoeuvre than a four-wheeler and are especially suitable for those with slings made of fabric or modular seat units that are tightly positioned in the frame and deliver the best geometry and distribution of weight.
Stability
A three-wheeler has great stability, which is the reason it is a great option 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 for extra stability on uneven terrain.
It's important to remember that 3-wheel buggies have a lower center of gravity than the 4-wheeled versions and, therefore, could fall more easily. The best 3-wheeled pushchairs have been designed with perfect geometry to ensure they remain steady in any weather. They should be able of turning on a dime, be easy to steer with just one hand, and have the front wheel rotate 360o which makes them perfect for manoeuvring and navigating difficult terrain.
Look for models with pneumatic tyres. These are designed to be able to navigate tracks that aren't paved and are able to withstand mud, gravel, rocks, etc. A lot of all-terrain buggies have a swivelling wheel on the front which can be locked for greater stability when dealing with rough terrain.
A tri-wheeled pram is a great option for runners and those who like to walk fast uphill. This is especially true if you plan to attach to a car seat or carrycot. The Roma Atlas is a great example, offering 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 safe for use starting at birth. It can be used with either the car seat or carrycot. It can also be used for light jogging but is not intended for serious runners.
Weight
If you're looking for a vehicle that will take on tricky terrain, you need one with large wheels. They can handle cobbles, grass and dirt tracks, while providing a smooth ride for all passengers. They're also ideal for jogging as they come with suspension and are simple to climb and descend kerbs. However, the trade off 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). This 3-wheel buggy has 16 rear wheels with an swivel wheel lockable to the front which makes it very maneuverable. It comes with tyres filled with air that need to be pumped up every now and then. It can be used by children until the age of three. MFM reviewer Kath says that her toddler was awed by the seat shape and she was able to steer it easily with her three-year-old in the seat.
The Baby Jogger Versa GT is an alternative that is also a great choice. It comes with a movable handlebar, a top-quality hood that offers 50+ UV protection and an extremely high-quality hood. It is also easy to move kerbs upwards and downwards and fits in a the car's boot space in a small size. It can also be used as a stroller with an infant carrycot or toddlers.
Fabric slings are set within the frame and not on top as modular seats. This model has a lower centre-of-gravity at the right height. It is simpler 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 myriad of alternatives for seating options in 3 wheelers. The included carrycot plus is perfect for newborns (which MFM reviewer Alice describes as a cozy and comfortable lie-flat bed that can be used both on and off the buggy). Older children and toddlers will appreciate the spacious and comfortable seat unit that has adjustable ventilation. The seats are not able to recline completely, but can be lowered to the lowest point. This should give your child plenty of room and headroom.
A sling seat made of cloth is also available. It has the advantage of being set snugly inside the frame, rather than sitting on top as a modular seat and this delivers a much lower centre of gravity as well as a perfect weight distribution. This makes it easier to push, especially on bumpy terrain or over curbs. MFM reviewer Kath liked the way this type of seat dealt with obstacles.
This type of buggy has an extensive basket and other features that are useful, such as an extendable hood with 50+ UV protection, an easy to use brake pedal and some innovative visibility lights that can be positioned on the front of the passengers to increase safety on rough terrain.
If you're looking for a single buggy that will grow with your family There's the new sport(tm) that is the first of its kind to take a single newborn from day one and adjust to take 2 or even three once your little ones have grown, all within the footprint of a single buggy.
Stores
The 3-wheeled frame makes the buggy more sturdy to push one-handed and also perfect for handling terrain that is difficult to navigate. However, it also means that the shopping basket can't hold as much as a four-wheeled buggy.
A good quality ATP will come with a great suspension, pneumatic tyres and an ergonomic handle that is cushioned to ensure your comfort. It will also be equipped to carry the form of a car seat and carrycot so you can use it from the time you are born.
MFM's reviewers have noticed that the 3-wheeler frame can't pass through all doors in their homes, or small car booties - make sure you know the dimensions of the buggy when it's folded prior to purchasing in case you're concerned about space.
It's worth looking into an SUV with three wheels that can fit two (or even 3!) 3 wheeled pushchairs is the best option for your child's future and will save you money. The iCandy Strawberry Sport is one of the most sought-after. It can be used from the day of birth as a single buggie and later converted into twin buggies after your baby begins walking.
Tyres
Air filled tyres are made to give your child more comfort while riding by cushioning bumps and uneven surfaces. You'll find these on pushchairs such as the Phil and Ted's Sport which MFM reviewer Kath found to offer "an exceptional ride for my toddler". She also noted that its grippy tyres made it easier to handle cobbles and kerbs.
These tyres are sometimes difficult to maintain and need to have their air pressure maintained regularly. These tyres are prone to punctures, which is why you should always carry a repair kit and spare inner tube with you when you're out and about.
PU tyres can be seen on more pushchairs than air-filled tyres, but they're just as sturdy. PU tire are easily identifiable by their matte finish and soft feel. They also slide over flat and tidied surfaces.
You can usually tell the difference between PU and air-filled tires by running your hands over each one, if it feels firm, then it's rubber and when it slides, it's a PU. You can also check whether your buggy is equipped with PU tyres, by sliding them onto flat, clean surfaces. They should roll easily and fit snugly into wheel hubs.
Foam tyres can withstand the rough terrain associated with high-performance buggies. This could make your buggy less stable as the foam will lose its springy nature. The tyres can also be noisy due to the fact that they create a lot noise when you turn or drive around town.