3 Wheeler Buggies
A tri-wheeled stroller is ideal for off-roading and provides an easy ride for babies. They are also simpler to push and manoeuvre than a four-wheeler, particularly those with fabric slings or modular seat units that are tightly positioned in the frame to provide the most efficient design and weight distribution.
Stability
A three-wheeler has great stability, which is why it is a great choice for off road walking (especially with an all-terrain or off-road-style seat). They usually have large front wheels, which can cope well with bumps and kerbs as well as rough terrain. Some have a lockable wheel on the front to provide additional stability while driving on uneven terrain.
It is important to keep in mind that 3-wheel buggies have lower centers of gravity than 4-wheeled versions which means they are more likely to fall over. However, the most reliable 3-wheel pushchairs are designed with an ideal geometry and design to ensure they are stable in all conditions. They must be able to pivot on a dime and be able to steer with one hand and have a 360o swivelling front wheel which makes them perfect for maneuvering and navigating difficult terrain.
For extremely difficult surfaces, look out for models with air-filled tyres which are also referred to as pneumatic tyres, which are designed to handle non-paved tracks and should cope with rocks, mud, and so on. A majority of all-terrain buggies come with an adjustable front wheel that can be locked to provide stability when dealing with extremely rough terrain.
A 3-wheel stroller is a good option for runners or those who like to walk quickly and uphill, particularly in the event that you're planning to connect a car seat or carrycot. The Roma Atlas is a great example, with a wide-facing seat that reclines flat and comes with a new 5-point harness as well as storage space for all your gear (plus an extension of 50+ sun hood). It is lightweight, compact, and suitable for use from birth. It can be used in conjunction with a car seat or carrycot. It also allows for some light jogging but isn't intended for serious runners.
Weight
If you're seeking a buggy that can handle the tough terrain then you want one with big wheels. They will be able to handle grass, cobbles and dirt tracks and provide an enjoyable ride for anyone. These are also great for jogging because they have built-in suspension and are easy to climb up and down kerbs. However, they are quite heavy to push.
The most suitable 3 wheel buggy for rough terrain is the Mountain Buggy Urban Glide 2 (pictured above). This 3-wheel buggy is very mobile due to its 16 rear wheels as well as the front wheel can be locked. It has tyres with air that require pumping regularly. It can be used by children until 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 3 year old riding along.
The Baby Jogger Versa GT is another great option. It comes with a movable handlebar, a high-quality hood that provides 50+ UV protection, and a high-quality hood. It's also easy to get up and down kerbs and can fit in small car boots. It can be used as a stroller with a carrycot for newborns or toddlers.
Fabric slings are placed within the frame, not on top like modular seats. This design has a lower centre of gravity at the ideal height. It is easier to push, and lighter to kerb pop (you can't underestimate the number of times you'll do this as a new parent!).
Seating
There are a myriad of options for seating in three wheelers. For a newborn it is possible to use the included carrycot and (which MFM reviewer Alice says is a cosy and comfortable lie flat bed that can be used both on and off the buggy) In addition, older babies and toddlers can be seated in the parent-facing or world-facing seat that is spacious and padded and does have adjustable ventilation. The seats do not fully recline, but they can be adjusted to the lowest setting. This should allow your child to have plenty of room and headroom.
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 results in a lower centre of gravity, with a perfect weight distribution. This makes it easier to push, particularly over bumpy terrain and curbs. MFM reviewer Kath liked the way this type of seat dealt with challenges.
Alongside a huge shopping basket, this kind of buggy usually has very useful features like an extended 50+ UV hood, a simple brake pedal, and some games-changing visibility lights that appear from the handlebar and can be placed directly in front of the occupants to ensure their safety when tackling tricky terrain.
If you're searching for a stroller that will grow along with your family The sport(tm) is a world first that can take in a newborn and then be modified to fit two or three children as they grow. All within a single footprint.
Storage
The 3-wheeled frame makes the buggy much more sturdy to push one-handed and also perfect for handling difficult terrain. However, it also means that the shopping basket doesn't hold the same amount as a 4-wheeled buggy.
A high-quality ATP will come with pneumatic tyres, a cushioned grip for better comfort, and an excellent suspension. It will also be equipped with a carrycot and car seat and you can use it from the time you are born.
MFM's reviewers have discovered that the 3-wheeler frame can't pass through all doors in their homes or small car booties - make sure to check the dimensions of the buggy when it's folded prior to purchasing for those who are concerned about space.
It's worth looking into an SUV with three wheels that can fit 2 (or even 3!) seats as 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 one of the most sought-after. It can be used from the day of birth as a single buggie and later transformed into twin buggies after your baby begins walking.
Tyres
Air filled tyres are made to provide your child with a more comfortable ride by cushioning bumps and uneven surfaces. They're commonly found on pushchairs like the Phil and Ted's Sport which MFM reviewer Kath found to offer "an amazing ride for my toddler". She also mentioned that the grippy tires of the Phil and Ted's Sport made it easier for her to navigate the kerbs as well as other obstacles.
They can be difficult to maintain and will need to have their air pressure regularly topped up. They are also more vulnerable to punctures than foam tyres. So it is essential that you have a repair kit with spare tubes and a pump handy when traveling with your buggy.
PU tyres are found on a lot more pushchairs than air-filled tyres but they are still just as robust. You can identify PU tyres by their matte appearance and soft texture. They also slide across flat and tidy surfaces.
If you run your hand over the tyres, you can tell if they're PU or rubber. If it feels as if it's moving, then it is a rubber or PU. You can also check whether your buggy has PU tyres by slipping the tyres onto an even, clean surface They'll be able to roll easily and fit snugly in their 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 feel. Additionally, these tyres may typically be noisy because they create a lot of noise as you turn and navigate your way through the town.