3 Wheeler Buggies
A three-wheeler is perfect for rough terrain, offering an easy ride for your infant. They are also simpler to push and maneuver than a four-wheel buggy especially those equipped with fabric slings or modular seat units, which are placed in a tight position within the frame and provide the most efficient design and weight distribution.
Stability
A three-wheeled buggy offers excellent stability, which is the reason it's a good option for off-road walking (especially with an all-terrain or off-road style seat). They typically have large front tires that can handle bumps, kerbs, and rough terrain. Some have a lockable wheels on the front to provide extra stability when driving on uneven terrain.
It's important to remember that 3-wheel buggies have a lower center of gravity than the 4-wheeled versions which means they can topple over more readily. However, the most reliable 3-wheel pushchairs are designed with an ideal geometry and design to make them very solid in all conditions. They must be able to pivot at a whim and be able to steer with one hand, and feature 360o swivelling front wheels which makes them perfect for maneuvering and navigating difficult terrain.
For really tricky surfaces you should look for models with air-filled tyres which are also referred to as pneumatic tyres. They are designed to work on roads that are not paved and can deal with rocks, mud, etc. Many all-terrain buggies include an swivelling wheel at the front that can be locked to provide extra stability when you're dealing with rough terrain.
A 3-wheeled pram is a great option for those who run or like to walk fast uphill. This is particularly true if you intend to attach a car seat or carrycot. The Roma Atlas is an excellent example. It features a flat-reclining seat with five-point harnesses, and plenty of storage space for all your gear (plus a 50+ extendable sun hood). It's compact, lightweight and suitable for babies and can be used in conjunction with a carrycot or car seat. It can also be used for light jogging, but is not intended for serious runners.
Weight
If you're looking for a buggy that can handle the tough terrain then you want one with large wheels. They will be able to handle cobbles, grass and dirt tracks, while providing an enjoyable ride for anyone. These are also great for jogging, as they have built-in suspension and are easy to climb up and down kerbs. However, the drawback is that 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 has 16 rear wheels and a lockable swivel front wheel, so it's very manoeuvrable. It has air tyres that require occasional pumping and it can be used to carry children up to 3. MFM reviewer Kath says that her toddler loved 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 an extremely high-quality hood. It is also easy to move up and down kerbs and fits in a the boot of a car that is small. It can also be used as a stroller and baby carriers or toddlers.
Fabric slings are set in the frame, not on top like modular seats. This design has a lower centre-of-gravity, which is 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 this as a new parent!).
Seating
There are a variety of options for seating 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 infants and toddlers will love the large and comfortable seat unit that has adjustable ventilation. The seats do not recline fully, but they can be lowered down to the lowest setting. This should still give your child plenty of headroom and space.
A sling seat made of cloth is also available. It has the advantage of being positioned snugly inside the frame instead of over the top of an open-back seat. This provides a lower center 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 kind of seat dealt with challenges.
Alongside a huge shopping basket, this type of buggy generally has very useful features like an extendable 50+ UV hood, an easy to use brake pedal, and some games-changing visibility lights that appear from the handlebar and can be positioned directly in front of the occupants to ensure their safety when traversing difficult terrain.
Alternatively, if you are looking for a single buggy that can adapt to your family's needs There's the new sport(tm) which is a world's first that can take a single newborn from day one and adapt to take 2 or even 3 once your little ones have developed in the space of one buggy.
Storage
The 3-wheeled frame is more stable and can be pushed with just one hand. It's also better for terrains that are difficult to navigate. The shopping basket is smaller than a 4-wheeler.
A high-quality ATP will have pneumatic tyres, a padded grip for better comfort, and an excellent suspension. It will be able to accommodate a car seat, which means you can use it right from birth.
MFM's reviewers found that the 3-wheeler frames couldn't fit through their home's doors or car boot. If you're concerned about space, be sure you check the dimensions when the buggy is folded prior to purchasing.
Choose a 3-wheeler with 2 (or 3!) seats. seats once your family grows - these are the best of both worlds and will help you save money in the future. The iCandy strawberry sport is one of the top of them; it can be used as a single unit from day dot and later converts into twin buggies once your baby starts walking.
Tyres
Air filled tyres are made to give your child an easier ride 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 outstanding ride for my toddler". She also said that the grippy tyres make it easy to tackle cobbles and kerbs.
These tyres are sometimes difficult to maintain and will require air pressure maintained regularly. They are also more susceptible to punctures than foam tyres, so you'll need to ensure that you have repair kits along with a spare inner tube and pump handy when out and about with your buggy.
PU tyres can be seen on more pushchairs than the air-filled tyres, yet they're just as robust. PU tires are easily distinguished by their matte finish and supple feel. They also slide well on even and tied surfaces.
You can usually tell the distinction between air-filled and PU tyres by running your hand over each one. If it feels hard, then it's made of rubber, when it slides, it's a PU. You can also confirm whether your buggy has PU tyres by sliding the tyres over flat, clean surfaces - they'll be able to roll easily and should fit snugly into their wheel hubs.
Foam tyres are able to withstand the rough terrain associated with high-performance buggies. This can make your buggy less stable as the foam loses its springy feel. These tyres are also noisy because they generate a lot noise when you turn and navigate around town.