3 Wheel Buggies
3 wheel buggies offer excellent maneuverability, and are a stylish, sleek frame. Many of these feature an upholstered sling seat that has a comfortable lie flat bed and perfect weight distribution, perfect for babies from birth.
The wheels are bigger and, in many cases, come with suspension for agile smooth movement over a variety of terrains. The only downside is that they could be heavier and more bulkier to store & transport.
Stability
Three wheel buggies are extremely stable and don't tip over as easily as pushchairs with four wheels when they're in a straight line, and you'll notice that you can maneuver them more quickly and easily. If you turn or stop abruptly, they may lose their stability and fall over. Some manufacturers add an extra wheel to their 3-wheel buggy designs in order to increase the stability of the chassis.
The additional wheel can also help you to tackle off-road terrain. Look for models that have air-filled tires (also known as pneumatic tyres) that are able to take on off-road paths, sand and dirt, as well as other surfaces, such as rocks and sand. These models also come with an adjustable wheel that locks on the front, which will increase the stability of the vehicle over rough terrain.
With the right design, engineering, and weight distribution these buggies can turn on a dime and are easy to steer with just one hand; they have 360o front swivel wheels that allow agility and mobility to be effortless and light to handle. They'll also be able to pass the same rigorous global stability standards and tests as the 4-wheel buggies.
If you're looking for a seat made of fabric they are typically lower in the frame compared to modular seats. This means that your baby's centre of gravity will be closer to the ground - instantly providing a smoother ride.
Most well-known for its car seats, Maxi-Cosi has recently added a light pushchair and travel system to its product line with the eye-catching Citylife. This 3-in-1 model is designed for urban living and can be used from birth with a newborn carrycot or infant car seat. It has 4 wheels and uses a unique pewter black aluminium frame that the manufacturer claims is 'slim and compact' - it's actually only 2cm wider than the Babyzen Yoyo.
Folding
There are a variety of 3 wheel buggies that can be folded in a compact way to can fit into smaller spaces. Many of them can be folded using just one hand, and are easy to wash down. The smallest models will come with an easy handlebar height adjustment, while others could have an adjustable suspension or an extended 50+ UV canopy. They may also feature a large, spacious basket and a brake lever with quick release.
3 wheeled pushchairs for tackling rough terrain
A 3-wheeled buggy is usually better equipped to handle off-road terrain when compared to a four-wheeled model, though both can be a bit stuck on tight corners. A model with bigger front and rear wheels will assist. This makes them easier to push across rough terrain and can help in getting up and down high kerbs.
One option is the latest Roma Atlas, which has been praised for its surprisingly quick handling, despite its 3-wheel design. MFM reviewer Kath tested it with her infant and her 3-year-old, and said "it is very well-handled over bumpy pavements, cobbles, gravel tracks and dirt roads as well as on a few hills."
Stella Stella, the brand new all-terrain 3-wheel buggy from Maxi-Cosi, is another option. It's suitable from birth when used in conjunction with the carrycot and is a slightly larger than the lighter 4wheelers (with an impressively slim frame of 54cm wide) but has big air-filled tyres, three recline positions, and a quick one-hand fold.
Its most appealing feature is its modularity. It's compatible with all of the brands' baby strollers and car seats. This means you can build your ideal travel system for your day-to-day or longer walks using the chassis as a foundation.
Tyres
The tyres of 3 wheel buggies come in a variety of designs and materials, and each comes with its pros and cons. For instance, tyres that are filled with air provide a smooth performance and a smooth ride, whereas foam-filled tyres are more durable. The type you choose will depend on your needs and where you live.
If you plan to travel on unpaved roads or rough terrain often you may think about a three-wheeler with more durable tyres. Take into consideration the type of suspension you require. A sturdy suspension is helpful to handle bumps and humps, however it can be heavy and contribute to the overall weight of your pushchair.
Another crucial aspect to take into consideration is tyre size. Knowing how to read the size of the tyre is crucial for safety, performance and longevity. The combination of letters and numbers on the sidewall of a tyre can seem initially, but decoding it helps you understand the tyre's dimensions. A tyre having the size 185/70 R14 for instance is a radial tire with a diameter of 185/70 with 14-inch rim diameter.
PU tires are lighter and more puncture-resistant than rubber tires. If you're unsure if the tires on a pushchair are rubber or PU tires, try sliding the tires over a smooth surface and tie them. If they slide easily then the tires are made of PU. If they don't, then the tires are made of rubber.
Suspension
The suspension on a 3 wheel buggy is a vital aspect to consider as it absorbs the jolts and bumps of rough terrain making it much more comfortable for your baby. Having large wheels, which are filled with air and can be locked for stability during jogging is crucial to ensure that your buggy is able to navigate off roads with ease.
Based on the type of buggie you're seeking There are a variety of options that will fit all lifestyles and budgets. For instance the Mountain Buggy pioneered all terrain agility in a three-wheel buggie. The sling seats made of fabric are designed with the perfect design and engineering to fit comfortably inside the frame rather than on top, like modular seats. This provides an lower center of gravity, and allows it to be placed at the right height to spread weight evenly to conquer bumps.
The Urban Glide 2 by Thule is a great alternative. It has a sleek design, a huge wheel that is easy to maneuver and is paired with an impressive suspension. It also features a twist handbrake for ease of use. MFM reviewer Kath tested the buggy its tests by walking through rough terrain. She was impressed with how it performed admirably and claimed that it "navigates over bumpy grass, sidewalks, cobbles and dirt tracks, and even makes it easy to drive up and down kerbs".
The Roma Atlas is another popular off-road option that, similar to the Urban Glide 2, comes in a range of colours to match your style. It also comes with an adjustable handlebar, a large basket and an ultraviolet hood that is 50+. You can also choose from a variety of infant car seats that will convert the buggy to a pram. This includes the stylishly designed Carrycot Plus(tm), which is a comfortable lie-flat baby bed suitable for infants and newborns up to 12 month old.
Safety
Four wheels make the buggy more stable, less likely to tip over and easier to handle. It is also safer for your child as the weight of their body is evenly distributed across the frame.
A four-wheeled buggy has lower center of gravity, making it easier to climb over curbs and climb up. The seats made of fabric are placed inside the frame, not on top like modular seats. This results in a low seat position and buggy that is easily maneuvered.
If you want to run with your child, then an all-wheeler is the best option. It has an suspension system that allows the front wheel of the buggie to be independent from the rear wheel. This will allow you to tackle rough terrains or bumpy roads. However, not all four-wheel buggies can be used for running. Mountain Buggies are the exception, as they have an exclusive suspension system that has been tested independently across all terrains.