3 Wheel Buggies
Three-wheel buggies look stylish and sleek, with outstanding maneuverability. Many of them come with an sling made of fabric with a comfortable lay flat bed that is perfect for weight distribution and are ideal starting at birth.
The wheels are larger and typically come with suspensions to allow for smooth, swift mobility on various terrains. The only drawback is that they may be heavier and more bulkier to store and transport.
Stability
Three-wheel buggies have plenty of stability. They don't tip over more easily when going straight. You can also manoeuvre more swiftly. If you attempt to turn or stop suddenly, they'll lose stability and could fall over. Some manufacturers add an extra wheel to their 3-wheel buggy designs to improve the stability of the chassis.
The extra wheel also helps you navigate off-road terrain. Look for models that have air-filled tyres (also called pneumatic tyres) as these can cope with off-road trails and other surfaces like rocks, sand and mud. They'll also usually include a lockable front wheel to give stability over rough ground.
Buggies are easy to maneuver and agile thanks to the 360o front swivel wheel. They'll also be able to pass the same rigorous stability standards and tests as 4-wheel buggies.
If you are looking for a fabric seat 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 ensuring a smoother ride.
Maxi-Cosi is a household name for its car seats, but it has recently expanded its product line with the Citylife lightweight travel system and pushchair. pushchair 3 wheels 3-in-1 model is designed for urban living and is suitable from birth with a newborn car seat or carrycot for infants. 3 wheeler pushchairs has four wheels and uses an exclusive black pewter frame, which the brand claims is 'light and compact' - it's just 2cm larger than the Babyzen Yoyo.
Folding
There are many 3 wheel buggies which can be folded compactly and can fit into smaller spaces. Many can be folded with a single hand and are easy to wash down. The smallest models will feature a basic adjustable height of the handlebars, while others may feature an adjustable suspension or an extendable 50+ UV canopy. They may also feature a large, spacious basket and a brake lever that is quick-release.
The most efficient 3 wheeler for rough terrain
A 3-wheeled model is typically better equipped to handle off-road terrain when compared to a four-wheeled model however both can be a bit stuck on tight corners. However, choosing a model that has larger wheels both front and back will help. This allows them to push across rough terrain and is often helpful in moving up and down steep kerbs.
One option is the brand new Roma Atlas, which has been praised for its surprisingly quick handling, despite its 3-wheel design. MFM reviewer Kath has tested it with her baby and reported that "it did really well on cobbles, bumpy surfaces and gravel tracks, dirt roads and a few hills."
Another option is the latest all-terrain 3 wheel buggy made by Maxi-Cosi's car seat brand which is called Stella. It is suitable for babies from birth if used with a carrycot. It's slightly bigger than the lighter 4-wheelers but it has air-filled tires, three recline positions, and a single-hand fold.
Its main selling point is its modularity, though - it's compatible with all the brands' infant car seats and strollers. This means that you can design your ideal travel system for day-to-day or longer walks, using only the chassis as a base.
Tyres
The tyres for 3 wheel buggies come in a variety of designs and materials, and each has its pros and cons. For instance, tyres that are filled with air offer a great performance and a smooth ride, whereas foam-filled tyres last longer. The type you select will depend on your needs and where you live.
If you plan to travel on unpaved roads or on rough terrain frequently, you might be interested in a three-wheeler equipped with more durable tyres. Also, you should consider the type of suspension that you require. A strong suspension is ideal for handling bumps and humps, however it can be heavy and increase the overall weight of your pushchair.
Another aspect to be considered is the size of the tyre. Knowing how to read tyre sizing is crucial for ensuring safety, performance, and durability. The combination of numbers and letters on the sidewall of a tyre can be confusing at first, but decoding it will allow you to comprehend the dimensions of the tyre. A tyre that has the size 185/70 R14, for example 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 a pushchair has rubber or PU tires, you can test sliding the tires across an even and secure surface. If they slide easily then the tires are made from PU. If not, then they are made of rubber.
Suspension
The suspension of a three-wheel buggy will make it more comfortable for your child since it will absorb any bumps or knocks from rough terrain. Large wheels that are ideally air-filled and are lockable for stability during jogging is also important as this will ensure that your buggy will be capable of navigating off road surfaces with ease.
Depending on the style of buggie you're seeking There are a variety of options to suit all lifestyles and budgets. For instance, the Mountain Buggy pioneered all terrain agility with its three-wheel buggies. Their fabrics sling seats are designed with perfect geometry and engineering that fits perfectly inside the frame instead of on top like modular seats. This gives an lower center of gravity and allows it to be placed at the right height to distribute weight evenly to tackle the kerbs.
The Urban Glide 2 by Thule is another excellent option. It has a sleek design, a large wheel that's easy to maneuver and combines it with exemplary suspension. It also has an adjustable handbrake that can be turned to make it easier of use. MFM reviewer Kath really put this buggy to the test by taking it on a walk through rough ground and she found that it adapted to the terrain well. She said that it 'flies effortlessly over bumpy grass, pavements, cobbles dirt tracks, and makes a light work of going up and down the kerbs'.
The Roma Atlas, like the Urban Glide 2 is a popular off-road option. It is available in a variety of colours that will match your style. It also has an adjustable handlebar as well as a large basket. You can also choose from a range of infant car seats to convert the buggy into a pram, including the chicly designed carrycot plus(tm) which is a comfy lie-flat crib for babies and infants that are up to 12 months old.
Safety
Having four wheels makes the buggy more stable, less likely to tip, and easier to maneuver. It also makes it safer for your baby as their weight is distributed more evenly throughout the frame of the pushchair.
A four-wheeled vehicle has a lower center of gravity, making it easier to pop over curbs and walk up. The fabric sling seats are built into the frame and not on top as modular seats. This results in a lower seating position and a buggy that can be easily pushed.
However, if you want to go for a run with your baby then a 4-wheeler may be more suitable as it comes with suspension that allows the front wheel to move independently of the rear one which allows you to navigate rough terrains and bumpy roads be aware that not all buggies with 4 wheels are suitable for running (most are NOT, such as the Phil and Teds). Mountain Buggies are the exception because they come with a suspension system specifically designed for them that's been tested independently across all types of terrain.