3 Wheel Buggies

Three-wheel buggies look stylish and sleek, with outstanding maneuverability. Many of these have a fabric sling with an incredibly comfortable lay flat bed that is perfect for weight distribution and are suitable from birth.

The wheels are larger and, in many cases, include suspension to allow for smooth movement over a variety of terrains. The only downside is that they may be more heavy and bulkier to store & transport.

Stability

Three Wheel Buggies (Bookmarking.Stream) are remarkably stable - they don't tip over as easily as four-wheeled pushchairs when going in a straight line, and you'll find that you can move them more quickly and easily. If you turn or stop abruptly, they can lose their stability and fall over. For this reason, some manufacturers add an extra wheel to their 3 wheel travel stroller wheel buggy designs in order to improve the stability of the chassis.

The extra wheel also helps you navigate off-road terrain. Look out for models with air-filled tyres (also called pneumatic tyres) because they can deal with off-road trails and other surfaces including sand, mud and rock. They'll also come with the option of locking the front wheel to give stability over rough ground.

With the right design, engineering and weight distribution, these buggies can turn on a dime easy to steer using just one hand; they have 360o front swivel wheels that allow mobility and agility to be effortless and easy to handle. They will also pass the same stability standards worldwide and test as 4-wheel buggies.

If you're looking for a seat made of fabric that are breathable, they tend to be less upright in comparison to modular seats. This means that your baby's center of gravity will be closer to the ground - instantly ensuring the smoothest ride.

Maxi-Cosi is best known for its car seat collection however, it has recently expanded its product line with the Citylife compact travel system and double pushchair 3 wheeler. This 3-in-1 is perfect for urban living and comes with a newborn car seat or carrycot. It comes with four wheels as well as an unique pewter-black frame that is described by the brand as'slim' and compact 3 wheel stroller. It's only 2cm wide than the Babyzen Yoyo.

Folding

There are a variety of three wheel buggies that can be folded compactly and fit into smaller spaces. A lot of these buggies can be folded in one hand and are easy-to-clean. The smallest models will feature an easy handlebar height adjustment, while others may have an adjustable suspension or an extended 50+ UV canopy. Some models may have large baskets and brake levers that are quick-release.

The most reliable 3 wheel buggy for tackling rough terrain

A 3-wheel buggy will usually be better able to cope with off-road terrain than one with four wheels, however both models can get stuck in tight places. However, selecting a model that has larger wheels both front and back will help. This allows you to push them over rough terrain and will aid in getting up and down steep curbs.

One option is the latest Roma Atlas, which has been praised for its surprisingly responsive handling despite its three-wheel design. MFM reviewer Kath tried it with her infant and 3-year-old and said "it does really well on cobbles, bumpy pavements, gravel tracks and dirt roads as well as on some hills."

Another alternative is the newest all-terrain 3 wheel buggy made by Maxi-Cosi's car seat brand named Stella. It is suitable from birth when used with a carrycot. It's slightly bigger than the lighter 4-wheelers but it has air-filled tires and three recline positions and a one-handed fold.

Its most appealing feature is its modularity it's compatible with all of the brands' infant car seats and strollers. You can build your own travel system, regardless of whether you're looking to go for a a short walk or a longer one, using the chassis.

Tyres

The tyres for 3 wheel buggies are available in a range of styles and materials, and each comes with its pros and cons. For instance, tyres that are filled with air offer a great ride and manoeuvrability, while foam-filled tyres are more durable. The type you select will depend on your lifestyle and where you live.

If you intend to travel on unpaved roads or in rough terrain frequently, you might think about a three-wheeler equipped with more robust tyres. Consider the type of suspension you require. The suspensions that are strong are great to deal with humps and bumps but they can be heavy and add to the overall weight.

The size of the tyre is also important. Knowing how to read the tyre size is important for safety, performance and longevity. The combination of numbers and letters on the sidewalls of tyres can be confusing until you get the hang of it, you will be able to understand the tyre dimensions. For instance, a tyre's size of '185/70 R14 is a sign that the tire is a 185/70 radial that has a 14-inch rim diameter.

In addition to being more durable, PU tires are also lighter and more puncture-resistant than rubber ones. If you're not sure if the tires on a pushchair are rubber or PU tires, try sliding the tires across an even and secure surface. If they move easily, then the tires are made from PU. If not, they are made of rubber.

Suspension

The suspension on a 3 wheel buggy is an essential aspect to consider as it absorbs the bumps and knocks of rough terrain, making it more comfortable for your baby. Large wheels that are air-filled and can be locked to ensure stability when jogging are also crucial. This will allow your buggy to maneuver over off-road surfaces effortlessly.

Depending on the style of buggie you're seeking, there are options that will fit all lifestyles and budgets. For instance, the Mountain Buggy pioneered all terrain agility in a 3-wheel buggies. With perfect geometry and engineering their fabric sling seat rests comfortably inside the frame, in contrast to sitting on top like modular seats, resulting in a lower centre of gravity and sitting at the right height for optimal weight distribution to easily tackle the kerb pops.

Another option worth considering is the Urban Glide 2 from Thule that boasts a sleek style with a massive, manoeuvrable front wheel, excellent suspension and an easy-to-use handbrake with a twist. MFM reviewer Kath tested the buggy its trials by taking it for a walk on rough terrain. She was impressed with how it handled it really well and claimed that it "navigates over bumpy grass, cobbles, sidewalks, and dirt tracks, and even makes it easy to drive up and down kerbs".

The Roma Atlas, like the Urban Glide 2 is a popular off-road option. It is available in a range of colors that match your style. It also comes with an adjustable handlebar, a large basket, and a 50+ UV hood. You can also choose from a selection of infant car seats that will convert the buggy to pram. This includes the elegantly designed Carrycot Plus(tm), which is a comfortable, flat mattress for babies and infants from 12 months old.

Safety

Four wheels make the buggy more stable and less likely to tip over and easier to maneuver. It also makes it more secure for your child since the weight of their body is evenly dispersed across the frame.

A four-wheeled buggy also tends to have a lower centre of gravity, making it easier to pop over curbs and up the stairs. The sling seat is affixed in the frame instead of on top of it like modular seats. This makes for a low-slung seating position, and a lighter buggy that is easily maneuverable.

However, if you want to go for a run with your baby then a four-wheeler is better suited since it will have a suspension system that allows the front wheel to move independently of the rear one so you can tackle bumpy roads and rough terrain be aware that not all buggies with 4 wheels are suitable for running (most are NOT like the Phil and Teds). Mountain Buggies are the exception, as they have a specially-designed suspension system that's been tested independently across all terrains.