3 Wheeled Buggies
A 3-wheel buggy is great for off-road walking & taking on terrains, from bumpy pavements to woodland tracks. They are also easier to maneuver around kerbs than 4-wheel models.
MadeForMums reviews editor Kath tried one of these three-wheelers while with her newborn and 3 year old, and put it through its paces on the asphalt and on the muddy ground. Check out her review here.
Stability
Four-wheel buggies with their centre of gravity balanced by the weight of your child in the seat are generally more stable than three-wheelers. But that doesn't mean that the three-wheel buggie isn't worth considering, as some of these models are designed to handle anything from rough terrain to busy high-streets.
If you want a buggie that is easy to maneuver and won't fall over on bumpy pavements, look for one with big rear wheels and a lockable front wheel. These all-terrain buggies also have pneumatic tires that are ideal for handling non-paved surfaces. They can be used on sandy beaches and tracks in woodlands.
They're also great buggies to jog with since they offer excellent stability on more rough terrain, and can help you stay with your running companion. They're also excellent at climbing and descending steep kerbs Most buggies have a built-in suspension that ensures your child will be able to ride comfortably.
A 3-wheeled stroller can be difficult to maneuver due to its large frame. It can be more difficult to maneuver through doorways and narrow spaces than a 4-wheeler. Some manufacturers have addressed this issue with a clever design which flips the wheels upwards when they are not being used. This reduces their size and makes it easier to squeeze through doors.
If yes, look for a lie-flat location and whether the design is compatible with second seating and buggy boards (if you plan to bring an infant onboard). If so, ensure that it is in the ability to lie flat and if the design is compatible with other seats and buggy boards (if you're planning to put an infant onboard). Many 3-wheelers will fold flat and can be positioned upright when collapsed - handy if you have limited space in your car boot or only a little storage space at home. Some 3-wheelers require you to take off the front wheel to fold them into smaller spaces.
Manoeuvrability
Three-wheeled buggies usually provide better maneuverability than four-wheeled pushchairs. A majority of them have an swivelling wheel at the front which allows you to control and change direction with just one hand. Some models also come with a lockable front wheel which can give you security on more difficult terrain. Some models can even be used with an additional seat or buggy board if you're planning to expand your family.
If you're considering taking your three-wheeled vehicle off of paved tracks, it's worth selecting a model that has tyres with air in them (also called pneumatic tyres) which are able to withstand the most challenging terrain. These tyres may require pumping up occasionally but they'll be more durable than solid tyres and are more likely to be puncture-proof. Find a model with a the ability to lock the swivelling wheel on the front to assist you in maneuvering difficult surfaces.
A single front wheel can also mean that three-wheelers tend to be bulkier than four-wheeled buggies when folded. Make sure the model you choose fits inside your car's boot and can be set up in a straight line if needed. Some models are able to be folded with just one hand, and they're freestanding when collapsed, which can save space in car boot spaces that are smaller.
A well-constructed 3 wheel pushchair can cope with all terrains, from busy main streets to tracks through woodlands. It's important to think about what you'll be using it for day-to-day. If you'll be doing the school run, it ought to be able to handle steep kerbs and slopes. If you'll be running with it, check that it has a lockable swivelling'stretch' front wheel to ensure that the ride is steady.
MFM reviewer Kath discovered her three-wheeled buggy was able to handle well with rural and urban walks. Kath said it could navigate cobbles, rough paths and uneven pavements easily and was comfortable while running. It is also a good option for day trips because it is packed with storage space. This includes an enormous, spacious, zip-top covered basket as well as an extendable 50+ UV hood. It can be modified to meet the needs of a baby from birth, including a carry cot or lying-flat seats. It is also compatible with the most popular second-seats and stroller boards.
Fabric Sling Seat
The primary difference between a fabric and a modular seat is the fabric sling. It is a part of the frame of the buggy, instead of being placed on top like a modular chair. This makes it easier to maintain an ergonomically correct position of the baby, which results in a lower center of gravity that is the ideal height. This in turn makes for an easier push, a less hefty curb pop (you don't need the same amount of effort and weight to push the buggy over the curb's nose) and a better balance and stability.
These buggy seats also feature Sling fabrics that are simple to clean and durable. Developed specifically with the use of sling chairs in mind they are UV resistant and extremely breathable. They are also easy to maintain with mild soap and warm water.
If you're a jogger, or enjoy a bit of off-roading, a all terrain 3 wheeler could be more your bag than a 4-wheeler. These models have a larger base, are more stable and utilize air-filled tyres for smooth movement over rough terrain.
A brand best known for its car seats, Maxi-Cosi has recently added a new 3-wheeler to its range with the Stella. This all-terrain stroller boasts an enormous and spacious seat unit for the travel system that can be set either parent or world facing. It also reclines flat and has an improved 5-point safety belt. It can be used with an infant car seat or carrycot starting at birth. It also has a large shopping basket.
Designed for the most discerning buggy owners, this luxury 3 wheeler is as beautiful to behold as it is to use. The angular frame has a stunning pewter finish with touches of burnished aluminium. It's a eye-catching piece. This is a fantastic choice for active parents. It has a large cushioned seat that can be placed either with the parent or world facing. It also features an upgraded 5-point harness as well as a complete set of rain covers.
Modular Seat
Modular seating allows for an array of configurations to meet different seating needs. Modular seating can be easily adjusted to create a comfortable setting for watching movies, or a large arrangement for entertaining guests. Many modular seating systems also come with removable cushion covers which makes it easier to clean up spills and stain.
Modular Seating can be designed to blend with existing decor or stand out as an accent piece. You can choose from a range of colors, fabrics, and shapes to create an adjustable seating option that matches your personal style. Modular seating also comes with many useful features, such as hidden storage compartments that make it easy to organizing.
3-wheel buggies are more stable than strollers with four wheels, which makes them ideal for off-road or all-terrain adventures. The large, extremely maneuverable front wheel enables agile and smooth movement, whereas the tyres are generally filled with air and have suspension, providing an excellent ride on the roughest of trails and roads. They're also great for walking up hills as the wheels aren't as close ground as they are on four wheel pushchairs.
Often, 3-wheel prams are a favourite for parents who enjoy running and jogging with their child because they offer superior agility and are more streamlined than their 4 wheel counterparts. The GB Upp XL, for instance, features an elegant burnished aluminum frame that has a simple one-handed fold, rear-facing and forward-facing seats. The Babyzen Yoyo, on the other hand, has black frames with a carrycot that can be placed in a fully lie-flat position, and has tyres that are air-filled.
Another fantastic all-terrain choice is the incredibly lightweight, highly manoeuvrable and stunningly fashionable Mountain Buggy Sport verso. This buggy can last from birth, with the carrycot, and will last until toddlerhood with the adjustable seat. All of this is done in the footprint of a single buggy.
Duet(tm) is a side by side buggy that is compact enough to be used in urban areas yet also innovative and controlled. It features a unique fabric seat that is positioned in the frame with a perfect fit at the perfect height to distribute the weight. This makes it easy jumps over kerbs, and navigates cities and neighborhoods.