3 Wheeled Buggies
A 3-wheel buggy is perfect for off-roading and dealing with terrain that is bumpy, like woodland tracks. They are also easier to move up and down kerbs as opposed to 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 asphalt and on the muddy ground. Read her review here.
Stability
Four-wheel buggies, with their centre of gravity balanced by your child's weight within the seat, are typically more stable than three-wheelers. However, that doesn't mean an older model with three wheels isn't worth considering, as the majority of these models are made to cope with anything from rough terrain to bustling high-streets.
For a buggy that's really easy to maneuver and won't fall over on bumpy roads, look for one with large rear wheels and a lockable front wheel. These all-terrain buggies also have pneumatic tires, which are ideal for handling unpaved surfaces. They can be used even on sandy beaches and tracks through woodlands.
They are also great buggies to jog with as they provide excellent stability on rougher terrain and aid you in staying with your running partner. They can also go up and down steep kerbs and a lot of them come with a spring suspension built-in so that your baby can enjoy an enjoyable ride.
The one thing that makes a 3-wheeled pushchair tricky to maneuver is the large frame, which makes it harder to fit into narrow spaces and tight doorways than a 4-wheeler. Some manufacturers have addressed this issue by using 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 doorways.
It's also important to consider whether your buggy is suitable for your little one from birth or if you're thinking of using it with an infant car seat or carry cot. Find out if the buggy comes with an option to lie flat and if it is compatible with second seat and buggy boards if you intend to take a toddler along. Many 3-wheelers will fold flat and be positioned upright when collapsed and is handy if you have limited space in your car boot or limited storage space at home. However, some require you to take out the front wheel when folding if you wish to fit in even more compact spaces.
Manoeuvrability
Three-wheeled buggies generally offer better manoeuvrability than four-wheeled pushchairs. They typically have a swivelling front wheel that lets you shift direction quickly and steer using just one hand. Some models also come with a lockable front wheels which can give you security on more difficult terrain. Certain models can be used with an additional buggy or seat, if you plan to expand your family.
If you are planning to remove your three-wheeled buggies from the paved roads then you should opt for a model with pneumatic tyres. They can handle the most difficult terrain. These tyres might need to be pumped up from time to time, but they will be more durable and puncture-proof than solid tyres. You should look for models with a swiveling front wheel that is locked to assist you on difficult terrains.
When folded, three-wheelers can be heavier than buggies with four wheels because of the single wheel on the front. Make sure the model you choose can fit in the boot of your car and can be set up upright if needed. Some models can be folded with one hand, and can be rearranged when folded. This will save space in the boot of your car.
A quality three-wheel pushchair will be used on all terrains from busy streets to forest tracks. It's important to consider how you will use it every day. If you'll be doing the school run using it, it must be able handle steep slopes and kerbs. If you intend to jog on it, ensure it has a swivelling "stretch front wheel' that is locked. This will keep the ride smooth.
Kath the MFM reviewer, found that her stroller on three wheels was able to handle urban and walks in the countryside. She noted that it could navigate cobbles, rocky paths and bumpy pavements effortlessly and was comfortable to run with too. It's also a great option for day trips because it offers plenty of storage space. This includes an enormous, spacious, zip-top covered basket and an extended 50+ UV hood. It can also be adapted for baby from birth with a lie-flat seat or a carry cot, as well as being compatible with the majority of popular second-seats and buggy boards.
Fabric Sling Seat
The primary distinction between a fabric and a modular one is the fabric sling. It is placed inside the frame of the buggy, as opposed to being placed on top like a modular chair. 3 wheel pushchair enables a much more ergonomically correct position for baby that instantly gives a lower centre of gravity and a more appropriate height. This results in a smoother push, a lighter curb-pop (you don't need to exert the same effort and weight to lift the buggy off the curb) and increased stability and balance.
The sling fabric used in these kinds of buggy seats are also extremely durable and easy to clean. These fabrics were designed specifically for the sling chair and are UV resistant and breathable. They also have an excellent anti-aging capability and are easy to clean using water and soap.
If you're a jogger, or enjoy a bit of off-roading, a all terrain 3 wheeler could be more suited to your needs than a 4-wheel buggy. These styles generally have a larger, more stable base and utilise tyres with air for agile smooth movement on rough ground.
A brand that is most famous for its car seats, Maxi-Cosi has recently added an all-new 3-wheeler to its line-up with the Stella. This all-terrain vehicle has an impressive, spacious and impressively growing seat that can be used as a world facing or parent facing and reclines flat with an upgraded 5-point safety harness. It can be used from birth with a carrycot or car seat and comes with a decently sized shopping basket and hood with zip pockets and a quick one-hand fold.
This luxury 3 wheeler made for the most discerning buggy owner, is as beautiful to see as it is to use. The angular frame is finished in an eye-catching pewter black, with hints of silver-burnished aluminum throughout, giving it a real WOW factor. This is a great choice for parents who are active. It comes with a large cushioned seat that can be set either in the direction of the parent or facing the world. It also features an improved 5-point harness and a complete set of rain covers.
Modular Seat
Modular seating can be configured in various ways to meet different seating requirements. Modular seating can be easily adjusted to create a cozy place to watch films, or an open layout for entertaining guests. A lot of modular seating systems have removable cushions, making it easy to clean spills or stains.
Modular Seating can be designed to blend in with existing decors or stand out as an accent piece. You can select from a variety of colors, fabrics, and shapes to create a modular seating that suits your style. Modular seating also has a variety of practical features, like hidden storage compartments for easy organization.
3-wheel buggies are particularly good for off-road and all-terrain adventures as they have more stability than 4-wheel strollers. The large, highly maneuverable front wheel allows for smooth and agile movement. The tyres, which are typically air-filled and have suspension, give you a great ride on even the most rough roads and trails. They're also great for navigating up hills because the wheels aren't as close ground as they are on four wheel pushchairs.
Parents who love to run and jog with their kids typically opt for 3-wheel strollers because they're more agile and sleeker than their four-wheel counterparts. The GB Upp XL for example is a sleek and polished aluminium frame, with a quick one-hand fold and rear and forward facing seats. The Babyzen Yoyo has an all black frame, a carrycot with the ability to lie flat in full, air-filled tyres and 3 recline positions.
Mountain Buggy Sport verso is another excellent all-terrain option. It's extremely light and highly maneuverable. It's also incredibly stylish. This is a buggy that is truly future-proof for your wallet and will take you from birth using the carrycot, all the way to toddlerhood using the seat that is modular (and beyond!). All this is within the footprint of one buggy.
The most recent model, duet(tm), is a side-byside buggy that's small enough for urban use yet with a lot of innovation and control. It features an exclusive seat made of fabric that is positioned in the frame with a perfect fit at the ideal height to distribute weight. This makes it easy jumps over kerbs, and navigates neighborhoods and cities.