3 Wheeled Buggies
A 3-wheel buggy is great for off-roading and dealing with terrain, from bumpy pavements to woodland tracks. They are also simpler to navigate up and down kerbs compared to 4-wheel models.
MadeForMums reviews editor Kath tried one of these 3-wheelers with her newborn and 3 year old, putting it through its paces on the tarmac and on tricky ground. You can read her full review here.
Stability
With four wheels and a centre of gravity that's balanced by the weight of your child in the seat, buggies with four wheels are generally thought to be more stable than three-wheelers. However, that doesn't mean 3 wheel buggy -wheel buggie isn't worth considering, since the majority of them are built to handle everything from rough terrain to busy high streets.
Find a buggie with large rear wheels, as well as one that locks on the front. This makes it easier to drive and less likely to fall apart on bumpy roads. These all-terrain buggies often have pneumatic tyres as well, which are ideal for handling surfaces that aren't paved and can even be used on sandy beaches or tracks in woodland.
They're also the best buggies to be running with, since they provide excellent stability over rougher ground and can help you keep pace with your running partner. They can also go up and down steep kerbs, and many of them come with spring suspension built-in so that your child will enjoy a comfortable ride.
The main factor that makes a pushchair with three wheels difficult to maneuver is the broad frame, which makes it harder to fit through narrow and tight doors than a 4-wheeler. Some manufacturers have addressed this issue by using a clever design which flips the wheels up when they are not being used. This reduces their dimensions and makes it easier to fit through doorways.
If yes, look for a lie-flat position and whether the design is compatible with second seating and buggy boards (if you plan to bring the toddler). Check if the buggy has the ability to lie flat, and if it is compatible with a second seat and buggy boards if you plan to take an infant along. Many 3-wheelers can fold flat, and then be stacked upright. This is great when you have a small boot space or have limited storage at home. However, some require you to take out the front wheel prior to folding in order to fit into even smaller space.
Manoeuvrability
Three-wheeled buggies can be more maneuverable than strollers with four wheels. They often come with a swivelling front wheel which allows you to change direction quickly and steer with only one hand. Certain models come with wheels that lock to offer stability on rough terrain. Some models can be used with a second seat or buggy board if you're looking to increase the size of your family.
If you're thinking of taking your three-wheeled bike off the roads, you should consider selecting a model with air-filled tyres (also known as pneumatic tyres) that can withstand the toughest terrain. They may have to be pumped up from time to the point, but they will be more durable and puncture-proof than solid tyres. You should look for a model that has an adjustable front wheel that can be locked to assist you on tricky surfaces.
When folded, three-wheelers can be heavier than buggies with four wheels because of the single front wheel. Check to see if the model you're considering can fit into the boot of your car and can be stood up, should it be needed. Some models are able to fold with one hand, and they're freestanding when collapsed, which can save space in car boot spaces that are smaller.
A good three-wheel pushchair can handle most terrains, from busy streets to forest tracks. It's important to think about how you will use it every day. If you'll be doing the school run, it must be able to cope with steep kerbs and slopes. If you plan to jog with it, make sure it has a swiveling'stretch front wheel' that can be locked. This will help keep the ride in place.
Kath the MFM reviewer, discovered that her three-wheeled stroller was able to handle urban and rural walks. 3 wheel pushchair said that it navigated rocky paths, cobbles and bumpy pavements easily and was comfortable to jog with. It's also a great option for day trips as it offers plenty of storage space, including a large and spacious basket that has a zip-top cover and an extendable 50+ UV hood. It can be adjusted to fit a baby's needs from birth, with the option of a carry cot or a lying-flat seats. It's also compatible with the most well-known stroller seats and second seats.
Fabric Sling Seat
The main difference between a seat made of fabric and a modular one is the fabric sling. It is a part of the buggy frame, as opposed to being placed on top like the modular chair. This makes it easier to maintain an ergonomically appropriate position for the baby, resulting in a lower center of gravity, which is just the right height. This leads to a more comfortable push, a more light 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 very hard-wearing and easy to clean. Made specifically for applications for sling chairs in mind, these fabrics are incredibly UV resistant and extremely breathable. They also have excellent anti-aging capability and are easy to clean using water and soap.
If you're a jogger, or are a fan of off-roading, an all-terrain 3 wheeler is likely to be more suited to your needs than a buggy with four wheels. These models have a larger base and are more stable. They also have air-filled tyres that allow for smooth movement over rough terrain.
Maxi-Cosi, a brand known for its car seat range is now offering a brand-new 3-wheeler called the Stella to its product line. The all-terrain stroller has a spacious and large travel system seat unit which can be positioned either in the direction of the parent or facing the world. It also reclines flat and has an upgraded 5-point safety belt. It can be used from birth using a car seat or carrycot and comes with a decently sized shopping basket, hood with zip pockets, and a convenient one-hand fold.
Created for the most discerning buggy owners, this luxurious 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 is a real eye-catching piece. This is a great choice for active parents. It comes with a large, padded seat which can be placed either with the parent or world facing. It also has 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 suit various seating requirements. Modular seating can be easily adjusted to create a cozy space to watch movies or a spacious arrangement for entertaining guests. A lot of modular seating systems have cushions that can be removed making it simple to clean up spills and stain.
Modular Seating is available in a variety of styles to fit with your existing decor or as an accent piece. You can choose from a variety of colors, fabrics, and shapes to design an adjustable seating option that matches your style. Various functional features are also available in modular seating, like hidden storage compartments that allow for an easy organization and cleaning of living spaces.
3-wheel buggies are more stable than strollers with four wheels, which makes them ideal for off-road and all terrain adventures. The large, highly maneuverable front wheel allows for smooth and agile movement. The tyres, which are usually air-filled and come with suspension, offer a comfortable ride on even the most rough trails and roads. They are also ideal 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 favorite for parents who love running and jogging with their children as they offer great agility and are more streamlined than their 4-wheel counterparts. The GB Upp XL, for instance, features a sleek burnished aluminium frame with a fast one-handed fold, forward-facing and rear-facing seats. The Babyzen Yoyo, on the other hand, comes with an all-black frame that comes with an infant carrycot that can be positioned in a full lie-flat position, and has tyres that are air-filled.
Another excellent all-terrain option is the incredibly lightweight, highly manoeuvrable and elegant Mountain Buggy Sport verso. This is a buggy that will truly protect your wallet from the future and can be used from birth using the carrycot, right through to toddlerhood with the seat that can be rearranged (and beyond!). It all fits within the footprint of a single buggy.
Duet(tm) is a side by side buggy that is compact enough to be used in urban areas, but also creative and controlled. It has an exclusive seat made of fabric that is positioned in the frame with a perfect fit at the perfect height to distribute the weight. This allows for easy crossing of kerbs and for navigating cities and neighborhoods.