3 Wheeled Buggies
A 3-wheel buggy can be utilized for off-road trails and to tackle terrain from uneven paths or tracks in woodlands. They can also be easier to maneuver up and down kerbs than models with four wheels.
MadeForMums reviews editor Kath tried one of these 3-wheelers with her newborn and 3 year old, putting it through its paces on the asphalt and on the muddy ground. Read her review here.
Stability
With four wheels and a central point of gravity that's balanced by the weight of your child in the seat, 4-wheel buggies are generally thought to be more stable than three-wheelers. But that doesn't mean a three-wheel buggy isn't worth considering, since many of these models are designed to cope with anything from rough terrain to busy high-streets.
For a buggy that's easy to maneuver and will not let you down on muddy roads, opt for a model with large rear wheels and an adjustable front wheel that locks. These all-terrain buggies often have pneumatic tyres too, which are great at handling uneven surfaces and can even be used on sandy beaches or woodland tracks.
They're also great buggies to jog with since they offer excellent stability in rough terrain and can help you stay with your running partner. They can also go up and down steep kerbs and a lot of them come with spring suspension that is built-in, so your child will enjoy an enjoyable ride.
The main thing that makes a 3-wheeled pushchair tricky to maneuver is the large frame, which can make it harder to fit through narrow and tight doors than a 4-wheeler. Some manufacturers have addressed this issue with clever design that turns the wheels upside down when they are not being used. This reduces their size and makes it easier to squeeze through doors.
You'll also need to think about whether the buggy you choose to use is suitable for your child from birth or if you're planning on using it in conjunction with an infant car seat or carry cot. If so, make sure it has a lie-flat position and whether the design is compatible with other seats and buggy boards (if you want to add a toddler onboard). Many 3-wheelers can fold flat and be stacked upright. This is a great option if you only have limited space in your boot or limited storage at home. Some will require you to remove the front wheel when folding if you wish to fit into even more compact space.
Manoeuvrability
Three-wheeled buggies are more maneuverable than strollers with four wheels. They often have a swivelling front wheel that allows you to shift direction quickly and steer using only one hand. Some models also come with a lockable front wheels which gives you the stability you need on rough terrain. Certain models can be used with an additional buggy or seat, should you decide to grow your family.
If you're planning to take your three-wheeled buggy off paved tracks, it's worth opting for a vehicle that has tyres with air in them (also known as pneumatic tyres) that can withstand the toughest terrain. These tyres will need regular pumping but will be far more durable than solid tyres and are more likely to be puncture-proof. Look for a model with an adjustable swivelling front wheel that locks to assist you in maneuvering difficult surfaces.
When folded, three-wheelers may be heavier than buggies with four wheels due to the single wheel in front. Make sure the model you pick can fit in the boot of your car and can be positioned upright if needed. Some models can be folded using one hand and stand up when collapsed. This can help save space in the boot of your car.
A well-constructed 3 wheel pushchair will be able to deal with all terrains, from busy streets to woodland tracks. It is important to consider how you will use it every day. If you'll be running the school run, it should be able to cope with steep kerbs and slopes. If you'll be running with it, ensure it has a lockable swivelling'stretch' front wheel to ensure that the ride is steady.
Kath, a MFM reviewer, was able to determine that her stroller on three wheels was able to handle both urban and rural walks. Kath said it was able to navigate rocky paths, cobbles and uneven pavements easily and was comfortable when running. It's also a great option for day trips, since it offers plenty of storage space, including a huge, spacious basket with zip-top cover and an expandable 50+ UV hood. It can be adjusted to fit a baby's needs from birth, with a carry cot or lie-flat seat. It is also compatible with the most well-known stroller seats and second seats.
Fabric Sling Seat
The primary difference between a fabric sling and modular seat is that the fabric sling is placed in the frame of the buggy rather than being positioned on top as a modular seat would. This enables a much more ergonomically-correct position for babies and instantly provides an lower centre of gravity at the right height. This leads to a smoother push, a lighter curb-pop (you don't have to exert the same effort and weight to lift the buggy off the curb) and increased stability and balance.
The sling fabrics used in these kinds of buggy seats are extremely durable and easy to clean. Made specifically for the use of sling chairs in mind, these fabrics are incredibly durable and breathable. These fabrics are also very easy to maintain with mild soap and warm water.
If you're a jogger or are a fan of off-roading, an all-terrain 3 wheeler could be more your bag than a buggy with four wheels. These types have a bigger base they are more stable and have air-filled tyres that allow 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 stroller is all-terrain and has an enormous and spacious travel system seat unit which can be placed either facing the parent or the world. It can also recline flat and comes with an improved 5-point safety belt. It can be used with car seats or a carrycot starting at birth. It also has an enormous shopping basket.
Designed for the most discerning buggy owners this luxurious 3 wheeler is as beautiful to behold as it is to operate. The angular frame has stunning pewter finishes with accents of burnished aluminium. It's a true show-stopper. A large, padded seat that can be world or parent-facing, with an improved 5-point safety harness as well as an entire set of rain covers make this a great choice for active parents.
Modular Seat
Modular seating can be set up in a variety of ways to meet a variety of seating needs. It doesn't matter if it's a comfortable setup to watch movies or a spacious configuration to entertain guests, modular seating is able to be adjusted easily. Many modular seating systems come with removable cushions, making it easy to clean spills or stain.
Modular Seating is available in a variety of styles to match existing decor or as an accent piece. You can pick from a variety of colors, fabrics, and shapes to create a modular seating that suits your personal style. Many functional features are available in modular seating, such as hidden storage compartments that allow for easy organization and decluttering of living spaces.
3-wheel buggies are more stable than strollers with four wheels, making them ideal for off-road or all terrain adventures. The large, highly maneuverable front wheel allows for smooth and quick movement. The tyres, which are usually air-filled and come with suspension, provide an excellent ride on even the most rough roads and trails. The wheels aren't as close to the ground on these pushchairs as they would be with four wheeled pushchairs. This makes them perfect for walking uphill.
Parents who love to run and jog with their babies often choose 3-wheel prams because they're more agile and sleeker than their 4-wheel counterparts. The GB Upp XL, for instance, features an elegant burnished aluminum frame with a quick one-handed fold as well as forward-facing and rear-facing seats. The Babyzen Yoyo, on the other hand, features black frames with a carrycot that is placed in a fully lie-flat position, and has tyres that are air-filled.
Another fantastic all-terrain option is the lightweight, highly manoeuvrable and stunningly elegant Mountain Buggy Sport verso. This is a buggy that will truly protect your wallet from the future and can be used from birth with the included carrycot all the way to toddlerhood with the modular seat (and beyond!). All this is within the footprint of just one buggy.
Duet(tm) is a side by side buggy that's compact enough for city living 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 weight. This allows for easy jumps over kerbs, and navigates cities and neighborhoods.