3 Wheeled Buggies
A 3-wheel buggy can be utilized for off-road trails and for tackling terrain such as rough roads or woodland tracks. They are also simpler to navigate on kerbs, and they are less prone to slipping down when as opposed to 4-wheel models.
MadeForMums reviews editor Kath tried one of these three-wheelers while with her newborn and three year old, putting it through its paces on road and on a rocky surface. You can read her full 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 triwheelers. Three-wheel buggies are still worth considering as they can handle everything from rough terrain to busy streets.
If you want a buggie that is easy to maneuver and will not let you down on muddy roads, opt for one with big rear wheels and an adjustable front wheel that locks. These all-terrain buggies also come with pneumatic tires that are perfect for handling non-paved surfaces. They can be used even on sandy beaches or tracks in woodlands.
They are also the best buggies to be running around in, as they provide great stability over rougher ground and can aid in keeping up with your running partner. They're also good at going up and down steep kerbs too and a majority come with a suspension built in which means your child will have a pleasant ride.
The one factor that makes a 3-wheeled pushchair difficult to maneuver is the large frame, which can make it difficult to squeeze through narrow and tight doors than a four-wheeler. Some manufacturers have addressed this issue by using a clever design which turns the wheels upside down when they are not in use. This reduces their size and makes them easier to fit through doorways.
You'll also need to think about whether your buggy is suitable for your baby from birth or if you're thinking of using it in conjunction with an infant car seat or carry cot. Make sure that the buggy has the ability to lie flat, and if it is compatible with a second seat and buggy boards if you plan to bring a toddler along. A lot of 3-wheelers fold flat and be put up in a upright position. This is a great option for those with an unwieldy boot space or have limited storage at home. However, some require you to remove the front wheel prior to folding in order to fit into smaller spaces.
Manoeuvrability
Three-wheeled buggies typically offer better manoeuvrability than four-wheeled pushchairs. A lot of them feature a swivelling wheel on the front which allows you to steer and change direction with just one hand. Some models also come with a lockable front wheel which gives you stability on rougher terrain. Some models can be used with a second seat or buggy board in case you're planning to expand your family.
If you are planning to remove your three-wheeled buggies from the paved roads, you should choose a model that has pneumatic tyres. They are able to handle the most difficult terrain. These tyres might need to be regularly pumped up from time time, but they will be more durable and puncture-proof than solid tyres. Look for a model with an adjustable swivelling front wheel that locks to aid you in navigating difficult surfaces.
A single front wheel can also mean that three-wheelers tend to be bulkier than four-wheeled buggies when folded. Check that your chosen model can fit in the boot of your vehicle and can be raised should it be needed. Some models are able to be folded with just one hand, and they're freestanding when they're collapsed, which will save space in smaller car boots.
A well-constructed 3 wheel pushchair is able to cope with all terrains, from busy streets to woodland tracks. But it's important to consider the purpose you'll use for your day-to-day use. If you will be making the school run with it, it must be able to handle sharp slopes and kerbs. If you'll be jogging with it, make sure it has a lockable swivelling'stretch' front wheel to keep the ride safe.
MFM reviewer Kath found her three-wheeled buggy able to cope really well on both urban and countryside walks. She said that it navigated cobbles, rocky paths and bumpy pavements easily and was comfortable to run with. It's also a great choice for day trips, as it offers plenty of storage space, including a large, spacious basket with zip-top cover and an expandable 50+ UV hood. It can be adapted to meet the needs of babies from birth, with a carry cot or lying-flat seats. It's also compatible with the most well-known second seats and stroller boards.
Fabric Sling Seat
The primary distinction between a fabric seat and a modular seat is the fabric sling. It is a part of the frame of the buggy as opposed to being placed on top of it like a modular chair. This allows for a more ergonomically appropriate posture for the baby, which instantly delivers an lower centre of gravity at the right height. This results in an easier push, a lighter curb pop (you don't need much effort or weight to push the buggy over the nose of a curb) and a better stability and balance.
The sling fabrics that are used in these types of buggy seats are also very hard-wearing and easy to clean. These fabrics were specifically designed for sling chairs and are extremely UV resistant and breathable. They are also easy to maintain using mild soap and warm water.
If you're a jogger or like to do some off-roading, a all terrain 3 wheeler is likely to be more suitable than a 4-wheeler. These types have a bigger base they are more stable and utilize air-filled tyres for smooth movement over rough terrain.
A brand most well-known for its car seats, Maxi-Cosi has recently added the latest 3-wheeler to its line-up with the Stella. The all-terrain stroller has a spacious and large seat unit for the travel system that can be set either in the direction of the parent or facing the world. It also reclines flat and features an upgraded 5-point safety belt. It can be used from birth using a car seat or carrycot and comes with a reasonably large shopping basket and a hood that has zip pockets, and a convenient one-hand fold.
Created for the most discerning buggy drivers, this 3 wheeler that is luxurious is as stunning to look at as it is enjoyable to use. The sleek frame is finished in an eye-catching pewter black, with hints of silver-burnished aluminum throughout, giving it a real wow factor. A large, padded seat that can be used as world or parent-facing, with a new 5-point safety harness, as well as an entire set of rain covers make this a great option for parents who are active.
Modular Seat
Modular seating can be used to create an array of configurations to meet different seating requirements. Modular seating can be easily adjusted to create a relaxing place to watch films, or a large arrangement to entertain guests. Many modular seating systems have removable cushions, making it easy to clean up spills and stain.
Modular Seating can be designed to blend with existing decors or stand out as an accent piece. You can pick from a wide variety of colors, fabrics, and shapes to design an adjustable seating option that matches your personal style. Modular seating comes with various useful features, such as hidden storage compartments for easy organizing.
3-wheel buggies are particularly good for off-road and all terrain adventures because they offer more stability than 4-wheel strollers. The large front wheel that is extremely maneuverable allows for smooth and swift movement. The tyres, which are typically filled with air and have suspension, offer a comfortable ride on even the most rough roads and trails. The wheels are not as close to the ground on these pushchairs as they would be with 4 wheeled pushchairs. This makes them perfect for walking uphill.
Often 3-wheel prams are favourite for parents who enjoy running and jogging with their baby, as they provide excellent agility and are more streamlined than their 4 wheel counterparts. The GB Upp XL for example has a sleek burnished silver aluminum frame, an easy one-hand fold as well as rear and forward facing seats. The Babyzen Yoyo has an all black frame, a carrycot that has a full lie flat position with air-filled tyres as well as three recline positions.
Mountain Buggy Sport verso is another fantastic all-terrain choice. It's extremely lightweight, highly maneuverable and amazingly fashionable. This is a buggy that is truly future-proof for your wallet and can be used from birth using the carrycot, all the way to toddler-hood with the seat that is modular (and beyond!). All this is within the footprint of one buggy.
Duet(tm) is a side by side buggy that's compact enough for city life, but also creative and controlled. It features an exclusive fabric sling seat that's positioned snugly inside the frame and at just the right height to ensure a optimal weight distribution for effortless popping kerbs and maneuvering through neighbourhoods and cities.