3 Wheeled Buggies
A 3-wheel buggy is great for off-roading and tackling terrain, from bumpy pavements to woodland tracks. They are also easier to maneuver around kerbs than models with four wheels.
MadeForMums reviews editor Kath tried one of these three-wheelers with her newborn and 3 year old, and put it through its paces on road and on a rocky surface. Check out her review here.
Stability
With four wheels and a central point of gravity that's balanced by the weight of your child's seat, 4-wheel buggies are generally considered to be more stable than three-wheelers. Three-wheel buggies are nevertheless worth considering as they can handle everything from rough terrain to busy streets.
For a buggy that's easy to control and won't fall over on bumpy pavements, look for one with big rear wheels and an adjustable front wheel that locks. These all-terrain buggies also come with pneumatic tires that are ideal for handling unpaved surfaces. They can be used even on sandy beaches or woodland tracks.
They are also excellent buggies to run with as they provide excellent stability on rougher terrain and help you stay with your running companion. They are also great for going up and down steep kerbs too Most buggies come with suspension built-in that means your baby will have a pleasant ride.
A stroller with 3 wheels can be difficult to maneuver because of its wide frame. It is more difficult to maneuver through doorways and narrow spaces than a 4-wheeler. However, some manufacturers have tackled this issue with clever design that lets the wheels fold upwards when not being used, which reduces their overall size and helps you to get through doorways easily.
If yes, look for three wheel pushchair -flat position and if the design is compatible with second seating and buggy boards (if you want to add an infant onboard). Make sure that the buggy has an option to lie flat and if it's compatible with second seat and buggy boards if you plan to bring a toddler along. Many 3-wheelers fold flat and be upright when folded - 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 prior to folding if you wish to fit into even smaller spaces.
Manoeuvrability
Three-wheeled buggies usually provide better maneuverability than four-wheeled pushchairs. Many of them have an swivelling wheel at the front that allows you to steer and change direction using just one hand. Some models also come with a lockable front wheels which can give you the stability you need on rough terrain. Some models can be used with an additional seat or buggy board, in case you want to expand your family.
If you are planning to take your three-wheeled buggies off the roads that are paved, you should choose one with pneumatic tyres. They can handle the most difficult terrain. They may have to be pumped up from time to intervals, but they'll be more durable and puncture-proof than solid tyres. It is recommended to choose one with an swiveling front wheel that can be locked to help you navigate difficult surfaces.
When folded, three-wheelers may be more bulky than four-wheeled buggies due to the single front wheel. Check to see if the model you're considering can fit into the boot of your car and is able to be raised should it be necessary. Some models are able to fold in one hand, and they're freestanding when collapsed, which will save space in car boot spaces that are smaller.
A good 3 wheel pushchair is able to cope with all terrains, from busy main streets to woodland tracks. But it's important to consider the purpose you'll use for your day-to-day use. If you'll be doing the school run, it should be able to cope with steep kerbs and slopes. If you plan to jog with it, make sure it has a swivelling "stretch front wheel' that is locked. This will keep the ride stable.
Kath the MFM reviewer, was able to determine that her stroller with three wheels was able to handle both urban and walks in the countryside. She noted that it could navigate rocky paths, cobbles and bumpy pavements easily and felt pleasant to jog with. It's also a great option for day trips because it is packed with storage space. It comes with an ample, spacious zip-top covered basket and an extended, 50+ UV hood. It can also be modified to fit babies as young as a lie-flat seat or carry cot, as well as being compatible with the majority of popular second-seats and buggy boards.
Fabric Sling Seat
The key difference between a fabric sling versus a modular seat is that the fabric sling fits in the frame of the buggy instead of sitting on top of it like a modular seat would. This allows for a more ergonomically appropriate position for the baby, leading to a lower center of gravity at just the right height. This results in a smoother push, a more light curb-pop (you do not have to exert the same effort and weight to lift the buggy off the curb) and more stability and balance.
The sling fabrics used in these types of buggy seats are extremely durable and easy to clean. These fabrics were specifically designed for the sling chair and are UV resistant and ventilated. They are also easy to maintain with mild soap and warm water.
If you're a jogger or enjoy a bit of off-roading, an all terrain 3 wheeler could be more your bag than a buggy with four wheels. These models are generally larger base, more stable and utilise tyres with air for agile smooth moving over rough terrain.
A brand most well-known 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 huge and spacious travel system seat unit that can be world facing or parent-facing and reclines flat using an improved 5-point safety harness. It can be used as a baby with an infant car seat or carrycot and comes with a decently large shopping basket, hood with zip pockets and a quick one-hand fold.
This luxury 3 wheeler, designed for the most discerning buggy owners, is as beautiful to look at as it is to operate. The sleek frame is finished in a stunning pewter black with touches of burnished silver aluminium throughout and gives it a true wow factor. A spacious, cushioned seat that can be world or parent facing with a new 5-point safety harness, as well as an entire set of rain covers makes this a great option for parents who are active.
Modular Seat
Modular seating allows for a wide range of configurations to meet different seating requirements. It doesn't matter if it's a comfortable setup to watch movies or a larger arrangement to entertain guests, modular seating can adjust easily. Many modular seating systems also come with removable cushion covers, making it easier to wash spills and stains.
Modular Seating is available in different designs to complement your current decor or as an accent piece. A variety of fabric, color, and shape options means that you can find an alternative seating option that is a perfect fit for your preferences. Modular seating also has many functional features, including hidden storage compartments for easy organization.
3-wheel buggies are more stable than 4-wheel strollers, making them ideal for off-road and all terrain adventures. The large, extremely maneuverable front wheel enables agile and smooth motion, while the tyres are typically filled with air and have suspension, which gives you a great ride on even the roughest trails and roads. The wheels are not as close to the ground on these pushchairs as they would be with four wheeled pushchairs. This makes them perfect for walking uphill.
Often 3-wheel prams are popular choice for parents who enjoy running and jogging with their baby as they offer great mobility and are much more sleek than their 4-wheel counterparts. The GB Upp XL for example features a sleek, burnished silver aluminum frame, which has an easy fold that can be folded in one hand and forward and rear facing seats. The Babyzen Yoyo has an all black frame, a carrycot with 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 and highly maneuverable. It's also incredibly stylish. This is a buggy that will truly protect your wallet from the future and can be used from birth using the carrycot, all the way to toddler-hood with the seat that is modular (and beyond!). All of this is done within the footprint of just one buggy.
The latest model, duet(tm), is a side-by-side buggy that's compact enough for urban living, yet big on innovation and control. It features a unique seat made of fabric that is positioned in the frame with a perfect fit at the right height to distribute weight. This makes it easy kerb jumping and navigating cities and neighborhoods.