3 Wheeled Buggies
A 3-wheel buggy is great for off-road jogging and tackling terrain, from bumpy pavements to woodland tracks. They are also simpler to move between kerbs and up and down them as opposed to 4-wheel models.
MadeForMums reviews editor Kath tried one of these 3-wheelers with her newborn and 3 year old daughter, putting it through its paces on road and on a rocky surface. You can read her full review here.
Stability
Four-wheel buggies with their centre of gravity balanced by the weight of your child in the seat, are typically more stable than three-wheelers. Three-wheel buggies are still worthwhile to consider as they are able to handle anything from rough terrain to busy streets.
Look for a buggy with large rear wheels, and an lockable wheel on the front. This makes it more comfortable to drive and less likely to break apart when you're on bumpy roads. These all-terrain buggies also have pneumatic tires that are perfect for handling non-paved surfaces. They can be used even on sandy beaches and tracks through woodlands.
They are also excellent buggies to run with as they provide excellent stability in rough terrain and help you stay with your running companion. They are also great for going up and down steep kerbs Most buggies come with a suspension built in that ensures your child will have a pleasant ride.
A stroller with three wheels can be a challenge to maneuver due to its wide frame. It is more difficult to maneuver through narrow spaces and doorways than a 4-wheeler. Some manufacturers have solved this issue with an innovative design that flips the wheels upwards when they are not being used. This reduces their size and makes them easier to maneuver through doors.
It's also important to consider 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, check for the ability to lie flat and if the design is compatible with second-seats and buggy boards (if you'd like to add a toddler onboard). Many 3-wheelers will fold flat and be positioned upright when collapsed and is handy if you have a small car boot or only a little storage space at home. Some will require you to take out the front wheel prior to folding in order to fit into smaller space.
Manoeuvrability
Three-wheeled buggies are more movable than four-wheeled strollers. They often come with a swivelling front wheel that allows you to shift direction quickly and steer with only one hand. Some models also come with a lockable front wheel that can provide security on more difficult terrain. Certain models can be used with an additional seat or buggy board, should you decide to grow your family.
If you plan to remove your three-wheeled buggies from the roads that are paved, you should choose one that has pneumatic tyres. They can handle the most difficult terrain. These tyres might need to be filled from time to time, but they will be more durable and puncture-proof compared to solid tyres. Look for a model with a lockable swivelling front wheel to aid you in navigating difficult surfaces.
When folded, three-wheelers may be heavier than buggies with four wheels because of the single front wheel. Make sure the model you select fits inside your car's boot and can be placed upright if required. Some models can be folded by one hand and stand up when collapsed. This can save space in the boot of your car.
A good 3 wheel pushchair can cope with all terrains, from busy streets to woodland tracks. However, it is important to consider what you'll be using it for in the daytime. If you'll be doing the school run using it, it must be able handle the kerbs and steep slopes. If you're planning to run with it, make sure it has a swivelling'stretch front wheel' that is locked. This will keep the ride in place.
Kath the MFM reviewer, discovered that her three-wheeled stroller was able to handle urban and walks in the countryside. She said it was able to negotiate rocky paths, cobbles, and bumpy pavements with ease and was comfortable when running. It's also a great choice for day trips, since it comes with plenty of storage space, including a huge and spacious basket that has a zip-top cover and an extendable 50+ UV hood. It can also be adapted to fit babies as young as a lie-flat seat or a carry cot, in addition to being compatible with the majority of popular second-seats and buggy boards.
Fabric Sling Seat
The main difference between a fabric sling and a modular seats is that the fabric sling is placed in the frame of the buggy as opposed to sitting on top like a modular seat. This allows for a more ergonomically correct position for babies that instantly gives lower center of gravity that is at the proper height. This results in a smoother push, a lighter curb-pop (you do not have to exert as much effort and weight to lift the buggy off the curb) and more stability and balance.
The sling fabrics that are used in these types of buggy seats are also very hard-wearing and easy to clean. They were designed specifically with sling chair applications in mind they are UV resistant and air-tight. They also have a great durability and are easy to clean using water and soap.
If you are a jogger, or you like off-roading, then an all terrain buggy is more likely to meet your requirements than a four-wheeler. These types have a bigger base and are more stable. They also utilize air-filled tyres for smooth movement over rough terrain.
A brand that is most famous for its car seats, Maxi-Cosi has recently added a new 3-wheeler to its line-up with the Stella. This all-terrain stroller boasts a spacious and large seat unit for the travel system that can be positioned either parent or world facing. It also reclines flat and features an upgraded 5-point safety belt. It can be used from birth using a carrycot or car seat and comes with a generously sized shopping basket, hood with zip pockets, and a convenient one-hand fold.
For the most discerning buggy owners this luxury 3 wheeler is as stunning to look at as it is to use. The angular frame features a stunning pewter finish with touches of burnished aluminium. It is a real eye-catching piece. A spacious, cushioned seat that can be used as world or parent-facing with an improved 5-point safety harness and a full set of rain covers makes this a great choice for active parents.
Modular Seat
Modular seating can be arranged in various ways to accommodate different seating needs. Modular seating can be easily adjusted to create a cozy place to watch films, or a large arrangement for entertaining guests. Many modular seating systems come with cushion covers that can be removed which makes it easier to clean up spills and staining.
Modular Seating can be designed to blend in with existing decors or be a standout as an accent piece. You can select from a variety of colors, fabrics and shapes to design an adjustable seating option that matches your personal style. Modular seating comes with a variety of practical features, like storage compartments hidden from view for easy organizing.
3-wheel buggies are especially suitable for off-road or all terrain adventures as they have more stability than 4-wheel strollers. The large, extremely maneuverable front wheel allows for a quick and smooth movement, whilst the tyres are usually air filled and have suspension, allowing for a smooth ride on even the most difficult roads and trails. The wheels aren't as close to the ground on these pushchairs as they are 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 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 quick one-handed fold as well as rear-facing and forward-facing seats. The Babyzen Yoyo, on the other hand, comes with an all-black frame that comes with a carrycot that can be positioned in a full lying position and has air-filled tyres.
Another fantastic all-terrain choice is the incredibly light, extremely maneuverable and stunningly fashionable Mountain Buggy Sport verso. This buggy will last you from birth, with the carrycot and toddlerhood with the adjustable seat. It does this all within the footprint of one buggy.
The latest model, duet(tm), is a side-by-side vehicle that's small enough for urban use yet with a lot of innovation and control. It comes with a unique fabric sling seat that's positioned in a comfortable frame at just the right height to allow for a perfect weight distribution for easy kerb popping and navigating neighbourhoods and cities.