3 Wheeled Buggies
A 3-wheel buggy is perfect for off-roading and dealing with terrain, from bumpy pavements to woodland tracks. They are also more easy to manoeuvre up and down kerbs than 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 asphalt and on the muddy ground. You can read her full review here.
Stability
Four-wheel buggies, which have their centre of gravity balancing by the weight of your child in the seat, are generally more stable than three-wheelers. 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 handle and will not let you down on bumpy pavements, look for one with big 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.
These are also the best buggies for running with, since they offer great stability over rough terrain and can help you keep up with your jogging partner. They're also good at climbing and descending steep kerbs as well Most buggies come with a suspension built in which means your child will have a pleasant ride.
A stroller with 3 wheels can be a challenge to maneuver due to its wide frame. It is more difficult to maneuver through doorways and narrow spaces than a 4-wheeler. However some manufacturers have solved this issue with clever design that lets the wheels turn up when not being used, which reduces their overall size and allows you get through doors with ease.
If so, check for a lie-flat positioning and if the design is compatible with second seats and buggy boards (if you want to add the toddler). Find out if the buggy comes with the ability to lie flat, and if it's compatible with a second seat as well as buggy boards if you plan to bring your toddler along. Many 3-wheelers fold flat and can be stood upright when collapsed and is handy if you have limited space in your car boot or a small storage space at home. However, some will require you to take out the front wheel when folding if you want it to fit into smaller space.
Manoeuvrability
Three-wheeled buggies generally provide better maneuverability than pushchairs with four wheels. A lot of them feature an swivelling wheel at the front which allows you to steer and change direction with just one hand. Some also come with a lockable front wheel which can give you security on more difficult terrain. Some models can be used with an additional seat or buggy board, should you decide to grow your family.
If you intend to remove your three-wheeled buggies from the paved roads, you should choose an option with pneumatic tyres. They can handle even the most difficult terrain. They may have to be filled from time to intervals, but they'll 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 indicate that three-wheelers can be heavier than buggies with four wheels when folded. Make sure the model you choose fits in the boot of your vehicle and can be sat up if needed. Some models fold using one hand, and they stand up when collapsed. This will save space in a small car boot.
A well-constructed three-wheeled pushchair can handle most terrains from busy streets to forest tracks. It's important to think about what you'll be using it for every day. If you'll be running the school run with it, it must be able handle steep slopes and kerbs. If you intend to jog on it, ensure it has a swiveling'stretch front wheel' that can be locked. This will help keep the ride in place.
Kath the MFM reviewer, found that her three-wheeled stroller was able to handle urban and walks in the countryside. She said it was able to navigate rocky paths, cobbles and bumpy pavements effortlessly and felt pleasant when running. It is also a good option for day trips because it has a lot of storage space. This includes a large, spacious, zip-top covered basket and an extended, 50+ UV hood. It can be modified to meet the needs of a baby from birth, with an infant carry cot or a lie-flat seat. It is also compatible with the most popular second seats and stroller boards.
Fabric Sling Seat
The key difference between a fabric sling versus a modular seats is that the fabric sling fits snugly inside the buggy frame as opposed to sitting on top of it like a modular seat. This makes it easier to maintain an comfortable and ergonomically-correct position for the baby, leading to a lower center of gravity at just the right height. This in turn makes for an easier push, a less hefty curb pop (you do not require as much weight and effort to lift the buggy off the nose of a curb) and a better balance and stability.
The sling fabric used in these types of seats are very hard-wearing and easy to clean. 3 wheeler pushchair for sling chair applications in mind they are UV-resistant and breathable. They are also easy to maintain with mild soap and warm water.
If you're a jogger or like to do some off-roading, then an all terrain buggy is more suited to your needs than a four-wheel buggy. These models generally have a larger base, more stable, and utilise tyres with air to allow for smooth and agile moving 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 stroller is all-terrain and has a spacious and large seat 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 with a car seat or carrycot and comes with a generously large shopping basket and hood with zip pockets and a quick one-hand fold.
This 3 wheeler of luxury made for the most discerning buggy owner is as stunning to see as it is functional. The sleek frame features a stunning pewter finish with touches of burnished aluminum. It is a real show-stopper. A big, padded seat that can be used as world or parent-facing with a new 5-point safety harness and an entire set of rain covers make this an ideal option for parents who are active.
Modular Seat
Modular seating offers a wide range of configurations to meet different seating requirements. Whether it's a cozy setup for watching films or a large arrangement to entertain guests, modular seating is able to be adjusted easily. A lot of modular seating systems come with removable cushion covers which makes it easier to clean up spills and stains.
Modular Seating is available in various styles to fit with your existing decor or as an accent piece. A broad range of color, fabric, and shape options means that you can choose a modular seating solution that suits your style. Modular seating comes with various useful features, such as hidden storage compartments that make it easy to storage.
3-wheel buggies are particularly good for off-road and all-terrain adventures since they offer more stability than strollers with four wheels. The large, highly maneuverable front wheel allows for smooth and agile movement. The tyres, which are usually air-filled and have suspension, give you a great ride even on the roughest roads and trails. They are also ideal for walking up hills since the wheels aren't as close ground as they are on 4 wheel pushchairs.
Parents who like to run and jog with their children typically opt for 3-wheel strollers because they are more nimble and sleeker than their 4-wheel counterparts. The GB Upp XL for example has a sleek burnished silver aluminium frame, with a quick one-hand fold and rear and forward facing seats, while the Babyzen Yoyo has an all black frame, a carrycot with the ability to lie flat in full, air-filled tyres and three recline positions.
Mountain Buggy Sport verso is another excellent all-terrain option. It's incredibly lightweight and extremely maneuverable, as well as fashionable. This buggy will truly protect your wallet from the future and will take you from birth with the included carrycot all the way to toddler-hood with the seat that can be rearranged (and beyond!). It all fits within the footprint of a single buggy.
The latest model, duet(tm), is a side-byside buggy that's small enough for urban living yet large on innovation and control. It comes with an exclusive fabric sling seat that's placed comfortably inside the frame and at just the right height for perfect weight distribution for easy rolling over kerbs, and for navigating neighborhoods and cities.