3 Wheeled Buggies
A 3-wheel buggy is perfect for off-road jogging and taking on terrains, from bumpy pavements to woodland tracks. They are also simpler to maneuver on kerbs, and they are less prone to slipping down when in comparison to 4-wheel models.
MadeForMums reviews editor Kath tried one of these three-wheelers while with her newborn and 3 year old daughter, putting it through its paces on the asphalt and on the muddy ground. Read her review here.
Stability
Four-wheel buggies, with their centre of gravity balancing by your child's weight within the seat, are generally more stable than three-wheelers. Three-wheel buggies are nevertheless worth considering since they can take on anything from rough terrain to busy streets.
For a buggy that's really easy to maneuver and will not fall over on muddy roads, opt for one with big rear wheels and a lockable front wheel. These all-terrain buggies also come with pneumatic tires that are ideal for handling unpaved surfaces. They can be used on sandy beaches and tracks through woodlands.
They're also great buggies to jog with as they provide excellent stability on rougher terrain and aid you in staying with your running companion. They can also be used to go up and down steep kerbs, and many come with spring suspension built-in so that your baby will have an enjoyable ride.
A stroller with 3 wheels can be difficult to maneuver because of its large frame. It is more difficult to maneuver through narrow spaces and doorways than a 4-wheeler. Some manufacturers have addressed this issue by using a clever design which flips the wheels upwards when they are not being used. This reduces their size and makes it easier to squeeze through doors.
You'll also have to consider whether the buggy you choose to use 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. If so, make sure it has an upright position 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 can be positioned upright when collapsed which is useful if you have a an insufficient car boot or a small storage space at home. However, some require you to take out the front wheel before folding if you want it to fit into smaller spaces.
Manoeuvrability
Three-wheeled buggies typically provide better maneuverability than pushchairs with four wheels. They typically have a swivelling front wheel that lets you shift direction quickly and steer with just one hand. Some also come with a lockable front wheels which gives you stability on rougher terrain. Certain models can be used with an additional seat or buggy board if you plan to expand your family.
If you're planning to take your three-wheeled buggy off paved tracks, it's worth choosing one that has tyres with air in them (also known as pneumatic tyres) which can cope with the most difficult terrain. These tyres may require periodic pumping, but will be far more durable than solid tyres and are more likely to be puncture-proof. You should choose one with an adjustable front wheel that can be locked to assist you in navigating tricky surfaces.
When folded, three-wheelers may be heavier than buggies with four wheels due to the single wheel on the front. Make sure the model you pick fits inside your car's boot and can be positioned upright if needed. Certain models can fold in one hand and are freestanding when they're collapsed, which can make them more compact in smaller car boots.
A well-constructed three-wheeled pushchair can be used on all terrains, from busy streets to forest tracks. It's important to think about how you will use it every day. If you'll be doing the school run, it should be able to cope with steep slopes and kerbs. If you'll be running with it, ensure it has an adjustable swivelling'stretch' lockable front wheel to ensure that the ride is stable.
MFM reviewer Kath found her tri-wheeled buggy able to cope really well with the countryside and urban walks. She noted that it could navigate rocky paths, cobbles and uneven pavements with ease and was comfortable to jog with. It's also a great choice for day trips as it is packed with storage space. It has an ample, spacious zip-top covered basket as well as an extendable, 50+ UV hood. It can also be adapted for baby from birth with an adjustable seat that can be sat on or a carry cot, as well as being compatible with most popular second-seats and buggy boards.
Fabric Sling Seat
The key difference between a fabric sling and modular seat is that the fabric sling fits snugly inside the buggy frame as opposed to being positioned on top as a modular seat would. This allows for a more comfortable and ergonomically-correct position for the baby, resulting in a lower center of gravity that is just the right height. This leads to a smoother push, a less hefty curb-pop (you do not have to exert the same effort and weight to lift the buggy off the curb) and increased stability and balance.
These seats also come with Sling fabrics that are simple to clean and durable. Developed specifically with applications for sling chairs in mind they are durable and air-tight. They also have a great aging resistance and are very easy to clean with mild soap and water.
If you're a jogger, or like to do some off-roading, a all terrain 3 wheeler could be more your bag than a buggy with four wheels. These styles have a wider base they are more stable and use air-filled tyres to provide smooth movement over rough terrain.
Maxi-Cosi, a brand known for its car seats, has added a new 3-wheeler called the Stella to its range of products. This all-terrain stroller boasts an enormous and spacious travel system seat unit which can be positioned either in the direction of the parent or facing the world. It also reclines flat and has an upgraded 5-point safety belt. It can be used as a baby with a carrycot or car seat and comes with a generously large shopping basket and a hood that has zip pockets, and a simple one-hand fold.
This luxury 3 wheeler, designed for the most discerning buggy owner is as gorgeous to see as it is to use. The angular frame features stunning pewter finish and touches of burnished aluminium. It's a true show-stopper. This is a great option for parents who are active. It has a large, padded seat which can be placed either with the in the direction of the parent or facing the world. It also comes with an upgraded 5-point harness as well as a set of rain covers.
Modular Seat
Modular seating can be used to create an array of configurations to suit different seating requirements. Whether it's a cozy setup for watching movies or a spacious configuration for entertaining guests, modular seating is able to adjust easily. three wheel pushchair of modular seating systems include removable cushions, making it easy to clean up spills and stain.
Modular Seating is available in different designs to complement your current 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 style. Modular seating also comes with a variety of functional features, including storage compartments hidden from view for easy organizing.
3-wheel buggies are especially suitable for off-road and all terrain adventures as they have more stability than strollers with four wheels. The huge, highly maneuverable front wheel allows for a quick and smooth motion, while the tyres are usually air filled and have suspension, providing an excellent ride on the roughest of trails and roads. The wheels aren't as close to the ground on these pushchairs as they are with four wheeled pushchairs. This makes them great for walking uphill.
Parents who love to run and jog with their kids typically opt for 3-wheel strollers because they are more nimble and sleeker than their 4-wheel counterparts. The GB Upp XL, for instance, features a sleek burnished aluminium frame with a fast, one-handed fold and rear-facing and forward-facing seats. The Babyzen Yoyo, on the other hand, has a black frame with an infant carrycot that can be placed in a fully lying position and has air-filled tyres.
Another excellent all-terrain choice is the incredibly lightweight, highly manoeuvrable and stunningly elegant Mountain Buggy Sport verso. This is a buggy that truly future proofs your wallet and can take you from birth with the included carrycot all the way to toddler-hood with the seat that can be rearranged (and beyond!). All of this is done within the footprint of one buggy.
The latest model, duet(tm), is a side-by-side buggy that's compact enough for urban use yet with a lot of innovation and control. It has a unique seat made of fabric that is placed comfortably within the frame at the perfect height to distribute weight. This makes it easy kerb jumping and navigating cities and neighborhoods.