3 Wheeled Buggies
A 3-wheel buggy is great for off-road walking & taking on terrains, from bumpy pavements to woodland tracks. They are also easier 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 with her newborn and three year old, and put it through its paces on tarmac and on tricky ground. You can read her review here.
Stability
With four wheels and a centre of gravity that is balanced by the weight of your child in the seat, 4-wheel buggies are generally considered to be more stable than 3-wheelers. However, that doesn't mean an older model with three wheels isn't worth a look, since many of these models are made to withstand anything from rough terrain to bustling high streets.
Look for a buggy with large rear wheels, and one that locks on the front. This will make it more comfortable to drive and less likely to snap off when driving on bumpy roads. These all-terrain buggies also have pneumatic tires that are ideal for handling non-paved surfaces. They can be used even on sandy beaches or woodland tracks.
They are also the best buggies for running around in, as they offer great stability over rougher ground and can aid in keeping up with your running partner. They can also be used to go up and down steep kerbs, and many of them come with spring suspension that is built-in, so your baby can enjoy an enjoyable ride.
One thing that can make a 3-wheeled pushchair difficult to maneuver is the broad frame, which can make it difficult to squeeze through narrow and tight doors than a four-wheeler. Some manufacturers have solved this issue by using a clever design which flips the wheels upwards when they are not in use. This reduces their size and makes it easier to maneuver through doorways.
You'll also need to consider whether the buggy you choose to use is suitable for your little one from birth or if you're thinking of 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 other seats and buggy boards (if you want to add a toddler onboard). A majority of 3-wheelers can fold flat and be put up in a upright position. This is great when you have a small boot space or have limited storage at home. Some 3-wheelers require you remove the front wheel in order to fold them into smaller sizes.
Manoeuvrability
Three-wheeled buggies can be more maneuverable than strollers with four wheels. They usually have a swivelling wheel on the front that allows you to shift direction quickly and steer with just one hand. Some models come with a lockable wheel that can give you stability on more rough terrain. Some models can even be used with a second seat or buggy board in case you're planning to increase the size of your family.
If you're planning to take your three-wheeled bike off the paved tracks, it's worth selecting a model that has tyres with air in them (also known as pneumatic tyres) that can withstand the toughest terrain. These tyres may need to be pumped up from time to time, but they will be more durable and puncture-proof than solid tyres. Choose a model that has a an adjustable swivelling front wheel that locks to help you negotiate tricky surfaces.
Having a single front wheel can also mean that three-wheelers tend to be heavier than buggies with four wheels when folded. Make sure the model you choose can fit in the boot of your vehicle and can be raised if required. Certain models can be folded with just one hand and stand on their own when collapsed, which can save space in car boot spaces that are smaller.
A good 3 wheel pushchair will be able to deal with most terrain from busy high streets to tracks through woodlands. However, it is important to consider the purpose you'll use it for day-to-day. If you'll be running the school run with it, it must be able to handle steep slopes and kerbs. If you'll be running with it, make sure it has a lockable swivelling'stretch' front wheel to ensure that the ride is safe.
Kath, a MFM reviewer, discovered that her three-wheeled stroller was able to take on urban and rural walks. She noted that it could navigate cobbles, rocky paths and bumpy pavements effortlessly and was comfortable to jog with too. It's also a great choice for day trips, since it offers plenty of storage space, including a large and spacious basket that has a zip-top cover and an extendable 50+ UV hood. 3 wheeled pushchairs can be modified to fit a baby's needs from birth, with a carry cot or lying-flat seats. It is also compatible with the most well-known stroller seats and second seats.
Fabric Sling Seat
The key difference between a fabric sling and modular seats is that the fabric sling fits in the frame of the buggy instead of sitting on top as a modular seat would. This allows for a more ergonomically correct position for babies and instantly provides lower center of gravity that is at the proper height. This in turn makes for an easier push, a less hefty curb pop (you don't need much effort or weight to lift the buggy off the curb's edge) and a better stability and balance.
These seats also have sling fabrics that are easy to clean and durable. Developed specifically with the use of sling chairs in mind These fabrics are extremely durable and extremely breathable. They also have a great aging resistance and are very easy to clean with water and soap.
If you are a jogger, or like to do some off-roading, then an all terrain buggy is more likely to meet your needs than a four-wheel buggy. These models have a larger base, are more stable and have air-filled tyres that allow for smooth, easy mobility over rough terrain.
A brand most well-known for its car seats, Maxi-Cosi has recently added a new 3-wheeler to its line-up with the Stella. The all-terrain stroller has a large and spacious seat unit for the travel system that can be positioned either in the direction of the parent or facing the world. It can also recline flat and comes with an improved 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, hood with zip pockets, and a convenient one-hand fold.
Created for the most discerning buggy drivers, this luxurious 3 wheeler is as beautiful to behold as it is to operate. The angular frame has stunning pewter finish and accents of burnished aluminium. It's a eye-catching piece. A spacious, cushioned seat that can be world or parent-facing, with a more secure 5-point safety harness as well as a full set of rain covers make this an ideal choice for active parents.
Modular Seat
Modular seating allows for an array of configurations to suit different seating requirements. Modular seating can be easily adjusted to create a cozy place to watch films, or a large arrangement to entertain guests. A lot of modular seating systems have cushion covers that can be removed which make it easier to clean spills and staining.
Modular Seating can be designed to blend in with existing decors or stand out as an accent piece. You can select from a variety of colors, fabrics, and shapes to create an adjustable seating option that matches your personal style. Many functional features are available in modular seating, such as hidden storage compartments that allow for simple organization and clearing of living spaces.
3-wheel buggies provide more stability than strollers with four wheels, making them ideal for off-road or all-terrain adventures. The large front wheel that is extremely maneuverable allows for smooth and quick movement. The tyres, which are usually air-filled and come with suspension, give you a great ride on the most difficult roads and trails. They're also great for walking up hills as the wheels aren't as close to the ground as they are on 4 wheel pushchairs.
Often, 3-wheel prams are a favourite 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 aluminium frame, with an easy fold that can be folded in one hand and rear and forward facing seats. Meanwhile, the Babyzen Yoyo has an all black frame, a carrycot with fully lie-flat position air-filled tyres, and 3 recline positions.
Another excellent all-terrain option is the light, extremely maneuverable and stylish Mountain Buggy Sport verso. This buggy will truly protect your wallet from the future and can take you from birth using the carrycot, all the way to toddler-hood with the modular seat (and beyond!). All this is in the footprint of a single buggy.
The latest model, duet(tm), is a side-by-side vehicle that's small enough for urban living, yet big on innovation and control. It features a unique seat made of fabric that is positioned comfortably within the frame at the right height to distribute the weight. This makes it easy for jumps over kerbs, and navigates neighborhoods and cities.