3 Wheeled Buggies
A 3-wheeler is ideal for off-road jogging and taking on terrains, from bumpy pavements to woodland tracks. They can also be easier to manoeuvre up and down kerbs than models with four wheels.
MadeForMums reviews editor Kath tried one of these three-wheelers with her newborn and three year old daughter, putting it through its paces on the tarmac and on tricky ground. You can read her full review here.
Stability
With four wheels and a centre of gravity that is balanced by the weight of your child's seat, 4-wheel buggies are generally thought to be more stable than 3-wheelers. But that doesn't mean the three-wheel buggie isn't worth considering, as some of them are built to cope with everything from rough terrain to busy high-streets.
If you want a buggie that is easy to maneuver and will not be a problem on bumpy roads, look for one with large rear wheels and an adjustable front wheel that locks. These buggies are typically equipped with pneumatic tyres as well, which are excellent for handling non-paved surfaces and can be used on sandy beaches or tracks in woodland.
They are also great buggies to jog with because they provide great stability in rough terrain and can aid you in staying with your running partner. They're also good at going up and down steep kerbs too, and most of them come with suspension built-in that means your baby will have a pleasant ride.
The one thing that can make a 3-wheeled pushchair difficult to maneuver is the large frame, which makes it difficult to squeeze into narrow spaces and tight doorways than a 4-wheeler. However certain manufacturers have addressed this issue with clever design that lets the wheels turn upwards when not in use, which decreases their overall size and helps you navigate through doorways with ease.
If yes, make sure to check for a lie-flat position and if the design is compatible with second seating and buggy boards (if you'd like to add an infant onboard). If so, check for an upright position and if the design is compatible with second-seats and buggy boards (if you want to add the toddler to the buggy). A lot of 3-wheelers fold flat, and then be placed upright. three wheel pushchair is great for those with a small boot space or a small amount of storage space at home. However, some require you to remove the front wheel prior to folding in order to fit in even smaller spaces.
Manoeuvrability
Three-wheeled buggies typically 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 one hand. Some also come with a lockable front wheel that can provide the stability you need on rough terrain. Some models can even be used with an additional seat or buggy board in case you're planning to increase the size of your family.
If you intend to take your three-wheeled buggies off the roads that are asphalted then you should opt for an option that has pneumatic tyres. They can handle the most difficult terrain. These tyres will need pumping up occasionally but they'll be more durable than solid tyres and more likely to be puncture-proof. You should look for models with a swiveling front wheel that can be locked to help you navigate tricky surfaces.
When folded, three-wheelers may be heavier than buggies with four wheels because of the single wheel in front. Be sure that the model you choose fits in your car's boot and can be set up upright if needed. Some models are able to be folded with just one hand and are freestanding when they're collapsed, which will save space in car boot spaces that are smaller.
A quality three-wheel pushchair will be used on all terrains from busy streets to forest tracks. However, it is important to consider what you'll be using for your day-to-day use. If you're planning to run the school run, it must be able to cope with steep slopes and kerbs. If you plan to jog on it, ensure it has a swivelling "stretch front wheel' that is locked. This will keep the ride in place.
Kath the MFM reviewer, was able to determine that her stroller on three wheels was able to handle urban and walks in the countryside. She said that it navigated rocky paths, cobbles and uneven pavements with ease and was comfortable to run with. It's also a great option for day trips, since it offers plenty of storage space, including a huge, spacious basket with zip-top cover and an expandable 50+ UV hood. It is also able to be adapted to accommodate babies from birth using 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 primary difference between a fabric sling and a modular seats is that the fabric sling is placed comfortably inside the frame of the buggy rather than 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 at the right height. This results in an easier push, a lighter curb pop (you don't require the same amount of effort and weight to lift the buggy off the curb's edge) and better balance and stability.
These buggy seats also feature sling fabrics that are easy to clean and durable. They were designed specifically with the use of sling chairs in mind These fabrics are extremely UV resistant and breathable. These fabrics are also very easy to maintain with mild soap and warm water.
If you're a jogger or enjoy off-roading then an all terrain buggy is more likely to meet your requirements than a four-wheeled buggy. These types have a bigger base, are more stable and have air-filled tyres that allow for smooth, easy mobility over rough terrain.
Maxi-Cosi is a company known for its car seat collection, has added a new 3-wheeler, the Stella to its product line. The all-terrain buggy has an enormous, spacious and impressively growing travel system seat unit that can be a world-facing or parent facing and reclines flat using an upgraded 5-point safety harness. It can be used as a baby with an infant car seat or carrycot and comes with a generously sized shopping basket, hood with zip pockets and a quick one-hand fold.
Designed for the most discerning buggy drivers, this luxurious 3 wheeler is as beautiful to behold as it is to operate. The angular frame is finished in a stunning pewter black, with hints of burnished silver aluminium throughout making it a complete wow factor. A spacious, cushioned seat that can be world or parent-facing, with a new 5-point safety harness and a full set of rain covers make this an ideal option for parents who are active.
Modular Seat
Modular seating can be used to create a wide range of configurations to suit different seating requirements. Modular seating can be easily adjusted to create a comfortable place to watch films, or an open layout to entertain guests. Many modular seating systems come with cushions that can be removed which makes it easy to clean spills or stain.
Modular Seating is available in different styles to match existing decor or as an accent piece. You can pick from a variety of colors, fabrics and shapes to create an elegant and modular seating design that fits your personal style. There are many functional features offered in modular seating, like hidden storage compartments that permit easy organization and decluttering of living spaces.
3-wheel buggies offer more stability than strollers with four wheels, which makes them ideal for off-road and all terrain adventures. The large, highly manoeuvrable front wheel allows for agile and smooth movement, whereas the tyres are generally air filled and have suspension, which gives you a great ride on the most difficult roads and trails. The wheels aren't as close to the ground on these pushchairs as they are on four wheeled pushchairs. This makes them ideal for walking uphill.
Parents who like to run and jog with their babies often choose 3-wheel prams because they are more nimble and sleeker than their four-wheel counterparts. The GB Upp XL for example has a sleek burnished silver aluminium frame, with a quick one-hand fold and forward and rear facing seats, while the Babyzen Yoyo has an all black frame, a carrycot with full lie flat position, air-filled tyres and three recline positions.
Another great all-terrain choice is the incredibly light, extremely maneuverable and elegant Mountain Buggy Sport verso. This buggy can last from birth, with the carrycot, and will last until toddlerhood with the modular seat. All of this is done within the footprint of one buggy.
Duet(tm) is a side by side buggy that's compact enough to be used in urban areas but is also a bit more innovative and controlled. It features a unique fabric seat that is placed comfortably within the frame at the right height to distribute weight. three wheel pushchair allows for easy crossing of kerbs and for navigating neighborhoods and cities.