3 Wheeled Buggies
A 3-wheel buggy is great for off-roading and dealing with terrain that is bumpy, like woodland tracks. They can also be easier to manoeuvre up and down kerbs than 4-wheel models.
Kath, the editor of MadeForMums' reviews, tested one of these three-wheelers on tarmac as well as on various terrains. You can read her full review here.
Stability
With four wheels and a centre of gravity that's balanced by weight of your child's seat, 4-wheel buggies are generally considered to be more stable than 3-wheelers. But that doesn't mean a three-wheel buggy isn't worth considering, since some of these models are made to withstand everything from rough terrain to bustling high-streets.
If you want a buggie that is easy to control and will not be a problem on bumpy roads, look for one with big rear wheels and an adjustable front wheel that locks. These buggies for all-terrain use also have pneumatic tires that are ideal for handling non-paved surfaces. They are able to be used even on sandy beaches or woodland tracks.
They are also great buggies to jog with as they provide excellent stability in rough terrain and help you stay with your running companion. They're also good at going up and down steep kerbs as well Most buggies come with a suspension built in that means your baby will be able to ride comfortably.
The main thing that makes a pushchair with three wheels difficult to maneuver is the broad frame, which can make it more difficult to maneuver through narrow and tight doorways than a 4-wheeler. However certain manufacturers have addressed this issue by implementing clever design that lets the wheels flip upwards when not in use, which reduces their overall size and allows 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). Find out if the buggy comes with the ability to lie flat, and if it is compatible with second seat and buggy boards, if you are planning to bring your toddler along. A lot of 3-wheelers fold flat and be stood upright when collapsed - handy if you have limited space in your car boot or only a little storage space at home. However, some require you to remove the front wheel prior to folding in order to fit into even smaller spaces.
Manoeuvrability
Three-wheeled buggies are more movable than strollers with four wheels. They usually come with a swivelling front wheel that lets you shift direction quickly and steer with only one hand. Some models also come with a lockable front wheel which gives you stability on rougher terrain. Some models can even be used with an additional seat or buggy board in case you're planning to expand your family.
If you're considering taking your three-wheeled buggy off roads, you should consider opting for a vehicle equipped with tyres filled with air (also known as pneumatic tyres) which can cope with the most difficult terrain. These tyres may need to be regularly pumped up from time intervals, but they'll be more durable and puncture-proof than solid tyres. It is recommended to choose models with a swiveling front wheel that can be locked to assist you on difficult terrains.
The fact that there is only one front wheel can also indicate that three-wheelers can be more bulkier than buggies with four wheels when folded. Be sure that the model you pick fits in your car's boot and can be placed upright if needed. Certain models can be folded with just one hand, and they're freestanding when they're collapsed, which will save space in smaller car boots.
A good three-wheel 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 must be able to handle steep kerbs and slopes. If you plan to jog on it, ensure it has a swiveling'stretch front wheel' that can be locked. This will keep the ride stable.
MFM reviewer Kath found her three-wheeled buggy was able to handle well with urban and countryside walks. She said that it navigated rocky paths, cobbles and uneven pavements with ease and was comfortable to run with. It is also a good choice for day trips as it has a lot of storage space. It has a large, spacious, zip-top covered basket as well as an expandable, 50+ UV hood. It is also able to be adapted to accommodate babies from birth using an adjustable seat that can be sat on or a carry cot, as well as being compatible with the majority of popular second-seats and buggy boards.
Fabric Sling Seat
The primary difference between a fabric sling and modular seats is that the fabric sling is placed snugly inside the buggy frame rather than being positioned on top like a modular seat. This enables a much more ergonomically appropriate position for baby, which instantly delivers lower center of gravity and a more appropriate height. This results in an easier push, a less hefty curb pop (you don't require as much weight and effort to lift the buggy off the curb's edge) and better balance and stability.
These seats also come with sling fabrics that are easy to clean and durable. Developed specifically with the use of sling chairs in mind, these fabrics are incredibly UV-resistant and extremely breathable. They are also easy to maintain using mild soap and warm water.
If you're a jogger, or like to do some off-roading, an all terrain 3 wheeler could be more your bag than a buggy with four wheels. These types have a bigger base, are more stable and have air-filled tyres that allow for smooth and easy movement on rough terrain.
Maxi-Cosi is a company known for its car seats and has now added a brand new 3-wheeler called the Stella to its product line. This all-terrain stroller boasts an enormous and spacious seat unit for the travel system that can be placed either facing the parent or the world. It also reclines flat and has an improved 5-point safety belt. It can be used from birth using a car seat or carrycot and comes with a decently sized shopping basket and hood with zip pockets, and a simple one-hand fold.
Designed for the most discerning buggy owners, this luxury 3 wheeler is as beautiful to behold as it is to operate. The sleek frame features a stunning pewter finish with accents of burnished aluminium. It's a true eye-catching piece. A large, padded seat that is world or parent-facing with a new 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 can be set up in many ways to accommodate different seating requirements. It doesn't matter if it's a comfortable setup for watching films or a large configuration for entertaining guests, modular seating can adjust easily. Many modular seating systems also have cushion covers that can be removed which makes it easier to wash spills and stain.
Modular Seating is available in a variety of styles to match existing decor or as an accent piece. A variety of fabric, color, and shape options means that you can find an option for modular seating that is a perfect fit for your preferences. Various functional features are also offered in modular seating, like hidden storage compartments that allow easy organization and decluttering of living spaces.
3-wheel buggies offer more stability than strollers with four wheels, making them ideal for off-road or all-terrain adventures. The large, extremely maneuverable front wheel allows for a quick and smooth motion, while the tyres are typically air-filled and feature suspension, providing an excellent ride on the most difficult trails and roads. They are also ideal for walking up hills as the wheels aren't as close to ground as they are on four wheel pushchairs.
Parents who love to run and jog with their children often choose 3-wheel prams because they are more agile and sleeker than their 4-wheel counterparts. The GB Upp XL, for example, has a sleek, burnished aluminum frame with a quick, one-handed fold and rear-facing and forward-facing seats. 3 wheel pushchair , on the other hand, comes with black frames with a carrycot that is positioned in a full lie-flat position, and has tyres that are air-filled.
Mountain Buggy Sport verso is another fantastic all-terrain choice. It's incredibly lightweight, highly maneuverable and amazingly stylish. This is a buggy that will truly protect your wallet from the future and will take you from birth using the carrycot all the way to toddlerhood using the modular seat (and beyond!). All this is within the footprint of just one buggy.
The most recent model, duet(tm), is a side-byside buggy that's small enough for urban living yet big on innovation and control. It has an innovative fabric sling seat that's positioned in a comfortable frame at just the right height for the perfect weight distribution to facilitate rolling over kerbs, and for navigating neighborhoods and cities.