3 Wheeled Buggies
A 3-wheeler is ideal for off-road jogging and taking on terrains that is bumpy, like woodland tracks. They are also simpler to navigate between kerbs and up and down them as opposed to 4-wheel models.
MadeForMums reviews editor Kath tried one of these three-wheelers with her newborn and 3 year old, and put it through its paces on the asphalt and on the muddy ground. You can read her full review here.
Stability
With four wheels and a center of gravity that's balanced by weight of your child in the seat, 4-wheel buggies are generally considered to be more stable than triwheelers. But that doesn't mean a three-wheel buggy isn't worth a look, since some of these models are made to cope with everything from rough terrain to bustling high streets.
Choose a buggy that has large rear wheels, and one that locks on the front. This will make it easier to drive and less likely to snap apart when you're on rough roads. These all-terrain buggies also come with pneumatic tires, which are perfect for handling non-paved surfaces. They can be used on sandy beaches and tracks through woodlands.
They're also the best buggies to be running around in, as they provide excellent stability over rougher ground and help you keep up with your jogging partner. They are also great for climbing and down steep kerbs too, and most of them come with suspension built-in that means your baby will have a pleasant ride.
A stroller with three wheels isn't easy to maneuver because of its large frame. It is more difficult to get through doorways and narrow spaces than a 4-wheeler. Some manufacturers have solved this issue with clever design that flips the wheels up when they are not in use. 3 wheeler pushchair reduces their size and makes it easier to maneuver 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 planning on using it with an infant car seat or carry cot. If so, make sure it has the ability to lie flat and if the design is compatible with second-seats and buggy boards (if you want to add an infant onboard). A lot of 3-wheelers fold flat, and then be put up in a upright position. This is a good option if you only have limited space in your boot or a small amount of storage space at home. However, some require you to remove the front wheel when folding if you wish to fit into even more compact space.
Manoeuvrability
Three-wheeled buggies typically provide better maneuverability than pushchairs with four wheels. They usually have a swivelling front wheel that lets you shift direction quickly and steer using only one hand. Certain models come with wheels that lock to offer stability on rough terrain. Some models can be used with an additional seat or buggy board if you're planning to grow your family.
If you intend to take your three-wheeled buggies off the roads that are paved, you should choose a model with pneumatic tyres. They can handle even the most difficult terrain. They may have to be pumped up from time to time, but they will be more durable and puncture-proof than solid tyres. You should choose models with an adjustable front wheel that can be locked to help you navigate difficult terrains.
The fact that there is only one front wheel can also mean that three-wheelers tend to be bulkier than four-wheeled buggies when folded. Check that your chosen model can fit in the boot of your car and can be sat up should it be needed. Some models can fold in one hand and stand on their own when collapsed, which can make them more compact in boot spaces that are smaller.
A well-constructed three-wheeled pushchair can be used on all terrains from busy roads to forest tracks. It's important to think about what you'll be using it for day-to-day. If you'll be running the school run using it, it should be able to handle sharp slopes and kerbs. If you'll be jogging with it, ensure it has an adjustable swivelling'stretch' lockable front wheel to keep the ride steady.
MFM reviewer Kath discovered her three-wheeled buggy to be able to perform well on urban and countryside walks. She said it could navigate cobbles, rough paths and uneven pavements with ease and felt pleasant when running. It's also a great choice for day trips, since it comes with plenty of storage space, including a large, spacious basket with zip-top cover and an expandable 50+ UV hood. It can be adjusted to meet the needs of babies starting at birth, using a carry cot or lay-flat seat. It's also compatible with the most popular second-seats and stroller boards.
Fabric Sling Seat
The key difference between a fabric sling and modular seat is that the fabric sling is placed comfortably inside the frame of the buggy as opposed to sitting on top as a modular seat would. This allows for a more comfortable and ergonomically-correct position for the baby, leading to a lower center of gravity, which is the ideal height. This results in an easier push, a lighter curb pop (you don't need much effort or weight to lift the buggy off the nose of a curb) and a better balance and stability.
These seats also have Sling fabrics that are simple to clean and durable. These fabrics were designed specifically for sling chairs and are extremely UV resistant and breathable. They also have an excellent durability and are easy to clean with mild soap and water.
If you're a jogger, or like to do some off-roading, an all terrain 3 wheeler is likely to be more your bag than a buggy with four wheels. These models have a larger base they are more stable and utilize air-filled tyres for smooth movement over rough terrain.
A brand that is most famous for its car seats, Maxi-Cosi has recently added an all-new 3-wheeler to its line-up with the Stella. The all-terrain buggy has an impressive spacious and impressively growing seat that can be a world-facing or parent face and reclines flat using an upgraded 5-point safety harness. It can be used from birth with a car seat or carrycot and comes with a decently sized shopping basket and hood with zip pockets, and a simple one-hand fold.
This luxury 3 wheeler, designed for the most discerning buggy owner, is as beautiful to look at as it is to operate. The angular frame has a stunning pewter finish with touches of burnished aluminium. It is a real eye-catching piece. A spacious, cushioned seat that can be world or parent-facing, with a new 5-point safety harness, as well as an entire set of rain covers make this a great choice for active parents.
Modular Seat
Modular seating can be configured in many ways to accommodate different seating needs. Whether it's a cozy setup to watch movies or a larger configuration to entertain guests, modular seating can adjust easily. A lot of modular seating systems have cushions that can be removed which makes it easy to clean up spills and stain.
Modular Seating can be designed to blend with existing decor or be a standout as an accent piece. You can select from a wide variety of colors, fabrics, and shapes to design a modular seating that suits your personal style. Many functional features are offered in modular seating, such as hidden storage compartments that allow easy organization and decluttering of living spaces.
3-wheel buggies are more stable than 4-wheel strollers, making them ideal for off-road or all-terrain adventures. The large front wheel, which is highly maneuverable, allows for smooth and quick movement. The tyres, which are typically air-filled and have suspension, provide an excellent ride even on the roughest roads and trails. They're also great for walking up hills since the wheels aren't as close to the ground as they are on 4 wheel pushchairs.
Often 3-wheel prams are a popular choice for parents who enjoy running and jogging with their child as they offer great agility and are more streamlined than their 4 wheel counterparts. The GB Upp XL for example features a sleek, burnished silver aluminum frame, 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 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 extremely light and extremely maneuverable, as well as stylish. This is a buggy that is truly future-proof for your wallet and can be used from birth with the included carrycot, right through to toddler-hood with the seat that is modular (and beyond!). All this is within the footprint of one buggy.
Duet(tm) is a side-by-side buggy that is compact enough for city living but is also a bit more creative and controlled. It features an exclusive seat made of fabric that is positioned comfortably within the frame at the perfect height to distribute weight. This allows for easy kerb jumping and navigating cities and neighborhoods.