3 Wheeled Buggies
A 3-wheel buggy can be used for off-road walks and to tackle terrain from bumpy pavements or tracks in woodlands. They are also easier to maneuver up and down kerbs as opposed to 4-wheel models.
MadeForMums reviews editor Kath tried one of these three-wheelers with her newborn and 3 year old daughter, putting it through its paces on the tarmac and on tricky ground. Read her review here.
Stability
With four wheels and a central point of gravity that is balanced by the weight of your child's seat, buggies with four wheels are generally thought to be more stable than 3-wheelers. But that doesn't mean an older model with three wheels isn't worth a look, since many of these models are designed 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 more comfortable to drive and less likely to snap apart when you're on rough roads. These all-terrain buggies often have pneumatic tyres as well, which are excellent for handling non-paved surfaces and can even be used on sandy beaches or tracks in woodland.
These are also the best buggies to be jogging with, as they provide great stability over rough terrain and can help you keep pace with your running partner. They can also go up and down steep kerbs and many come with spring suspension built-in so that your child will enjoy a comfortable ride.
A stroller with 3 wheels can be a challenge to maneuver due to its large frame. It can be more difficult to get through doorways and narrow spaces than a 4-wheeler. However some manufacturers have solved this issue with a clever design that makes the wheels flip upwards when not being used, which reduces their overall size and helps you navigate through doorways with ease.
If so, check for a lie-flat positioning and if the design is compatible with second seats and buggy boards (if you'd like to add an infant onboard). 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 the toddler to the buggy). Many 3-wheelers fold flat and be positioned upright when collapsed and is handy if you have a small car boot or limited storage space at home. Some will require you to take out the front wheel prior to folding in order to fit into smaller spaces.
Manoeuvrability
Three-wheeled buggies typically offer better manoeuvrability than four-wheeled pushchairs. A majority of them have a swivelling wheel on the front that allows you to steer and change direction using one hand. Some models also come with a lockable front wheel which gives you security on more difficult terrain. Some models can be used with an additional seat or buggy board if you're looking to grow your family.
If you're considering taking your three-wheeled vehicle off of paved tracks, it's worth choosing one that has tyres with air in them (also called pneumatic tyres) which are able to withstand the most challenging 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. It is recommended to choose a model that has a swiveling front wheel that can be locked to assist you on tricky surfaces.
When folded, three-wheelers can be more bulky than buggies with four wheels because of the single wheel on the front. Make sure the model you choose fits in the boot of your vehicle and can be stood up, should it be needed. Some models fold using one hand, and they stand up when collapsed. This will save space in small car boot.
A quality 3 wheel pushchair is able to cope with most terrain from busy high streets to woodland tracks. It's important to consider the way you'll use it every day. If you'll be running the school run, it ought to be able to handle steep slopes and kerbs. If you'll be running on it, ensure it has a lockable swivelling'stretch' front wheel to keep the ride steady.
MFM reviewer Kath found her tri-wheeled buggy able to cope really well with rural and urban walks. Kath said it negotiated rocky paths, cobbles and bumpy pavements easily and was comfortable to jog with. It's also a great option for day trips, since it offers plenty of storage space, including a large and spacious basket that has a zip-top cover and an expandable 50+ UV hood. It can be modified to meet the needs of babies from birth, including a carry cot or lay-flat seat. It's also compatible with the most popular second-seats and stroller boards.
pushchairsandprams.uk between a fabric seat and a modular seat is the fabric sling. It is placed inside the buggy frame, instead of being placed on top of it like a modular chair. This makes it easier to maintain an ergonomically appropriate position for the baby, leading to a lower center of gravity at the ideal height. This translates into 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 a better stability and balance.
These seats also have sling fabrics that are easy to clean and durable. Developed specifically with sling chair applications in mind they are durable and extremely breathable. They are also easy to maintain with mild soap and warm water.
If you're a jogger or like to do some off-roading then an all terrain buggy is more likely to suit your requirements than a four-wheeled buggy. These models have a larger base, are more stable and use air-filled tyres to provide smooth and easy movement on rough terrain.
A brand that is most famous for its car seats, Maxi-Cosi has recently added an all-new 3-wheeler to its range with the Stella. The all-terrain stroller has a large and spacious seat that can be positioned either in the direction of the parent or facing the world. It can also recline flat and comes with an upgraded 5-point safety belt. It can be used as a baby with an infant car seat or carrycot and comes with a reasonably sized shopping basket and a hood that has zip pockets, and a convenient one-hand fold.
Created for the most discerning buggy owners this luxury 3 wheeler is as beautiful to behold as it is to operate. The sleek frame features stunning pewter finishes with accents of burnished aluminium. It's a true eye-catching piece. This is a fantastic choice for parents who are active. It has a large, padded seat which can be positioned either parent or world facing. It also features an upgraded 5-point harness and an entire set of rain covers.
Modular Seat
Modular seating can be set up in various ways to meet different seating requirements. If you want a cozy setting to watch movies or a spacious configuration for entertaining guests, modular seating is able to adjust easily. Many modular seating systems also come with cushion covers that can be removed, making it easier to clean up spills and staining.
Modular Seating can be designed to blend in with existing decor or make a statement as an accent piece. A wide range of color, fabric and shape options ensures that you can find an alternative seating option that fits your taste. Many functional features are available in modular seating, such as hidden storage compartments that allow for an easy organization and cleaning of living spaces.
3-wheel buggies provide more stability than strollers with four wheels, which makes them ideal for off-road or all terrain adventures. The large, highly maneuverable front wheel allows for smooth and quick movement. The tyres, which are typically filled with air and have suspension, offer a comfortable ride on the most difficult trails and roads. They are also ideal 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 favorite for parents who love 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 instance, features a sleek, burnished aluminum frame with a fast one-handed fold, rear-facing and forward-facing seats. The Babyzen Yoyo, on the other hand, has an all-black frame that comes with a carrycot that can be positioned in a full lie-flat position, and has tyres that are air-filled.
Mountain Buggy Sport verso is another excellent all-terrain option. It's extremely lightweight, highly maneuverable and amazingly fashionable. This is a buggy that truly future proofs your wallet and can take you from birth using the carrycot all the way to toddlerhood using the seat that is modular (and beyond!). All this is within the footprint of one buggy.
Duet(tm) is an side-by-side buggy that is compact enough for city living, but also innovative and controlled. It features a unique fabric seat that is positioned comfortably within the frame at the right height to distribute weight. This makes it easy for jumps over kerbs, and navigates neighborhoods and cities.