3 Wheeled Buggies
A 3-wheeler is ideal for off-road walking & dealing with terrain from bumpy pavements to woodland tracks. They are also simpler to move up and down kerbs in comparison to 4-wheel models.
MadeForMums reviews editor Kath tried one of these 3-wheelers with her newborn and three year old, and put it through its paces on tarmac and on tricky ground. Check out her review here.
Stability
Four-wheel buggies, with their center of gravity being balanced by your child's weight within the seat, are typically more stable than three-wheelers. But that doesn't mean that an older model with three wheels isn't worth a look, since the majority of these models are designed to withstand everything from rough terrain to bustling high-streets.
For a buggy that's really easy to maneuver and won't fall over on muddy roads, opt for a model with large rear wheels and an adjustable front wheel that locks. These buggies for all-terrain use also have pneumatic tires, which are perfect for handling non-paved surfaces. They can be used on sandy beaches and tracks through woodlands.
They're also great buggies to jog with as they provide excellent stability on more rough terrain and help you stay with your running partner. They're also excellent at climbing and down steep kerbs too and a majority have a built-in suspension which means your child will enjoy a comfortable ride.
A stroller with three wheels can be a challenge to maneuver because of its large frame. It is more difficult to maneuver through narrow spaces and doorways than a 4-wheeler. Some manufacturers have addressed this problem with an innovative design that flips the wheels upwards when they are not in use. This reduces their dimensions and makes it easier to fit through doors.
If so, check for a lie-flat location and if the design is compatible with second seats and buggy boards (if you plan to bring the toddler). If so, ensure that it is in the ability to lie flat 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 will fold flat and be upright when folded which is useful if you have a limited space in your car boot or a small storage space at home. However, some require you to take out the front wheel prior to folding if you want it to fit into even smaller spaces.
Manoeuvrability
Three-wheeled buggies usually provide better maneuverability than four-wheeled pushchairs. A lot of them feature an swivelling wheel at the front that allows you to steer and change direction using one hand. Some models also have a lockable front wheel which can give you security on more difficult terrain. Some models can be used with an additional seat or buggy board should you decide to grow your family.
If you're thinking of taking your three-wheeled buggy off roads, you should consider selecting a model with air-filled tyres (also called pneumatic tyres) which are able to withstand the most difficult terrain. These tyres may require periodic pumping, but will be far more durable than tyres made of solid rubber and are more likely to be puncture-proof. You should choose models with an adjustable front wheel that can be locked to assist you on difficult surfaces.
When folded, three-wheelers may be heavier than buggies with four wheels due to the single front wheel. Check to see if the model you're considering can fit into the boot of your car and is able to be sat up if required. Some models can be folded using one hand, and can be rearranged when folded. This can save space in small car boot.
A quality 3 wheel pushchair can cope with any terrain, from busy streets to woodland tracks. It's important to consider how you will use it every day. If you're planning to run the school run, it should be able to cope with steep kerbs and slopes. If you intend to jog on it, ensure it has a swivelling "stretch front wheel' that can be locked. This will keep the ride in place.
MFM reviewer Kath found her tri-wheeled buggy was able to handle well on both the countryside and urban walks. Kath said it was able to negotiate rocky paths, cobbles, and bumpy pavements easily and was comfortable while jogging. It's also a great choice for day trips as it offers plenty of storage space. It has a large, spacious, zip-top covered basket as well as an extendable, 50+ UV hood. It can also be modified to accommodate babies from birth using a lie-flat seat or carry cot, in addition to being compatible with most popular second-seats and buggy boards.
Fabric Sling Seat
The key difference between a fabric sling and modular seat is that the fabric sling is placed in the frame of the buggy as opposed to sitting on top of it like a modular seat. This allows for a more comfortable and ergonomically-correct position for the baby, leading to a lower center of gravity, which is just the right height. This leads to a smoother push, a more light curb-pop (you don't need to exert as much effort and weight to lift the buggy off the curb) and increased stability and balance.
These buggy seats also feature sling fabrics that are easy to clean and durable. These fabrics were designed specifically for Sling chairs and are highly UV resistant and air-tight. They are also easy to maintain using mild soap and warm water.
If you're a jogger, or enjoy a bit of off-roading, an all terrain 3 wheeler will be more suitable than a buggy with four wheels. These styles have a wider base they are more stable and utilize air-filled tyres for smooth and easy movement on rough terrain.
Maxi-Cosi is a company known for its car seats is now offering a brand-new 3-wheeler, the Stella to its product line. This all-terrain buggy boasts an enormous, spacious and impressively growing travel system seat unit that can be a world-facing or parent-facing and reclines flat with an upgraded 5-point safety harness. It can be used from birth using a carrycot or car seat and comes with a generously large shopping basket, hood with zip pockets and a quick one-hand fold.
This luxury 3 wheeler, designed for the most discerning buggy owner is as stunning to look at as it is to operate. The angular frame is finished in a stunning pewter black with touches of silver-burnished aluminium all over making it a complete wow factor. This is a great option for parents who are active. It has a large cushioned seat that can be placed either with the in the direction of the parent or facing the world. It also comes with an upgraded 5-point harness and a complete set of rain covers.
Modular Seat
Modular seating offers a wide range of configurations to meet various seating requirements. It doesn't matter if it's a comfortable setup to watch movies or a spacious arrangement to entertain guests, modular seating is able to be adjusted easily. Many modular seating systems include removable cushions which makes it easy to clean spills or stain.
Modular Seating can be designed to blend with existing decor or be a standout as an accent piece. A variety of fabrics, colors, and shape options means that you can find an option for modular seating that suits your style. Modular seating comes with many useful features, such as storage compartments hidden from view for easy storage.
3-wheel buggies are ideal for off-road and all terrain adventures because they offer more stability than 4-wheel strollers. The large, highly maneuverable front wheel allows for smooth and quick movement. The tyres that are typically air-filled and come with suspension, provide an excellent ride on even the most rough roads and trails. The wheels are not as close to the ground on these pushchairs as they would be on four wheeled pushchairs. This makes them ideal for walking uphill.
Often 3-wheel prams are popular choice for parents who enjoy running and jogging with their child because they offer superior agility and are less bulky than their 4 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. Meanwhile, the Babyzen Yoyo has an all black frame, a carrycot that has a fully lie-flat position with air-filled tyres as well as 3 recline positions.
Another fantastic all-terrain choice is the incredibly light, extremely maneuverable and stylish Mountain Buggy Sport verso. This buggy is truly future-proof for your wallet and can take you from birth with the included carrycot, all the way to toddlerhood using the seat that is modular (and beyond!). All this is within the footprint of a single buggy.
The most recent model, duet(tm), is a side-by-side vehicle that's small enough for urban living yet large on innovation and control. It has an exclusive seat made of fabric that is set in the frame with a perfect fit at the ideal height for weight distribution. This makes it easy for crossing of kerbs and for navigating cities and neighborhoods.