3 Wheeled Buggies
A 3-wheel buggy is used for off-road walks and for tackling terrain such as rough roads or woodland tracks. They are also easier to maneuver up and down kerbs than models with four wheels.
Kath, the editor of MadeForMums' reviews, tested one of these 3-wheelers on tarmac, as well as on a variety of terrains. 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, buggies with four wheels are generally considered to be more stable than 3-wheelers. Three-wheel buggies are nevertheless worthwhile to consider as they are able to handle anything from rough terrain to busy streets.
Choose a buggy that has large rear wheels, as well as an lockable wheel on the front. This will make it easier to drive and less likely to break apart when you're on rough roads. These all-terrain buggies typically have pneumatic tyres too, which are ideal 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 running with, since they offer great stability on rough terrain and help you keep pace with your jogging partner. They're also good at climbing and descending steep kerbs as well, and most of them have a built-in suspension that ensures your child will be able to ride comfortably.
The one thing that can make a pushchair with three wheels difficult to maneuver is the broad frame, which makes it difficult to squeeze through narrow and tight doors than a four-wheeler. However certain manufacturers have addressed this issue with a clever design that makes the wheels flip upwards when not in use, which decreases their overall size, and allows you get through doors without difficulty.
It's also important to consider whether the buggy you choose to use is suitable for your baby from birth, or if you're thinking of using it in conjunction with an infant car seat or carry cot. If so, ensure that it is in the ability to lie flat and if the design is compatible with other seats and buggy boards (if you'd like to add a toddler onboard). Many 3-wheelers fold flat and be upright when folded - handy if you have limited space in your car boot or a small storage space at home. Some 3-wheelers require you remove the front wheel to fold into smaller spaces.
Manoeuvrability
Three-wheeled buggies are more maneuverable than four-wheeled strollers. Many of them have a swivelling wheel on the front that allows you to steer and change direction with one hand. Some models come with a lockable wheel that can give you stability on more rough terrain. Some models can be used with an additional seat or buggy board if you're planning to expand your family.
If you plan to remove your three-wheeled buggies from the paved roads, 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 the point, but they will be more durable and puncture-proof compared to solid tyres. You should look for one with an swiveling front wheel that can be locked to assist you in navigating difficult terrains.
Having a single front wheel may also mean that three-wheelers tend to be heavier than buggies with four wheels when folded. Make sure the model you choose can fit in the boot of your vehicle and can be sat up in the event that it is needed. Some models fold using one hand, and can be rearranged when folded. This can save space in small car boot.
A quality three-wheel pushchair will take on any terrain from busy roads to forest tracks. It's important to consider the way you'll use it every day. If you'll be doing the school run, it must be able to cope with steep kerbs and slopes. If you'll be jogging with it, ensure it has an adjustable lockable swivelling'stretch' for the front wheel to keep the ride stable.
Kath who is an MFM reviewer, discovered that her stroller on three wheels was able to handle urban and walks in the countryside. Kath said it negotiated rocky paths, cobbles and uneven pavements with ease and was comfortable to jog with. It's also a great option for day trips, as it has plenty of storage space, including a large and spacious basket that has a zip-top cover and an extendable 50+ UV hood. It can be modified to meet the needs of a baby from birth, with the option of a carry cot or a lying-flat seats. It is also compatible with the most well-known stroller seats and second seats.
Fabric Sling Seat
The primary difference between a fabric and a modular seat is the fabric sling. It is a part of the frame of the buggy, rather than being positioned on top of it like a modular chair. This allows for a more ergonomically appropriate position for the baby, resulting in a lower center of gravity that is the ideal height. This leads to a more comfortable push, a less hefty curb-pop (you don't have to exert as much effort and weight to lift the buggy off the curb) and more stability and balance.
The sling fabrics used in these kinds of buggy seats are also very hard-wearing and easy to clean. They were designed specifically with applications for sling chairs in mind, these fabrics are incredibly durable and extremely breathable. 3 wheel buggy are also very easy to maintain using mild soap and warm water.
If you are a jogger, or enjoy off-roading, then an all-terrain buggy is more likely to meet your requirements than a four-wheeler. These models have a larger base, are more stable and use air-filled tyres to provide smooth and easy movement on rough terrain.
Maxi-Cosi, a name that is well-known for its car seat collection is now offering a brand-new 3-wheeler with the Stella to its product line. This all-terrain vehicle has an enormous huge and spacious seat that can be world facing or parent facing and reclines flat with a new 5-point safety harness. It can be used as a baby with a carrycot or car seat and comes with a decently large shopping basket and a hood that has zip pockets and a quick one-hand fold.
This luxury 3 wheeler made for the most discerning buggy owner, is as beautiful to look at as it is to operate. The angular frame features stunning pewter finishes with touches of burnished aluminum. It's a true show-stopper. A large, padded seat that can be used as world or parent-facing, with a new 5-point safety harness as well as a full set of rain covers make this a great option for parents who are active.
Modular Seat
Modular seating can be configured in many ways to meet a variety of seating needs. Whether it's a cozy setup for watching films or a large configuration to entertain guests, modular seating can adjust easily. A lot of modular seating systems come with removable cushion covers which makes it easier to clean up spills and stain.
Modular Seating is available in different styles to fit with your existing decor or as an accent piece. A broad range of color, fabric and shape options mean that you will find an option for modular seating that suits your style. There are many functional features available in modular seating like hidden storage compartments that allow simple organization and clearing 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 front wheel, which is highly maneuverable, allows for smooth and swift movement. The tyres, which are usually air-filled and come with suspension, give you a great ride on the most difficult trails and roads. They are also ideal for walking up hills as the wheels aren't as close ground as they are on four wheel pushchairs.
Parents who love to run and jog with their kids typically opt for 3-wheel strollers because they are more agile and sleeker than their four-wheel counterparts. The GB Upp XL, for example, has an elegant burnished aluminum frame with a fast one-handed fold as well as forward-facing and rear-facing seats. The Babyzen Yoyo, on the other hand, comes with an all-black frame that comes with a carrycot that is set in a full lie-flat position and air-filled tyres.
Another excellent all-terrain option is the incredibly light, extremely maneuverable and stylish Mountain Buggy Sport verso. The buggy will last from birth, with a carrycot included, to toddlerhood with the adjustable seat. This is all done within the footprint of one buggy.
Duet(tm) is an side-by-side buggy that is compact enough to be used in urban areas but is also a bit more creative and controlled. It comes with an innovative fabric sling seat that's positioned in a comfortable frame at just the right height to ensure a perfect weight distribution for easy popping kerbs and maneuvering through neighbourhoods and cities.