3 Wheeled Buggies
A 3-wheeler is ideal for off-road jogging and tackling terrain from bumpy pavements to woodland tracks. They are also easier to maneuver around kerbs than 4-wheel models.
Kath who is the editor of MadeForMums reviews, has tested one of these 3-wheelers on tarmac as well as on a variety of terrains. Read her review here.
Stability
With four wheels and a centre of gravity that is balanced by the weight of your child in the seat, 4-wheel buggies are generally considered to be more stable than triwheelers. But that doesn't mean that a three-wheel buggy isn't worth considering, as the majority of these models are designed to cope with everything from rough terrain to busy high streets.
Look for a buggy with large rear wheels, as well as one that locks on the front. This makes it more comfortable to drive and less likely to snap apart when you're on rough roads. These all-terrain buggies typically have pneumatic tyres as well, which are great at handling surfaces that aren't paved and can be used on sandy beaches or tracks in woodland.
They're also the best buggies to be running around in, as they provide great stability over rougher ground and can aid in keeping up with your jogging partner. They are also great for 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.
One thing that can make a 3-wheeled pushchair tricky to maneuver is the large frame, which can make it difficult to squeeze through narrow and tight doorways than a 4-wheeler. Some manufacturers have solved this problem with a clever design which flips the wheels up when they are not being used. This reduces their dimensions and makes it easier to fit through doorways.
It's also important to consider whether your buggy is suitable for your child from birth, or if you're planning on using it in conjunction with an infant car seat or carry cot. If so, check for an upright position and if the design is compatible with second seats and buggy boards (if you're planning to put an infant onboard). Many 3-wheelers will fold flat and be positioned upright when collapsed and is handy if you have a small car boot or a small storage space at home. However, some will require you to take out the front wheel when folding in order to fit in even smaller space.
Manoeuvrability
Three-wheeled buggies generally offer better manoeuvrability than pushchairs with four wheels. A lot of them feature a swivelling wheel on the front that allows you to steer and change direction using just one hand. Some models have locks on the wheel to offer stability on rough terrain. Certain models can be used with an additional seat or buggy board if you plan to expand your family.
If you're considering taking your three-wheeled bike off the paved tracks, it's worth choosing one with air-filled tyres (also known as pneumatic tyres) which are able to withstand the most challenging terrain. They will require periodic pumping, but will be much more durable than tyres that are solid and more likely to be puncture-proof. Find a model with a a lockable swivelling front wheel to aid you in navigating difficult surfaces.
Having a single front wheel could be a reason that three-wheelers tend to be heavier than buggies with four wheels when folded. Check that the model you select can fit in the boot of your car and can be placed upright if required. Some models are able to fold with one hand, and they're freestanding when collapsed, which will save space in smaller car boots.
A quality three-wheel pushchair will be used on all terrains from busy streets to forest tracks. It's important to think about what you'll be using it for every day. If you will be making the school run using it, it should be able to handle sharp slopes and kerbs. If you'll be jogging with it, check that it has an adjustable swivelling'stretch' lockable front wheel to keep the ride steady.
MFM reviewer Kath found her tri-wheeled buggy was able to handle well on urban and countryside walks. Kath noted that it was able to negotiate rocky paths, cobbles and uneven pavements with ease and was comfortable when jogging. It is also a good choice for day trips as it is packed with storage space. It has an enormous, spacious, zip-top basket that is covered and an extendable, 50+ UV hood. It can be adjusted to fit a baby's needs from birth, with a carry cot or lying-flat seats. It's also compatible with the most well-known second-seats and stroller boards.
Fabric Sling Seat
The primary difference between a fabric sling and modular seats is that the fabric sling fits comfortably inside the frame of the buggy rather than being positioned on top like a modular seat would. This allows for a more ergonomically appropriate position for the baby, leading to a lower center of gravity that is the ideal height. This translates into an easier push, a lighter curb pop (you do not require much effort or weight to pop the buggy over the curb's nose) and a better stability and balance.
The sling fabrics that are used in these kinds of buggy seats are also extremely durable and easy to clean. These fabrics were specifically designed for the sling chair and are UV-resistant and air-tight. These fabrics are also very easy to maintain with mild soap and warm water.
If you're a jogger, or are a fan of off-roading, a all terrain 3 wheeler could be more suited to your needs than a buggy with four wheels. These models are generally larger, more stable base and use air-filled tyres to allow for smooth and agile moving over rough terrain.
A brand most well-known for its car seats, Maxi-Cosi has recently added an all-new 3-wheeler to its range with the Stella. This all-terrain vehicle has an impressive spacious and impressively growing seat that can be world facing or parent-facing and reclines flat thanks to a new 5-point safety harness. It can be used as a baby with a car seat or carrycot and comes with a reasonably large shopping basket, hood with zip pockets and a quick one-hand fold.
Designed for the most discerning buggy owners, this 3 wheeler that is luxurious is as stunning to look at as it is to operate. The sleek frame features a stunning pewter finish with touches of burnished aluminium. It is a real eye-catching piece. A big, padded seat that can be world or parent-facing with a more secure 5-point safety harness and a full set of rain covers make this a great option for parents who are active.
Modular Seat
Modular seating offers many different configurations that can be adapted to various seating requirements. Whether it's a cozy setup to watch films or a large arrangement to entertain guests, modular seating is able to adjust easily. A lot of modular seating systems have removable cushions which makes it easy to clean up spills and stains.
Modular Seating is available in various designs to complement your current decor or as an accent piece. You can pick from a wide variety of fabrics, colors, and shapes to create an adjustable seating option that matches your personal style. Various functional features are also offered in modular seating, such as hidden storage compartments that permit an easy organization and cleaning of living spaces.
3-wheel buggies are more stable than strollers with four wheels, which makes them ideal for off-road or all-terrain adventures. The huge, highly maneuverable front wheel allows for a quick and smooth movement, whereas the tyres are usually filled with air and have suspension, providing an excellent ride on the roughest of roads and trails. They are also ideal 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 favourite for parents who enjoy running and jogging with their child because they offer superior mobility and are much more sleek than their 4-wheel counterparts. 3 wheeled pushchair for example features a sleek, burnished silver aluminum frame, which has a quick one-hand fold and rear and forward facing seats, while the Babyzen Yoyo has an all black frame, a carrycot with full lie flat position with air-filled tyres as well as 3 recline positions.
Mountain Buggy Sport verso is another excellent all-terrain option. It's extremely lightweight and highly maneuverable. It's also incredibly fashionable. This buggy can last from birth, with a carrycot included, to toddlerhood with the modular seat. This is all done within the footprint of just one buggy.
Duet(tm) is an side-by-side buggy that is small enough for city life but is also a bit more innovative and controlled. It comes with a unique fabric sling seat that's positioned in a comfortable frame at the perfect height for perfect weight distribution for easy kerb popping and navigating neighbourhoods and cities.