3 Wheeled Buggies
A 3-wheel buggy can be used for off-road walks and for tackling terrain such as bumpy pavements or woodland tracks. They are also simpler to navigate up and down kerbs as opposed to 4-wheel models.
Kath, the editor of MadeForMums' reviews, tested one of these three-wheelers on tarmac, as well as on various terrains. You can read her full review here.
Stability
With four wheels and a center of gravity that's balanced by the weight of your child in the seat, 4-wheel buggies are generally considered to be more stable than triwheelers. However, that doesn't mean an older model with three wheels isn't worth a look, since the majority of them are built to cope with everything from rough terrain to busy high-streets.
For a buggy that's easy to maneuver and will not be a problem on bumpy pavements, look for one with big rear wheels and a lockable front wheel. These all-terrain buggies also come with pneumatic tires, which are ideal for handling unpaved surfaces. They can be used on sandy beaches or woodland tracks.
They are also excellent buggies to run with since they offer excellent stability on rougher terrain and aid you in staying with your running partner. They can also be used to go up and down steep kerbs, and many come with spring suspension built-in so that your baby will have an enjoyable ride.
The main factor that makes a 3-wheeled pushchair difficult to maneuver is the broad frame, which makes it more difficult to maneuver into narrow spaces and tight doors than a 4-wheeler. Some manufacturers have addressed this issue with clever design that flips the wheels upwards when they are not in use. This reduces their size and makes it easier to maneuver through doorways.
You'll also need to consider whether the buggy you choose to use is suitable for your little one 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 second seats and buggy boards (if you're planning to put the toddler to the buggy). Many 3-wheelers will fold flat and be upright when folded and is handy if you have limited space in your car boot or limited storage space at home. Some 3-wheelers require you to take off the front wheel to fold them into smaller spaces.
Manoeuvrability
Three-wheeled buggies typically provide better maneuverability than pushchairs with four wheels. A lot of them feature a swivelling wheels on the front which allows you to control and change direction with just one hand. Certain models come with locks on the wheel to give you stability on more rough terrain. Some models can be used with a second seat or buggy board if you're looking to grow your family.
If you're thinking of taking your three-wheeled bike off the tracks that are paved, it's worth choosing one that has tyres with air in them (also known as pneumatic tyres) which can cope with the most challenging terrain. These tyres will need pumping up occasionally but they'll be more durable than tyres that are solid and are more likely to be puncture-proof. Look for a model with the ability to lock the swivelling wheel on the front to assist you in maneuvering difficult surfaces.
A single front wheel could mean that three-wheelers tend to be bulkier than four-wheeled buggies when folded. Be 3 wheel stroller travel system that the model you pick can fit in the boot of your car and can be positioned upright if required. Some models are able to fold in one hand and stand on their own when they're collapsed, which will save space in smaller car boots.
A good three-wheel pushchair can be used on all terrains from busy streets to forest tracks. It's important to think about the purpose you'll use it for day-to-day. If you'll be doing the school run, it must be able to cope with steep slopes and kerbs. If you'll be running on it, ensure it has an adjustable lockable swivelling'stretch' for the front wheel to ensure that the ride is safe.
MFM reviewer Kath found her tri-wheeled buggy to be able to perform well on both rural and urban walks. She noted that it could navigate rocky paths, cobbles and uneven pavements with ease and was comfortable to run with too. It's also a great option for day trips because it has a lot of storage space. It comes with a large, spacious, zip-top covered basket as well as an extendable 50+ UV hood. It can be modified to fit a baby's needs starting at birth, using the option of a carry cot or a lie-flat seat. It is also compatible with the most popular second-seats and stroller boards.
Fabric Sling Seat
The primary distinction between a fabric seat and a modular one is the fabric sling. It sits inside the buggy frame, as opposed to being placed on top of it like the modular chair. This enables a much more ergonomically correct position for babies and instantly provides a lower centre of gravity and a more appropriate height. This leads to a smoother push, a lighter curb-pop (you do not have to exert the same effort and weight to lift the buggy off the curb) and increased stability and balance.
These seats also come with Sling fabrics that are simple to clean and durable. These fabrics were designed specifically for sling chairs and are extremely durable and breathable. They are also easy to maintain with mild soap and warm water.
If you're a jogger, or are a fan of off-roading, an all-terrain 3 wheeler could be more suitable than a 4-wheeler. These styles have a wider base, are more stable and use air-filled tyres to provide smooth movement over rough terrain.
Maxi-Cosi, a name that is well-known for its car seats and has now added a brand new 3-wheeler called the Stella to its range of products. This stroller is all-terrain and has a large and spacious travel system seat unit which can be positioned either parent or world facing. It can also recline flat and comes with an improved 5-point safety belt. It can be used from birth using a carrycot or car seat and comes with a decently size shopping basket, hood with zip pockets and a quick one-hand fold.
Created for the most discerning buggy drivers, this luxury 3 wheeler is as beautiful to behold as it is to operate. The sleek frame is finished in a stunning pewter black with hints of silver-burnished aluminum throughout, giving it a real wow factor. A big, padded seat that can be world or parent facing with an improved 5-point safety harness, as well as a full set of rain covers makes this a great option for parents who are active.
Modular Seat
Modular seating offers many different configurations to suit various seating requirements. Modular seating can be easily adjusted to create a relaxing place to watch films, or a spacious arrangement for entertaining guests. A lot of modular seating systems come with cushion covers that can be removed which makes it easier to wash spills and stains.
Modular Seating can be designed to blend in with existing decor or be a standout as an accent piece. A broad range of color, fabric and shape options ensures that you can choose a modular seating solution that is a perfect fit for your preferences. Modular seating comes with a variety of practical features, like hidden storage compartments that make it easy to storage.
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 agile movement. The tyres that are typically air-filled and have suspension, offer a comfortable ride on even the most rough 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 four wheel pushchairs.
Often 3-wheel prams are a favourite for parents who enjoy running and jogging with their child because they offer superior agility and are more streamlined than their 4-wheel counterparts. The GB Upp XL for example has a sleek burnished silver aluminium frame, with an easy fold that can be folded in one hand and forward and rear facing seats. The Babyzen Yoyo has an all black frame, a carrycot with full lie flat position air-filled tyres, and 3 recline positions.
Another great all-terrain choice is the incredibly light, extremely maneuverable and amazingly fashionable Mountain Buggy Sport verso. This buggy can last from birth, and comes with a carrycot, and will last until toddlerhood with the modular seat. All this is within the footprint of one buggy.
The most recent model, duet(tm), is a side-by-side buggy that's compact enough for urban use yet large on innovation and control. It has an exclusive fabric sling seat that's placed comfortably inside the frame and at the perfect height to ensure a perfect weight distribution for easy kerb popping and navigating neighbourhoods and cities.