3 wheeled buggies (click now)
A 3 wheel running stroller-wheel buggy is great for off-road walking & taking on terrains that is bumpy, like woodland tracks. They are also simpler to move on kerbs, and they are less prone to slipping down when in comparison to 4-wheel models.
MadeForMums reviews editor Kath tried one of these three-wheelers while with her newborn and three year old, and put it through its paces on road and on a rocky surface. Read her review here.
Stability
Four-wheel buggies with their centre of gravity balanced by your child's weight in the seat are generally more stable than three-wheelers. But that doesn't mean that a three-wheel buggy isn't worth considering, since many of these models are designed to handle everything from rough terrain to busy high streets.
For a buggy that's really easy to maneuver and will not let you down on muddy roads, opt for one with large rear wheels and a lockable front wheel. These all-terrain buggies often have pneumatic tyres too, which are ideal for handling surfaces that aren't paved and can even be used on sandy beaches or woodland tracks.
They are also great buggies to jog with because they provide great stability on more rough terrain and help you stay with your running companion. They're also excellent at climbing and descending steep kerbs too Most buggies come with a suspension built in that ensures your child will enjoy a comfortable ride.
The one factor that makes a 3-wheeled pushchair difficult to maneuver is the broad frame, which makes it more difficult to maneuver through narrow and tight doors than a 4-wheeler. Some manufacturers have solved this issue by using 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.
It's also important to consider whether your buggy is suitable for your baby from birth or if you're planning on using it with an infant car seat or carry cot. Find out if the buggy comes with a lie-flat feature and if it's compatible with a second seat and buggy boards if you intend to bring your toddler along. Many 3-wheelers fold flat and can be positioned upright when collapsed - handy if you have limited space in your car boot or a small storage space at home. Certain 3-wheelers require you to take off the front wheel to fold into smaller spaces.
Manoeuvrability
Three-wheeled buggies are more maneuverable than four-wheeled strollers. They typically have a swivelling wheel on the front that allows you to change direction quickly and steer with just one hand. Some also come with a lockable front wheel which gives you stability on rougher terrain. Some models can be used with an additional seat or buggy board if you're looking to grow your family.
If you're thinking of taking your three-wheeled vehicle off of roads, you should consider selecting a model equipped with tyres filled with air (also called pneumatic tyres) which can cope with the most difficult terrain. They will require periodic pumping, but will be far more durable than tyres that are solid and more likely to be puncture-proof. Choose a model that has a the ability to lock the swivelling wheel on the front to aid you in navigating difficult surfaces.
When folded, three-wheelers can be heavier than buggies with four wheels due to the single wheel in front. Make sure the model you pick can fit in the boot of your car and can be set up in a straight line if needed. Certain models can be folded with just one hand and stand on their own when collapsed. This will save space in boot spaces that are smaller.
A well-constructed three-wheeled pushchair can handle most terrains from busy roads to forest tracks. But it's important to consider the purpose you'll use it for day-to-day. If you're planning to run the school run, it should be able to handle steep kerbs and slopes. If you intend to jog with it, make sure it has a swivelling "stretch front wheel' that can be locked. This will help keep the ride in place.
Kath who is an MFM reviewer, was able to determine that her stroller with three wheels was able to handle urban and rural walks. She said it was able to negotiate cobbles, rocky paths, and bumpy pavements with ease and was comfortable while jogging. It's also a great choice for day trips as it offers plenty of storage space, including a large, spacious basket with zip-top cover and 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 the majority of popular second seats and buggy boards.
Fabric Sling Seat
The key difference between a fabric sling versus a modular seats is that the fabric sling sits snugly inside the buggy frame instead of being positioned on top as a modular seat would. This enables a much more ergonomically correct posture for the baby and instantly provides a lower centre of gravity that is at the proper height. This leads to a smoother push, a lighter curb-pop (you don't need to exert as much effort and weight to lift the buggy off the curb) and improved balance and stability.
These buggy seats also feature sling fabrics that are easy to clean and durable. They were designed specifically with applications for sling chairs in mind, these fabrics are incredibly UV-resistant and air-tight. They are also easy to maintain with mild soap and warm water.
If you're a jogger or like to do some off-roading, an all-terrain buggy is more likely to meet your needs than a four-wheel buggy. These models tend to have a wider base, more stable, and use air-filled tyres to allow for smooth and agile movement on rough ground.
Maxi-Cosi is a company known for its car seats and has now added a brand new 3-wheeler, the Stella to its range of products. This all-terrain stroller boasts a large and spacious travel system seat unit which can be positioned either facing the parent or 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 generously large shopping basket and hood with zip pockets, and a simple one-hand fold.
This 3 wheeler of luxury made for the most discerning buggy owner, is as beautiful to look at as it is to operate. The sleek frame is finished in a stunning pewter black with touches of silver-burnished aluminum throughout, giving it a real wow factor. A spacious, cushioned seat that can be world or parent facing with a more secure 5-point safety harness and an entire set of rain covers makes this a great choice for active parents.
Modular Seat
Modular seating can be used to create an array of configurations that can be adapted to different seating needs. It doesn't matter if it's a comfortable setup to watch movies or a spacious configuration to entertain guests, modular seating can be adjusted easily. Many modular seating systems come with cushions that can be removed which makes it easy to clean spills or stains.
Modular Seating can be designed to blend with the existing decor or stand out as an accent piece. You can select from a wide variety of fabrics, colors, and shapes to create an adjustable seating option that matches your personal style. Modular seating also comes with various practical features, like hidden storage compartments that make it easy to organization.
3 wheel running stroller-wheel buggies are more stable than 4-wheel strollers, making them ideal for off-road or all terrain adventures. The large front wheel that is extremely maneuverable allows for smooth and quick 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 navigating up hills because the wheels aren't as close to the ground as they are on 4 wheel pushchairs.
Parents who like to run and jog with their babies often choose 3-wheel prams because they are more agile and sleeker than their 4-wheel counterparts. The GB Upp XL for example has a sleek burnished silver aluminum frame, an easy one-hand fold as well as forward and rear facing seats, while the Babyzen Yoyo has an all black frame, a carrycot with fully lie-flat position with air-filled tyres as well as 3 wheel stroller recline positions.
Another fantastic all-terrain choice is the incredibly lightweight, highly manoeuvrable and stunningly stylish Mountain Buggy Sport verso. This is a buggy that truly future proofs your wallet and will take you from birth with the included carrycot all the way to toddlerhood with the modular seat (and beyond!). It does this all within the footprint of a single buggy.
The latest model, duet(tm), is a side-by-side vehicle that's small enough for urban use yet with a lot of innovation and control. It has an exclusive seat made of fabric that is positioned comfortably within the frame at the ideal height for weight distribution. This makes it easy crossing of kerbs and for navigating neighborhoods and cities.