North States 3-in-1 Metal Superyard

Bottom Line

Made up of six interlocking panels with a child-proof gate, the North States 3-in-1 Metal Superyard is described as an amazingly versatile system for both blocking off wide areas and creating a play yard. The Superyard can be wall mounted with any number of its six panels, and it can be expanded indefinitely for greater coverage. Built of sturdy metal with vertical spindles, parents turn to the Superyard when other baby-proofing options do not work.

Safety

A viable solution for tough areas. Built of sturdy metal, the North States 3-in-1 Metal Superyard is stable and well-balanced when used as a freestanding play yard or in a half moon position, users say. The Superyard's 24-inch panels interlock with hinged attachments, making it possible to angle the panels for greatest stability. Reviewers say that the Superyard works well mounted on a wall, also. However, they say that the included plastic mounting hardware is of a lesser quality. Many opt for higher quality hardware and professional help when mounting this large gate.

Users enjoy the convenience of the gate panel and say that its double action locking mechanism is easy for an adult, but too hard for a child, to open. The Superyard's vertical spindles thwart eager climbers, and parents report that the panels stand up to frequent child weight tests. Many say that their babies enjoy pulling themselves up to a standing position by the Superyard's panels and that their babies' efforts do not affect overall stability. Parents say that the Superyard is heavy enough to maintain security, but an extremely determined child may be able to scoot it a little on a carpet or hard floor.

Ease Of Use

Ready to use straight out of the box. According to parents, it is very easy to assemble the six panels of the North States 3-in-1 Metal Superyard. The panels are attached via poles in plastic sleeves that can be loosely tensioned when you want to make adjustments or remove a panel, or that can be tightened to create a rigid angle between two panels. Tightening the connections maintains the stability and shape of the enclosure, but parents warn that if you try to move the gate while the connections are tightened, it can break the connection sleeves.

Most users say that the Superyard's gate is easy to open with one hand and that the doorway opening is generously sized. The gate does not swing shut, which is convenient for parents who want to leave it open when kids aren't present, but it requires greater diligence when kids are around. Many parents report that it is easy to fold and unfold the gate, but those using many panels say the gate is heavy and cumbersome.

Specialty Features

Freestanding and flexible. Many parents with open floor plans, large hearths, exposed media centers and other hazards describe the North States 3-in-1 Metal Superyard as a lifesaver. The Superyard's unusual ability to expand to accommodate any size opening makes it a stand out among safety gate systems. In addition to using the Superyard as an indoor or outdoor play yard, parents say that they turn to the Superyard to block off stairwells without damaging walls or railings, wall off entire room sections and even to separate differently aged/staged children to prevent conflicts.

The Superyard is 24 inches per panel, for a total width of 144 square inches or a 10 square foot enclosure. Optional panels increase that space to 192 square inches or 19 square feet. It comes with a 90-day warranty.