Introduction

The difference between jogging and all-terrain strollers

Jogging strollers are often called the SUVs of strollers. Unlike traditional strollers, joggers sport three wheels instead of four -- they also cost two to four times as much as standard strollers. Most owners and experts say they offer a smoother ride than four-wheeled strollers, thanks to their larger wheels, and they typically have more storage space in the form of under-seat cargo baskets, seat pockets and cup holders. On the other hand, jogging strollers aren't as compact or maneuverable as regular strollers. They don't fit as easily into trunks, and they weigh more. If you're not sure what type of stroller will meet your needs, see our reports on umbrella strollers and full-featured strollers.

True jogging strollers have a fixed front wheel to help the stroller track straight and glide easily at high speeds. Although this is great for running, it limits the versatility of these strollers. The fixed wheel makes jogging strollers difficult to turn and hard to maneuver in tight spaces such as grocery stores or shopping malls, so most true jogging strollers are used exclusively for running or fitness walking.

As a result, all-terrain strollers are becoming increasingly popular as an option for those who like the ruggedness of a three-wheeled stroller but don't plan on much jogging. These strollers have a swiveling front wheel (for easy maneuverability) that locks into place for light jogging or power walking. All-terrain strollers are typically heavier than true jogging strollers, but they have more storage space and tougher tires that make them suitable for trails, gravel and uneven sidewalks. They also sport convenience features such as cup holders and toy trays. However, all-terrain strollers are really not designed for jogging, and even with the front wheel in a locked position, many reviewers find it hard to keep some strollers tracking straight. That's why experts recommend that serious runners go with a jogging stroller that has fixed wheels.

You'll spend at least $300 (and in some cases, much more) for a top-rated jogging or all-terrain stroller. It is possible to find good budget alternatives, but you'll have to make some sacrifices. Most importantly, strollers under $200 typically have steel frames instead of lightweight aluminum. Steel frames are heavier and make the stroller harder to push and lift. Cheaper strollers also have shorter frame warranties (usually less than one year instead of five years or more). Even so, if safety is your only priority, a budget stroller will meet your needs just fine. In the latest independent test, the top three all-terrain strollers all cost less than $160. Not only did these strollers score highly for safety and maneuverability, but they all posted better overall scores than strollers costing twice as much -- including top-rated models from BOB, Mountain Buggy and phil&teds.  

We found the best jogging and all-terrain stroller reviews in "Baby Bargains," an excellent book written by Alan and Denise Fields. The Fields consider parent feedback, test strollers themselves and conduct interviews with both retailers and manufacturers. Each stroller brand receives a grade and thorough evaluation, making this book truly indispensable for evaluating jogging strollers. While no one really comes close to "Baby Bargains," we also found useful reviews in pregnancy and running publications, including Running Times and Fit Pregnancy magazines. ConsumerReports.org editors also conduct a recent testing of strollers, but only all-terrain models are included, and there is little analysis to accompany the ratings.

There are plenty of owner-written reviews for jogging strollers at Amazon.com, Buzzillions.com and JoggingStroller.com. Some popular models have hundreds of reviews, even though most top-rated jogging strollers earn similar average ratings. These sites are especially helpful for determining which jogging and all-terrain strollers fall below average.

Safety is also a big issue when it comes to jogging strollers, and it's a good idea to check current recalls before you buy at the Consumer Product Safety Comission's site, CPSC.gov.