Jogging Strollers

Jogging strollers are often called the SUVs of strollers. Unlike traditional strollers, joggers sport three wheels and bright colors -- they also cost two to four times as much as standard strollers. Most owners and experts say they offer a smoother ride than standard strollers, offering fat, inflatable tires, hand brakes and parking brakes. Many also include shock absorbers and plush suspension. However, jogging strollers and all-terrain strollers don't fold as compactly as other types, and the front wheel must usually be removed before folding. Also, jogging and all-terrain strollers don't usually have large amounts of storage space for diaper bags, groceries and toys. On a true jogging stroller, the front wheel doesn't swivel. That makes it easier to control while running, but hard to maneuver around tight corners (as you’d find in grocery stores). All-terrain strollers, on the other hand, have swiveling front wheels for better steering, and sometimes the wheel can be locked if you want to use the stroller for jogging.

Reviewers say runners should look for 20-inch wheels, which provide the best ride comfort while jogging. If you only plan on the occasional run, 16-inch wheels are acceptable, and even smaller wheels are fine if you only plan on walking with your stroller. In either case, an aluminum frame is lightest and easiest to push while running.

Best jogging strollers

If you plan to go running with your baby, you'll want a three-wheeled jogging stroller built for that purpose. True jogging strollers are usually lighter than other all-terrain strollers; they have 16- to 20-inch pneumatic tires and fixed front wheels, which makes it easier to maneuver the stroller when running on streets, trails and tracks. However, many jogging strollers don't have much storage space. There are generally no toy trays and no cup holders, since these can get in the way while running and add weight to the stroller, making it harder to push. All true jogging strollers have an emergency runaway tether that attaches to your wrist in case the stroller gets away from you while running. (Keep in mind that pediatricians say you should not take your baby jogging with you until he or she is about six months old, with more fully developed neck muscles.)

We found excellent reviews of several jogging strollers, with BOB strollers being a particular favorite of reviewers and parents. The latest BOB jogging stroller is the BOB Ironman (*est. $360) . At 22 pounds, the aluminum-framed Ironman is one of the lightest jogging strollers. Testers say the BOB Ironman jogging stroller feels smooth and quick while running, yet it’s sturdy enough that you never feel out of control. The front wheel is fixed for maximum stability. Editors at Baby-Gaga.com report excellent long-term durability, backed by a five-year frame warranty, but some owners at Amazon.com report issues with the front-wheel alignment (although they love this stroller overall). The child's seating area is roomy and comfortable, and the BOB jogging stroller is easy to fold (though you do need two hands), with quick-release wheels. None of the BOB jogging strollers have adjustable-height handlebars.

The BOB Ironman has 16-inch pneumatic bike tires and comes in a snazzy yellow color scheme for visibility (it’s available in other colors as well). The suspension system, capable of three inches of travel, minimizes bouncing and vibration. While other jogging strollers don't have many storage options, the Ironman jogging stroller features a lower basket and three storage pouches, making it practical for trips to the store as well as for running. The seat does recline, so you can adjust it for a sleeping child, and the sun canopy is one of the largest on any jogging stroller. The multi-position canopy comes down a lot lower than it does on many other models, which keeps the sun out of the baby's eyes on early-morning runs. There's a safety tether and parking brake, and the stroller can accommodate kids up to 70 pounds. The double version of the Ironman is the BOB Ironman Duallie (*est. $480) .

The BOB Revolution jogging stroller (*est. $360) has polymer BMX-style wheels instead of bike tires. The 16-inch back wheels are fixed, while the 12-inch front wheel swivels, allowing for better everyday maneuverability (the front wheel can also be locked for jogging and off-road use). Reviewers say the Revolution is an excellent improvement over the original BOB Sport Utility Stroller (*est. $300) , and it's a favorite at Baby-Gaga.com, which notes the same long-term durability as the Ironman jogging stroller. The few reviews of this stroller at Amazon.com praise its maneuverability and ease of use. The Revolution jogging stroller also has the same excellent canopy as the Ironman stroller.

The BOB Ironman and Revolution are the latest in a long line of BOB jogging strollers. The original BOB stroller, the BOB Sport Utility Stroller (*est. $300) , is still available and gets some good reviews. Whereas the BOB Ironman has 16-inch bike tires, the BOB Sport Utility has 16-inch polymer wheels, which have up to three inches of give. Reviewers say bike tires are better for jogging, which makes the BOB Sport Utility Stroller a better choice for off-road trail walking than for running on hard surfaces. This stroller’s front wheel is fixed, so it's not as easy to maneuver in stores and on sidewalks as the Revolution, with its lockable front swivel wheel. The Sport Utility Stroller's shock absorbers are adjustable, so you can optimize the ride for a heavier toddler (up to 70 pounds), and this stroller includes a padded 5-point harness and parking brake with safety wrist strap. The BOB Sport Utility Stroller weighs 22 pounds. There's also a two-seater version of this stroller, the BOB Duallie (*est. $430) .

The similar BOB Sport Utility D'Lux (*est. $350) uses bicycle wheels (with steel spokes and aluminum rims) instead of polymer wheels, so it’s good as a true jogging stroller. The front wheel is fixed in place. However, the Bob D'Lux stroller's canopy isn't as generous as the canopy on the BOB Ironman jogging stroller.

Reviewers also recommend the Dreamer Design Rebound Lite jogging stroller (*est. $250) , which has two inches of suspension travel and a height-adjustable handle, making it ideal for parents of different heights. The Rebound Lite jogging stroller has 16-inch spoked wheels (with a fixed front wheel), a five-point harness, a safety tether, a hand brake with parking button, a rear footbrake and one-step fold. It also features a rotating, detachable sun canopy that pivots forward to protect the occupant from sun or rain. Editors at JoggingStroller.com and other sources say this is the best-designed canopy on the market. Every Dreamer Design jogging stroller comes with a tire pump and all-weather cover, as well as a 20-year warranty on the frame (one year on other parts). At 24.5 pounds, however, this stroller is a bit heavier than the BOB Ironman.

If you're trying to decide between the Dreamer Design Rebound Lite and the BOB Ironman, the Dreamer Design probably has the edge, with its adjustable-height handles and great canopy -- in addition to the lower price tag. The BOB Ironman, however, has a "manly" look that some jogging dads find more appealing, and it does weigh a few pounds less. The BOB jogging stroller has a child weight limit of 70 pounds, while the Dreamer Rebound Lite can accommodate kids up to 85 pounds.

Experts say jogging strollers with 20-inch rear wheels provide the smoothest running experience (but can be more difficult to maneuver elsewhere). It's not that easy to find jogging strollers with 20-inch wheels, however. One jogging stroller that does go for the 20-inchers (and a 16-inch front wheel) is the Kool Stride Senior (*est. $375). This stroller’s features include rear wheels that are angled five degrees for better tracking, as well as a "Kool Fold" one-step fold system and a surprisingly light (21 pounds) steel frame. The Kool Stride Senior is harder to find than some other models (we couldn't locate it online at all). Some parents posting to consumer opinion sites say that they’ve had problems with this jogging stroller's durability, but they still praise the Senior's easy maneuverability and smooth ride.

Baby Jogger also makes some jogging strollers with 20-inch wheels. The Baby Jogger Performance Series Single with 20-inch wheels ( *est. $350 for the Single model , *est. $460 for the double version ) has received positive reviews for its independent rear shock absorbers, adjustable sun canopy, handbrake with parking button, reclining seat and storage. Parents say it offers a smooth, quiet ride, but it’s bulky to store if you don't remove the wheels ahead of time. The Baby Jogger Performance jogging stroller has an unusually high (100-pound) weight capacity.

The Baby Jogger Q with 16-inch wheels ( *est. $250 single , $400 double ) has an easy-to-operate one-hand fold. Other features include quick-release rear wheels, a hand brake with parking brake, 5-point harness and safety wrist strap. The Baby Jogger Q has a 75-pound weight capacity. Reviews say the one-hand fold is excellent, but some parents add that the canopy on the Baby Jogger Q jogging stroller isn't as nice as that on the Dreamer Design Rebound Lite.

Best all-terrain strollers

Lots of strollers today come with three wheels, but they really aren't meant for jogging. Rather, they are simply more stylish than regular strollers. Many reviewers say these strollers are great for fitness walking and neighborhood strolls, since they maneuver better and have a smoother ride than standard, four-wheeled strollers.

The latest Baby Jogger all-terrain stroller, the Baby Jogger City Series ( *est. $350 single , $550 double ) has 12-inch wheels (so it’s definitely not meant for running), a swiveling front wheel for better maneuverability and a height-adjustable handle. The City Series joggers also feature a “quick folding system,” whereby you grab the “fold” strap in the seat, lift and go; some editors say this is the best folding mechanism they’ve seen. This Baby Jogger stroller also includes a one-touch switch that allows you to change from a swiveling to a locked front wheel, and at 21 pounds, the City Series Single is fairly lightweight for an all-terrain stroller.

New Zealand's Mountain Buggy makes some highly rated all-terrain strollers, including the Urban ( (*est. $430) single , $670 double ) and the Terrain ( (*est. $360) single , $530 double ). These three-wheeled strollers have 12-inch wheels, fully reclining seats, height-adjustable handles, one-step fold and lightweight aluminum frames (the single models each weigh about 22 pounds). The Urban Single all-terrain stroller has a lockable swiveling front wheel, while the Terrain has a fixed front wheel. Both strollers have a fully reclining seat suitable for newborns, and with the right accessories, they can convert to carriage strollers. Parents are huge fans of Mountain Buggy, and the Urban in particular gets excellent reviews as the best all-terrain stroller overall. Mountain Buggy also makes a triple version of the Urban (*est. $970) .

The newest addition to the Mountain Buggy jogger line is the Breeze (*est. $330) , which has a fixed front wheel, 10-inch air-filled tires and an adjustable handle. The Mountain Buggy Breeze weighs 19 pounds and can hold children up to 77 pounds. Unfortunately, we haven't yet seen any reviews of the Breeze all-terrain stroller.

Phil & Teds made a splash in the all-terrain stroller category with the original Phil & Teds e3 Buggy, which was recently discontinued and replaced with the Phil & Teds Sport Buggy (*est. $400) . The Sport Buggy is off to a solid start, with strong customer feedback on opinion sites and praise from stroller review sources. The Sport Buggy is unique because of its optional kit (*est. $90), with which it can be converted into a double stroller. The kit adds an additional seat below the main seat, either a drop-down seat for infants or a rigid seat for a second toddler. (One drawback is that the second child rides quite close to the ground, and his or her view is limited to the back of the other seat.) Reviewers say the Sport Buggy is ideal for parents who need a double stroller, but don't want the added width or length of a traditional double stroller. We've included the Phil & Teds Sport Buggy in Fast Answers in light of its excellent reviews and innovative features, but reviewers say the Mountain Buggy Urban Single is also a good choice, especially if you don't anticipate needing to convert to a double stroller in the future.

Zooper has won over some parents with the Zooper Boogie (*est. $450) . The Boogie has 12-inch pneumatic tires (so it's not suitable for running), and loads of features, such as a fully reclining conventional stroller seat with lots of padding. The seat also reverses, so the passenger can ride facing you. There's an adapter for adding an infant carrier, a height-adjustable handle (from 28 to 45 inches), and a lockable, swiveling front wheel. The Zooper Boogie also come with a canopy, boot, tire pump and rain cover. However, the Zooper has a 55-pound weight limit (lower than some other all-terrain and jogging strollers), and the stroller weighs a heavy 27 pounds all by itself.

New this year is the Zooper Zydeco all-terrain stroller (*est. $525) . This model also has air-filled tires, shock absorbers, a fully reclining seat and front swiveling wheel. However, the upgraded Zydeco has a larger basket, more plush padding and larger canopy. The extras push total stroller weight to 30 pounds. We haven't yet seen much owner feedback on the Zooper Zydeco.

Peg-Perego has also jumped into the jogging stroller category with the pricey GT3 Completo (*est. $600). This three-wheeled stroller comes with an all-wheel adjustable suspension, and has 12-inch, removable, semi-pneumatic wheels. The GT3 Completo also features an adjustable hood with panorama rear-window ventilation, as well as a swiveling front wheel, adjustable handlebar and dynamic hand brake. We haven't yet seen reviews.

Maclaren makes some of the best umbrella strollers, according to reviews, but its attempts in the jogging stroller category have not been very successful. The company used to make the Mac 3, but this model -- which received mixed reviews -- has been discontinued. Now there’s the Maclaren MX3 (*est. $250) , a three-wheeled all-terrain stroller. Early reviews posted to Amazon.com and Epinions give the Maclaren MX3 uneven feedback so far.

Budget all-terrain and jogging strollers

Not all three-wheeled strollers cost $350 -- though reviewers say the best jogging and all-terrain strollers are found in that price range. We found some decent reviews for budget all-terrain and jogging strollers. As you might expect, these cheaper jogging strollers don't get the highest scores for durability, but if you plan to use your stroller gently, owners and experts say they’re just fine.

Baby Trend and InStep make budget three-wheel jogging strollers with 16-inch wheels. The Baby Trend Expedition (*est. $100) and Expedition LX (*est. $130) are identical, except for the child tray and extra storage pockets on the Expedition LX. Both Expedition strollers have 16-inch chrome-spoked wheels, a sun canopy, reclining seat and parent tray. These Baby Trend strollers have a lightweight aluminum frame and a weight limit of 50 pounds, which is much less than the 75 pounds or so for the BOB and Mountain Buggy strollers.

The InStep Ultra Runner (*est. $170) has 16-inch bike tires, a fixed front wheel and a small basket, and it can accommodate children up to 50 pounds. We haven't yet seen this model included in reviews. Nor have we seen reviews of the new InStep Run Around LTD (* est. $120), which has 16-inch polymer wheels (instead of bike tires), a partly reclining seat, a storage basket and a tether strap. The basic InStep Run Around (* est. $100) doesn't have any suspension or storage. One review says these InStep models aren't that easy to use.

The InStep Safari (*est. $130) isn't meant for jogging, but it does have a swiveling front wheel for better everyday maneuverability. Editors at Baby-Gaga.com say the InStep Safari is a great value for parents who want a three-wheeled stroller, but don't want to jog with it or spend $350 or more. This stroller has a remarkable amount of storage (including a child tray and parent accessory tray), an adjustable handlebar and a partially reclining seat. Better still, it’s easy to fold and maneuver, and at 21 pounds it doesn't weigh too much.

InStep also makes all-terrain strollers under the Schwinn name. There's a Schwinn version of the Safari (*est. $130) in addition to the Schwinn Free Runner (*est. $140) that's similar to the In Step Run Around LTD, and the Schwinn Free Wheeler (*est. $160) , with a 12-inch front swivel wheel and 16-inch rear wheels. All of these Schwinn all-terrain strollers get some nice reviews from parents at Amazon.com.

Double jogging strollers

Parents of twins or a pair of toddlers may want to consider a double jogging stroller. One of the biggest problems with double joggers is their width: most are between 31 and 38 inches wide, which can make for a tight squeeze through doorways and down store aisles. The majority of double jogging strollers have 16-inch wheels, but the Baby Jogger Performance Double and Kool Stop L'il Deuce are both available with 20-inch wheels.

Parents like the Baby Jogger Performance Double (*est. $460) for its durability and independently adjustable sun canopies; it’s quite a bit lighter (25 pounds) than the 32-pound Baby Jogger Q Double ($400) . The Performance Double, which has a 150-pound total capacity, comes with either 16-inch or 20-inch wheels, and it doesn't fold as compactly as the Q Double, which has a 100-pound weight limit. The Q Double has a lift-and-fold mechanism that parents say makes folding easier. The Performance measures 32 inches in width, making it one of the narrower jogging strollers, while the Q Double is a much wider 38 inches. Both strollers have a fixed front wheel, aluminum frame, five-point harness and reclining seat.

The Dreamer Design Dreamer Ditto (*est. $400) has 16-inch wheels and a fixed front wheel, and it’s relatively narrow at 32 inches. According to reviews, the most attractive feature of the Ditto is its individual bubble canopies. Parents also like the fact that each child's seat can recline separately.

If you often venture off road, you may want to consider the BOB Duallie (*est. $430) or BOB Ironman Duallie (*est. $480) . These two Duallie strollers are almost identical. The Ironman is about two pounds lighter and has aluminum rims with stainless steel spokes, while the Duallie has polymer, BMX-style wheels. These Duallie joggers can fit through most doorways, with a total width of about 31 inches. Both strollers have individual reclining seats and independently adjustable canopies.

The Mountain Buggy Urban Double $670 is one of the narrowest double strollers on the market, at 28.5 inches. Each seat can recline on its own, and reviewers say this stroller is easy to close and open. However, this stroller is relatively expensive, and there aren’t a lot of parent reviews out there.

The InStep Safari comes in a double version (*est. $150) and the Schwinn Free Wheeler 2 (*est. $250) is a more plush double stroller option. Both get good parent reviews.

You can read more in our separate report on double strollers .

Important Features: Jogging strollers and all-terrain strollers

Experts say to look for the following in a three-wheeled stroller:

• Look for pneumatic bike tires if you're an everyday runner. 16-inch tires are fine if you also want a general-use stroller, but 20-inch tires are recommended for those who run everyday and want the smoothest ride.

• Though you'll occasionally see jogging strollers with fully reclining seats, experts say your baby is not ready for the jostling of jogging until he is at least six months old. Because the muscles in a newborn baby's neck have not yet had time to strengthen, jogging with babies should be avoided until your child has developed good head support (after about six months).

• Look for easy assembly and folding. You shouldn't have to consult the user manual each time you fold a stroller. Some models require you to take off one or more wheels -- if this is the case, look for a stroller with quick-release tabs.

• Aluminum strollers offer the most durability and lightest weight. When testing a stroller, it should not only be light to push, but easy to carry. Steel-framed strollers are cheaper, but they are also heavier and prone to rust.

• A five-point harness offers the most security. Straps are provided at the shoulders, waist and crotch. Make sure they're easy to adjust, comfortable and made of a durable material. All the models in Fast Answers have a five-point harness.

• Shock absorbers and a solid frame will make for the smoothest ride on rough terrain.

• A hand brake with parking button allows you to slow down quickly, while a parking brake lets you keep the stroller still while you're not holding it.

• Look for models that seat your child far into the stroller, away from the wheels. Some strollers have two reclining positions. Make sure the seat is far enough from your legs when you're in full stride, especially when the seat is fully reclined. The seat should be comfortable and stable, particularly on rough surfaces.

• Check for current recalls on all jogging strollers before you buy, especially if you are considering a used stroller. For comprehensive information on product recalls, consult the Consumer Products Safety Commission's website at http://www.cspc.gov.

• Better jogging strollers, especially high-end models, sport additional features. You may be interested in adjustable handles, an adjustable sun and/or rain canopy, a peek-a-boo window or storage space. Reflective fabric, water-bottle holders, removable and washable fabric, a safety wrist strap, large footplate and rear brake are other features to look for in a jogging stroller.

• Use caution when buying a stroller on the online. Variations in height, strength and personal preferences are difficult to consider if you don’t handle the stroller in person. You'll want a test drive before buying.

Our Consensus Report shows how many times products are top-ranked by reviewers included in our
All The Reviews Reviewed chart.

# of Picks	Model (With Retailer Links)	Details from Amazon.com
3	Mountain Buggy Urban Single (*est. $430)	details
3	Baby Trend Expedition (*est. $100)	details
2	BOB Ironman (*est. $360)	details
2	Phil & Teds Sport Buggy (*est. $400)	details
2	Dreamer Rebound Lite (*est. $250)	details
1 each	BumbleRide Rocket , Jeep Liberty SE Terrain, Jeep Overland LTD, InStep Run Around LTD ,, Baby Jogger Q , Baby Jogger city , BOB Fitness Strides , BOB Sport Utility Stroller , Maclaren MX3 , Kelty speedster , Kelty Joyride , Quinny Speedi SX, Quinny Zapp , Britax Trekker, Bugaboo Cameleon

We found good reviews for the innovative Phil & Teds Sport Buggy stroller, an all-terrain model (not meant for jogging) with an optional kit for conversion into a double stroller. Several BOB strollers get high marks for fitness walkers and runners. The latest BOB models are the Ironman and the Revolution, though we also found good reviews for the older BOB Sport Utility Stroller and Sport Utility D'Lux. The Dreamer Rebound Lite is a less expensive jogging stroller, however, and it has an excellent canopy. We found the best reviews for the Mountain Buggy Urban Single all-terrain stroller, even though it's expensive. The Mountain Buggy has a fully reclining seat, so it’s appropriate for newborn infants -- but it’s not recommended for jogging.

We saw fewer reviews this time around for jogging strollers with 20-inch wheels, which used to be recommended most often for serious runners. Reviewers now say that 16-inch pneumatic tires are also fine.

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