Having a baby changes one’s life in many ways, but that doesn’t mean that you have to give up working out or the ability to go for long walks with a backpack baby carrier. Investing in a jogging stroller is a must do for parents who like to jog or run. This stroller allows you to bring your baby along for the ride.
But with so many jogging strollers on the market, how do you know which one to purchase? Being an expensive product, the last thing you want is to buy a stroller only to realize it doesn’t meet your needs. If you are ready to purchase a jogging stroller, this comprehensive guide is for you.
Table of Contents
Features To Look For In Jogging Strollers
The first step towards understanding jogging strollers and figuring out which one is right for you is examining the features. It is much easier to narrow down your options if you know which features to look for.
Seat
Many jogging strollers have seats that are more reclined compared to regular strollers. Others have the option to recline the seat fully or to a suspine position. Such are good for napping toddlers. Consider seats that have three to five harnesses for safely securing your baby.
Sun canopy
A built-in canopy provides much needed protection from the sun. Consider getting a stroller with a large and adjustable canopy.
Brakes
While all strollers have foot-operated parking brakes, some have handbrakes that are built into the handlebars.
Handlebar
It is important that the handlebar be at a comfortable height and getting a stroller with an adjustable handlebar is the best way to achieve this objective.
Suspension
Some high-end strollers have built-in shock absorbing suspension systems that allow for a more comfortable ride. Cheaper models don’t always have this feature.
Front Wheel
Front wheels that are locked in a fixed position are the safest way to jog with a stroller. This is because they offer more control compared to swiveling front wheels. However, some parents like the option of setting the wheel to swivel for better maneuverability when not jogging or running.
Tire Size
Jogging strollers have tires with an average diameter of 12-24 inches. If you often run on beaten paths or the beach, a bigger tire will certainly offer a smooth ride. The vice versa is true for someone who runs on pavements. The main disadvantage of bigger tires is that they consume more space in the trunk. In addition, they are more difficult to fold down flat.
Comparison Table Of The Best Jogging Strollers
| Image | Name | Feature | Feature | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thule Urban Glide – Jogging Stroller | Swivel front wheel for easy maneuverability, locks into place for jogging | Ergonomic handlebar with a range of heights for parent’s comfort. The pads are water repellant and removable for washing. Door pass through 25.5 inches | $$$ | ||
| Baby Trend Expedition Jogger Stroller, Bubble Gum | Large bicycle tires roll effortlessly over all surfaces | Convenient Parent Tray with 2 Cup holders | $ | ||
| BOB Revolution SE Single Jogging Stroller, Black | Swiveling front wheel allows for superior maneuverability, locks forward for increased stability jogging or when the terrain turns tough | Easy, two step folding, lightweight frame for convenient transport and storage | $$$$ | ||
| Baby Jogger Summit X3 Single Stroller, Black/Gray | Patented quick fold technology fold your stroller with one hand | 16″ rear and 12″ front air filled tires with front wheel lock mounted on the handlebar for easy conversions between jogger and stroller mode | View Available Sellers | ||
| BOB 2016 Revolution Flex Duallie Jogging Stroller, Canyon | Swiveling-locking front wheel swivels to maneuver tight turns with ease or locks forward for increased stability when jogging or on rough terrain. | Adjustable padded handlebar offers 9 positions to create the perfect fit for parents of all heights. | $$$$ | ||
| Baby Trend Expedition Jogger Stroller, Phantom, 50 Pounds | Large bicycle tires roll effortlessly over all surfaces | Front swivel wheel for easy maneuvering, locks for jogging.Recommended Use :6 m ~ 50 lbs or up to 42. | $ | ||
| Joovy Zoom 360 Ultralight Jogging Stroller, Black | Extra wide seat sits high to give child great visibility, multi-position seat recline | Includes parent organizer, running leash, and tire pump | $$ | ||
| Thule Glide – Performance Jogging Stroller | Fixed front wheel provides increased stability when moving at a fast pace.Folded dimensions 34.5 x 21 x 9.06 in,Sitting height 21 in | Extended multi-position handlebar provides a generous kick stride | $$$ | ||
| BOB 2016 Ironman Jogging Stroller, Yellow | Fixed front wheel provides increased stability whether jogging or speed training. | 16″ semi-slick, air-filled tires on lightweight aluminum alloy wheels mean that this stroller is built for speed just like a road bike | $$$ | ||
| Burley Design Solstice Jogger | One-handed fold allows for easy and quick folding even if holding your child | Extendable padded handlebar creates the perfect fit | $$$ |
Reviews of the Best Jogging Strollers 2022
Thule Urban Glide Jogging Stroller
This is a mean jogging stroller that comes with large air-filled tires and rear wheel suspension for a smooth ride. At 23 lbs, the Thule urban Glide is one of the lightest jogging strollers on the market. This allows it to glide over rough terrain with ease. It offers plenty of storage options with two mesh seat pockets, a roomy basket with cover, a large pocket in the back of the seat as well as a small zipper pocket in the back of the basket.
The handlebar is adjustable while the canopy is large, has a pop-out sun-visor and a follow-the-sun option, hence optimum sun protection. You can adjust the handlebar to any height between 39-inches to 45-inches. Another winning factor with this stroller is the roomy seat, which measures 14” wide by 21” long by 24” deep. It is, therefore, a good investment for someone who needs a stroller that their baby can grow with.
A mesh back window provides good ventilation. It also prevents your baby from sliding out of the seat and protects against the sun. The adjustable, padded 5-point harness is one of the best safety features of this stroller. Another safety feature is the one-step break in the back, which locks both rear wheels.
Pros:
- Robust suspension system allows for a smooth ride
- Plenty of storage space
- Lightweight construction
Cons:
- Lacks auto-lock
- Seat is a little reclined, even in the most upright position
Baby Trend Expedition Jogging Stroller
This is a budget friendly jogging stroller with a lot to offer. It has great maneuverability and folds down to a compact size. While it doesn’t have adjustable tracking, it is easy to back tip this stroller when getting it back on course or turning the fixed wheel. It comes with double action brakes that require two pedals to be pressed for them to be completely engaged.
Baby Trend offers a few storage options with the Expedition stroller. Such include an extra large under-seat storage bin for the diaper bag, parent console with a closeable compartment and two cup holders as well as a baby’s tray with two cup holders. The large canopy features a peek-a-boo window that allows you to monitor your little one. Also featured is a 5-point harness, recline seat for napping and a handlebar that isn’t adjustable.
Pros:
- Super easy to maneuver
- Folds down to a compact size
- Double action brakes
- Sufficient storage space
Cons:
- Handlebar isn’t adjustable
- Harness lacks padded straps
BOB Revolution SE Single Jogging Stroller
The BOB Revolution SE comes with great features including roomy and padded seat, huge canopy and compact size when folded size. The stroller has 16” air filled tires with state of the art suspension system that guarantees a smooth ride. You can unlock the swivel front wheel for walking in the park or lock it straight for jogging and running. The stroller weighs about 25 pounds, which is the average weight of joggers.
It is equipped with a series of safety features. These include a 5-point harness that is easy to use as well as run-away strap and parking brake. The canopy is quite huge and adjustable with five positions. It offers up to 125 degrees of coverage and has a large peek-a-boo window. The wrist strap on the handlebar offers extra security in case the jogger runs away from you while jogging. You get plenty of storage including two mesh pockets on the seat, a mesh pocket in the back of the seat and a large basket under the seat for the diaper bag.
Pros:
- Has adjustable suspension system for an incredibly smooth ride
- Front swivel wheel can be locked and unlocked for jogging or walking
- Large canopy with 125-degree coverage and pee-a-boo window
Cons:
- Doesn’t have adjustable handlebar
- Large frame and wide frame make it bulky
Baby Jogger Summit X3 Single Stroller
The Summit X3 from Baby Jogger is designed to provide exceptional maneuverability and performance. It comes with a swivel lock that is conveniently mounted on the handlebar. All you have to do release to swivel mode when walking or flip the lever to lock the front wheel and run. At 28 pounds, this stroller is heavier than some on this list. It folds down easily and has a storage strap that keeps it locked when folded. There is a hand brake on the handle that’s easy to adjust. You also get a wrist strap that’s attached to the foot brake.
Another notable feature of the Summit X3 is the huge canopy, which has a moonroof, sunroof, two side ventilation windows and two peek-a-boo windows. It also features standard UV50 protection to keep your kid protected from harsh sunlight. The handlebar has a fixed height 40 inches, which is a bit high for some users. The seat holds up to 75 pounds of weight and has a mesh vent in the back to keep your baby cool.
Pros:
- Remote front wheel brake offers a lot of convenience
- Holds a lot of weight
- Quite easy to fold and store away
Cons:
- Handlebar is not height adjustable
BOB 2016 Revolution Flex Duallie Stroller
The 2016 Revolution Flex comes with a series of upgrades including an easier to recline system, larger basket and more upright seat. It has a weight capacity of 75 pounds and the brake system is improved. The stroller features a large two-panel canopy with a mesh peek-a-boo window. You also get an adjustable handlebar that has 9 different positions to choose from. It is padded for extra comfort. The runaway strap attached to the handlebar is a nice safety feature that provides extra security in the event that the stroller runs away from you.
This stroller has a roomy seat that measures 14.7” wide and 23” high. It has nice padding to ensure maximum comfort for your baby. Rather than use both hands to adjust the straps on either side, the 2016 Revolution Flex allows you to use one hand when reclining the seat. You get more than enough storage in the form of two mesh pockets on the inside of the seat, zipper pocket at the back of the seat and a large basket. The suspension system is adjustable and so is the front wheel tracking for correct alignment.
Pros:
- High weight capacity of 75lbs
- Recline only requires one hand to operate
- Frame is more plastic than metal
Cons:
- Takes up a lot of space in the trunk
- Lacks a bumper bar
Graco Fastaction Fold Jogger Click Connect Stroller
The Graco FastAction Fold Jogger is an all terrain stroller with wonderful features. While it has an incredibly low weight capacity (50 pounds) compared to other models, it features one-handed standing fold with kickstand and auto lock. It has a padded reclining seat with four different position. The stroller also has 16” air-filled rear tires as well as a swivel tire with reflectors. There is a lever at the front of the footrest cone that you can flip to lock the wheel for a smooth ride when running.
There is a brake over every wheel and all of them are easy to engage. The stroller weighs 30 pounds, making it a little heavier than most on this list. The increased weight is advantageous in that it increases stability. Another notable feature is the 5-point harness that switches over to a 3-point lap belt when your baby is older.
Pros:
- Plenty of storage for your essentials
- Self-standing thanks to auto lock and kickstand
- Fantastic seat recline
Cons:
- Bulky
Joovy Zoom 360 Ultralight Jogging Stroller
This is another budget-friendly stroller that runs on different types of surfaces. It features a front swivel wheel that can be locked straight when running. The tires are air-filled while the rear wheel suspension can handle almost any terrain. The seat has a maximum weight capacity of 75 pounds and a deep recline that’s suitable for babies up to three months old.
You get plenty of storage in the form of two mesh pockets in the seat, large basket that’s easy to access, parent organizer and large mesh pocket in back of the seat. It only weighs 26 pounds, hence the ‘ultralight’ in the name. While the handlebar isn’t adjustable, it is positioned at an average height that suits most parents.
Pros:
- Roomy seat with high weight capacity
- Tall handle that suits most parents
- Large canopy with viewing window and Velcro closure
- Handlebar is covered in soft foam
Cons:
- Lacks adjustable tracking
- Two-hand recline
Thule Glide Sport Strolller
The Thule Glide is a nice fixed wheel stroller that works great on multiple surface types. The front wheel has an adjustable tracking that helps you keep the stroller in a straight line. An adjustable handlebar allows for better biomechanics while a handbrake helps you slow down the stroller when running on slopes. This stroller features single action brakes that are sandal foot friendly.
In terms of storage, you get a large diaper bag basket, two inside stow pockets and a mesh stow pocket at the back of the seat. The sunshade is large, sleek and features peek-a-boo window as well as a mesh visor. It can rotate forward to provide added protection against the sun or wind. The 5-point harness is adjustable and easy to use while the seat has padded leg rest as well as adequate footrest for taller kids. You can recline the seat with just one hand when your baby needs to take a nap.
Pros:
- Easy to set up
- Padded sling style seat is comfortable
- Nice suspension ensure a smooth ride
Cons:
- Fixed front wheel limits maneuverability
BOB Ironman Jogging Stroller
The BOB Ironman is designed for sporty parents who love quality gear. It features a track adjustment knob that allows you to keep the stroller rolling straight. At 22 pounds, it is the lightest model on this list. The stroller sports a hand brake, fixed front wheel and a 5-point harness for safety. With an exceptional shock absorbing system. this stroller guarantees a smooth ride even on rough terrain.
A viewing window on the canopy allows you to keep an eye on your baby while lightweight alloy wheels with pneumatic tires make the stroller fast. It has a seat that reclines so that your baby can nap comfortably. Folding this stroller is a straightforward that only involves two steps and one hand. The high load capacity of 70 pounds makes this a sturdy and durable stroller.
Pros:
- Integrated accessory adapter allows for easy installation of accessories
- Seat is redesigned with padding, heat-press technology and back support
- 5-point harness is easily adjustable
- Strong and reliable suspension system
Cons:
- Foot space for the baby’s legs is a little narrow
- Handlebar is not adjustable
Burley Solstice Jogging Stroller
The Burley Soltice is marketed as a jogging stroller and understandably so. It features a swivel front wheel that can be locked straight or unlocked depending on whether you are running or walking. It has one foot brake that’s easy to operate. The stroller also features 16” rear wheels and a 12.5” front wheel, both of which are a good size for jogging. The swivel front wheel has adjustable tracking that allows you to keep the stroller rolling straight. The handlebar is adjustable, but has a limited range of 3 inches. Many customers loved that the handlebar is covered in soft foam as it feels nice to hold.
Very little effort is required to fold down the Burley Solstice for storage since it folds in one fluid motion and self stands. You get plenty of storage in the form of a large basket under the seat that holds up 15 pounds, large mesh pocket in the back of the seat and mesh pockets in the seat. There is a large canopy with a medium sized peek-a-boo window and a Velcro closure. The 5-point harness system features what’s known as Spring Integrated Technology.
Pros:
- Easy to fold down for storage
- Features Spring Integrated Technology
- Swivel front wheel can be locked or unlocked
- Durable construction
Cons:
- Difficult to lift and stow
- Heavy
Conclusion
Whether you are on the market for an everyday jogging stroller or something that allows you to train for a marathon with your baby, it isn’t that difficult to find your deal. Just ensure that the model you choose meets minimum requirements that keep your baby safe while providing the steer-ability and stability you need.