The Best Jogging Stroller

Buying Guide

Finding time to work in a daily run can be tough for a busy parent, but physical fitness has been linked to improved mood, in addition to all its other health benefits. If you can combine regular exercise with spending time outdoors, you’ll also get an even bigger boost to your overall mental and physical health.

But if you’re a parent of young children, going for a daily jog isn’t the easiest thing to do. A jogging stroller can give you that opportunity, with a build that protects your little one against shocks while also giving you the opportunity to move at a faster pace than a stroll. Today’s jogging strollers come with multiple safety and comfort features that should ease any of the concerns you might have about jogging with a stroller.

The biggest worry when it comes to strollers is typically safety. Most jogging strollers come with five-point harness systems that keep your little one securely fastened in place while you move. It’s also important to look at the canopy that keeps your child safe from the sun’s harmful rays since some are built with more protective features than others.

What sets jogging strollers apart from standard types is the locking feature that keeps the front wheel from swiveling while it moves at a faster pace. Look for a locking mechanism that’s easy to engage and disengage, especially if you’ll be running on city streets where you’ll have to routinely maneuver through crowds and stop for traffic lights.

The tires themselves also become vital when using a stroller for jogging rather than walking. Jogging strollers are built with larger tires in the back to help absorb the bumps that happen along the way. However, some jogging strollers use the same type of tires found on bicycles for this. While this does help with rough terrain, bicycle tires can be prone to punctures and flats, which isn’t normally a worry with strollers.

If you have more than one child, you can also find jogging strollers with seating for two. If you opt for this, though, make sure it will still have the maneuverability you’ll need. Some strollers are easier to fold down to tuck into a vehicle trunk than others, including giving you the ability to close it up with one hand rather than requiring two.

Lastly, if you’re looking for a stroller with cupholders or under-stroller storage, make sure you search specifically for those features. On those mornings when the weather warms up quickly after you head out for your run, you may find having a place to stow your jacket comes in handy. Having somewhere to keep your bottled water and a sippy cup or bottle can also be convenient.

• Safety starts at the handle level. This is where you’ll control the stroller while you jog. You’ll actually find there are jogging strollers out there with a unique handlebar that has a handbrake built in. Just twist it when you want to stop. This keeps you in control even when you’re rolling down steep hills or navigating tricky curves.
• It’s also important to make sure your child is securely belted in before you start your jog. Look for a five-point harness system to firmly secure your little one.
• One issue with moving at a pace faster than a casual stroll is the quicker you move, the more jarring those bumps can be to the stroller you’re pushing. There are jogging strollers with large 16-inch rear wheels and a suspension system that absorb those shocks. They typically have a smaller front wheel that keeps the stroller easy to maneuver. Larger wheels also make it easy to tackle rocky terrain and gravel pathways. You’ll also find jogging strollers that combine large air-filled wheels with a suspension system that keeps them moving smoothly no matter the terrain.
• For jogging, you’ll also need a front wheel that locks in place. Most jogging strollers have front wheels that you can lock when you’re jogging, and then unlock when you want to use them in normal mode.
• Unless you’re strictly using your stroller in your own neighborhood, you’ll probably occasionally need to take it on the road. Look for a model that can be folded with just one hand, as this is a top choice for those parents who know how often they’ll only have one hand free. Just twist the handle, and the stroller folds up on its own.
• Some jogging strollers require two hands to fold, but they do break down in only two easy steps. You can have it folded and in your trunk in only three minutes.
• Shock absorption isn’t the only thing keeping your child comfortable. The harnesses are padded to keep your little one comfortable while the stroller moves.
• It’s also important to make sure you’re comfortable while you run. Look for a jogging stroller with adjustable handles that allow you to find the perfect height for you.
• The rear brakes on certain strollers have to be engaged using your foot, and you’ll find that in flip-flops, this can be challenging. You’ll need to make sure you have a strong, solid pair of shoes on before you use it.
• Size can also affect maneuverability, especially on crowded sidewalks in urban areas. A more compact size is ideal for situations like these.
• It’s also important to consider weight since it can impact how much resistance you’ll have when you’re trying to keep a decent jogging pace. Weight determines how easily you’ll be able to fold it up and toss it in your trunk, as well.
• As great as a lightweight stroller can be for keeping you moving, you also need to consider the weight limits of the stroller. Make sure your chosen model can handle your child through the growth spurts likely to come in the time you’ll be using it.
• A standout feature that some models have that others don’t is adjustable tracking. If you notice that your stroller tends to veer to one side, you can easily tweak the stroller to keep it moving in a straight line.
• Some models use bicycle tires, which have the benefit of being able to traverse rough terrain easily. However, bicycle tires can get punctures and flats, which could be an inconvenience if it happens when you’re a decent distance from your destination.
• As with any stroller designed for outdoor use, jogging strollers use canopies to protect little ones from the harmful rays of the sun. Some models have oversized canopies with mesh side windows that promote airflow. They may also include a peekaboo window. Other jogging strollers are large and prevent even the tiniest pinhole of sunlight from getting through. You may want to look for a model that is water-resistant, which will come in handy if it starts raining.
• It’s important to note that while most jogging strollers hold one child, there are strollers that can comfortably seat two. However, there’s space for only one car seat.
• Jogging strollers can vary in price, but no matter what features you’re looking for, you’re sure to find one that fits your budget.
• Although it costs more than others, jogging strollers with a frame built with high-strength aluminum are more durable. For those who plan to go for frequent jogs, this durability could be well worth the extra expense.
• With strollers, sometimes the little things are the most important. Some models have a two-cup holder, as well as a storage basket underneath. You’ll find this becomes a handy place to shove jackets and shopping bags if you use your stroller when running errands or traveling.