A jogging stroller can make it easier for parents to run with young children, but the right choice depends on how often and where a family plans to use it. A guide based on testing dozens of models over several years highlights seven options for different budgets, storage needs and activities.
The tester says each stroller was run for at least 40 miles, with children roughly seven months to three years old, on surfaces including pavement, tracks, groomed trails and boardwalks. Testing also covered folding, storage, braking, cleaning and how easy each model was to push and steer.
The picks are the Thule Urban Glide 3 as the best overall, the Baby Trend Expedition Jogger as the budget choice, the Cybex Avi Spin for runners short on space, the Guava Roam as an everyday jogger, the Thule Chariot Cross 2 for biking and running, the Bob Revolution 3.0 Duallie for two children, and the Veer Switch and Jog as the most convertible option.
The Thule Urban Glide 3 is praised for light steering, braking and a more upright seat with a larger canopy than earlier versions. Its pneumatic tires help it handle uneven surfaces, while a twisting hand brake allows controlled stopping. The guide notes that its storage basket holds up to 15 pounds and that the stroller is bulky for everyday use. A car-seat attachment and bassinet are available at extra cost.
For families seeking a lower-cost model, the Baby Trend Expedition Jogger includes drink trays for both parent and child and is described as suitable for casual runs and everyday outings. The review cautions that its materials and components feel less substantial than those of pricier strollers, making it less suited to high mileage. It is designed to work with Baby Trend infant car seats.
The compact Cybex Avi Spin offers a one-handed fold, with a more compact option that requires removing the wheels. Its features include an adjustable handlebar, a lockable front wheel, a hand brake and machine-washable fabrics. The reviewer says it handles ruts and bumps well but is not intended to remain stable on trails. A reclined seat can also limit a younger passenger’s view.
The Guava Roam is designed to serve as both an everyday and jogging stroller. Its compact fold, broad car-seat compatibility and handlebar control for locking or unlocking the front wheel are among its strengths. Independent suspension helps smooth the ride, but the review flags a shallow storage basket, the absence of a hand brake and a weight of 28.5 pounds.
For two children, the Bob Revolution 3.0 Duallie is highlighted for its ease of assembly and folding, comfortable push and extensive storage. The tester reports running more than 200 miles with it and says it remained in good condition, though the front tire’s inner tube needed replacing. Its size makes it less convenient to carry when folded.
The Thule Chariot Cross 2 is a multisport option that can be configured as a stroller, jogging stroller, bike trailer or ski stroller. The reviewer found it suited to slow, easy runs and described its ride as smooth on snow, sand and ice. It is heavy for faster running, and changing its configurations can take some effort, although the removable pads and durable materials make cleaning easier.
The Veer Switch and Jog performed well across most of the more than 25 miles of testing, though the tester struggled with it on mud and sand. Its interchangeable seat and accessories, including a cooler and booster seat, add flexibility. The stroller has a telescoping handle and hand brake, but folding it is described as difficult, and its attached fabric is not machine washable.
The guide advises buyers to consider tire type, suspension, weight and size, as well as whether they need car-seat compatibility. Pneumatic tires are presented as a better fit for serious runners and varied terrain, while solid tires may be adequate for casual use on paved routes. The article also stresses that it is not safe to run with a baby in a car seat attached to a jogging stroller. For runners covering shorter distances, a less expensive model with a simpler suspension may be sufficient.
Sources: Runner's World.