Running strollers tend to top the baby registry picks for active families looking forward to introducing their babies to the world of movement and sports. With added functionality (handbrakes, swivel wheels, built-in suspension), the best jogging strollers make active adventures convenient and safe for families.
A jogging stroller offers a comfy ride for kids while parents squeeze in a workout.
These rugged strollers are designed with safety and stability from the ground up. Some brands are longtime industry leaders while others have improved the genre. “Typically, we get the most questions on Bob Gear jogging strollers and both the Thule jogging strollers and multisport trailers,” says Katie Blozis, brand director for Albee Baby, a New York City-based baby store. “Both brands have been around for a while, focus their efforts in this category and are trusted brands with products that hold up and perform well.”
Some of these strollers serve multiple sports, doubling as bike trailers; others work as a family’s everyday wheels to get to and from the park and daycare. Here are eight of the best jogging strollers you can buy today.
Peruse the buying guide at the end of this article to help decide what to look for in a jogging stroller. For example, some models fold down to fit into smaller trunks or come at an affordable price point. There are also double strollers for running and joggers with extras like rain covers to snack trays.
Thule designed the Glide 2 for serious runners who want to incorporate their child into a training routine. This jogging stroller is built for speed with a fixed front wheel and room at the back of the stroller to accommodate your full stride. Lightweight at just 23 pounds, it won’t tire you out after numerous miles on the run. The ergonomic handlebar adjusts positions to fit your natural running posture and features a leash attachment to ensure the stroller never gets away from you. A single twisting handbrake in the middle of the bars lets runners check slow down their speed using just one hand. “A handbrake is so important for all-around safety. You will feel so much more comfortable going on a hilly course, but it’s also great for stopping quickly at a city crosswalk,” says Amanda Nurse, an elite runner, run coach and founder of Wellness in Motion Coaching. “As a child gets older and heavier, the break gets more and more important.”
This stroller isn’t built just with the running parent in mind but also considers the comfort of your child. A rear suspension system and 18-inch back wheels provide stability and comfort, even when loaded with a preschooler at its 49-pound child weight limit. “This stroller is easy to handle on the roads and trails, it’s narrow (for busy sidewalks and streets) and incredibly easy to fold up and travel with,” says Nurse.
A reclining padded seat with a padded five-point harness keeps kids comfortable for long periods of time or encourages them to nap, while a ventilated canopy with a peekaboo window shields them from the sun. A large storage basket at the bottom of the jogging stroller is protected with a zip-closed lid to ensure nothing falls out when you are running.
Pros:
Lightweight aerodynamic design
Smooth and stable ride
Handbrake
Car seat compatibility for everyday use
Great customer service
Cons:
The fixed front wheel does not swivel
Accessories (drink and phone holder) are sold separately
Rarely on sale
forbes.combuybuy BABY Coupons | 20% Off In June 2022 | Forbes
For those who prefer to run or hike along a trail, it’s best to choose a jogging stroller with integrated suspension and air-filled tires to smooth out the ride for both you and your child. The Alterrain Pro’s robust rear suspension system, large 16-inch wheels and pneumatic tires, help this stroller work on all sorts of surfaces. “The shocks on this one make it the best for bumpy trails,” says Emily Bliss, PT, DPT, a running specialist and physical therapist in Bend, Oregon and founder of Mums on the Run USA.
“One thing I like best about this stroller is that the child can sit more upright. It’s a good idea to test out how children like to ride; if they are adverse to incline at all, then I would definitely go with a Bob,” says Nurse.
A handbrake on the height-adjustable handlebars enables better control for downhill speed and offers a one-handed brake should you need to stop suddenly. The one-handed fold option makes this otherwise bulky stroller portable. Stuff it into the trunk for road trips or day hikes with ease. The waterproof canopy shield lets you avoid rain delays. It also stands up on its own while folded, which improves storage options.
The extra-large zip-top cargo basket at the base of this Bob jogging stroller securely stores extra layers, snacks and water. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that you “store heavy items like diaper bags and shopping in the basket underneath, not hanging from the handlebars, to prevent the stroller from tipping over.” With a 75-pound weight capacity and spacious, comfortable seating area, the jogging stroller offers plenty of room for your child. The seat is also wider than the Thule, which might make it more comfortable for older children.
Pros:
Robust suspension system and air-filled tires
One-handed fold
Handbrake
Car seat compatibility for everyday use
Cons:
Heavier than some jogging strollers
Best Lightweight Jogging Stroller
Ultralight But Packed With Features
Weight: 26 pounds | Weight Capacity: 75 pounds | Running Brake: No | Adjustable Handle: No | Reclining Seat: Yes
Weighing just over 26 pounds, this Joovy stroller comes in at half the weight of many running strollers on the market while still offering a high level of functionality. Large, air-filled tires smooth out rough terrain and the included pump comes in handy should you need an on-the-go top-up. It also works for parents on a budget. “This option has a great price point, much more affordable than the others,” says Bliss.
Unlike other jogging strollers with reclining seats that encourage your child to sleep, the Zoom 360 seat sets your child in a more upright position so they can enjoy the view as you jog along.
There’s no handbrake but the single spring-loaded pedal at the back of the jogging stroller locks both rear brakes with a simple press of your foot, something that should be done “every time the stroller is parked,” according to The American Academy of Pediatrics. When not in use, the stroller folds down into a compact package for storage or transport via a pull mechanism that can be operated with one hand.
Despite its lighter weight, this stroller accommodates children weighing up to 75 pounds, so you can expect to use it for years to come.
Parents who already love UppaBaby’s other strollers and car seats might be curious about the brand’s new sportier, running model. The Ridge—which is versatile enough to use as an everyday stroller or a runing stroller and compact enough to store in an apartment vestibule—has some neat features that other strollers on the market lack. The Ridge has 12- and 16-inch tires that don’t need to be inflated, works with the company’s bassinet and accommodates a second child with a standing board accessory.
“You really don’t need another stroller if you buy this one. It folds up nicely (one-handed and stands up when folded), there’s great undercarriage storage and there’s a swivel front wheel with lock, which is great for both everyday stroller use and running,” says Nurse. Plus, the canopy offers 50+ UV protection.
A one-handed, self-standing fold makes it easy to load this stroller into the car. Blozis also appreciates the extra-large extendable breezy canopy with a zipper pocket for phone storage with easy access.
Pros:
No inflation tires
Comfortable and practicable
Disc brakes
Cons:
Compatible with a limited number of car seat brands
Active families who enjoy exploring the outdoors, as well as cruising around town, might consider the Urban Glide 2 Double. This double jogging stroller includes many of the features found in the Glide 2, but adds the girth needed to keep two kids happily on the move regardless of the environment. The wide load is easy to drive thanks to the stable 16-inch rear wheels and a 12-inch front wheel that swivels freely for maneuverability in urban areas and then locks into place for running.
The integrated twist handbrake provides speed control on hilly terrain, with a locking foot brake for a complete stop. “The seats are comfortable and recline fully like the single,” says Nurse. “It comes with a handbrake and a big bottom pocket for everything you need. I also find it to be way smoother and lighter to push than its competitors and more narrow, so you don’t take up the entire sidewalk and you can still fit through single doors.”
The Mayo Clinic recommends choosing a double stroller with a single footrest that extends across both sitting areas such as in the Urban Glide 2 Double as “small feet can get trapped between separate footrests.” Two kids means double the gear, so the large storage compartment with water-resistant zip-top cover, rear mesh pocket and two mesh compartments for snacks or toys is handy.
Pros:
Integrated handbrake
One-handed compact fold
Adjustable for each child
Universal car seat adapter
Cons:
Best Hands-Free Jogging Stroller
A Stroller That Lets You Pull Rather Than Push Your Kid
Weight: 19 pounds | Weight Capacity: 50 pounds | Running Brake: No | Adjustable Handle: N/A | Reclining Seat: No
Like the thought of running with your child but not too keen on pushing a stroller in front of you? Enabling a natural, innovative, arms-free running style, the KidRunner Run is a unique jogging stroller that you pull instead of push.
Via a lightweight harness, this kid carrier attaches to your waist, leaving you to run using your natural form with the stroller floating behind you. The waist harness is adjustable to sizes between 24 and 48 inches with an integrated quick-release dog-leash tether if you want to take Fido along for the run. Just about everything is adjustable on the KidRunner, from the pitch of the cockpit to the length of the bow that connects it to the harness to accommodate your height and the weight of your child for maximum comfort.
A damping system insulates your kid from the running motion to ensure a smooth ride over diverse terrain. “Your running form is likely to be more natural, too,” says Bliss.
Pros:
Hands-free running
Lightweight
Cons:
Single-purpose
Potentially complicated setup
Could be tricky for city dwellers
Best Jogging Stroller For Tall Parents
A Taller Than Average Stroller With Nine Handlebar Positions
For tall parents, a jogging stroller that encourages the best running posture can be tough to find. The Bob Revolution Flex measures 45 inches tall—a good 5 inches taller than most strollers and features an adjustable nine-position handlebar to comfortably fit parents over 6-feet tall, meaning no more slouching. It’s a durable, solid build that handles well in both ice and snow.
Like many of the Bob Gear jogging strollers, this one prioritizes your kid’s comfort, too. The mountain bike-style suspension system and air-filled tires soften the impact of rough terrain and a swivel front wheel locks for stability when jogging. The compression comfort seat easily reclines using just one hand should your child fall asleep during your adventure.
The Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association strongly suggests you adhere to the weight limits listed on the stroller for safety reasons. This jogging stroller accommodates kids up to 75 pounds in weight, which is roughly 20 pounds more than your average stroller, making it a solid long-term investment for the family.
Pros:
Works well for parents over 6-feet tall
Safe for kids up to 75 pounds
Durable and roomy
Cons:
Heavier and bulkier than some strollers
No handbrake
No universal car seat adapter
Best Multisport Jogging Trailer
Lightweight Multisport Trailer With Conversion Kits Available
Weight: 26 pounds | Weight Capacity: 75 pounds | Running Brake: No | Adjustable Handle: Yes| Reclining Seat: No
Trailers, like the Thule Chariot, let athletes easily switch between activities each day, from jogging to bike riding, with their children in tow. This Thule trailer stands out for a few reasons. The Thule Chariot Lite Multisport is lightweight (only 25.7 pounds) but holds up to 75 pounds and “has all the best Thule features for one child to ride,” explains Nurse.
The Thule Chariot Lite Multisport comes with a four-wheel stroller conversion kit as well as the bike trailer arm (and is easy enough to convert when and if you want to do so). Thule also sells conversion kits separately that will turn the trailer into a jogging stroller or a trailer that can be pulled for cross-country skiing.
The handlebar adjusts (a plus for parents of all heights) and a rain cover and sunshade are included. A rear safety light improves visibility and safety, especially if adventuring in the early morning or evening hours. While you might not need reclining seats in a trailer, if you want them, you’ll find them in the Thule Chariot Cross.
“You can get a single or a double, and there’s an infant sling option for your baby (not for jogging) since it’s not car seat compatible,” says Bliss.
Pros:
Multi-sport use
Versatile
Comes in single or double
Cons:
Expensive
Not infant car seat-adaptable
How To Choose A Jogging Stroller
When purchasing a jogging stroller, there are a few things to take into consideration, such as your family lifestyle and where you normally like to go running or walking, as well as the age of your kids. Our experts agree that the main features to look for when shopping for a jogging stroller should include:
Lockable front wheel for one-handed pushing/steering while jogging
A handbrake to easily slow down while running downhill
A mechanism that makes the stroller easy to open and close
Storage basket
Large sunshade
Adjustable handlebar
It should be easy to get your child in and out
Easily-adjustable five-point harness
Good on all terrain
Comfortable for your child
Reflective areas to be seen more easily
How Soon Can You Run With a Jogging Stroller?
Safety note: While many strollers designed for newborns allow parents to immediately stroll and walk with babies, the jostling of a jogging stroller means you should wait until your little one is a bit older and stronger before taking them on a run. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends waiting to run with a baby in a jogging stroller until they’re at least 6 months old or when they have better neck and head control, which could come later, depending on the child. It’s best to get the thumbs up from your pediatrician before enjoying the jogging stroller together.
Many jogging strollers work with car seats via an adapter so that they can be used right from birth for casual strolls before your baby is big enough to take on a jog. Depending on the manufacturer, you’ll be able to jog with your child until they weigh 50-75 pounds, with an adjustable harness to accommodate the growth of your child.
Kristen Philips started using her jogging stroller for casual walks with her son when he was just 3 months old. “He was in his infant car seat with the car seat attachment. He loved it,” she says. “It was so wonderful to see his face smiling and looking at everything before falling fast asleep. Now he’s 3 1/2 years old and almost 40 pounds, and the stroller is still going strong.”
Adapting to a Jogging Stroller
Jogging while pushing a stroller requires a slight form modification from running on your own. Keep in mind that pushing the extra weight of a stroller plus a child may mean you tire more easily. Don’t despair. Simply take frequent breaks for both you and your child and work up to longer distances gradually. One study in the Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness found that running with a stroller results in a significantly higher heart rate, perceived level of exertion and lactate concentration.
Another, presented at a meeting of the American College of Sports Medicine in Boston, found that pushing the stroller with one hand increases the number of calories burned by about 6 percent; pushing and chasing the stroller ups calorie burn by about 8 percent. That study also found that even when runners ran slower than their usual pace while pushing a jogging stroller, they burned the same amount of calories as they would running faster without the accessory.
Run coaches tend to suggest running with one hand on the stroller handlebars, leaving the other one free to swing. Switch arms frequently so that one arm doesn’t get tired or cramp up. And while it may be tempting to lean on the handlebars for support, engage your core and hold yourself upright, keeping your arms bent and relaxed.
For hills or other unsteady terrains, it’s recommended that you keep two hands on the handlebars for added security and to help propel the stroller weight forward. Unless the jogging stroller is cleverly designed to accommodate a long-running stride, you may find that you occasionally kick the back. If this happens, simply shorten your stride and take quick steps.
Jogging Stroller Accessories to Consider
In addition to jogging stroller functionality, there are extras and accessories to keep in mind such as the below items: