A Mom’s Guide To Jogging Strollers

Before I had kids I thought a stroller was a stroller. I had no idea that there were different kinds of strollers out there for different uses. I remember when someone first mentioned to me that there were “jogging strollers.” I thought What?!? People run while pushing their babies?!?!? No way. That seems hard. Then I had kids and of course, everything came to light. Jogging strollers are used for many different reasons, not just jogging (hence their other name – utility strollers), and not all jogging strollers are created equal. Whether it’s used for running, going to the beach or trips to Disney, most families find it useful to invest in a good jogging stroller.

Many characteristics determine what makes a good quality stroller–size, weight, smoothness, safety, storage capacity, looks–the list goes on. Not every stroller is the right fit for every mom, which is why I’ve broken it down for you here. I polled some JMB moms and did some research and listed the pros and cons of the five most popular jogging strollers.

Phil and Teds

Average Price – $500 (price does not include the second seat)

Weight – 27.5lbs*

Capacity – Newborn to 5 years; car seat compatible (parts sold separately)*

Pros – Perhaps the most favorable feature of this stroller is second seat addition. Unlike most strollers, the second seat is added to the back of the stroller, making it one of the slimmest double strollers on the market. It’s automatic hand break and 5 point harness increase it’s safety rating and the one-hand fast fold makes it super easy to compact and store. Other notable features are the adjustable handle, 26 riding options, and large wheels for a smooth ride.

Cons – With a cost of about $500, this is one of the pricier strollers on the market. Storage is also a big issue. The large storage basket underneath cannot be utilized when the second child is riding. There is also no additional cup or snack holder for child or adult. There are however additional storage items that can be purchased separately. It is also a top-heavy stroller making it susceptible to tipping if large items are placed on handle bars (purse, diaper bag, etc.)

Best Uses – Run, Walk, Everyday

B.O.B. Revolution SE

Average Price – $368

Weight – 25lbs*

Capacity – 8 weeks to 70lbs; car seat compatible (parts sold separately)*

Pros – When you ask someone why they love their B.O.B. they will almost always say, “Because it’s SO smooth!” And it’s true; the stroller’s state-of-the-art suspension system makes for an exceptionally smooth ride. There are multiple storage options with a large underneath basket, two interior pockets and a back seat storage option. The front wheel rotates fully making it a great stroller for maneuverability while jogging and in tight spaces.

Cons – This stroller is very comparable to the Phil and Teds, however, it does not provide space for a second child. The double version of the Revolution is quite large and heavy. Also, many have complained about the tires repeatedly going flat on this stroller. Lastly, there is no handlebar adjustment making it a “one size fits all” stroller.

Best Uses – Run, Walk, Everyday

Baby Trend Expedition

Average Price – $110

Weight – 26lbs*

Capacity – 6 months up to 50lbs, or up to 42”; car seat compatible*

Pros – At a price of around $100, this is one of the most affordable jogging strollers on the market. It has great storage with an extra large underneath basket and cup holders and trays for both child and parent. The mp3 player is a cool feature and is compatible with most iPods and iPhones.

Cons –One of the biggest drawbacks to this stroller is that many say it wobbles while jogging, which is huge if jogging is what you will use it for. Your best bet is to stay on paved paths, and not to use it on gravel or trails.  There is not an adjustable handlebar, and the tires tend to go flat a lot on this one as well.   It is also one of the bulkier joggers on the market making it harder to store away.

Best Uses – Walk, Everyday

Baby Jogger Summit

Average Price – $430

Weight – 28lbs*

Capacity – Birth to 75lbs; car seat compatible (parts sold separately)*

Pros – A remote wheel lock on the handlebar allows you to switch quickly from swivel to locked wheel while on the go. The handlebar also comes equip with a brake that adds to the safety of this stroller when on hills or rough terrain. The sun canopy is very large and has two side vents for airflow on hot days. It also has an easy on-hand fold system for parents on the go.

Cons – Many reviewers complain that the front wheel wobbles while on a brisk walk or while jogging, which is a deal breaker for most exercisers. Also, it does not come with a parent or child tray and the handle bar is not adjustable.

Best Uses – Walk, Everyday

Graco Fast Action Fold

Average Price – $190

Weight – 30lbs*

Capacity – Up to 50lbs; car seat compatible *

Pros – The best thing about this stroller is the one-second, one-hand folding system. It’s super easy and quick to fold, and also has a kickstand, so you don’t have to slowly bring it to a laying position (which is hard to do with a baby/kid in hand!). It also has ample storage with an extra large underneath basket, child and parent trays and a cell phone holder (all included with stroller). The price is also a plus as it’s one of the less expensive joggers available.

Cons – Many complain that this stroller is heavy and bulky making it hard to maneuver while jogging and also storing away. The sun canopy does not stay in place according to most users, and the cell phone holder is too small for most smartphones. No adjustable handlebar on this one, either.

Best Uses – Walk, Everday

*According to manufacturers website

Please note that although some manufacturers above list “newborn” or “birth” as its minimum capacity, it is not recommended to run/jog with a child under six months of age. Please consult your child’s pediatrician before running or jogging with your child. Also, all of the strollers listed above come with a swivel wheel that can be set to a locked position while jogging. Most of the brands compared also have other versions of jogging strollers, but for the purposes of this review I only compared their most popular version.

Whatever jogging stroller you decide to get, just know that not every stroller is good for every child or parent, and it’s good to test it out before purchasing.

What do you look for in a jogging stroller?