7 best jogging strollers to consider, according to experts
Looking to exercise while bringing your child along for the ride? A quality jogging stroller can be an essential tool for active parents.
The Thule Urban Glide 2 has car seat compatibility and a 75-pound weight capacity. “It’s a great pick if you want a dual-purpose stroller,” said Neuman, noting it can handle most terrains and has a swivel front wheel that locks in place. It also has a one-handed, compact fold, which is convenient if you find yourself driving to places to run — this makes it easier to get in and out of the trunk and store at home. “It’s more expensive, but if you’re a regular runner, it can be worth the investment,” said Reardanz.
Lisa Selby, a certified running coach who runs the blog Mile by Mile, said the Thule stroller is the only one she uses, both for running and walking. “It has a sleek design and doesn’t feel too heavy or bulky to push,” she said. For parents with twins, Thule also offers a double version.
Featuring a 50-pound weight limit, this jogging stroller has large bicycle wheels and a front swivel wheel that can be unlocked for casual sidewalk use. It also comes with a parent tray with two cup holders, a storage compartment for any essentials and a child tray with a cup holder so they can play with toys or eat snacks. The brand offers five multi-color styles, including Pink, Red and Yellow.
You can attach any Graco infant car seat to this stroller with a secure, one-step attachment, making it accessible to use as a regular, everyday stroller for younger children. The parent tray features a smartphone cradle for easy phone access and a covered storage compartment for easily storing snacks and small items like keys and a hand towel. And if your hands are full while trying to store away the strollers, the brand claims it has a “one-step fold” and can stand on its own.
With an aluminum frame, this 25-pound Joovy stroller is a relatively lightweight option. It features a click-in car seat adapter, a shock-absorbing suspension system and a basket and in-seat mesh pockets to store any necessary items. The oversized canopy can come in handy to protect your child from the sun, while the peekaboo screen lets you easily check up on them.
“If you, your partner, or caregiver is a cyclist, think about getting a stroller that converts from one that can be used for biking as well as running,” noted Shea. For people who have twins or hope to take two kids on a run, the Encore X by Burley — a brand that Shea recommended — is a multi-use stroller that has two padded seats, a water-resistant cover and adjustable handlebars. The included one-wheel stroller kit allows you to hook it up to a bike or transition it to a typical jogging stroller, and the seats can be detached to use it as a cargo trailer. If you’re hoping to go skiing, Burley also offers a ski kit.
You can convert this Bumbleride stroller into a modular system by purchasing a bassinet or infant car seat. Some standout features include built-in mesh storage pockets, a large storage basket, one-handed backrest recline and UPF 45+ canopies with a pop-out extension. For simple cleaning, the seat fabric and canopy are removable and machine-washable.
Experts told Shopping the most important safety tip is to wait to use a jogging stroller until your child is at least 6 to 9 months old so they have better head and neck control to withstand bumps. “Some jogging strollers have adapters you can use with an infant car seat, which is fine for everyday use, but not for jogging or running,” said Reardanz. You should always discuss with your pediatrician before using a jogging stroller to consider your baby’s specific needs.
Reading your stroller’s manual is a great first step to ensure you’re using and assembling it properly. Cram suggested practicing using the jogging stroller before setting out for more vigorous exercise. “Make sure you know how to brake without too hard a stop, and get a feel for how the stroller handles with turns and changes in terrain,” she added.
Shea recommended always wearing the safety strap around your wrist to prevent a run-away stroller. “Typically you want to push the stroller with one hand and swing your other arm to allow your stride to be as natural as possible,” she said.
“Be sure to lock the front wheel, strap your child in securely and lower the canopy to protect them from the elements,” Neuman added. And if you’re planning on running at night, Grayson recommended using reflective tape if your stroller doesn’t already come with a reflective material.
Catch up on Select's in-depth coverage of personal finance, tech and tools, wellness and more, and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to stay up to date.
