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We are currently testing three more running strollers: the updated Bumbleride Speed, the Guava Roam and the Chicco Activ3. We plan to update this guide in April 2023 based on our findings.
Designed to provide a smooth and comfortable ride at high speeds and over rough terrain, running strollers are loved not only by runners but also by caregivers who simply love their traction and maneuverability in everyday use. After testing over half a dozen models, we’ve come to the conclusion that the Thule Urban Glide 2 is the best stroller for those who travel mostly on paved terrain, although the Glide can also detour off-road from time to time. If you don’t have a Thule or you mostly run in the dirt, consider our runner-up pick, the BOB Gear Alterrain.
Of all the Thule Urban Glide 2 jogging strollers we’ve tested, it’s the most enjoyable sidewalk ride, lightweight and agile for everyday use.
The Thule Urban Glide 2 is lighter than almost every stroller we’ve tested, which, combined with high-quality construction, great maneuverability and suspension, makes it the most comfortable stroller on paved roads, as well as the most versatile and one of the most practical strollers in our test group. The Glide 2 is comfortable for both kids and caregivers, and its straps have more padding and adjustments than other models we’ve seen. It also features a unique curved handlebar design and an integrated handbrake helps runners maintain proper posture when moving fast. Adjustable Tracking, a mechanism that can be used to eliminate any tendency to turn to one side, helps keep the stroller straight for long distances, while the front wheel twist lock prevents the stroller from rocking at high speeds. The Urban Glide 2 does have a few downsides, though: the upper doesn’t offer the coverage of some of the other models we’ve reviewed, and the smoother wheels mean it’s best for pavement runs. While the Thule stroller has a decent spring and damper system that handles occasional sprints well, our runner-up pick, the BOB Gear Alterrain, might be a better choice if you plan to keep trekking on a regular basis.
If our main pick is out of stock, BOB Alterrain is a good second choice. Its suspension and tread make it ideal for off-road adventures, but it’s heavier than our top pick and lacks some key safety features.
The BOB Gear Alterrain is equipped with tread tires and durable shock absorbers to keep kids comfortable on rough roads. While our top pick, the Urban Glide 2, handles like an SUV, the Alterrain is more like a pickup truck and at 31.3 pounds (compared to Thule’s 25.3 pounds) it’s not as nimble and not as easy to lift. and put. comfortable in the car. A few things we love: The Alterrain has a larger hood than the Urban Glide 2 and the seat design allows passengers to sit more upright than in a Thule stroller. Like Thule, the BOB has a swivel front wheel for everyday use, but you can also lock the front wheel to prevent wobble while running. However, our favorite bar is nearly identical to the BOB Alterrain, which also lacks some of the Urban Glide 2′s important safety features, including a handbrake to slow you down on high-speed descents. (If you think you’ll be running trails most of the time and expecting steep descents, you might consider paying more for the BOB Gear Alterrain Pro, which has a handbrake). The Alterrain is an updated version of the BOB Gear Revolution Pro, the stroller we previously recommended, but it doesn’t have the adjustable suspension we like.
Of all the Thule Urban Glide 2 jogging strollers we’ve tested, it’s the most enjoyable sidewalk ride, lightweight and agile for everyday use.
If our main pick is out of stock, BOB Alterrain is a good second choice. Its suspension and tread make it ideal for off-road adventures, but it’s heavier than our top pick and lacks some key safety features.
For the first edition of this guide in 2018, science writer Katherine Gammon spent hours researching jogging strollers, first identifying popular models used by parents running at local clubs. She also runs with her two sons aged 1 and 4 and runs several miles several times a week.
For this guide, she interviewed Marianne Ryan, a New York-based physical therapist and board-certified clinical orthopedic specialist who wrote a book about exercise after having a baby, Calum Neff, a father of three, a professional runner, and Melissa Gambrill, a marketing manager. BOB Gear, which has been making jogging strollers for 20 years (and basically invented the category).
In the safety study, Kathryn considered recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and recommendations from the Children’s Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA). She also searched the CPSC database to see if any wheelchair models had been recalled recently and why.
To find out what features people value most in running strollers, she interviewed a dozen parents who run with their kids, visited baby stores to see which models they recommend, and called a group of running parents to discuss their stroller looks. that can go into action. long haul. In the end, to determine which running strollers are the most popular, Katherine read hundreds of reviews on retail sites such as Amazon, Target, REI, and Walmart, and looked at Runner’s World, BabyGearLab, Lucie’s List, Babylist, and Consumer Reports.
In 2021, author Jenny Gritters updated this guide to review the latest models and review current safety best practices. For nearly ten years, Jenny has been a writer and editor for various publications, including Wirecutter. She has previously written about outdoor recreation and baby gear, covering products such as baby vital signs monitors, baby bottles, strollers and diaper bags, and investigating issues related to maternal mental health. She is also the parent of a 1.5-year-old with whom she runs several times a week, 2 to 4 miles each time.
A stroller is a great solution for any runner who wants to take their child along for a ride. They can also be great for non-runners who just want their child to get a stronger, smoother stroller. While some full-size strollers have a flexible three-wheel design that can resemble running models, they often lack key features that make running strollers different: fixed or lockable front wheels, hand brakes, fat tires, strong suspension, and light weight Material is safer and more comfortable in use, both at higher speeds and on hills or rough terrain. In addition, jogging strollers often have larger wheels (most commonly 16 inches in diameter at the back and 12 or 12½ inches in diameter at the front) to help them navigate obstacles more easily. They also tend to weigh several pounds more than regular strollers. The sidecar industry has traditionally referred to anything with large, air-filled wheels and off-road capability as an “all-terrain sidecar.” All of the jogging strollers we reviewed for this guide meet these requirements.
We tested 13 strollers over 125 miles and found the Baby Jogger City Mini 2 to offer the best combination of features and performance.
Even if they’re not runners, some caregivers choose to use a stroller as their primary stroller because they love the portability and ultra-comfortable ride these models offer and don’t mind the extra weight or bulk. Others may buy a dedicated stroller just for running, seeing it as an indispensable tool for keeping fit without hiring a nanny. Please note that while many jogging strollers are designed to be used from birth and are compatible with infant car seats, they are not used until babies have full head and neck control, usually between 6 and 8 months of age. When can I start using the jogging stroller with my child? below).
There are two main types of jogging strollers: those with fixed front wheels and those with front wheels that spin freely when not locked in place. Models with fixed front wheels are more stable and easier to drive in a straight line, especially at high speeds. But fixed wheels make it difficult to turn the stroller, so it is not as suitable for everyday use as a stroller with a swivel front wheel.
Although many jogging strollers are designed to be used from birth and are compatible with child car seats, they should not be used for running until the child has full head and neck control.
Jogging strollers are also (usually) equipped with inflatable tires that provide built-in suspension and a smoother ride. Like bicycle tires, they need to be inflated regularly and are prone to leaks and leaks. But you can’t avoid them if you want a stroller that can take you on a run. If you don’t intend to run with your kids and want to avoid the hassle of inflated tires, you can opt for a regular full size stroller or a smaller, lighter, and inexpensive umbrella stroller. If you want to run with two kids at the same time, check out our guide to the best twin strollers.
We approached this guide with the needs of runners as our top priority, although our goal was to find versatile running strollers that are also suitable for families who might want to use them as their daily commute. Based on our research, we determined that a good stroller should:
Safety: Jogging strollers should be equipped with five-point safety harnesses to keep children safe, especially when driving at high speeds and over rough or hilly terrain. Wheels must be securely fastened: Strollers have recently been recalled because the front wheels came loose, causing the stroller to tip over or break. A wrist strap attached to the stroller ensures it never leaves you. Some strollers are certified by JPMA, an organization that tests baby products against the standards set by ASTM International. Because the program is voluntary, we consider JPMA certification a plus, but not a requirement.
Good handling and braking: Jogging strollers should be easy to push and maneuver on different types of terrain because they have large, knobby, air-filled tires. Tires with more tread will grip better over rocks or uneven surfaces, but they will be slower on pavement than slicks. Handlebar-mounted handbrakes help slow down descents, and we consider them a plus, but not essential, especially if you’re running flat (in fact, pro runner Calum Neff told us they’re disabled on racing carts to save weight) .
Convenience and convenience for adults: Jogging strollers often have an adjustable handlebar that is comfortable to push regardless of your height and helps maintain proper posture while running. “Never bend over to reach for a handle,” says physical therapist Marianne Ryan. “Anyway, when running with a wheelchair, you should keep your arms straight or at a 90-degree angle.” straight line. Some strollers have interior pockets, which means you won’t have to stop halfway (or on business) to pass a treat or toy to your child. A well-placed viewing window allows you to check on your child without slowing down or walking up to the front of the stroller. Some models come with a portable pump to keep your tires inflated when you’re out and about.
Keep your child comfortable: Good suspension (including a spring and damper system) helps cushion your little rider from bumps and uneven terrain, and an adjustable suspension stroller can make up for your child’s height difference on the trail or on flat roads. compared to uneven trails. We prefer strollers with seats that fully recline, as they allow your child to sleep comfortably, as well as seats that can be fully upright – many kids want to be able to sit and look around, especially as they get older. We appreciate the wide waistband style which makes it more comfortable for riders going up and down hills. The spacious canopy provides wide coverage to protect children from the weather and make it easier for them to sleep. Some stroller canopy fabrics have special sun protection ratings. While it’s nice to have the highest UPF 50+ rating (meaning the fabric blocks 99.9% of UVA and UVB rays), we don’t think it matters; most prams made of percale or knitted synthetic fabrics provide sufficient protection from the sun.
Versatility: In addition to the focus on strollers with lockable swivel front wheels – you need a lockable wheel for running, but swivel wheels are better for everyday use – we’re also looking at other features that can be used with strollers in many cases. and for as long as possible. Models that are compatible with infant car seats can be used from birth (but not for running at first), meaning you can get them for an extra six months or more and potentially avoid buying another baby vehicle for newborns. (High-capacity strollers with height restrictions can also last longer.) We were also looking for a stroller that folds easily, fits in the back of most cars, folds up to stand up and can be carried around. Removable and washable fabric is another plus.
BEST VALUE: We ditched $600+ jogging strollers because we found you can get all the features you need for less money. (The exception to this rule is the Thule Chariot Cross 1—an expensive and popular model that can be used for biking, cross-country skiing, jogging, and walking—which we’ve included in this guide.) But you get what you pay for. For: The strollers we’ve seen in the higher price range have significantly better materials and construction, and are lighter and more comfortable to move long distances. For tips on buying a used jogging stroller, see our sustainability section.
For the first edition of this guide, we reviewed 20 jogging strollers and settled on a test set of six models that were recommended by experts, tested well, and/or included the features parents said they wanted. Our list includes:
For 2021, we have researched 11 more and tested three: BOB Gear Alterrain, Joovy Zoom Single Jogger Stroller and Uppababy Ridge (as of September 2022, now withdrawn).
Writer Katherine Gammon spent 15 hours testing six of the original 2018 finalists. First, she calculates the assembly time for each stroller, noting any problems and additional tools needed. (None of these were particularly difficult to build, so we didn’t use that as our main criteria.)
She and her two sons evaluated jogging strollers in everyday conditions, and within six weeks, each stroller ran at least once 3 to 5 miles and also walked once. After her first run, she got rid of some of the strollers and continued to use the remaining strollers for new runs and excursions. She tested each stroller on sidewalks, grass, and bumpy, broken concrete surfaces, noting how the suspension and wheels performed under different conditions. She tested the straps and seats of each stroller to see if they fit her 4-year-old and 1-year-old boys, noting how happy they were with long hours in the seats.
Katherine and her husband took two strollers to three local 5k races and asked other runners about their strollers—all while running. She also tested our options with a small group of parents and kids at a local park.
In 2021 and 2022, Jenny Gritters (5ft 3in, recently pregnant runner and mom of a toddler) follows the BOB Gear Alterrain, the Joovy Zoom Jogging stroller and (was withdrawn) the Uppababy Ridge’s similar testing protocol, mistaking them for medium to long distance runs on asphalt, dirt and gravel in all weather conditions in Oregon. Her husband, a 6’3 long distance runner, also tested all three strollers in the neighborhood and on the trail, comparing them head to head with the Thule Urban Glide 2 he owned prior to writing this guide.
Of all the Thule Urban Glide 2 jogging strollers we’ve tested, it’s the most enjoyable sidewalk ride, lightweight and agile for everyday use.
Of all the running strollers we’ve tested, the Thule Urban Glide 2 offers the best combination of performance, versatility, weight and price. It is designed with the safety and comfort of runners and kids in mind, with thoughtful details unique to our test pool. Plus, it’s lighter, more nimble, and more manoeuvrable than many of the other models we’ve reviewed. It has all the essential safety features we look for in a stroller, including a twist-lock front wheel, handbrake, footbrake and a quality suspension system with strong dampers and springs.
Thule is priced in the middle of the range we’ve tested, but because it’s more affordable than bulky models, it has noticeable build quality and materials, and can fit a typical 10 year old from birth up to 75 pounds (that’s a size)! ), which offers the best value for money for those who want to run with their baby and run errands in the same stroller. The only place you probably don’t want to use Thule is on the road; it is suitable for short bumpy sections of the trail, but not for long trails.
All strollers we tested come with five-point harnesses, and the Urban Glide 2 also features an adjustable lap belt, like our second-place pick, to ensure your child is securely locked in, no matter their height. Thule strollers are not JPMA certified, but since this safety certification is voluntary, we don’t think it’s a deal breaker.
Urban Glide 2 lives up to its name. It glides effortlessly down the sidewalk and feels faster and more agile than any other stroller we’ve reviewed. It looks like a well-designed machine: in many of our runs, we never found any shaking, swaying, or lateral movement. It also appears to be durable. Jenny’s family has been using their Urban Glide 2 for over two years now and have had no complaints. In fact, they’ve never had a problem with loose props or flat tires, despite frequent runs and walks with this stroller over bumps, mud, and snow. The tires need to be inflated every month or so, depending on usage, and the fabric needs to be cleaned with soap and water from time to time. But after constant wear and tear, they can back up the claim that this stroller is durable.
Thule weighs 25.3 pounds and is the second lightest stroller we’ve tested – lighter than some full-size strollers, so starting and stopping requires less effort than heavier models. Like our runner-up pick, the Urban Glide 2 has adjustable tracking that allows you to go mostly straight when the wheels are locked. (If you find yourself leaning to the side, you can stop and adjust the road wheels over the front wheels.)
The foam-covered Urban Glide 2 adjustable handlebar flexes inward, which we found helps keep the runner’s body in a good biomechanical position and keeps the hands in a comfortable neutral position. (Other strollers we’ve tested have U-shaped handlebars.) Both the 6’3 male runner and the 5’2 female runner were able to adjust the handlebars of this stroller and use it comfortably. To use the handbrake, you turn a post built into the handlebars instead of squeezing the lever, making it easier to brake downhill without changing your stride mid-run. We found the handbrake to be intuitive to use, turning it more easily than with the conventional compression method.
You can adjust the shoulder height of the Urban Glide 2′s five-point harness without having to put it back into the stroller, making it much easier to switch between kids of different ages. The harness is half an inch wider than the competition, and Thule is the only one we’ve seen that has a padded crotch strap and wide, padded inserts on the sides of the lap strap to keep kids on track when they’re going downhill or abruptly. stop. The stroller seat is not fully vertically adjustable, but it came in second in height in our test group (BOB Gear Alterrain is fully upright). It can be tilted with one hand to lie almost horizontally for sleeping.
Like our other options, the belt-driven Urban Glide 2 mechanism allows the seat to be set to any angle within range. The footrests are not adjustable, but have soft pads. The zips on the sides of the hood can be unzipped to reveal mesh windows for ventilation on hot days, and the fabric flaps on the canopy’s plastic viewing windows are magnetically attached, allowing caregivers to keep an eye on their child without being caught by a tearing Velcro. wakes up.
Urban Glide 2 is ready to use from birth with a child car seat (Chicco, Maxi-Cosi or universal) with an appropriate adapter, which is not included. Unlike some of the other strollers we’ve tested, the foot brakes are easy to set up and activate while you’re wearing sandals, making it easy to use for errands. The underseat storage basket has a 10-pound weight limit, the same as the BOB Alterrain (and the highest in our test group). The storage basket was also the only one in our test group with a zippered lid to keep out dirt and small hands and keep things from falling off any bumps.
Thule folds with one hand, it’s the fastest and lightest running stroller we’ve tested, and when folded it automatically locks but doesn’t stand up. Its lighter weight means it’s easier to lift into a car trunk or up stairs than heavier models. The wheels are also easy to remove. Assembling the Urban Glide 2 takes only five minutes and requires no additional tools.
The Urban Glide 2 is an updated version of the Urban Glide stroller released in 2014. These changes include swivel brakes on the handlebars, reflective rims and auto-locking pleats that improve on an already established product. (Note that if you buy a pre-2018 used model, it won’t have these features.)
Thule strollers come with a limited lifetime warranty. Urban Glide 2 is available in four colors: blue, red, gray and black. Accessories such as parent organizer and snack tray are sold separately.
The Urban Glide 2 has a nice but not amazing storage compartment. Our runner-up options offer more space but are not included. (The storage baskets on both strollers have the same 10-pound weight limit, which was the highest weight limit in our test group.) The Thule storage compartment has a zippered top, making it difficult to toss groceries or a diaper bag in. ., and this can limit the amount of what you put under the seat. It takes two hands to fasten the harness – unlike the strap on the BOB, which can be operated with one hand – but this inconvenience is actually a safety benefit, especially if your child needs to unleash their talent. The Urban Glide 2 canopy does not provide coverage like our other models.
Additional Thule accessories are expensive, but there aren’t many. While some less expensive strollers (like our economy pick) include accessories, Thule doesn’t. If you don’t want to use mesh pockets for your wallet and water bottle, buy bike cup holders and phone holders (they tend to be cheaper), advises professional runner Neff.
Like almost every other stroller we’ve tested, the Urban Glide 2 doesn’t have adjustable suspension. While the suspension system is great for lighter kids, it would be nice to be able to tighten or loosen the system for larger kids or rocky terrain. Thule also handles better on tarmac than on trails – the manual says “public roads” and “flat roads” so if you ride off-road a lot, you should consider our runner-up pick.
If our main pick is out of stock, BOB Alterrain is a good second choice. Its suspension and tread make it ideal for off-road adventures, but it’s heavier than our top pick and lacks some key safety features.
Post time: Mar-28-2023