Choosing a 3 Wheel Running Stroller
Strollers with larger wheels are designed to be used for jogging. They offer a more comfortable ride than strollers with traditional wheels. Some models have wheels that lock in the front to ensure you are running straight. Others come with an swivel feature to allow for better maneuverability.
The handlebar adjusts to three different heights to allow for a comfortable hand position during runs. It also has a brake built into the middle of the handlebar which our test subjects found easy to use during long, hilly runs.
Stroller Seat
As your baby grows from infant to toddler their needs change. Many toddlers at this age prefer to sit and observe the world. As stroller rides have evolved into longer trips rather than short out and back excursions, you'll require more storage for your diaper bags as well as toys, water bottles snacks, clothes, and more.
You'll also begin looking for a stroller that offers more comfort. That means a well-padded seat that can withstand the bumps and turns of jogging without causing harm to your baby's rear end. Ideally, you'll find models that recline to a near-flat position, such as our top pick the Chicco Activ3 (which Jenni's 3-year-old loved). It's also simple to fold and has an excellent parking brake mechanism that remains in place when activated.
This jogger stroller can even be transformed into a travel unit by incorporating the Nuna Pippa or Maxi-Cosi car seats, by the purchase of an adapter. It's also compatible with the Uppababy Mesa V2 bassinet.
It also has the most storage capacity of any of our strollers that includes a large basket that can fit an extra-large shopping bag. It has the easiest folding system of all our strollers. Simply lift the seat with one hand.
It's also light, thanks to frames made of high-quality aluminum and PFAS-free fabrics that are flame retardant-free. It has progressive front-and-rear-wheel suspensions that can be set to pivot to move in tight spaces, or locked straight to withstand the rigors of jogging.
A transparent window on the canopy allows you to keep an eye on your child. It's also the cheapest of our top rated strollers priced at under $300, making it a fantastic option for parents of all ages. You should be aware of the weight and height restrictions for the car seat you choose. These can vary from brand to brand. Weather conditions such as extreme cold or extreme heat could also affect compatibility between car seats and strollers. If you plan to use this combination, make sure to test it ahead of time to ensure that everything works according to plan.
Stroller Frame
Stroller frames are an excellent option for parents who don't want a car seat but want the flexibility and convenience of a stroller. They are light and fold up easily, making them perfect to store in the trunk of your car or in the garage. A majority of stroller frames include a basket that can be used to store items or accessories such as a tray for your child. They can also be used in conjunction with stroller seats from different brands or as a travel set when combined with an infant vehicle seat.
The best stroller frame is one that is sturdy is comfortable and secure and is easy to move and has a large basket. Most importantly, it needs to fit your lifestyle. Consider the amount of time you spend walking or running with your child. If you are a frequent runner, you'll need an enduring stroller that can keep up with your speed and navigate difficult terrains. If you're a walker who is leisurely or a stroller with an adjustable handlebar will give you the convenience and comfort you want.
In our stroller reviews we test each stroller's performance, safety, and functionality on dirt, pavement gravel, grass, and bumpy concrete. We run with our children (ages 9 months to 4 years old) and test their satisfaction in the seat. We also look at how well the harnesses buckles, and wheels keep them in place when running. We also evaluate how easy and quick it is to set up, tear down, and fold each stroller.
The Baby Jogger Urban Glide 3 stroller frame is an excellent choice for runners, as it is light, has an ample basket, and is able to move effortlessly. It's simple to maneuver, however it has a lower turning radius than Alterrain or Thule Urban Glide. The front wheel rotates however we would like it could lock to stop it from shifting during runs.
The BOB Gear Wayfinder stroller is also a great stroller for jogging. It has the best upright position of any stroller we've tested, and it can even go fully flat to sleep. The only downside is that it takes a bit longer to unfold and fold than other strollers, taking 5 and 8 seconds, respectively.
Stroller Handlebar
The handlebar is one of the most important parts of a stroller, particularly one that is a running stroller. It should be simple to hold and be well-placed within the frame. It also should be easy to use and offer many options for parents to modify the stroller to suit their needs.
Certain strollers, like one, have a handbrake that can be engaged or disengaged with a single flick of the wrist. This is helpful to slow the stroller down when running, jogging or walking. It can also prevent accidents. Some models allow parents to adjust the handlebar height. They can be extremely helpful for runners who are unable to bend over to take small, fast steps.
The swivel wheels are an additional excellent feature that lets you move your stroller with ease in tight spaces such as parking lots or sidewalks and while running around. This is a huge benefit if you are in an urban area that doesn't have enough space for strollers.
Other stroller handlebar features can include a tether strap to ensure your child's safety in the stroller, a lock to the front wheel, which makes it stable while running, and a padded five-point harness that snaps in the middle so that parents don't have to wrestle with the shoulder straps and the waist buckle. Also, look for a large basket as well as pockets that are convenient within the seat canopy to keep your phone, keys and other essentials while you run.
Then, we'll seek out a stroller that has a simple fold and set-up feature so that parents can easily leave the house and get out the door without having to worry about causing a sweat. Some strollers even come with a carrying bag to make it easy to store and transport.
The best running strollers blend functionality with fashion. They sport an elegant, modern look and are constructed with durable materials that are built to last. They are lightweight, easy to move and come in a range of colors and patterns to ensure you find the perfect fit for your family's taste. They also offer a broad selection of accessories and add-ons like car seat adapters, glider boards, and weather shields.
Stroller Canopy
The canopy of the stroller is a crucial component of any stroller that runs that provides vital protection from UV rays for the baby's rider. The top-rated models have an expansive, sturdy cover with ample ventilation and an open, transparent window for caregivers to watch the baby. The canopy can also be turned back to give easy access to the seat and it folds down with just one hand for storage.
The best strollers for jogging have fixed wheels on the front. three wheeled pram gives you greater maneuverability while running and is more able to bounce off bumps compared to other strollers with swivel wheel. If you are a frequent runner in a hilly terrain, it might be worth considering the model with a hand brake. The hand brake slows the stroller and makes it easier to stop completely on a steep slope or in traffic.
Another thing to take into consideration is the type of tires that you put on your stroller. While most of the jogging strollers we reviewed feature pneumatic (air-filled) tires however, some have solid rubber tires. In general, solid tires tend to be more rough and offer less support for the rider. Rubber can absorb heat from the sun and cause your child to burn or develop hotspots. Solid tires last longer than pneumatic tires, but you'll need to check their pressure frequently and keep a pump handy.
Another feature you should look for in a stroller for running is the adjustable tracking on the front wheel. This feature lets you manually correct the direction of veering of the stroller while running on flat surfaces. This can make your runs enjoyable and lessen fatigue. This feature is often found on the best strollers for jogging, but not always.