In Depth Baby Product Reviews Led by a Pediatrician
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We've purchased and tested more than 35 joggers in the past, including 10 joggers in this review. We “ran” tests for run-ability, ease of use, maneuverability, and more to narrow the competition down to several impressive winners that are great for running and everyday outings. Whether you are a serious runner or plan to embark on outdoor adventures, our test results reveal all the information you need to choose the best jogger for your family and wallet.
Our favorite jogger is the Guava Roam Crossover. This one-and-done option is super small at 7,488 cubic inches, managing something no jogger has ever done before. In our tests, we loved how easy it was to run with and the features that made it useful for everyday errands.
If you love off-road adventures and running and hope to explore as long as possible with your stroller, the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 is our top pick. This sturdy and reliable option has an adjustable suspension and fits kids up to 75 lbs for years of use.
If you're unsure which stroller style suits you, our collection of the best strollers is a great place to start. If you are looking for one of the best full-size strollers you don't jog with, we've tested those too. We've also tested travel strollers.
Editor's Note: We updated our jogging stroller review with an all-new lineup of compelling joggers on September 10, 2024. In November 2023, we provided more testing information to help with decision-making.
A beauty created from a stellar balance of form and function, it is a great all-in-one option, though it isn't a superior runner
Aesthetically pleasing, higher quality and excellent performance make it compelling, but the manufacturer safety sheet says it is "not suitable for running"
An excellent choice for parents looking for an all-in-one stroller, we were impressed with its abilities, but we wish it was more versatile
A high-quality option with aesthetic appeal and incredible convenience, but the large folded footprint and heavy weight might be a deal-breaker
A functional and sleek beast capable of conquering any terrain, but its large size and hefty price tag prevent us from recommending this stroller to most folks
A sporty, fast, and light thoroughbred for distance runners, but the safety manual from Thule says it is "not suitable for running"
A lightweight solution for those looking to save money but be ready for poor durability and mediocre performance
A simple option that lacks the thoughtful design and sleek aesthetic of the premium models but offers adequate performance for a moderate price
An improvement to the basic model with better quality materials and construction but still limited on performance and comfort
An inexpensive choice good enough for some things, but lack of running features and durability could be a concern, depending on your goals
The Guava Roam Crossover is a stellar standout in almost every metric we tested. With impressive run-ability test performance, this crossover proved you don't need to be a dedicated jogging stroller to be easy to jog with. We loved the locking front swivel wheel you can operate from the handlebar, the adjustable tracking, useful suspension, and the rotating handlebar with height measurements of 34" - 45". While it was one of the heavier options we weighed at 28.5 lbs, it was still a breeze to run with, thanks, perhaps in part, to the foam-filled rubber tires. Our running tester reports, “This stroller was a pleasure to use while running, walking, and exploring off-road trails.” It is also easy to use with a 10 lb storage limit, high-quality, comfy for passengers, and has the very smallest compact fold we've ever measured for a jogger at 7,488 cubic inches, even rivaling some of the full-size strollers we've tested.
The Guava is heavier than some competitors, packing a 28+ lb punch in a hefty package during our testing. If weight is a concern, the Thule Urban Glide 3 is 26.2 lbs, and the budget-friendly Baby Trend Expedition only weighs 23.6 lbs. This option also sports a smaller canopy and lower maximum passenger weight than some competitors, with a max weight of 60 lbs. If capacity for an older kid is your key need, the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 knocks it out of the park here with the largest canopy and a capacity limit of 75 lbs. That said, we think any family looking for a potential one-and-done stroller for running, all-terrain adventures, and ordinary outings will be hard-pressed to find something better than the Guava Roam.
The Guava Roam Crossover performed well in all our in-house and running tests with impressive performance, indicating a strong runner with daily use possibilities.
The Baby Trend Expedition may not be the best for running (according to our tests), but the price is tough to beat if your budget is tight. This option weighs in at a mere 23.6 lbs, and it folds smaller in our tests than the average jogger at 12,679 cubic inches. It features pneumatic rubber tires and a three-wheel design great for all-terrain surfaces, as well as the occasional jog with a rolling resistance distance of 45 feet (one of the longest in our test group). The locking swivel front wheel makes it a good mover indoors and in tight spaces, and the quality is on par with what you pay for.
The Expedition is not great for dedicated running, with one of the lower scores in our testing metric. As one tester put it, “It lacks the features that make running with a stroller easier, and it was more effort to push it.” It doesn't have some features serious runners would call non-negotiable, like suspension, adjustable tracking, and an adjustable handlebar. If you really want a better-running stroller, the Guava Roam Crossover is easier to run with and is one of our tester's favorites. The Expedition is also only mediocre when it comes to passenger comfort, with a smaller seating area and a canopy that is laughably small compared to others. The BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 has one of the biggest canopies in the group and a seating area meant for longer-distance comfort. Plus, the BOB has adjustable suspension based on passenger weight that can offer a smoother ride for the child and the runner. Overall, we don't think the Expedition will make serious runners happy, but we do think it is a good all-terrain option for smaller budgets that can tackle the occasional jog.
Our testing of run-ability showed that the Expedition does not excel as a frequent or long-duration runner, but it still offers a lot in a budget-friendly package for smaller budgets.
The BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 is the workhorse of the jogging stroller world, with a design that has largely remained unchanged for ten years. Its locking swivel wheel design and sturdy materials make it perfect for multiple children and a longer running life. The BOB weighs 27.3 in our tests, which is close to the average for the group of 27.4. Its folded size is also close to the average, with our measured size being 14,748 cubic inches compared to 14,254. We love the adjustable suspension on the Revolution, as it is the only stroller to offer it in the group. The adjustable tracking and rotating handlebar with our measured heights from 34.5" - 48" mean most parents can adjust for perfect running ergonomics. Only the BOB Alterrain Pro has a handlebar this high for taller runners. The Revolution's seating area is big, with a maximum child capacity of 75 lbs and a canopy that is high enough for taller riders. Many competitors only offer a 50 lb capacity, making the BOB better for long-term use. One tester described it as, “The perfect option for almost any need as long as you have the space.”
While not the biggest in the group, the BOB is bulkier than some and has a more complex, two-handed fold. If space is a premium, the Guava Roam folds almost half as small with a size of 7,488 cubic inches, but it is a pound heavier at 28.5 lbs in our tests. The Revolution also doesn't have a great place to hold or a way to carry and lift it. While not a deal-breaker, we preferred the smaller and easier-to-lift handle on the Guava during testing. Our tester remarked, “If you have a smaller car, the Guava is the one to get.” That said, we think the Revolution is a great option for most families that enjoy running or all-terrain adventures off-road.
The BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 performed well in most metrics, including tests for run-ability, such as rolling resistance, tracking, and adjustable suspension.
The UPPAbaby Ridge is a standout for quality materials and design, indicating that a person who uses strollers was involved in its creation. This stroller has a maximum storage weight capacity of 20 lbs, the largest in a group where most are 10 lbs, and some are only 5. This makes it an excellent choice for those who favor everyday adventures like grabbing groceries but who also enjoy the regular run. This comfy stroller has excellent suspension, adjustable tracking, and a responsive handbrake not seen on all competitors. The handlebar adjusts from 41.25" - to 45.5", and the frame sports a water bottle sleeve we like so much we'd take it to dinner.
In our tests, this stroller has a larger fold than the average jogger, and it is 16,677 cubic inches in size. The Guava Roam is a similar crossover product but folds down ultra-small with a final size of 7,448 cubic inches. The Ridge was also not the best runner in our testing for run-ability. While it wasn't terrible, it is heavier at 30.5 lbs, and the rolling resistance was only 21 feet in our tests, less than half that of some competitors like the Thule Urban Glide 3 with a rolling distance of 44 ft or the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 that rolled 37 ft. This makes the Ridge a little more of a slog to run with, and less athletic users might tire quickly. Overall, the Ridge is a great stroller for UPPAbaby lovers or families who like things that look good with impressive designs or plan to run less often than they take on other adventures. As one tester stated, “I love this stroller, but it wouldn't be my choice for an everyday runner.”
We tested everything from run-ability (including locking mechanism, handlebar, tracking, suspension, etc.) to determine how well the UPPAbaby Ridge compared to competitors.
The Thule Urban Glide 3 is an impressive all-terrain stroller with great potential to be your only stroller. This option has covered storage, a giant canopy, and quality materials and constructions. In our tests, it has an average folded size of 14,960 cubic inches and a slightly lighter weight than most at 26.2 lbs. This stroller traveled 44 feet in our testing for rolling resistance, indicating it has less inherent resistance and could translate to less fatigue when pushing. The Urban Glide 3 has an adjustable handlebar measuring 38.5" - 45.3" from the ground in our tests, with a wide range for most parents to find a comfortable position, as several competitors top out closer to 41 inches like both Baby Trend Expedition varieties. It features useful suspension and easy-to-use adjustable tracking, and the front wheel can be locked for rougher terrain or swivel for turning in tight spaces. The Urban Glide can do double duty as a main stroller and for other adventures off the beaten path. Our tester says, “The Urban Glide 3 is a pleasure to use.”
The Urban Glide 3 comes with a Thule Safety Sheet that tells us it is “not suitable for running.” This was a surprise to us, so we reached out to the company. This is where we noticed their website does not identify the Urban Glide 3 as a jogging stroller but instead calls it an “All-terrain” stroller. Thule informs us (see details below) that the Urban Glide 3 is designed for jogging, but safety mandates in other countries require the safety warning, and it is not applicable in the US or Canada. However, given that Thule has put in writing that the Urban Glide 3 is “not suitable for running” and has chosen not to advertise it as a jogging stroller, we can't recommend it as a jogging stroller despite performing well in our run-ability testing. We offer this information for full transparency to readers; you can make your own decision on how to proceed. Our take is that if a company is going to put a warning in writing, we must take them at their word. This makes the Urban Glide 3 a stroller we love for most things, but we can't recommend it for running.
After testing, we loved so many things about the Thule Urban Glide 3, but we would recommend it more for all-terrain and everyday use over running, given the manufacturer safety sheet that proclaims it is “not suitable for running.”
The Thule Glide 2 is the only stroller on the Thule website identified as a “jogging stroller.” This option has a fixed front wheel and lightweight design (only 24.4 lbs!! in our tests), which are traditional hallmarks of this stroller style. The Glide 2 features easy-to-use adjustable tracking, an adjustable handlebar, and a handbrake you won't find on the Thule Urban Glide 3. The Glide 2 performed well in our rolling resistance test with a distance of 44 ft, where some come in closer to 21 ft, like the Guava Roam Crossover. All signs point to a less fatiguing run with handlebar heights from 37" - 44.7", less rolling resistance, and an ergonomically shaped handle and twisting handbrake. For little ones, the seat back reclines deep enough for napping, the canopy is large, and the storage bin can hold enough for most runs.
Unfortunately, the Glide 2 comes with an identical Thule Safety Sheet as the Thule Urban Glide 3 that says the product is “not suitable for running.” While this option is at least identified as a jogging stroller by Thule and is clearly designed for moving quickly, we cannot ignore a warning in writing by the company that it should not be used for running. While the company reassured us it is a jogging stroller, we feel we must take them at their written word, and therefore, cannot recommend the Glide 2 for running, despite it being an impressive fixed wheel choice. Should Thule remove the warning from their safety sheet for either Thule stroller, we will take a fresh look at award winners and scoring. For now, we leave it to readers to decide how to proceed.
We tested the Glide 2 in multiple metrics with over 50 individual tests.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Thule Safety Warning - Company Response
In the Thule Safety Manual that came with the Thule Glide 2 and the Thule Urban Glide 3, there is a warning stating “not suitable for running.” The company says this is based on an EU safety mandate that doesn't recognize any stroller as suitable for running and requires this disclaimer. Further, this mandate does not apply to the US or Canada. To us, their choice to include it in a safety manual means it cannot be ignored. When a company puts a warning in writing, we feel compelled to believe them and provide the information to our readers so you can make an informed decision on the best product for your needs.
In response to our questions about the warning and why it is included with jogging products, the company stated:
“As a global brand, Thule meets all relevant safety standards where the product is sold as such, select countries require more stringent safety warnings. In the US and Canada, Thule Urban Glide 3 meets the North American regulatory standard (ASTM F833) which makes it safe and suitable for both jogging and strolling. When jogging with the product, the front wheel must be locked in the jogging position. For strolling with the product when the wheel is unlocked and in the swivel position, the product is not suitable for running or skating.”
This screenshot highlights the “not suitable for running” warning found in the safety sheet of both the Urban Glide 3 and the Glide 2.
Credit: Thule Safety Manual
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Since 2013, we've tested more than 35 jogging strollers, running over 100 miles in that time.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
How We Test Jogging Strollers
Since 2014, we've purchased and tested more than 35 jogging strollers. Our testing protocols put each product through a multi-point performance analysis to rate running ability and other stroller functionality. During our extensive hands-on testing, we've logged hundreds of miles on running paths and hiking trails in beautiful Colorado near Aspen and in Tahoe, logging more than 60 miles through city streets, parks, paths, and trails.
We conduct detailed testing on each stroller side-by-side to compare results in an apples-to-apples format. We do more than 50 tests on each jogger to determine rank and award winners.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Jogging strollers are subjected to more than 58 individual tests to rate their performance. The most important rating is the Run-ability score, which corresponds to 35% of the overall score. Our Run-ability rating is informed by 10 specific tests, including extensive running with each stroller and lab-based measurements of rolling resistance, straight-line tracking ability, and other tests to evaluate ergonomics and running performance. Our review also utilizes extensive product research and observations from multiple testers of different sizes and running abilities to compare each product's performance to the competition.
Our testing of jogging strollers is divided across six rating metrics:
Run-ability tests (35% of overall score weighting)
Ease of Use tests (20% weighting)
Maneuverability tests (20% weighting)
Transport and Storage tests (10% weighting)
Quality tests (10% weighting)
Kids' Comfort (5% weighting)
We independently purchase every product for testing and accept ZERO manufacturer freebies, so you can be assured our test results and award winners are unbiased and only based on test results and our users' experience.
Credit: Genaveve Bradshaw
Why Trust GearLab
Our experienced testing team has 20+ combined years of jogging stroller experience. Our stroller safety testing protocol was designed by BabyGearLab founder, Dr. Juliet Spurrier. Dr. Spurrier is a board-certified pediatrician, a mother of two, and a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). She uses her education, background, and experience as a mom to develop BabyGearLab health and safety standards. Professional running biomechanics consultant, and national class runner, Carrie Vickers helped design our comprehensive jogging stroller testing plan. The team also includes Senior Review Editor, Wendy Schmitz, who is a mother of two and has reviewed over 210 strollers since 2014. Our Senior Review Tester and experienced runner is Gena Bradshaw. Gena is focusing on our analysis of Run-ability. Gena is an avid climber, runner, and more. She ran with each jogging stroller for a minimum of 5 miles each. The strollers were weighted with a test dummy and 20 lbs during lab testing and real kids for the remainder of testing.
Professional runner, Carrie Vickers, helped BabyGearLab test each jogging stroller.
A group shot of some of the strollers we tested in the past getting ready for their on-trail performance testing
Analysis and Test Results
We have purchased more than 35 popular jogging strollers since GearLab's inception. Over several months, we tested each one to determine which options are the best and why. User experience and in-house testing determine the metric scores that we use to calculate overall scores. We emphasize factors like run-ability because superior running functionality and features are typically the primary reasons parents consider a jogger.
Safety Considerations for Jogging with a Baby
Running with young babies is NOT advised. Infants should not be in a quick-moving stroller or on uneven surfaces until at least eight months of age for smooth, flat surfaces like concrete or paved paths and 12-18 months old for uneven or bumpy hiking terrain. If your baby hasn't graduated to one of the best convertible car seats, they definitely aren't ready for jogging. We recommend discussing your running plans with your baby's pediatrician before launching any stroller-related fun, so they can provide specific advice for your child.
Also, you should NEVER, EVER run with a rotating swivel wheel. You must lock the front wheel before you run to prevent the stroller from flipping, twisting, or tipping. You should also never run with a stroller unless it was designed specifically for running. Even when making tight turns while running on winding paths, your wheel should be locked or fixed, and the stroller should be slightly tipped to make the turn.
What's the Best Value?
While some consider jogging strollers a secondary stroller, recent jogging strollers prove they are more than up to the challenge of working as a primary or full-size stroller in addition to a jogger. This crossover use could save you money over buying two strollers. The Guava Roam Crossover and the UPPAbaby Ridge are both great examples of a one-and-done stroller that provides exceptional value over buying more than one stroller for different needs. The Guava is one of the lower-priced high-end selections and is also less expensive than many high-ranking full-size options (by almost half depending on what you are considering).
While the Baby Trend Expedition is not the best for running if you are a serious runner or run regularly, it could be a good choice for smaller budgets that can act as a one-and-done stroller for multiple uses, like the occasional jog or strollers to the park.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Compared to the average price of a full-size stroller, the joggers are a good value with impressive performance for maneuverability, adequate storage, giant canopies, and other features parents want, making almost any award winner a great deal for running and more. However, if your budget is tight, the Baby Trend Expedition offers acceptable performance with many features for a wallet-friendly list price. However, we don't think it is the best for serious runners, given the lack of running features, but the impressively low cost will leave you smiling if you only run occasionally.
We tested each stroller for run-ability in multiple tests, including 5 miles of running, rolling resistance, and assessment of ergonomics like tracking, handlebar, and suspension.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Run-Ability
We test each stroller with multiple runners to determine run-ability. Our testing group includes a professional running biomechanics expert who analyzes each stroller's ergonomics and features specifically for running. For serious runners, it is crucial to have a jogger with features designed for running. A top-performing jogger will run straight and true, with an adjustable tracking feature so you can tune it up if it is slightly veering left or right. Other key features include low rolling resistance, a quality suspension system, an adjustable handlebar offering an ergonomic shape/height, and tire type. Without these features, running can be frustrating or near impossible.
All of the jogging strollers require a locking front wheel or a fixed front wheel. The Guava offers a unique handlebar mechanism to lock the front wheel for running without leaving the bar or bending over.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Run-ability is impacted by the manufacturing process that brings all the components together with little flex and a low tolerance for manufacturing variations or flaws. We search for options that run straight without effort, offer excellent biomechanics, are not a struggle to push or tilt to turn and use quality materials as these factors all impact the product's overall run-ability.
Run-ability Performance Ratings
Product
Running
Tracking
Suspension
Ergonomics
Thule Urban Glide 3
9.0
9.0
8.0
8.3
Guava Roam Crossover
9.5
9.0
8.5
5.2
BOB Revolution Flex 3.0
8.0
8.0
9.0
5.9
Thule Glide 2
8.5
5.0
8.0
8.8
UPPAbaby Ridge
7.5
9.0
7.0
6.5
BOB Alterrain Pro
7.0
8.0
9.0
5.3
Baby Jogger Summit X3
6.0
8.0
6.5
5.8
Joovy Zoom 360 Ultralight
5.5
3.0
6.0
3.8
Baby Trend Expedition
4.0
2.0
1.0
5.4
Baby Trend Expedition Race Tec
5.0
3.0
1.0
3.2
The top-scoring jogger in our tests was the Thule Urban Glide 3. This all-terrain stroller has all the bells and whistles of a great jogger, including adjustable tracking and handlebar. It was a pleasure to run with a tracked straight, with a center-placed, twisting deceleration brake. This stroller's rolling resistance result of 44 feet indicated less drag and less effort required to propel it forward. The tracking adjustment is located on the front wheel and helps it stay straight without significant pull in either direction, meaning the stroller can be pushed with one hand for better running ergonomics. The handlebar is adjustable from 38.5" - 45.3" from the ground, with four possible positions for runners of different heights. Its lighter weight of 26.2 lbs in our tests also contributed to a less fatiguing and more enjoyable jogging experience.
The Thule Urban Glide 3 has an easy-to-use and effective twisting deceleration handbrake.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
The Guava Roam is also a great runner, earning second place in our running tests. This capable runner has a unique wheel lock on the handlebar (most are on the front wheel), which means you can make the switch to running from strolling without the hassle of parking the stroller and bending down in the front. This can be a game changer for warming up before running without breaking stride. It has an adjustable handlebar with four possible positions and a height range of 34" - 45", making it a potential option for shorter runners since the bar can be 4 inches shorter than the Thule Urban Glide 3. Neither option has a handbrake, meaning you may need to look elsewhere if your running area is hilly.
The Guava is the only jogger in the group where you can lock the front wheel to run from the handlebar instead of bending over to adjust at the front wheel.
Credit: Genaveve Bradshaw
The running metric is comprised of multiple submetric tests. These tests inform the overall scoring and rank for run-ability. We consider running features like rolling resistance, tracking, and ergonomics and how these things come together to provide a satisfying, less fatiguing run.
The Guava Roam is a pleasure to run with, thanks to the adjustable tracking and handlebar that help prevent fatigue when pushing.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Running Test Score
Our running test score is arguably the most subjective test. It incorporates the tester's and user's experience running with the strollers. Results are based on a comparative analysis of running at least 5 miles with each stroller.
Testers recorded thoughts and gut feelings about each stroller and the experience. Is the stroller hard to push, bouncy on the downhill, or pulling to the side? Is the handlebar hard to hold, or is the handbrake hard to use? This sub-metric is meant to capture the experience of actual running.
The UPPAbaby was good for an occasional jog, but it wasn't our favorite long-distance or frequent runner.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
For our running test, the Guava Roam earned the highest score. Thanks to the unique swivel lock on the handlebar and the comfortable non-slip handlebar wrap, our runners liked how easy the Guava was to hold and push. While it is heavier than some competitors at 28+ lbs, and its rolling resistance wasn't the best, our test still felt it offered one of the game's easiest and least fatiguing runs. Our tester remarked, “It is convenient, comfortable, and a consistent performer, and I didn't miss a deceleration brake.”
The Urban Glide has an ergonomically shaped handlebar with a deceleration brake and a safety strap in case the stroller gets away from you when running.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
The Thule Urban Glide 3 was close on the Guava heels with an impressive rolling resistance and a smooth glide with no pull to either side. The Urban Glide 3 has a smooth and easy deceleration brake. The handlebar places it in the center for one-handed running while keeping control. When running with both hands, our stroller had a somewhat poppy front wheel, but it wasn't significant and didn't feel dangerous.
The Urban Glide 3 performed well in our rolling resistance test with a distance of 44 feet.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Rolling Resistance Test
To measure how easily the stroller wheels turn, we came up with a Rolling Resistance Challenge test. We release each option from a small ramp and record how far they roll on their own, unassisted and unencumbered. Then, we measure how far they rolled before coming to a complete stop. How easily the wheels spin with weight in the stroller seat can impact how easy it is to push at speed. A longer distance here means less resistance (the farther, the better) while running and could translate into less fatigue and a longer, more enjoyable run.
The farthest distance any stroller rolled unassisted in our rolling resistance test was 46 feet for the Thule Glide and the Baby Jogger Summit X3. Perhaps it is thanks to the Glide 2's fixed wheel design. This dedicated jogger is designed for one thing only: running, and the lighter weight and stationary wheel might have helped to roll along without much drag.
The Baby Trend Expedition rolled 45 feet in our rolling resistance test, where a farther distance is better.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
The Baby Trend Expedition earned the second farthest distance of 45 feet, then the Thule Urban Glide3 with 44 feet and the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 coming in with a respectable 37ft. The shortest distance in the group was earned by the UPPAbaby Ridge and the Baby Trend Expedition Race Tec with 21 feet.
Adjustable tracking allows you to make minor adjustments to the front wheel alignment that helps keep the stroller moving straight without wrestling to keep it on track.
Credit: Genaveve Bradshaw
Tracking Adjustment
Tracking is the stroller's tendency to stay in a straight line while moving. Because there are variations in the manufacturing process or bumps along the road that could negatively impact a stroller's ability to track straight, it can be crucial that you have the ability to adjust the tracking of the front wheel so you aren't fighting the stroller to stay straight while also running at speed. Lower scores in this metric indicate the jogger either lacks adjustable tracking, it needed regular adjustments, or it didn't work well. This can result in a lot of fatigue if you need to fight your jogger to run straight if it happens to pull even slightly to the side. The higher the score, the better the tracking adjustment does its job of keeping handlebar wrestling to a minimum.
The top scorers for tracking are the Guava Roam, Thule Urban Glide 3, and the UPPAbaby Ridge. Not only are their adjustment methods easy, but they seem to stay true even after repeated runs, while some competitors require frequent adjustments. The Baby Trend Expedition, Baby Trend Expedition Race Tec, and the Joovy Zoom 360 Ultralight all lack adjustable tracking, and you are stuck with whatever you get. While none of the strollers we received this round were terrible, it impacted the run length and how tired we were after running. In the past, we've had some strollers testers wanted to burn after running, solely due to wrestling to keep them straight.
Not all of the strollers are easy to run with or as enjoyable as the top competitors. The Joovy Zoom missed the mark for easy running with limited adjustability to help with ergonomics.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Overall Run-ability
The final run-ability score combines the test results from our running tests, rolling resistance, tracking, suspension, and ergonomics, into one final score for ranking. Those strollers that rank higher performed the best in our tests detailed above. Those with lower scores could be okay contenders for those who like all-terrain or occasionally jog but are unlikely to please serious runners. Because these products are designed specifically for jogging or running, this metric is a critical metric we weighted more i the final scoring than any other test metric.
The Thule Urban Glide 3 and the Guava Roam Crossover earned the top scores for running. The Thule Glide2 and the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 are close behind the top performers.
The Expedition Race Tec is harder to run with due to a lack of adjustable features.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
The hardest strollers to run with are both Baby Trend joggers. Neither includes features that help make jogging with a stroller easier. The lack of suspension, adjustable handlebars, and adjustable tracking resulted in strollers that were harder to push, ergonomically lacking, and more of a struggle to keep straight than competitors. So, while designed for jogging, they miss the mark for real-world use.
The Guava Roam harness is padded where it needs to be for comfort and is easy to use.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Ease-of-Use
Ease of use encompasses everything that makes a product easier to use or provides more than good run-ability.
Ease of Use Performance Ratings
Product
Storage
Fold/Unfold
Harness
Brakes
UPPAbaby Ridge
10.0
9.0
10.0
9.0
Guava Roam Crossover
8.5
10.0
8.0
8.5
Thule Urban Glide 3
8.0
9.0
10.0
7.0
BOB Alterrain Pro
7.0
8.0
8.0
9.0
Thule Glide 2
6.0
9.0
10.0
6.5
BOB Revolution Flex 3.0
8.0
7.0
8.0
7.5
Baby Trend Expedition Race Tec
9.0
7.0
5.0
5.5
Baby Jogger Summit X3
5.0
6.0
6.5
7.0
Baby Trend Expedition
8.0
6.0
4.0
5.0
Joovy Zoom 360 Ultralight
4.0
8.0
6.0
5.0
We test these everyday features for ease of use, including the storage features, harnesses, fold-and-unfold, and brakes.
We could fit our extra large diaper bag in the Guava storage basket by way of the open access in the back.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Storage
All of the jogging strollers offer under-seat storage bins. These bins are easy to access for the most part, but their features and maximum capacities vary. Depending on your goals, this feature could be of huge importance. If you hope to use this stroller as your only stroller, then more storage will be key, especially if you take long outings or need to run errands like grabbing groceries.
The UPPAbaby Ridge under seat storage holds up to 20 lbs and has a zippered cover with quick loop closure access to interior pockets.
The Baby Trend Expedition has a small weight capacity of 5 lbs and no organization or cover features.
The UPPAbaby Ridge has the largest maximum capacity for storage with a bin allowance of 20 lbs. This is significantly higher than the lowest maximum capacities in the group of 5 lbs we saw in the Baby Trend Expedition, the Baby Trend Expedition Race Tec, and the Joovy Zoom 360 Ultralight. These capacity limits might be acceptable if your goal is a workout jog, but could be a problem if you need to haul a heavy diaper bag. The Thule Urban Glide 3 is the second best in the group with a limit of 15 lbs, and the remainder hold up to 10 lbs (including the Guava Roam).
The Thule Urban Glide 3 has a 15 lb capacity, a zippered cover, and a quick access pocket.
The storage bin on the Alterraini Pro has a cover you can seal with a zipper.
The other differences between stroller storage include some being covered to protect contents better and prevent items from falling out and interior or exterior basket pockets. We prefer those that help you stay organized and prevent loss. The UPPAbaby Ridge basket includes two open pockets and a velcro pocket with a removable, zippered cover. The Thule Urban Glide 3 offers a cover and a zippered pocket on the back of the basket. The Guava does not have a cover for the bin, but it has multiple interior pockets, one with a zipper. The BOB Alterrain also comes with a basket cover, but the bin is somewhat smaller and harder to access than the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 that doesn't.
Only more narrow bottle types fit in the Expedition cup holders. However, the holders are shallow, and taller bottles could easily topple out on rougher terrain or while running.
The Expedition Race Tec has a slightly better parent console than the original Expedition, but the phone proper isn't the best while running, and the cup holders are still shallow.
Some strollers have parent consoles and child trays, likely as a nod to parent desires instead of actual usefulness. After testing, we feel that most consoles and cup holders are more of a hassle than an asset when the stroller moves over uneven terrain or at a quick speed. Runners are likely to find falling or swinging items annoying.
The Baby Trend Expedition Race Tec includes a snack tray but the cup holders won't hold most sippy cups and taller bottles ar likely to tumble out when you run
The fabric parent console on the Guava is more useful than most we've seen, but it is probably still better suited for accessories like keys or a smartphone than hydration.
Alternatively, parents running errands might be frustrated without a cup holder and similar small-item storage features. Where each parent falls on this spectrum and how much they use these features will vary. The UPPAbaby Ridge has the best hydration holder with a long water bottle sleeve that is easy to use and keeps bottles in place, even while running. This design is far better for joggers than the shallow, narrow standard cup holders on most strollers. The Guava Roam comes second for other storage features with a flexible parent console and a zippered pocket for a smartphone or keys. It also has pockets on the canopy and the seatback. We wouldn't choose a stroller based on these small storage features, as storage accessories are often available from the manufacturer or after-market vendors that can provide these at a minimal cost.
We prefer kid side pockets (like these on the Guava Roam) over child trays as they keep items close and are less likely to fall out when running.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
The remaining strollers with parent consoles include the Joovy Zoomand the two Baby Trend options, and you can buy one for the UPPAbaby Ridge. Only the Baby Trends have child trays, which aren't the best, with shallow cup holders that can be hard for smaller babies to reach when buckled in. Last, many of the seats have side pockets inside the kid seating area, which we love. These pockets are easy to reach and hold just enough to keep kids busy or hydrated.
Skip the Parent Console
For safety, we recommend not using cup holders or parent consoles when jogging or running with your stroller. Almost every cup holder failed to hold a standard-size water bottle during our testing, and most of them landed on our test “baby” or canopy when the bottle fell out.
The Guava has a simple fold that can be done with one hand after some practice. It can self-stand if the handlebar is folded down.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Fold and Unfold
We fold and unfold each stroller to see how easy it is to complete. This operation is more critical if you need to do it frequently, and many parents express frustration over how complicated this process can be. Using one hand, folding quickly, or the ability to self-stand is essential if you need to fold it speedily or frequently. If you've ever seen someone struggle with a stroller, trust us, the struggle is real and not just for laughs on social media. Luckily, to be fair, the jogging strollers overall were easier to fold than strollers of other types.
The BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 requires two hands to fold and has none of the features that could make folding or maintaining a fold easier.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
The Thule options can fold with one hand and a quick twist and pull to finish; they can be pulled like rolling luggage. This process is possible even when holding a baby or flustered in a crowd, making them tops in our book. They also manually lock in the closed position.
The UPPAbaby Ridge has a straightforward rotating fold handle under the leg rest that can be operated with one hand.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
The UPPAbaby Ridge and the Guava Roam have similar folds and can also be folded with one hand, but the Ridge has an automatic lock, and the Guava has a manual lock. The BOB Alterrain is easier to fold than the BOB Revolution, as it has a one-hand fold under the leg rest. The Revolution is more old-fashioned, with two hands required to fold and multiple steps.
The UPPAbaby Ridge has a 5-point harness with soft materials and a straightforward buckle.
The Baby Trend Expedition harness is not the best or easiest to use with rough webbing and many parts.
Harness
Every time you use your stroller, you put on and remove the harness and occasionally adjust the shoulder straps to the right height. While it isn't as fun as running, it can be frustrating if it is hard or annoying, especially if your child is excited or having a tantrum. All of the harnesses on jogging strollers are 5-point. Some are harder to use than others or require more effort.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
The best harness in our testing is on the UPPAbaby Ridge. The webbing on the straps is silky smooth and very skin-friendly. The shoulder, hips, and crotch straps all have comfort padding, the buckle is easy to use, and the sides pop out on their own. The shoulder and crotch strap adjustments are straightforward and easy to do, even with a child in the seat. The Baby Trend Expedition was the worst in the group, with rougher webbing that was not skin-friendly. It has multiple parts, and pressing the buckle doesn't cause the part to disengage and requires pulling it apart. While you might not consider the comfort of a harness to be a big deal, it is a big deal to your passenger, and gaining compliance without complaint makes it worthy of consideration.
The unique disk brakes on the UPPAbaby Ridge have color-indicating pedals that are easy to use.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Brakes
The brakes come in two styles: single-action and double-action. Double-action brakes require pressing two pedals to engage the brakes, and single-action brakes require a single pedal for brake engagement. We ranked the brakes by how easy they were to use, how well they worked, and if they were foot- or sandal-friendly. Many of the brakes disengage by lifting the pedal from underneath with the top of your foot. If the pedal is stiff or hard to lift, it can hurt your foot or damage the shoe over time.
The BOB Alterrain has a center brake pedal that looks like a bar. It is easy to press and lift to release.
The Guava Roam parking brake is a single-action device. The pedal is small, but it has a rubber grip and is easy to set and release.
Our favorite brakes are the UPPAbaby Ridge. The design has a red pedal to engage the parking brake and a green pedal to release it. The pedals are easy to use, and the color coding lets you know at a glance if the brake is on. We also like the brakes on the BOB Alterrain and the Guava Roam.
The process of lifting the Joovy pedal to release the brakes is stiff and can be painful to the top of the foot.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
The worst brakes are the double-action brakes on the two Baby Trend options. Not only are there two pedals to set, but they are stiff and take some effort. Also, to release the pedals, you use the top of your foot to lift them, and they are so stiff they hurt. However, the lowest scoring brakes are on the Joovy Zoom. This brake is very stiff, and while it has a single bar to press, the bar is attached to pedals on both sides of the stroller, much like double-action brakes.
The Guava Roam offers an easy-to-use parent console we didn't hate.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Overall Ease of Use
This overall ease of use score is a combination of the product test results in storage, folding/unfolding, harness, and brake use. Higher-ranked products in ease of use have features that are a pleasure to use and don't detract from the jogging or strolling experience.
The UPPAbaby Ridge has loads of useful and easy-to-use features like the water bottle sleeve that can help keep you hydrated by making water easy to access.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Important to note and consider is that added features don't usually make a jogging stroller easier to run with and often increase the overall weight of the ride. It is a trade-off, depending on your goals. If you hope to use your stroller for everyday outings, its features might be more valuable, and the additional weight acceptable. If your goal is dedicated running and you won't need it for as many other adventures, then you probably won't want accessories like a parent or child tray, as it won't be as useful, and the hassle won't seem worth it.
The Guava comes already assembled and ready to go with nothing to do but unpack it from the box.
Credit: Genaveve Bradshaw
Ease of Setup
Ease of setup is not the most critical metric because, with any luck, you'll only be doing it once. Unlike days of yore when many strollers required a certain effort level to put them together, most strollers now come largely assembled with maybe only wheels and canopies to attach. The Guava even came fully assembled with nothing to do but unpack the stroller from the box. After the Guava, the BOB Alterrain and the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 are the easiest, with an assembly time of under 10 minutes and better-than-average manuals with instructions and details on jogging safely with babies.
If the Thule strollers came with written instructions or actual pictures, we think they'd be easier to assemble.
Credit: Genaveve Bradshaw
The Thules were more of a struggle because their manuals lacked written words and were largely drawings of the stroller parts. It is not clear what is going on, especially if you are unfamiliar with the parts. The manual also lacks truly useful information on how to use the strollers and when you should or shouldn't run with children. This is a big disappointment for products in this price range and of higher quality.
The Thule Urban Glide 3 is easy to maneuver, feels nimble when taking tight turns or navigating obstacles, and is stable off-road.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Maneuverability
Parents want easy maneuverability in a stroller, and jogging products are no exception. While we can forgive a fixed-wheel running stroller for its inability to make tight turns (an intentional safety feature), it isn't easy to forgive the swivel wheel options that are too big for smaller spaces. Depending on your journey and terrain, you may need to make concessions on what you are willing to accept to get the running performance you desire.
Maneuverability by Surface Type
Product
Pavement
All-terrain
Curbs
Thule Urban Glide 3
10.0
9.0
9.5
Guava Roam Crossover
10.0
8.5
10.0
BOB Alterrain Pro
8.0
9.5
7.5
BOB Revolution Flex 3.0
8.5
8.5
7.0
Thule Glide 2
3.0
10.0
9.0
Baby Trend Expedition
9.0
4.0
8.0
Baby Trend Expedition Race Tec
8.5
5.0
7.0
Joovy Zoom 360 Ultralight
9.0
5.5
6.0
UPPAbaby Ridge
7.0
5.5
8.0
Baby Jogger Summit X3
7.0
5.0
8.0
The chart above shows our performance ratings from our maneuverability testing by different types of surfaces, including pavement (smooth surfaces), all-terrain (grass/trails), and our ratings from curb testing.
We used each stroller on the same courses and trails. We test the products on pavement, concrete, dirt trails, grass, sand, and an obstacle course to see which offers the best maneuverability. In short, a locking swivel wheel stroller is the best for parents dedicated to running regularly and who also plan to use their stroller for everyday occasions. This feature has the required locked/fixed wheel for running but provides a swivel wheel's versatility for uncomplicated grocery store navigation. This wheel versatility increases the stroller's usability in all kinds of adventures.
The Joovy is an average option in our tests for flat surface maneuverability
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Pavement
Our favorite options on pavement and other flat hard surfaces are the Guava Roam Crossover and the Thule Urban Glide 3. Both strollers have useful suspension and locking swivel front wheels. The shorter wheelbase and frame designs help them make tight turns without being too careful of surrounding people or objects. They fit through doorways with ease and could be pushed with a hand with no problems. The Baby Trend Expedition and the Joovy Zoom 360 come in hot on their heels. While lower scoring overall due to poor run-ability performance, they offered impressive maneuverability. Neither has suspension, but the smaller size and swivel front wheel helped them move through our obstacle course without concern or hassle.
The Guava sailed over dirt paths with ease
Credit: Matt Lighthart
All-Terrain
Moving off-road was a little trickier, with different terrain surfaces that made pushing more of a challenge. The sand and grass were the hardest, but dirt, gravel, and pine needles were also challenging to push through, and most required a two-hand push when the going got tough. The Thule Glide 2 earned the best result for off-road use. Largely due to its fixed wheel front that pushes through the surfaces without hesitation. The lighter weight and longer design also help make it easier to push and stay moving. The hardest to push off-road is the Baby Trend Expedition. While it excelled on hard surfaces, it was more of a struggle off-road. It has nice-sized rubber tires but didn't stay on track without some effort, no matter if the front wheel was locked or in swivel mode.
The Ridge can struggle and gets a bit tippy when the ground is more uneven.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Overall Maneuverability
The maneuverability score combines the performance test results when using the stroller on pavement, all-terrain, and traversing curbs. The top scorers for maneuverability overall are the Thule Urban Glide 3 and the Guava Roam Crossover.
Both options were easy to push, often with a single hand. They managed obstacle courses and multiple terrain types without missing a beat. Both feel stable and agile under most circumstances.
We tested each stroller for how well they could go up and down curbs, taking note of how easy they were to tip or lift and if the tires bounced or made the stroller feel off-kilter.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
The Guava might have a convenient edge, as the locking wheel feature can be adjusted from the handlebar, but the Urban Glide 3 weighs less and can potentially be less of a slog on surfaces like sand and thick grass. Overall, the hardest to maneuver is the Baby Jogger Summit X3, which struggled more on and off the pavement than the competition. While some stood out in one sub-metric and disappointed in another, this one was only so-so for pavement and all-terrain.
While the Thule Glide 2 is longer and takes up more space thanks to the fixed wheel front, it is lighter than most competitors.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Transport and Storage
Transport and storage include how hard it is to lift, carry, or stow these strollers. Jogging strollers are traditionally bigger than standard strollers, which could make them more challenging to put in your car, home, or carry. While we can't comment on the physical prowess of any parent, we can tell you how much they weigh and how big they are when folded so you know what you are up against ahead of time.
Weight and Folded Size Ratings
Product
Weight
Folded Size
Baby Trend Expedition
9.5
7.2
Joovy Zoom 360 Ultralight
7.6
8.3
Guava Roam Crossover
5.4
10.0
Thule Urban Glide 3
7.3
5.9
Baby Jogger Summit X3
5.8
6.8
BOB Revolution Flex 3.0
6.4
6.0
Baby Trend Expedition Race Tec
5.8
6.3
Thule Glide 2
8.8
3.0
UPPAbaby Ridge
3.8
5.0
BOB Alterrain Pro
3.0
4.6
The chart above shows our ratings for Weight (1-10 scale where 10 is best, meaning the lowest measured weight) and for Folded Size.
We measured every stroller by using a hanging scale to determine comparable weights for scoring.
Credit: Genaveve Bradshaw
Measured Weight
The joggers weigh between 23.6 and 31.4 lbs. While this may not be a problem for some, other parents might wish they'd chosen a lighter stroller. It may not sound like a significant problem, but raising and holding a stroller to put it in a trunk can be nearly impossible if the weight exceeds your capabilities.
The lightest jogger in this group is the Baby Trend Expedition at 23.6 lbs. It is closely followed by the Thule Glide 2 at 24.4 lbs. The average weight for the group is 27.4 lbs. The heaviest is the BOB Alterrain at 31.4 lbs.
Jogging strollers tend to be larger and bulkier when folded than other types of strollers, but a handful in this review are the smallest we've ever seen.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Folded Size
A stroller's weight is only part of the equation; the overall folded size is also critical. If it doesn't fit in your car, you probably can't use it as often as you'd like. Or if it's too big to get your arms around, you won't want to carry it. Last, if your home is smaller, there may be little room to store it.
The Guava Roam is absolutely the smallest folded jogging stroller we've ever seen. The company prides itself on this compact fold, and kudos to them for seeing a problem with the gear type and solving it well. It measures 28.5" x 17.4" x 15.1", which is 7,488 cubic inches. It is even smaller than many of the full-size strollers we've tested. The largest is the Thule Glide 2. This fixed wheel option can't fold as small as other competitors, with a total size of 20,352 cubic inches and measurements of 36.5" x 27.2" x 20.5".
The Glide 2 folds into a fairly long and bulky package.
The Guava takes up significantly less space than the competition.
Weight and Folding Specs
Guava Roam Crossover
Thule Urban Glide 3
Baby Trend Expedition
Measured Weight
28.5 lbs
26.2 lbs
23.6 lbs
Measured Folded Size
28.5" x 17.4" x 15.1"
37" x 26.6" x 15.2"
16.3" x 23.5" x 33.1"
One-handed Fold
✖
Self-standing Fold
✖
Overall Transport and Storage
This metric score is based on the measured test results for the stroller's overall weight and folded size in cubic inches. Because strollers come in a wide variety of sizes and shapes and some homes or vehicles have limited space, it is crucial to consider weight and folded size before choosing a jogger.
If you can't pick it up or squeeze it into your car, then it isn't going to work in your life. Not sure what will fit where? We recommend purchasing through a retailer with an excellent return policy so you can return it if it doesn't fit into your life.
The jogging strollers vary widely in their quality, design, and materials.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Quality
For quality, we look for a well-made, user-friendly stroller that is durable and feels as if it will survive multiple children and various adventures. Some materials are excellent quality, including ripstop fabric and lightweight aluminum, while other components are disappointing, such as heavier steel or plastic connectors.
Quality of Materials
Product
Fabric
Frame
Wheels
Handlebar
Guava Roam Crossover
10.0
10.0
9.0
10.0
UPPAbaby Ridge
9.5
10.0
10.0
9.5
BOB Alterrain Pro
10.0
10.0
9.5
8.5
Thule Urban Glide 3
9.5
9.0
9.0
9.0
Thule Glide 2
9.0
9.0
9.5
8.0
BOB Revolution Flex 3.0
8.0
9.0
9.0
8.5
Baby Jogger Summit X3
8.5
8.0
7.5
6.0
Joovy Zoom 360 Ultralight
5.0
6.0
7.0
7.0
Baby Trend Expedition Race Tec
6.0
5.0
5.0
4.5
Baby Trend Expedition
5.0
3.0
4.0
3.0
The BOB Alterrain brings quality features to the table like suspension and a sturdy frame.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
We reviewed and compared materials, including stitching, frames, frame flexing, wheel design, connection points, and any exposed rivets or unique design features. Quality is important as it helps provide a potential indicator of durability, longevity, and functional performance. Things like fabric, frame, wheels, handlebars, and fit and finish can influence overall satisfaction.
You can see how the fabric on the Guava is smooth and even looks soft, but it manages to be durable and easy to clean as well.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Fabric
We reviewed each stroller's fabric for durability, ease of cleaning, and a skin-friendly feel on cheeks and sensitive skin. Several options provided impressive fabric, bringing all these qualities together. The highest scoring options for fabric feel and durability are the Guava Roam Crossover and the BOB Alterrain Pro. Close on their heels are the UPPAbaby Ridge and the Thule Urban Glide 3. The poorest performers in our tests were the Baby Trend Expedition and the Joovy Zoom. The fabric on these feels cheap and prone to snags. The Joovy material is rougher and not as ski-friendly as most, in our opinion. The Expedition feels like a rough canvas, and there isn't as much padding as the high-ranking options.
The BOB Alterrain has a sleek-looking, durable frame with minimal flex or connection points. Everything fits the frame well.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Frame
The stroller frames were assessed for the quality of the materials and how well they came together. They were scored based on the flex of the frame and how the components work in conjunction with the main frame. If a frame has multiple fold points or loose connectors, it can impact how easy it is to push or how well it runs. The high scorers here for sturdy and functional frames are the Guava Roam, UPPAbaby Ridge, and the BOB Alterrain Pro. The worst frames in our testing were on the Baby Trend options. The frames flex and have a lot of fold points and visible connectors with a lot more sway and noise than the top performers.
The Guava has wonderful foam-filled tires that traverse all terrains with ease and peace of mind, with no flat potential.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Wheels
The wheel sub-metric includes the wheel itself and the tires that come with it. All of the strollers had rubber and pneumatic tires, but the quality of the tires, wheels, and innertubes varied. The Guava and UPPAbaby offer foam-filled rubber wheels, which is a big plus, so you never get a flat tire. This could be especially important if changing inner tubes is not something you are familiar with. The top scores were the UPPAbaby Ridge, BOB Alterrain, and the Thule Glide 2. The lowest scoring wheels are those found on the Baby Trend Expedition and the Baby Trend Expedition Race Tec.
Some of the handlebars in the test group left a black residue on our hands after use, like the Summit shown here.
Credit: Genaveve Bradshaw
Handlebar
Some handlebars in the test group rotate for adjustable height, and others are stationary at a single height. All of them are wrapped in some kind of material, with our tester's favorite being the tight foam material that never felt wet or slick.
An ergonomic shape and thick comfort foam can make all the difference in preventing fatigue when running (stroller shown: Thule Urban Glide 3).
Credit: Matt Lighthart
The top performers for handlebar quality are the Guava Roam and the UPPAbaby Ridge. Both have a tight-fitting foam that didn't come off on our hands or leave a residue. They felt good for long-term use, and the adjustment mechanism felt solid without wiggling. The lowest-scoring choices in our tests are both of the Baby Trend options. Both options have a fixed position and a less ergonomic shape with a rubber-type wrap. The original Expedition left black fleck residue on our hands, and the Joovy Zoom left black marks. The Baby Jogger Summit bar feels rubbery and plastic at the same time and got sweaty on our longer test runs.
Rotating Handlebars
While we love a good adjustable handlebar and are grateful for those with different height positions for better ergonomics, we think it is important to note that rotating the handle into the higher positions puts the pusher closer to the rear axle. So, a taller pusher with a likely longer stride is now closer to the back of the stroller. We recommend taking your new rig out for a run as soon as you get it in case this math equation of stride length vs handlebar height doesn't work for your specific body and running style.
It is hard to find a more beautiful final product than the Alterrain Pro. It looks like the stealth bomber or perfect spy stroller.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Fit and Finish
Fit and finish are where everything comes together to create a final product that is durable, functional, and performs well. This is part design, part manufacturer process, and part overall appeal.
The BOB Alterrain Pro, Guava Roam, and the UPPAbaby Ridge. For each of these options, it is clear a real human who has used strollers designed them. They combine durable materials in a way that is most useful to the user and provide a final product that functions as intended, is a pleasure to use, and looks sleek, with components that fit the frame well and few connectors. The joggers with the lowest test results for fit and finish are the Baby Trend Expedition and the Baby Trend Expedition Race Tec. These strollers look clunky, with many visible connection points and components that look sloppy or like they are checking a box instead of being truly useful.
The UPPAbaby Ridge is a lovey stroller that uses high-end materials to complete a thoughtful design.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Overall Quality
The quality score combines results from our tests for fabric, frame, wheels, handlebar, and the stroller's overall fit and finish compared to other competitors.
The higher-quality options in this review were the Guava Roam and the UPPAbaby Ridge. Both of these cross-over options have unbelievably thoughtful designs. Both companies clearly went out of their way to create a highly useable product, using quality materials that come together in a durable and sleek-looking package.
The Guava has thoughtfully designed features that work as expected and use high-end materials.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Both have foam-filled rubber tires that never go flat, quick one-handed folds and handlebar wraps that feel good and don't get wet or slick when sweaty. Each stroller uses soft yet easy-to-clean fabric, has padded harnesses, aluminum alloy frames, and beautiful fit and finishes without any exposed connectors or fasteners. Other top contenders are the BOB Alterrain, Thule Urban Glide 3, Thule Glide 2, and the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0.
The Expedition Race Tec is slightly better quality than the original Baby Trend and might be worth the additional cost as the canopy is significantly larger and the materials feel more durable.
The Baby Trend Expedition is one of the least expensive options in the review and its overall quality aligns with the price.
The lowest quality options are also the least expensive, and while they do not perform well in our tests for quality or durability, we do think you get more than you are paying for, given the competitor's prices. The Baby Trend Expedition and the Baby Trend Expedition Race Tec earned the lowest scores for quality. These strollers have multiple visible fasteners and connections. The frames are cluttered with fold points and attachments. The fabric is basic and not as skin-friendly as others. The storage basket has easy-to-snag mesh sides, and the frame flexes and makes noise when pushed.
Kid comfort might be the last thing on your mind when it comes to a jogger, but finding a comfy seat and ample canopy can make all the difference in keeping your little one cozy for longer runs.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Kids' Comfort
The kid comfort metric examines the features and design that promote passenger comfort. Things like a giant canopy, deep seat recline, and a padded leg rest go a long way toward keeping little ones comfortable while strolling or running. This metric can impact how long your child will peacefully stroll and whether or not they end up complaining and cutting a trip short.
Jogging stroller canopies come in all shapes and sizes with different features like ventilation, pop-out visors, and peek-a-boo windows.
Credit: Genaveve Bradshaw
Sunshade
A useful sunshade should protect your baby from the sun and other elements. The better products have a canopy large enough to cover past the passenger's knees with possible added protection, such as a pop-out visor or full-canopy rotation. The shades on the BOB strollers are some of the biggest in the bunch, with an excellent peek-a-boo window and complete seat coverage, while the Baby Trend Expedition is barely a shade but at least it rotates.
The Ridge canopy is one of the best options in the group.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
The best canopy overall is the UPPAbaby Ridge. This giant canopy has an SPF 50+ rating and a zip-open extension panel. It features two mesh ventilation windows and one peek-a-boo window that can be covered. The cover closes with a magnet for silent peeking at sleeping children. This canopy creates a private nook with ample coverage and a sharp look.
You can rotate the Expedition canopy forward to block the lower sun, but then the top of the passenger is unprotected.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
The worst in the group is the Baby Trend Expedition, with the Expedition Race Tec close on its heels. The original Expedition canopy is small and rotates back and forth to block the direct sun, but it doesn't create much shade or real protection against any element. Passengers will need sunhats and sunglasses to stay comfortable; we suspect not all little ones will keep them on.
The Guava Roam has a good recline range for jogging and napping.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Seat
All the strollers have reclining seats; most operate with one hand to recline and two to raise them back up. For safety, your baby should only be at a slight angle for running, but it's nice to know that seats can recline deep enough for a comfy nap. None of the joggers have adjustable leg rests, but most are at a comfortable angle and padded down to a durable footrest.
The Guava Roam has a nicely padded sling-style seat with a wider footrest for older kids with bigger feet and a higher-placed canopy for taller passengers.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
We prefer products with a sling-style seat and suspension to ensure a comfortable ride for little ones. The best seats are deep and wide to accommodate kids of all sizes.
The highest-scoring option for kid seat comfort is the Guava Roam Crossover. This seat holds children up to 60 lbs and has a higher place canopy for taller riders. It has a deep seat with a recline adjustment of 89.1 degrees to 145 degrees, which is a range of 55.9 degrees. This range is sure to provide a good angle for all. The leg rest is padded, and the footrest can keep little feet in place.
With so many jogging strollers to choose from and similar features, it can be challenging to know which option is right for you. We've done the running for you, to help make the decision process easier.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
How to Pick the Best Jogging Stroller
Finding the right jogging stroller for your goals and needs is easier if you start with a few key questions about your lifestyle and needs.
If you only run occasionally, you might not need a high-priced jogger, and the less expensive Baby Trend Expedition will do.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Be Honest
It can be hard to be honest with yourself. Many new parents think they will become avid joggers after their baby is born because it is a great form of exercise that gets you out of the house with your baby. However, we find that if you weren't a runner before babies, it is unlikely you'll become one after. Because this type of stroller can be bulky and expensive, being honest about who you are, how often you'll run or move off-road, and what your budget is can help you find the best option for your needs without buying more stroller than you really need. However, if you love to run or typically commit to new routines easily, then a great jogger with all the bells and whistles could be a good value.
Being able to adjust certain functions on a jogger can make them easier to run with and easier to use.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Adjustability
If you are an avid runner, having a highly adjustable stroller can help improve ergonomics and comfort for you and your child. If you don't run regularly, these features might be less critical. A locking swivel front wheel can increase useability in everyday life, adjustable tracking can make running less frustrating or fatiguing, and an adjustable handlebar can help improve posture and alignment for long-term comfort and injury prevention. However, if you are more interested in the ease of pushing over a greenbelt at the park, then adjustability might not be that compelling, and you can save money on a stroller that offers less.
The Guava Roam is equally equipped for everyday errands as it is long-distance runs.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
The Only One
Depending on your strolling plans, we do think a jogger can be your only stroller and can save you money by buying only one instead of multiple styles of strollers. A swivel front wheel and useful storage can help make a jogger a good choice for everyday outings, while a fixed front wheel will be less appealing, and a larger size might make transporting or navigating crowded spaces in big cities hard. However, unlike joggers in the past, newcomers seem to be trending smaller and lighter with more consideration to use outside of running.
In our 2024 update, we tested a brand new lineup of 10 strollers side by side for run-ability, ease of use, maneuverability, quality, and kids' comfort.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Conclusion
If getting outdoors and running or traversing off-road are your strolling goals, a jogging stroller could be a must-have item. The three-wheel design of joggers with rubber tires provides the ability to move smoothly over almost any terrain. These design features make joggers a favorite go-to for almost any family and for occasions beyond the busy city streets. We love joggers so much that we believe this style of stroller can easily be your only stroller, depending on your needs. With immense versatility, jogging strollers have features parents need for everyday errands and often cost less than high-ranking full-size strollers. We think there is something for every family in our lineup of top-ranked options and award winners.
