If you are a parent, there is a chance that you have heard of jogging strollers. You may be wondering what they are and how they work? Can they be used every day? Is a jogging stroller necessary? If this sounds like you, then read on! This post will answer the most frequently asked questions parents have about jogging strollers.
Is a Jogging Stroller Necessary?
It depends. Are you a serious runner? Are you a casual runner? Do you frequently run into rough terrain? If you answered yes to any of the previous questions, then you might strongly consider one.
Now, if you mostly encounter smooth surfaces and you don’t intend to run, your city stroller will do the job just fine.
Jogging strollers are designed and built to absorb the shock of running over paved or unpaved surfaces while keeping your child safe and comfortable. Unlike traditional strollers, jogging strollers have large, typically air-filled tires, a suspension system that provides a comfortable ride for your child, a five-point harness, and the triangular configuration of the wheels provides a solid platform and makes the stroller easier to push.
I know some parents are tempted to use their traditional four-wheel stroller for running, but I highly recommend against it. Most four-wheel strollers don’t have the kind of suspension that jogging strollers do, the front wheels are not able to lock in place, causing wheel shake even at slow speeds, and the two front wheel configuration makes it more difficult to push when you encounter rough and uneven terrain.
I understand the hesitation of purchasing yet another high ticket item for your child. But, if the price of a jogging stroller is an issue, there are many jogging strollers in the market that are reasonably priced and highly rated by consumers.
Can a Jogging Stroller be Used Every Day?
The answer is yes, no, and maybe.
True jogging strollers are longer, heavier, bulkier, and less maneuverable than your traditional stroller.
There are jogging strollers on the market that I like to call hybrids. They aren’t as long, they tend to sit more upright, and are more compact when folded. But, there’s a compromise for both running and use as a traditional stroller.
The Graco FastAction Fold Jogging Stroller and Baby Trend Expedition Jogging Stroller come to mind. Both jogging strollers have the feel of a traditional stroller and creature comforts for both child and adult. The front wheel can lock and swivel. Lock the front wheel when you run, and let the front wheel swivel for maneuverability when you’re in crowds or confined spaces. They also have trays and cupholders for children and adults.
Because these jogging strollers aren’t as long, with a child on board, they may feel a little top-heavy. In addition, most true jogging strollers have a multi-position handlebar. Whereas the “hybrid” jogging strollers’ handlebars are usually fixed, therefore, they aren’t very ergonomic. The height of the handlebars is less of a concern when you’re not running, but it makes a world of difference when you are.
A hybrid type of jogging stroller might be your best bet if you’re not sure what will work for you as an individual and your family, or just want to get in some light jogs with the kids now and again.
Performance jogging strollers are impractical in many everyday situations, even if they have a front-wheel that can swivel. The length and heft make them difficult to maneuver in crowds and grocery store aisles, to name a couple of scenarios. Not to mention the folded size is not compact. You may find transporting the stroller will be arduous.
These strollers are geared toward performance. You might find the strollers are lacking a child tray, cupholders, or a parent console. Some of the accessories can be purchased separately, but you might find some manufacturers do not offer them at all.
Jogging strollers with a fixed-front wheel are considered high-performance. They are made to travel in a straight line with ease, not weave through a crowd of people. This is one case when a jogging stroller shouldn’t be used as an everyday stroller. For example, with a fixed front wheel, you might find yourself doing a three-point turn in a narrow aisle. Or you can learn and master the wheelie turn (most kids love it!).
Unfortunately, there isn’t a perfect baby product for every parent and their needs. I feel jogging strollers are one baby product that has the most compromises. Figure out what are must-haves and what features you can do without.
Is a Jogging Stroller Worth It?
Every child requires a stroller. But, does your child require a jogging stroller? It depends on you. The market is now seemingly filled with a jogging stroller that will suit every need.
If you cringe at the idea of having multiple strollers, I completely understand. Some may not have the storage space at home. Some do not want to buy two strollers. And some just don’t have the trunk space to haul a bulky jogging stroller.
The vast majority of parents who are not familiar with today’s modern jogging strollers, visualize the older style large-wheeled and cumbersome equipment that was popular in decades past. Luckily, many companies out there have designed strollers that combine the best of both worlds. There are strollers on the market that can handle uneven terrain, have the amenities for you and your child, and won’t break the bank.
A perfect example of this stroller is the Baby Trend Xcel R8 Jogger Stroller. A few of the features it includes are a child tray, parent console, reclining seat, five-point safety harness, storage basket, and a large canopy. At the same, it will provide a smoother ride over uneven surfaces. Finally, the best part is the price point, this Baby Trend stroller is under $100.
The tradeoff is, the suspension system isn’t nearly as good as a dedicated jogging stroller, most strollers in this category do not have an adjustable handlebar, and these strollers typically weigh about 30 pounds (13.6 kg) or more. These two important factors should be weighed in your decision.
Are you a serious runner who runs frequently and you also want to include your child? Do you live in an area with rough terrain? If you answered yes, a jogging stroller may also be for you.
Some parents like to buy a jogging stroller because they want their child to have the same experience as if they were running with them. Other parents use it when the terrain is hilly or rough so that their child doesn’t get bumped around by the turns of the road and uneven ground.
Performance jogging strollers have more stability due to the larger footprint. The larger wheels and advanced suspension system, all contribute to a smooth ride over rough terrain and track straighter. An adjustable handlebar system helps both parents find the perfect ergonomic position for their arms.
However, these strollers are bigger than your regular stroller. One of the smaller folded jogging strollers in the market has a folded dimension of 29″ x 15″ x 17″ (74 x 38 x 43 cm). Not quite compact enough to me. Additionally, even though they are geared toward performance, they are still in the neighborhood of 20-25 pounds (9-11.3 kg). Another thing to consider is that you may feel the stroller’s weight isn’t too heavy, but also figure the weight of your child along with the jogging stroller.
Finally, if you would like to use your infant car seat with your jogging stroller, be sure that the car seat is compatible. A few car seats can only be integrated into a jogging stroller designed by the same brand or even a specific model of that brand. Other manufacturers sell adapters (sold separately) for use with other brands, but you may find only a handful are compatible.
Can I Use a Jogging Stroller for Newborns?
This is a hotly debated topic by runners with jogging strollers. You hear the opposites when it comes to what is safe for your baby. Not all parents adhere to the recommended age.
One side says, “This is ridiculous! I’ve been running with my baby when he was two weeks old. Quit coddling your kids!”
The other side says, “I’ll wait until my baby is six months old, as stated by the manufacturer of my jogging stroller and my pediatrician.”
The middle of the road says, “All babies develop at a different rate. Some babies may not have enough neck strength until they’re eight months old and some may be ready at four months. Parents know best.”
Most experts state that a child must be 6-8 months old before safely riding in a jogging stroller. Your baby must have head control and neck strength to withstand being bounced around. What’s more, most manufacturers of jogging strollers will also state 6-8 months old. Manufacturers further suggest your baby be a minimum height and weight.
And if I may, regardless of what age you decide to take your little one out for a run, please find smooth surfaces for your run. How about running at a track at your local high school or a strand at the beach?
Whether you err on the side of caution or sidestep the recommended age, please use your best judgment. Consider your child’s safety first and foremost.