Looking for a jogging stroller? We've purchased and tested more than 30 joggers in the past, including the 12 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.
Editor's Note: We updated our jogging stroller review on April 25, 2023, with a review of product availability and pricing. The Mountain Buggy Terrain is still available, but the price on Amazon is significantly higher than the manufacturer's list price.
The Thule Urban Glide 2 has unmatched performance in our tests for run-ability and maneuverability. It has one of the highest overall ratings in this review of impressive joggers. The Urban Glide 2 is one of our favorite jogging strollers ever and the one we'd most likely recommend to a friend. This stroller is very easy to use and has a unique covered storage bin, comfortable sling-style seating, and a giant canopy. It also features a super easy folding mechanism that can quickly be done with one hand and rolls like luggage. This jogger can also work well as your everyday stroller, saving you time and money over buying two strollers.
Like most joggers, this stroller is larger when folded than a typical full-size option, so it could be a snug fit for compact cars or more challenging to lift. However, with compelling functionality like the locking swivel front wheel, adjustable tracking, passenger stow pockets, quick fold, and competitive price, it is easy to see why this stroller won an award and edged out the BOB joggers for the highest rank. We believe this is the right stroller for most serious runners or families looking for a quality dual-purpose ride and want one stroller for everyday life and running.
The BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 is a very runnable choice with excellent maneuverability. This traditional, high-quality workhorse is an excellent choice for those who love running, being outside, and moving off the beaten path. The Revolution 3.0 has adjustable tracking, suspension, a handlebar, a locking swivel front wheel, and better storage than previous versions of the Revolution with a giant canopy. The 3.0 has everything serious runners want and many features most parents require day-to-day. The adjustable suspension and utilitarian feel make it arguably more suitable for gravel or off-road trails than some joggers that appear better for flat terrain and paved surfaces.
This jogger isn't the best choice if your living or car space is limited or you don't want to lift heavy gear, as it is bulky and heavy when folded. While not the largest or heaviest BOB or jogger even, it is still larger than the average jogger in this review. Overall, the Flex 3.0 is excellent for parents who love running or hiking off the beaten path (and we do!).
The BOB Rambler appears to be a pared-down Revolution with fewer convenience features and a smaller footprint. With these alternations comes a slight reduction in cost, and we suspect many parents will appreciate the lower price so much that they won't notice what is missing (it's hard to say exactly what is). We like the oversized canopy, cozy sling seat, and adequate storage. We love the adjustable tracking and suspension designed with serious runners in mind. The Rambler's smaller size also helps make it slightly easier to navigate while running errands in crowds or tighter spaces and fitting in cars.
This smaller BOB has a stationary handlebar that could spell trouble for taller users regarding proper running biomechanics. It also lacks passenger stow pockets and a drink holder, which we don't consider a deal-breaker, but we recognize some folks might want these features. We appreciate the lighter weight and smaller fold of this BOB over the Revolution Flex 3.0 and think anyone with a smaller car will like it as well. We believe the Rambler is an excellent choice for parents working within a smaller budget or with limited space that still have adventures or running in their baby-outing plans.
The Baby Trend Expedition is a potential full-size stroller for those who occasionally jog or head off-road for fun off the pavement. This 3-wheeled jogger provides good maneuverability, rubber pneumatic tires, and a locking swivel front wheel. It is relatively lightweight and folds fairly compactly compared to the competition, making it a good option for those who fear lugging heavier joggers. This Baby Trend has a straightforward fold, enough features for running errands, and the occasional run or greenbelt adventure off-road. If you live near trails or plan many park outings, this option could be a winner in more ways than one over a traditional full-size stroller.
Unfortunately, this product wasn't the best in our tests for running. It lacks adjustable tracking and suspension, which many serious runners (our testers included) feel is non-negotiable in a jogging stroller. However, it is designed for jogging and can easily manage the occasional run, even if dedicated or long-distance runners find it lacking certain features that make running more enjoyable. The Expedition is an excellent, budget-friendly selection with the distinct look and feel of a jogger that manages off-road terrain well. Plus, it includes features that make it suitable for everyday use, saving you lots of money if running isn't really your thing.
Our running biomechanics expert Carrie Vickers puts the Baby Trend to the test. While the Baby Trend is not the best option for serious runners, it is a budget friendly stroller and good for everyday use with the occasional jog.
The Thule Chariot Cross 2 with Jog Kit is the Swiss Army Knife of strollers with exceptional Outdoor Versatility. This trailer earned higher scores than previous versions, and we love the improved features and increased functionality. With the right accessories, you can use this two-seater bike trailer for strolling, jogging, cross-country skiing, and biking (sold separately). This is your family's stroller if you love the outdoors and staying active.
This stroller isn't the right option for every family; with a hefty price tag, you should be confident that outdoor adventures are commonplace in your world and will continue to be. It is also heavier and more substantial than a traditional jogging stroller, so you should check your vehicle to ensure it will fit if your adventures will take place away from your home base. Those concerns aside, if your budget allows and you live and breathe the outdoors, we believe you'll enjoy sharing it with your baby in this all-purpose strolling dynamo.
The Hamax Outback with Jogger Kit is a versatile bike trailer with a below-average price tag. Even though it sports a lower price, it doesn't disappoint with functionality or features. It offers impressive run-ability for a bulky pod and is relatively easy to tilt to turn despite the wider stance. We like the back storage bin and passenger stow pockets that little ones can reach even when buckled (unlike the competition).
The Outback is a lot to manage when pushing and trying to fit in your car as it is heavier and larger than much of the jogging competition. The Hamax is expensive compared to other joggers, even if it is less expensive than the similar Thule. So, if you don't plan to use your trailer while biking or skiing, it may be more stroller than you need. However, if you enjoy various outdoor activities and want to include your child in your activities, the Outback is one to consider.
Our running biomechanics expert, Carrie Vickers, puts the Thule Urban Glide to the test.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Why You Should Trust Us
We've purchased and tested more than 30 jogging strollers in the last ten years. Our testing protocols put each product through a multi-point performance analysis to rate running ability and ordinary stroller functionality. We've logged hundreds of miles on running paths and hiking trails in beautiful Colorado near Aspen, and dozens of miles through city streets, parks, and supermarkets during our extensive hands-on testing over the years.
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 8 specific tests that include extensive running with each stroller and labs-based measurements of rolling resistance, straight-line tracking ability, and other tests to evaluate ergonomics and running performance. Our reviews also utilize 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 five rating metrics:
Run Ability tests (35% of overall score weighting)
Ease of Use tests (25% weighting)
Maneuverability tests (20% weighting)
Weight & Folded Size tests (10% weighting)
Quality tests (10% weighting)
Our experienced testers for jogging strollers are led 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 safety standards and has the final word on product selection. Focusing on our analysis of Run Ability, is our running expert, Carrie Vickers. Carrie is a mother of three, a professional running biomechanics consultant, and a national-class runner with accolades. Our jogging stroller lab testing lead is Senior Research Analyst, Bob Wofford. Bob is a father of 7 and has developed an extensive hands-on testing protocol that puts each jogging stroller through a comprehensive side-by-side comparison 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. The review team is rounded out with Senior Review Editor Abriah Wofford, who joined BabyGearLab stroller testers in 2015. The team has 20+ combined years of jogging stroller experience.
Professional runner, Carrie Vickers, helped BabyGearLab test each jogging stroller.
A group shot of the strollers we tested getting ready for their on trail performance testing
Analysis and Test Results
We have purchased more than 30 popular jogging strollers since BabyGearLab's inception. Over several months, we've tested each one to determine which options are the best and why. User experience and in-house testing determine the individual metric scores, which we then use to calculate overall scores. Scores are weighted to favor what we believe are the essential factors for impressive jogging strollers. We emphasize factors like Run-Ability and ease of use because superior Run-Ability is typically the primary reason 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 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 a top-ranking convertible car seat, they definitely aren't ready for jogging. We recommend discussing your planned activities with your baby's pediatrician before starting any stroller-related outing.
Also, you should NEVER run with a rotating swivel wheel; you must lock the front wheel before you run to prevent the stroller from flipping, twisting, or tipping while at speed. You should also never run with a stroller unless it was designed with running in mind.
Value
While some consider jogging strollers a secondary option, recent jogging strollers prove they are more than up to working as a primary or full-size stroller and a jogger, which saves money over purchasing two separate strollers. Compared to the average price of a full-size stroller, the joggers are a good value with impressive performance for maneuverability, good storage, giant canopies, and other features parents want, making almost any award winner a great deal. However, if your budget is tight, the Baby Trend Expedition offers adequate performance with many features for a wallet-friendly list price. However, it might not be the best for serious runners, given the lack of running features. But the impressively low cost will have you smiling to the store to run errands in this economical jogger. If your budget is somewhat higher, the BOB Rambler is less expensive than other high-quality options and still brings impressive run-ability to the table with traditional BOB Quality.
The Thule Glide 2 is a fixed wheel jogger that earned a second-place score for run-ability which is less than its swivel wheeled brother, the Thule Urban Glide 2.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Run-Ability
We test each stroller with multiple runners to determine runability. 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 a precisely 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 t(preferably adjustable), an adjustable handlebar offering an ergonomic shape/height, and tire type. Without these features, running can be frustrating or near impossible.
The front wheel on the BOB Revolution Flex can be locked by moving the red ball and the tracking can be adjusted by turning the black knob below the wheel lock.
Credit: BabyGearLab Staff
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.
The Thule Urban Glide 2 earned the high score for run-ability. The Thule Glide 2 comes in second, followed by the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0. The Revolution Flex 3.0 is easy to push with adjustable tracking, suspension, and handlebar. The Thule Urban Glide 2 has an adjustable handlebar, stationary rear shocks, and adjustable tracking with the least rolling resistance. If running is your thing, you can't do better than these impressive top performers. However, running off-road may necessitate the adjustable suspension found on the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 to increase passenger comfort. The BOB Rambler is a high-ranking jogger with adjustable suspension and tracking, but it has a stationary handlebar. This will work well if the users are of similar and average heights. This may be less than ideal if pushers are taller than average or have widely disparate heights. The Thule Chariot Cross 2 is also highly suitable for running, which is impressive as it isn't a traditional jogger but a trailer. Sadly, the BOB Alterrain Pro struggled in our tests for running partly due to the heavier weight and some extra rolling resistance during testing.
The Devil in the Details
Within the metric of run-ability, we perform multiple smaller tests that impact how easy a jogger is to use while running and, thus, the product's run-ability. It can be helpful to see how the strollers stack up in these tests compared to one another to help you better decide on the best jogger for your needs.
Running Tests
This test includes ratings from each runner and their impressions on how easy the products are to run with. If a jogger is hard to push or the user can't find a comfortable running position, it will score lower in this metric.
Rolling Resistance
How easily the wheels spin with weight in the stroller seat can impact how easy the product 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.
Tracking Adjustment
Tracking is the stroller's tendency to stay in a straight line while moving. Because there are variations in the manufacturing process that could negatively impact a stroller's ability to track straight, it can be crucial that you can adjust the tracking of the front wheel so you aren't fighting the stroller to stay on track while also pushing it at a running speed. Scores of 1 in this metric indicate the jogger does not have adjustable tracking, resulting in a lot of fatigue-fighting your jogger to run straight. The higher the score, the better the tracking adjustment is for ease of use and how well it works.
The top scorer is the Thule Urban Glide 2. This feature on the Urban Glide 2 is super easy to adjust quickly and works well with little need for adjustment over time.
The Thule has an easy to access storage bin with a zippered cover that keeps your supplies clean and dry.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Ease-of-Use
Ease of use encompasses everything that makes a product easier to use or provides more than just good run-ability. We test these features for ease of everyday use, including the parent console, storage options, and the child tray. However, higher-scoring joggers don't offer many convenience features because their design focuses on running, and the two goals don't always align. Extra features increase the weight or become largely un-functional while running, both undesirable in a jogging stroller.
Higher-ranked products in this metric are more enjoyable to use regularly. Despite lacking many bells and whistles typically found on full-size strollers, the joggers largely include adequate storage and full canopies to protect passengers.
The canopy on all BOBs has a tendency to be somewhat frumpy even when fully deployed, but you can easily overlook the wrinkles when you see how well it covers little ones.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
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.
The Glide 2 canopy has a plastic peek a boo window with a cover that has a magnetic closure.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
The Thule Glide 2 and the Thule Urban Glide 2 also have significant sunshades similar to the leg rest. The Thule shades also sport a pop-out visor for more protection from the sun and the ability to rotate them for low light and direct wind protection (something many passengers enjoy).
The new Urban Glide 2 has a larger fold than the previous version, but the removable rear wheels make it smaller for transport.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
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. 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.
The Thule Urban Glide 2 is the only option with a cover that keeps contents contained and dry.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Storage
Every jogging-style stroller in this review offers storage. The basket on the Thule Urban Glide 2 fits our large diaper bag, and it has a waterproof cover that stops contents from toppling out or getting wet/dirty (a somewhat unique feature). The BOB Alterrain has a similar storage basket with zippered cover to prevent loss or damage to the contents. The Mountain Buggy Terrain has the highest storage allowance at 22 lbs. The basket has divided pockets for internal organization with a zippered mesh cover that keeps items contained (though not protected from the elements). In addition to a basket, some products have rear seatback pockets and inside passenger stow pockets. The Thule and BOB strollers include these, as does the Mountain Buggy Terrain. We think the stow pockets are more useful than a child tray, as most children won't be able to reach the tray when buckled in and won't hold items when the stroller is moving at a run.
The storage bin on the Terrain has a mesh zippered cover.
The bar across the middle of the Joovy storage bin, coupled with the strap down the back, make it a bin that is hard to access and fully utilize.
The photos above show a couple of the storage bins side-by-side, including the mesh-covered Mountain Buggy Terrain (above left) and the blocked access of the Joovy Zoom 360 Ultralight (above right).
Additional features are nice to have, like the parent console on the Baby Trend Expedition, but it is hard to utilize a cup holder while running, so keep your list of must have features to the bare minimum.
Credit: BabyGearLab Staff
Some strollers have parent consoles and child trays, likely as a nod to parent desires instead of actual usefulness. After testing, we feel the consoles and cup holders are more of a hassle than an asset when the stroller moves. Runners are likely to find falling items annoying. 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 Mountain Buggy Terrain has the best hydration holders with long water bottle sleeves that are easy to use and keep bottles in place, even while running. This design is far better for joggers than the shallow and narrow standard cup holders we see on most strollers.
The dual water bottle holders on the Terrain are unique to Mountain Buggy strollers, and we think the sleeves are some of the best hydration holders on the market.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Skip the Parent Console
We recommend not using cup holders or parent consoles when jogging or running with your stroller for safety. During our testing, almost every cup holder failed to hold a standard-size water bottle, and most of them landed on our test "baby" when the bottle fell out.
The Thule Urban Glide 2 has a large canopy and a seatback that reclines far enough for cozy napping making it a good choice for jogging and a primary stroller.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Seat
All the strollers have reclining seats, and most operate with one hand. Your baby should only be at a slight angle for running for safety, 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 with a durable footrest. We prefer products with a sling-style seat and suspension to ensure a comfortable ride for little ones.
Ease of Setup
Ease of setup is not the most critical metric because, with any luck, you'll only be doing it once. However, the Thule Glide 2 and Thule Urban Glide 2 are set up with no tools; assembly includes putting wheels on and not much else. If you're worried that you'll get confused by parts, tools, and hard-to-understand manuals, then either one will work well for you.
The Outback must be tipped back for turning when using the jogging kit which makes it a poor choice for crowded or tight spaces.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Maneuverability
Easy maneuverability is something parents want 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 the subsequent terrain, you may need to make concessions on what you are willing to accept to get the running performance you desire.
We used each stroller on the same courses and trails. We test the products on pavement, concrete, dirt trails, grass, and around an obstacle course to see which offers the best all-around 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 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 BOB Rambler is an excellent example of a smallish jogger (great for crowds) with enough features to use for errands and trips to the park.
The Urban Glide 2 is easy to maneuver thanks to the swivel front wheel and air-filled rubber tires.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Each option in our lineup has larger, rubber, pneumatic tires. Some have a fixed front wheel, and others have a swivel front wheel you can lock for running. Historically, a fixed front wheel has been the standard for serious runners. However, the newer locking swivel wheels prove they have what it takes for serious running while providing better maneuverability for everyday use. The Thule Urban Glide 2 earns the high score for this metric. The BOB Alterrain is also high ranking in this metric. They have a similar design that navigates obstacles and tight spaces easily. They are still relatively easy to turn with a locked front wheel while jogging than fixed-wheel products.
The overall look and feel of the Urban Glide 2 is one of quality and thoughtful design with hidden seams and connection points that give it a sleek appearance that is second to none.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
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. We reviewed and compared materials, including stitching, frames, frame flexing, wheel design, connection points, and any exposed rivets or unique design features.
With bunched up fabric and exposed connection points, the fit and finish on the Baby Trend Expedition isn't as good as some of the higher scoring models in this review.
Credit: BabyGearLab Staff
The higher-end options are the Thule and BOB strollers. These two brands are well-designed, thoughtfully constructed, and use durable and stylish materials. The Thule products have a sleek and sharp finish, while the BOB tends to look more utilitarian. The BOB Alterrain is similar in design and looks to the Thule, almost as if they used the Thule as a template for their new stroller.
The material on the Thule has a tight weave and is snag-resistant. The fit is close to the frame and, in some places, has no visible ends. The Thule has a sturdy frame with little to no flex and includes suspension and connections that increase performance. The Thule Glide 2 gets top marks for quality. The BOB ALterrain Pro follows it, and the Thule Urban Glide 2 is hot on its heels.
The Rambler is a small folded jogger compared to most of the jogging competition.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Weight and Folded Size
The joggers weigh around 23 and 44.4 lbs. While this may not be a problem for some, other parents might wish they'd chosen a lighter stroller once at some point. It may not sound like a significant problem, but raising and holding a stroller to put it in a trunk can be near impossible if the weight exceeds your capabilities. If you need to fold the jogger to transport it, you'll likely want to choose a lighter option. The Thule Glide 2 and the Thule Urban Glide 2 weigh 24.4 lbs. However, this is still less than the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 at 27.3 lbs and the BOB Rambler at 25.1 lbs. The Baby Trend Expedition is only 23.6 lbs, but given its lack of running-related features, we think the added pound of the Thules is worth it to get a much better-running stroller. Alternatively, the BOB Alterrain is a whopping 31.4 lbs! Making it a hefty jogger, the similar Urban Glide 2 is almost 6 lbs lighter. The heaviest is the Hamax Outback weighs 44.4 lbs and is over 43,000 cubic inches when folded, making it one of the biggest options in the group.
A stroller's weight is only part of what you need to consider; 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.
The Baby Trend Expedition has a small compact fold and self-stands for easy stowing.
Credit: BabyGearLab Staff
The Thule Urban Glide 2 is around 15,388 cubic inches when folded, but the Thule Glide 2 is closer to 20,352 cubic inches, which is significant. The fixed front wheel creates an overall larger package than strollers with swivel wheels. The BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 is only 14,748, smaller than both Thules. The BOB Rambler is even smaller at 13,150 cubic inches, which is positively petite comparatively speaking. The BOB Alterrain is once again larger in this group with a folded size of 17,357! The Baby Trend Expedition is also small when folded at 13,200 cubic inches. Because of the wide variety of sizes and shapes and the limited space of some homes or vehicles, it is crucial that you 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 (like Amazon), so you can return it if it doesn't fit into your life.
We've tested more than 30 jogging strollers, putting them each through a rigorous side-by-side comparison process, to find the very best.
Credit: BabyGearLab
Conclusion
If getting outdoors and moving at speed or off-road is mandatory for you and your family, a jogger could be a must-have piece of baby gear. The three-wheel design of joggers with rubber tires provides the ability to move smoothly over various terrains. These designs make joggers a favorite go-to for almost every busy family and on every occasion outside of the busy city streets. We also think that a jogging-style stroller can easily be your only stroller because they are versatile and include features parents need for everyday errands. No matter your needs, there is something for every family in this review, and the award winners and high-ranking choices are a great place to start your stroller search.
BabyGearLab was founded by a Pediatrician Mom with a mission to provide a reliable, independent, source of information to new parents. Our experts have tested thousands of baby and kids products to share key performance, health, and safety findings. We spend tens of thousands of dollars crash testing car seats to inform our ratings. And, we combine our review work with gobs of expert parenting advice. To assure complete independence, we buy all the products we test ourselves. No sponsored content. No ads. Just real, honest, side-by-side testing by people who care.
