Jogging strollers are a great way for new parents to get out of the house for some fresh air and exercise after having their baby. There are hundreds of models available on the market these days, making the choice of what to purchase very difficult. Here are a few tips to help you make the right decision before spending your hard-earned money.
True jogging strollers that are designed for serious running have three large inflatable tires, with a fixed front tire, a sleek frame, good suspension and shock absorbers to offer a more comfortable, smoother ride for baby. They are the safest strollers on the market for recreational and serious running. They are built for speed, not handling. Trying to use them for other activities such as shopping and travel may lead to frustration and disappointment in your purchase.
If you're a serious jogger, as a minimum, you want your stroller to have the following features:
lightweight frame
large (16 or 20 inch), smooth tires for pavement running, or textured tires for off-road use
fixed front tire
deep child seat
secure seatbelt (padded, adjustable 5-point harness)
sturdy and stable construction (for no tipping on turns)
shock absorbers (if you plan on running off-road or over bumpy surfaces)
easy and compact folding system
padded, adjustable handle
safety wrist strap
hand brake and rear brake
storage pockets
storage basket
sun canopy
durable weatherproof, washable fabric
child weight capacity of up to 75 pounds
meets or exceeds American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) safety standards
lifetime warranty on frame
If you want fancier features (for a heftier price tag), heres what you should look for:
aluminum alloy frame and wheels for rust proofing in humid climates and for lighter stroller weight
padded seat
adjustable reclining seat
adjustable shock absorbers (for big or small children)
front wheel fender (for mud and water)
large footplate
ergonomically shaped handle (for wrist comfort)
parent tray for water bottles and personal effects
key lash
reflective safety fabric
ability to fold without removing any wheels
adjustable sun canopy with viewing window, side ventilation (for fresh air) and nylon mesh cover (for bugs)
all weather cover (wind, rain, snow)
quick release wheels
removable machine-washable fabric
no tools necessary for assembly or folding
tire pump
Be aware that there are other so-called "jogging" strollers on the market that have front swivel wheels instead of a single fixed wheel, but they are better made for power walking. Make sure you are aware of what a stroller can and can't do before you buy.
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Anik Giguere-Biollo enjoys writing about fitness, weight loss, nutrition and baby strollers. Come visit her informative website at www.stroller-advisor.com/ where she helps parents choose and purchase the best baby stroller for their lifestyle, including different types of jogging strollers.
