 |
| BOB Ironman Single Stroller |
So you've decided to purchase a jogging stroller, and you need to know what you're getting into. When choosing the perfect jogging stroller to fit your lifestyle, there's a lot to think about. Perhaps the most important question you need to ask yourself is, what exactly do you intend to do with it? This may seem like an obvious answer, but many people choose to purchase a jogging stroller merely because they're pleasing to look at, not necessarily because they're an avid jogger. So, with that being said, are you a "serious" jogger, or are you a "not so serious jogger"? The answer to that question alone will help you narrow down your search tremendously. If you're new to the market, and you've done a little research, you may have discovered that there are tons of jogging strollers to choose from. That is because, as the popularity of the jogging stroller grew, several manufactures realized that it wasn't just serious runners or joggers purchasing these strollers, but people who liked to hike, or walk off-road, and some just because they look cool. So they began designing different styles of three wheel strollers, such as all-terrain strollers, fitness strollers, expedition strollers, etc. With these new designs came the introduction of swivel wheels, along with several other features. Now you have the choice between 8-inch tires all the way up to 20-inch tires, coil spring suspension systems, adjustable shock absorbers, 3-inch travel, adjustable handle bars, parent trays, child trays, MP3 speakers, adjustable canopies, etc. I could go on and on about all the features available, but let's break it down for you in a different way.
 |
| Baby Jogger Summit XC Single Stroller |
First of all, let me explain the difference between a swivel wheel and a fixed wheel. The fixed wheel was the original design for jogging strollers, aka "true" joggers. It tracks straight, does not turn or "swivel", it is "fixed" to run you in a straight line. This means durability, and safety! This is extremely important for someone who is planning on jogging and/or running. The swivel wheel provides easy maneuverability, and turns on a dime. This wheel is best for tighter corners or narrow aisles, like the shopping mall. To turn a fixed wheel you must pop-a-wheelie, in other words, lift the front tire off the ground and then turn. Not the best for maneuvering around at the grocery store, although I've done it.
As for the other features, if you're a "serious" jogger, than those extras, such as parent trays, child trays, and MP3 speakers, will only add weight and possibly get in the way. However, what you do need to look for are safety features, such as hand brakes, parking brakes, running leashes, and reflectors. These features are especially important for jogging and/or running. If you're a "not so serious" jogger, the parent trays, child trays, and speakers might come in handy.
To recap, below is a list of what to look for in a "true" jogging stroller with a fixed wheel.
 |
| Schwinn Free Runner Jogger |
- Large inflatable tires, either 16-inch or 20-inch
- Hand brakes built in to the handle bar
- A parking brake
- Aluminum lightweight frame
- Shock absorbing suspension
- Running leash
- Deep seat that will keep your child back, away from the front tire
- 5-point child safety harness
- Rain/sun canopy
- Adjustable handle bar - if not adjustable, make sure it fits you well.
- Most importantly – A FIXED front wheel
For the "not so serious" jogger, this list gives you an idea of what features are available.
 |
| BOB Revolution Stroller |
- 5-point adjustable safety harness
- Front SWIVEL wheel, usually 12-inch with 16-inch rear wheels
- parking brakes - whether jogging or not, this is an important feature
- Spring suspension system, or shock absorbing - even though you're not running, a smooth ride is important.
- Adjustable canopy - important anytime you're outdoors
- Comfortable handle bar
- Reclining seat - some recline to a near flat position, perfect for a sleeping baby.
- Parent tray - usually comes with cup holders and an organizer
- Child tray - usually comes with a cup holder, and sometime a snack holder
- Storage - under-seat basket, and a rear seat pocket
- Easy fold designs, or trigger fold designs
- Quick-release wheels - makes it easier to store, or transport.
- MP3 speakers, or ibaby sound systems allow you and your little one to listen to tunes.
