The Stuff of Parenting

So what's the difference between a "jogging" stroller and an "all-terrain" stroller? And do you really need either? "Need," of course, is a relative term - you probably only really need a jogging stroller if you're a professional marathoner. But if you're at all active and plan to use your stroller for walking more than short distances indoors, these are worth checking out.

A jogging stroller is a three-wheeled stroller made with the express purpose of running. The front wheel is fixed, which means that you should be able to push with one hand and not have to concentrate on keeping the thing straight. The  pushbar should be high enough that you can lengthen your stride without bumping your shins, and should have a comfortable grip. A stroller made exclusively for jogging will have larger wheels, which is unwieldy for daily use but gives you and your child a smoother ride over long distances. Before buying a jogging stroller - especially if you are an avid runner - see if you can take one for a test jog. Running stores are more likely to let you do this. If you can't test it out, make sure you know the store's return policy. A recommended model by running parents I know (I'm not one of them): the BOB Ironman Sport Utility Stroller ($349).


An all-terrain stroller is a three-wheeled stroller that is intended for, well, all terrain. You can do light jogging with an all-terrain stroller, but they're not intended for long-duration runs. The front wheel should swivel for maneuverability, but be lockable as well for longer distances. They typically have pneumatic tires and some sort of suspension, should you wander off the paved road. Three-wheeled "sporty" strollers are increasingly trendy, and most manufacturers have a model; however, some of them are more style than substance. Make sure you look for one with sturdy tires that sit evenly on the ground when the baby is inside, a welded frame, a 5-point safety harness, stable steering, and easy-to-use brakes.

Each of these is going to be more heavy and more awkward to maneuver in tight spaces than an ordinary stroller; they also take more room to store. Neither is suitable for children under 6 months; infants under six months simply can't sit with enough stability to be bounced around. Several models (such as the BOB Revolution) do have car seat adapters so that you can walk - not run! - with your baby in his or her car seat. The really well-made strollers made to last over the long haul (and multiple kids) aren't cheap; if the prices are prohibitive, cruise Craigslist, eBay, local garage sales or second-hand baby shops, as well as looking online for closeouts on last year's models.  Just make sure that you know the history of a used stroller, and check all safety features for soundness. Those issues aside, though, a well-made jogging or all-terrain stroller is wonderful for active families: your child will enjoy riding for longer periods of time, and you can get some exercise, do some neighborhood chores, or just spend time together out in nature. Here are a few recommended all-terrain models:

BOB Revolution - $389

Everyone I know who owns this stroller loves it. It's solidly built, handles beautifully, and is relatively easy to store. The salesperson at Baby Grand told us that she actually ran a 10K with hers, although it's technically an all-terrain stroller. In fact, if I had to do it again, I'd probably buy one of these: it steers easily one-handed (important for moms who stroll with a cup of coffee or on the phone!), and has a wonderful ride.

Mountain Buggy Urban Single - $540

This stroller isn't cheap, but it's wonderful. Marketed as the perfect outdoor stroller for city living, it consistently scores at the top of Consumer Reports tests for all-terrain strollers. Every aspect of the Urban's design has been well thought through: the front wheel unlocks for maneuvering in tight spaces, it reclines fully for smaller infants (although I'd be very wary about pushing anyone under 4 months in anything but a stable infant seat), and is large enough for a 4 or 5 year old. The company claims that this "is the only stroller you will ever need," and it's quite possibly the one all-terrain stroller that could live up to that promise.

Phil&Ted's Sport Buggy - $450

This is the stroller that we bought, and although there are some features that I think BOB and Mountain Buggy do better (namely, ease of locking the front wheel, maneuverability, and better brakes), the Phil&Ted's has one unique advantage: it easily converts into a double stroller without adding width, via a second seat that locks in behind or above the first. We love the simplicity of the Phil&Ted's design; it also has breathable mesh sides, a sturdy 5-point harness, and a generous storage basket that makes it great for lugging groceries home. One note: Sport strollers sold between August 2003 and August 2008 were voluntarily recalled this past summer, since the hinge locking mechanism can pinch your fingers when folding up the stroller. If you're looking at a used model, find out of the previous owners sent in for the kit that fixes this.