Jogging Stroller Questions - Opinions PLEASE! :-)

carolinatx · March 2014

I wanted to get some thoughts on a jogging strollers. I used to have one that was a fixed front wheel stroller that could also hook up to a bike. I never used it for the bike part and we moved cross country recently and decided to sell it before we left. I used the jogging part, but didn't love it. The fixed front wheel drove me crazy! and made it so I didn't want to run with it because I constantly had to pick the pack 2 wheel side of it up to maneuver around curves and corners. Also, it was a harness system that held 2 kiddos.

So my story is I only have 1 child, so I don't really need a 2 seater, but it's fine if it has one. I am getting into running now that I'm in a warmer weather place and really want to be able to take my son on these runs during the weekends. But he's 3... how much longer can he ride in one of these?? The harness that was on the other one was quite an effort to get him in and out. I would like to hear everyone else's experience. Is there something that's a jogger for older kids? Which strollers have you loved/hated? What should I look for when buying?

Here's my list of things I want:
A swivel front wheel.
I have a 3 yr old - I want to be able to use this for a few years
I like to hike, so would love to be able to take it on terrain other than paved areas
Abel to fold up to store in the garage or go in a car easily
I don't care about the bike hook up any longer
I'd like to stay around $200 as my husband thinks this is a waste of money but I really want one
An adjustable handle would be nice so my husband could use it too.

Would appreciate any thoughts/feedback/suggestions/warnings of things to avoid

Thanks!!!

BrawlerBella · March 2014

ShannonMpls · March 2014

It's not within that price range, but the BOB Revolution is one of the best baby-gear purchases we made. My son is almost 4 and still rides in it. Rugged, pushes like a dream (even one handed), great for walking AND running. Front wheel can be swivel or fixed. We've used it as our sole strolled since my son was born and it's held up remarkably well.

Though it's higher than your budget, I guarantee you can sell it used for $100-200 when you're done with it if you keep it in decent condition. They have excellent resale value. You may even want to consider buying one used. Another option, if you have an REI near you, is to become a member there and use your 20% off membership coupon on the stroller (side note: REI takes returns for any reason up to a year; returns forever if a defect arises).

Galatea_Stone · March 2014

I feel very strongly about the BOB Revolution. It's over $200, but mine is 4 years old now. It has been on trails, through big cities, on regular walking paths, and on beach sand. Oh, and for a while, I was walking/running 10K 5 days a week, and the shocks are as good as new.

I recently blew a tire, so I need to replace it, but this stroller is by far the easiest to push and run with.

DavPul · March 2014

Run with a swivel front wheel and you gonna die. There's a reason the wheel is fixed. Even in some of the swivel wheels it has a locking feature. It's meant to be locked when running and you switch to swivel if you're just strolling about

Galatea_Stone · March 2014

Run with a swivel front wheel and you gonna die. There's a reason the wheel is fixed. Even in some of the swivel wheels it has a locking feature. It's meant to be locked when running and you switch to swivel if you're just strolling about

Yep. BOB locks and unlocks. "Die" is a little harsh, but "go over the handlebars and injure your kid" is a big possibility.

likitisplit · March 2014

I have a pre-2010 Mountain Buggy two-seater stroller that is as easy to push on grass as it is on pavement. It's almost easier to walk pushing it as it is to walk by yourself. It has swivel front wheels that can lock. It is maybe 1" wider than my Graco stroller, so I can take it anywhere.

Mountain buggy also sells one-seaters, but I haven't used them. They are NOT CHEAP.

I can easily see my (tall) kids using it until they are 5/6, though they now want to run when I run (sigh).

kimberlymarie30 · March 2014

We've had BOB Revolution for over 4 years now. My 5 year old can still ride in it! Highly recommended. The above comment is right on with the resale value. They keep their value well if taken care of properly. We are planning on getting the car seat adapter and using it for our next child as well.

carolinatx · March 2014

Thanks for the feedback so far! BrawlerBella - the only one they have at the target nearby is the Baby Trend Range Jogger - looks pretty similar but the wheel spokes are a bit different.

DavPul - can you explain why? For me, the trail I used to run on was through a park and it had a bridge that curved and the trail was around a pond. I was constantly having to pick up the back of the stroller and scootch it back and forth to go around the curves. Great core workout I found, but really annoying and not something I wanted to have to do again. What is bad about swivel while running?

I have looked at the Bob's- I think they're worth the money, but my husband thinks it's a waste. We do have an REI nearby so I'll check out that membership discount and craigslist to see if there are any used - thanks for that idea, I don't know why I didn't think of that

SunofaBeach14 · March 2014

When your kid hits 4 or so buy a razor scooter and let him use that on some of your runs. There's nothing like being tired from a run with a fully rested kiddo!

DavPul · March 2014

1. You're gonna run.
2. Swivel front wheel gonna hit a groove.
3. Swivel front wheel gonna turn slightly sideways.
4. Your momentum gonna keep you moving straight.
5. You gonna go over the top of the stroller.
6. You gonna die. (okay, maybe not die. But it's gonna suck. Hard.)

Hobb3s · March 2014

another vote for the BOB, they're awesome.

carolinatx · March 2014

Maybe I just had a bad stroller? Or maybe I'm just a wuss

this is the one I had.

http://mcdn.zulily.com/images/cache/product/350x1000/Via_Velo/VIAVELO_ISVV03_1358363074.jpg

lulukittie · March 2014

I have a Joovy Zoom 360 and love it. My three-year-old still has plenty of room, it pushes like a dream and is much less expensive than the BOB. I found one on sale for about $180 a few years ago but they seem to be more in the $220 range these days.

SunofaBeach14 · March 2014

1. You're gonna run.
2. Swivel front wheel gonna hit a groove.
3. Swivel front wheel gonna turn slightly sideways.
4. Your momentum gonna keep you moving straight.
5. You gonna go over the top of the stroller.
6. You gonna die. (okay, maybe not die. But it's gonna suck. Hard.)

I feel that there is a story behind this post, perhaps even a gif?

BrawlerBella · March 2014

1. You're gonna run.
2. Swivel front wheel gonna hit a groove.
3. Swivel front wheel gonna turn slightly sideways.
4. Your momentum gonna keep you moving straight.
5. You gonna go over the top of the stroller.
6. You gonna die. (okay, maybe not die. But it's gonna suck. Hard.)

Hasn't happened yet in all these years but I'll keep an eye out lol

RunFarLiveHappy · March 2014

Another vote for BOB and another vote for locking the front wheel if you're doing anything other than walking the mall. I can't imagine using a swivel wheel running on the sidewalk much less on a trail or hiking. ???? The REI and craigslist ideas are great ones, not only can you get a member coupon at REI but you also accumulate reward dollars that they send out in checks each year. Lots of stuff you get as much as 20% cash back.

linusr · March 2014

Here's a link to an article:
http://www.runnersworld.com/other-gear/runners-guide-jogging-strollers?page=single

Consumer Reports has ratings but I can't get to them, not being a subscriber; maybe you can.

15 years ago I bought a jogger that looks a lot like the BOB Ironman, and it was great. I recommend large wheels, with quick releases. It's great to be able to fold it up in your trunk, and you should get one that you can put together quickly.

I would never run with a swiveling front wheel. Mine did not have one and I never missed it. I used it for running and for just walking with the children. You want a canopy, and storage underneath and below the handlebars is great too, along with a brake.

briebee7 · March 2014

The BOB is by far the best stroller out there in terms of jogging strollers. Check out your local craigslist for used ones. The hold up extremely well and have great resale value.

I also want to stress that the wheel is safest in the locked (fixed) position when running. Yes it can be a pain at times (turns are tedious with the double!). However, it is really the safest option. I don't have my manual handy but I believe the BOB instructions reiterate this (as well as every running blog I have read).

carolinatx · March 2014

Thanks Everyone!

likitisplit · March 2014

What you do is lever the stroller, so you're picking up the FRONT wheel and turning on the back wheels like a wheelbarrow.

This also works when your kid is throwing a tantrum about getting out and running with you. Tip the stroller back a little bit and your kid can't get leverage to throw him/herself against the straps. M&Ms also work.

jkd132 · March 2014

Another vote for the BOB Revolution. Chariots are also awesome but very pricey. Used ones sometimes can be cheaper.

annietinnin · March 2014

I absolutely love my BOB. My baby is 8 months and I've been using it since he was 3 weeks with the infant attachment. Today was actually the first day he rode in it like a big boy. It's the only stroller I have or need. So worth the money! Look for a used one! I'm actually looking for a used double as I will have 2 babies 13 months apart in August. I'm keeping my single though...sorry!

momma2azoo · March 2014

1. You're gonna run.
2. Swivel front wheel gonna hit a groove.
3. Swivel front wheel gonna turn slightly sideways.
4. Your momentum gonna keep you moving straight.
5. You gonna go over the top of the stroller.
6. You gonna die. (okay, maybe not die. But it's gonna suck. Hard.)

Hasn't happened yet in all these years but I'll keep an eye out lol

Hasn't been an issue for me either and I have hundreds of miles on my BOB. I live in a small down with old, uneven roads. I'd never be able to run if I were forced to constantly lift and wrestle a fixed front wheel stroller to maneuver the roads. My runs are a serpentine back and forth to the more level spots on the road and moving over for the occasional car (we don't have sidewalks in most of the town, but we do have slow 25 mph speed limits). The maneuverability of the BOB is one of its assets. I've never had the wheel 'suddenly' wing sideways and halt inertia. If it went sideways, the stroller would turn and head a different direction. The wheel doesn't randomly flip sideways and stop the stroller. Even our 100+ year old uneven sidewalks aren't an issue (well, not an issue for the stroller, they present their own challenge when running). Now, turning and taking off in a different direction is the safety issue with a stroller that doesn't have the front wheel fixed. If you have a nice, straight path locking the wheel lets you worry less about the stroller veering off path and you can zone out a bit and concentrate more on your running which is nice. Not an option for me, so I keep a tight hold on the stroller and pay attention to the road at all times. I have to anyway or I'd end up in a pothole or trip over a bump. My roads are oh so lovely.

Kinda curious if some of the advise givers actually run with a stroller.

OP, don't buy a cheap stroller. Buy a good one used if you can't budge your hubby on budget. They're worth the money. I bought my BOB when my youngest was born almost 2 1/2 years ago because I knew I wanted to get back to running eventually. I have 5 kiddos and have gone the cheaper route with strollers and they don't last. If you plan on really putting in the miles, one quality stroller will be cheaper in the long run than having to buy 2 or 3 cheaper ones as you wear them out. I'm not kidding about the hundreds of miles on my BOB and it is still going just as strong as when I first bought it. It has also handled the weight of my growing daughter with ease. It's really no harder to push her now than when she was smaller. It has been an excellent investment for me.

SunofaBeach14 · March 2014

1. You're gonna run.
2. Swivel front wheel gonna hit a groove.
3. Swivel front wheel gonna turn slightly sideways.
4. Your momentum gonna keep you moving straight.
5. You gonna go over the top of the stroller.
6. You gonna die. (okay, maybe not die. But it's gonna suck. Hard.)

Hasn't happened yet in all these years but I'll keep an eye out lol

Hasn't been an issue for me either and I have hundreds of miles on my BOB. I live in a small down with old, uneven roads. I'd never be able to run if I were forced to constantly lift and wrestle a fixed front wheel stroller to maneuver the roads. My runs are a serpentine back and forth to the more level spots on the road and moving over for the occasional car (we don't have sidewalks in most of the town, but we do have slow 25 mph speed limits). The maneuverability of the BOB is one of its assets. I've never had the wheel 'suddenly' wing sideways and halt inertia. If it went sideways, the stroller would turn and head a different direction. The wheel doesn't randomly flip sideways and stop the stroller. Even our 100+ year old uneven sidewalks aren't an issue (well, not an issue for the stroller, they present their own challenge when running). Now, turning and taking off in a different direction is the safety issue with a stroller that doesn't have the front wheel fixed. If you have a nice, straight path locking the wheel lets you worry less about the stroller veering off path and you can zone out a bit and concentrate more on your running which is nice. Not an option for me, so I keep a tight hold on the stroller and pay attention to the road at all times. I have to anyway or I'd end up in a pothole or trip over a bump. My roads are oh so lovely.

Kinda curious if some of the advise givers actually run with a stroller.

OP, don't buy a cheap stroller. Buy a good one used if you can't budge your hubby on budget. They're worth the money. I bought my BOB when my youngest was born almost 2 1/2 years ago because I knew I wanted to get back to running eventually. I have 5 kiddos and have gone the cheaper route with strollers and they don't last. If you plan on really putting in the miles, one quality stroller will be cheaper in the long run than having to buy 2 or 3 cheaper ones as you wear them out. I'm not kidding about the hundreds of miles on my BOB and it is still going just as strong as when I first bought it. It has also handled the weight of my growing daughter with ease. It's really no harder to push her now than when she was smaller. It has been an excellent investment for me.

LOL! The BOB has a locking front wheel for the very reason explained above. If you're actually running (and not walking fast), then use it.

likitisplit · March 2014

I absolutely love my BOB. My baby is 8 months and I've been using it since he was 3 weeks with the infant attachment. Today was actually the first day he rode in it like a big boy. It's the only stroller I have or need. So worth the money! Look for a used one! I'm actually looking for a used double as I will have 2 babies 13 months apart in August. I'm keeping my single though...sorry!

Mine are 21 months apart. I'll pray for you

J/k. It's going to awesome to watch them grow up together.

DavPul · March 2014

Nvm. Sometimes I forget that I don't care. Carry on

103reasons · March 2014

I agree with the BOB Revolution recommendations. You can usually find some on Craigslist for your budget or less. friend one mine had a Jeep one, though, that a built in speaker so she could play music without headphones. I thought was a pretty cool feature! Good luck!!

Beckboo0912 · March 2014

I have a expedition I think by safety1st.., it has a locking front wheel. Holds kids up to 70lbs and I'm 5'8 and works great for me. I love mine and it was also like 150

RunFarLiveHappy · March 2014

I run almost daily and for at least a year-year and a half that was pushing a stroller for a minimum of 75% of those runs. I suppose locking your door is optional too?

CathOh · March 2014

The front wheel should definitely be in a locked position when running or if on loose, rocky, gravely terrain. You can unlock it if you're doing your grocery shopping with it or just walking around town.

Rather than lifting the back wheels off the ground to turn or adjust the stroller, push down on the handle and lift the front wheel. The stroller will turn on a dime this way.

I've used my stroller/ bike trailer since my daughter was 8 months old until last summer when she was 5 years old. I'm hoping she'll still sit in it from time to time this year while I squeeze in a run that's longer than I think she can ride her bike for or when attached to my bike for longer treks than I'm willing to take her on the tag-a-long bike. It also has a harness in it - it's there for her safety and I wouldn't want anything less than that (especially when i'm using it as a bike trailer). If your son is not all that interested in sitting in the stroller, maybe give him some books to read, toys to play with or a portable DVD player to watch.

Jogging Stroller Questions - Opinions PLEASE! :-)

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