Tips for Buying a Jogging Stroller
- In This Quick Guide:
- Roads and Terrains
- Wheel Size
- Number of Babies
- Transporting the Stroller
- Safety
- Test Drive
Choosing the right jogging stroller is important for your family, no matter whether Mother wants to get back into her pre-baby shape or Father needs an exercise option that accommodates him and the baby. With a jogging stroller, running or walking can occur with a baby in tow. But a jogging stroller can be an expensive piece of exercise equipment, so take time to consider what your family requires from the jogging stroller in order to make the best, most cost-effective purchase.
Roads and Terrains
First, think about where your family plans to exercise or shop. For every type of terrain—bumpy, muddy, rocky, or smooth—there exists an appropriate stroller for your baby and family. Think about it: Have you ever tried to maneuver a traditional stroller around sharp turns or on a dirt road? The dynamics of those cumbersome strollers just don’t work like all-terrain vehicles, do they? So know up front where you and your family will be getting your exercise. The sales rep can then lead you to the right stroller.
Wheel Size
Depending upon the terrain and the type of exercise your family will be doing, there is a wheel size for you! Generally, the more running you plan to do and the rougher the terrain you plan to travel, the larger the wheel you should use on the front of your three-wheeled wonder. If you plan to walk on smooth surfaces, use a smaller wheel.
- A 12 inch wheel is best for walking, primarily on smoother, flatter surfaces.
- A 16 inch wheel affords greater flexibility of use. This wheel size accommodates everything. Moreover, the larger wheel provides a smoother ride overall for the baby, and a smoother run for you.
- A 20 inch wheel is the choice of the consummate runner, especially if you go the distance over rough roads.
Number of Babies
How many babies do you plan to tote around? These days, you can purchase a jogging stroller for up to three babies. The cool thing about jogging strollers is this: They are engineered to provide you with a smooth push, regardless of the disparity of weight between babies sitting side by side. You won’t feel lopsided, and neither will they.
Transporting the Jogging Stroller
Do you plan to travel with your baby and take the jogging stroller along? Will you need to cart the stroller from your home to a jogging area? If you answered yes to either of these questions, you’ll need to consider how the stroller folds and fits in your car or on public transportation. Not all jogging strollers are created equal when it comes to folding them up and moving them around. Some are downright tricky to pack up, and require the removal of a wheel—the big front one! Talk with your sales rep about options and your needs.
Safety
As with any sort of outdoor recreation, some hazards exist, and you owe it to your baby to keep safety in mind. Things to consider: Any good jogging stroller incorporates a handle brake—much like a bike’s—to prevent loss of control. Consider investing in a canopy to shield your baby from the sun, if the stroller you choose doesn’t come with one. A wrist strap is another good addition to your nouveau exercise carriage. If you stumble or lose hold of the stroller while jogging, the strap links you to the stroller so it can’t get away.
Test Drive
As with any vehicle, you’ll want to go for a test drive. Many stores allow customers to run around with a floor model outside for a few minutes, just to get the feel of the thing. Moreover, be sure the jogging stroller you like can accommodate any height factors. For instance, if you are short and your spouse or partner is tall, you’ll want to make sure that you’ll both be comfortable while jogging.
Equipped with all these tips, you’re better prepared to purchase the best jogging stroller that meets the needs of your baby and family. Have fun jogging!
