Best Compact Travel Jogging Stroller Of 2018 & Buying Guide
Jogging strollers are, by design, wider and heavier than regular strollers—but they also handle more easily, and can be used on more surfaces than sidewalks and asphalt. If you’re a runner who travels frequently, the trick is finding one that will fit in your car or checked luggage when folded, but provide stability and comfort for your child when it’s unfolded.
We’ll answer some common questions from parents when it comes to jogging strollers and foldable options, and explore a few popular choices buyers can consider in their search for a compact jogger.
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Buyer’s Guide:
What is a jogging stroller?
Jogging strollers (also known as “joggers”) are three-wheeled strollers—or four in a tri-wheel design—that are designed to be pushed while the parent is running. Some have all-terrain tires that can go off paved surfaces and onto dirt trails, grass, etc., just as easily as they navigate through shopping malls and grocery stores; others are meant for paved surfaces only, just like standard strollers, but can handle higher speeds better.
Joggers can also feature locking front wheels for stability on straight paths, suspension for smoother rides on bumpy surfaces, and even handbrakes. You can often get a jogger with the same storage, trays, and cup holders you’d find on standard strollers, too.
Do I really need one?
If you don’t jog, no. Even if you plan to take up the hobby later on, it’s worth waiting until you know you’ll actually use it. Joggers are specialized strollers, and thus more expensive overall, so it’s wise to only invest in one if you’re a runner.
Of course, there are exceptions.
some people buy joggers because they need an all-terrain stroller for nature hikes with their child, which is fine. You can also buy a jogger simply because you like the look of it or found a great deal. It’s your money, and you’ll be the one pushing the stroller, so it’s your call—not ours!
I can’t find a certain stroller’s folded dimensions. How do I know it will fit in my trunk, closet, etc.?
First, measure your car’s trunk and, if applicable, the closet or area it will be stored. Remember to include any items that you normally store in those areas (such as a tire jack in the car, or winter coats in the closet), or move them to a new area if you need to.
Next, look at the unfolded measurements of the stroller you’re considering. If possible, study the photos of it in its folded position, and try to determine if the stroller folds in half on its horizontal axis, or if it folds in on itself on both the horizontal and vertical axis. Some models also have handlebars and tires that fold independently of the frame, removable seats, and other space-saving features.
Bonus Tips: If the stroller only folds in half, you can get a rough idea of its dimensions by using its width and length, but about half its unfolded height. If it folds in on itself, you might be able to use the photo to determine how many folds it has and divide the unfolded measurements by that.
Of course, these are general guidelines (and a whole lot of extra work for you!), so it’s best to try and contact the seller, first. If they don’t know and can’t give you a definitive answer, that might be a red flag that you shouldn’t do business with them. You can contact the manufacturer, as well, or search customer reviews to see if anyone has measured the stroller in its folded position.
TOP 5 Best Compact Travel Jogging Stroller Reviews
1. Joovy Zoom 360 Ultralight Jogging Stroller, Black Review
While some strollers are labeled as “joggers” just because they have multi-terrain tires, the Joovy Zoom 360 Ultralight is a true jogger—it’s meant for active parents who love running, and want to (or have to) incorporate a stroller into their workouts.
Pneumatic tires, a straight rear axle, and front suspension make this model easy to handle and less affected by bumps, which will be great for you and your little exercise buddy.
Pros
Cons
While it is pretty light for a jogging stroller, we wouldn’t necessarily call the Joovy Zoom “ultra” light: it’s a little more towards the average for similar models, which all hover between 20 and 30 lbs. That said, this is worth considering for plenty of other reasons: despite its larger wheelbase and improved stability, it still folds to a small enough size for traveling, and features impressive suspension and control.
2. Baby Trend Stealth Jogger Stroller, Poppy Review
For a jogger that’s a little more budget-friendly, buyers will enjoy the Baby Trend Stealth: it’s priced very well for any stroller, but especially a jogger, and has features like suspension and bicycle tires to deliver higher performance than the low cost might suggest.
Pros
Cons
If you need a jogger that can double as your main stroller, you might find the lack of storage and cup holders on this one annoying—but for those who plan on using their jogger exclusively for exercise (and a standard stroller elsewhere), this might be perfect. The lower price doesn’t compromise too much quality and convenience, although that, in the end, is up to the consumer to decide.
3. J is for Jeep Brand Adventure All-Terrain Jogging Stroller, Galaxy Review
The Jeep brand is known for rugged and durable vehicles meant to withstand just about anything, but can the same be said for their baby gear?
First, buyers should be aware that most brands like this (Eddie Bauer, Disney, etc.) do not usually manufacture their strollers themselves; rather, they partner with an established stroller maker who then uses the company’s logos and brand recognition, and might release exclusive designs and prints to match that brand’s image.
So with that in mind, let’s take a look at this jogger and see what it’s made of.
Pros
Cons
While some folks might be disappointed to hear Jeep doesn’t make its strollers but, instead, partners with Kolcraft, others will be relieved the company utilizes one with experience in this area. You do see elements of Jeep’s off-road expertise in the Adventure Jogger with durable rubber tires and sturdy spoke design, and attention to details like a clear cover on the parents’ tray phone holder, and a quilted stitch pattern on the canopy. We recommend this model to parents in need of a Wrangler-worthy durability from their stroller, and above-average off-road capabilities.
4. Baby Trend Expedition Double Jogger Stroller, Carbon Review
For parents of twins (or two kids still of stroller age), it’s hard enough finding a great standard model—let alone a jogging option. This double jogger from Baby Trend can comfortably accommodate kids as young as 6 months, up to 42” in height and 50 lbs.
weight each, and features all the must-haves of a single jogger: sturdy pneumatic tires, optional lock on the front swivelling wheel for long, straight paths, and ample storage to make sure you’re prepared for anything.
Pros
Cons
Having two kids to cart is going to limit you in terms of jogger weight and compactness; there’s just no way around it. This Baby Trend jogger comes pretty close to a compromise, however, with a weight of only 34 lbs.—not exactly feather-light, but still possible to cart around solo—and a folded profile that’s just as flat as single versions (but, of course, wider).
5. Chicco Tre Stroller, Titan Review
With a sporty design and triple-fold feature, the Chicco Tre is one of the best-looking joggers out there—and definitely one of the best for traveling.
It can easily fit in a trunk or cargo area, without sacrificing performance when unfolded: adjustable suspension in the front tire means you can stabilize this model for long, level runs, or loosen it up for more casual outings, too.
Pros
Cons
With only some basic under-carriage storage, the Chicco isn’t going to suit everyone’s needs; if you’re looking for a jogger that doubles as a haul-everything option for long days out after the workout’s over, this isn’t it—but for a jogger that can fold up and follow you with ease by plane, train, or automobile, the Chicco is ideal. The price is a bit steep for some, but others will gladly pay extra for a truly mobile stroller to fit their lifestyle.
Conclusion
Stroller shopping is an exhausting experience at times, especially when you have very specific must-haves. Joggers are easy to find, as are compact travel strollers: it’s the combination of the two that’s tough to track down! While some joggers are inescapably bulky (and virtually impossible to take on trips), there are plenty of travel-friendly options out there, if you research well and have a fairly flexible budget.
