The word compact stand for something firm as well as fortified. A stroller is being pushed hard when you are jogging with it. Consequently, something sturdier and effective are a must. Jogging strollers are, by design, wider and heavier than regular strollers—but they also can be handled 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.
#List Of The Best Compact Travel Jogging Stroller – Editor’s Pick:
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 to 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 specially engineered 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. While the money is yours, and you’ll be the one pushing the stroller, 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.?
Firstly, measure your car’s trunk and, if applicable, the closet or area it will be stored. Don’t forget 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.
Secondly, 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 Most Compact Jogging Stroller Reviews
1. Joovy Zoom 360 Snack Tray 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 vulnerable to bumps, which will be great for you and your little exercise buddy.
Pros
- Fairly lightweight aluminum frame, folds up for easy storage and travel. Stroller weight: 25.7 lbs.
- Maximum weight capacity: 75 lbs. Infants can use travel system with compatible car seat (sold separately); do not jog with infants in car seat or children under 15 lbs. (about 3 months of age).
- Rear axle is straight for better control; swiveling front wheel and one-step parking brake.
- Pneumatic tires with front suspension. Air pump included in purchase.
- Includes running leash to ensure stroller stays near you in the event you accidentally let go.
- Extra-wide padded seat with multiple reclining positions for child’s comfort.
- Parents’ tray with mesh cup holders so drinks don’t fall out easily; zippered pocket and mesh storage underneath. Wide sun canopy with a downward slope to keep children protected from the sun.
- Affordable for a jogger stroller.
- Also available in red or blue, as well as a similar double version for use with two children.
Cons
- Larger than most jogging strollers, but more stable. In spite of that, folds to a size suitable for traveling.
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 Range Jogger Stroller, Millennium Review
For a jogger that’s a little more budget-friendly, buyers will enjoy the Baby Trend Range: it’s priced quite sensibly 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
- Front suspension with lockable wheel or swivel motion; large back tires. Competent for multiple terrains and provides great control.
- Seat is padded and reclines; 5-point harness.
- Removable bumper bar included.
- Large storage basket underneath.
- Stroller weight: 27.5 lbs. Folds into a compact, easy-to-carry form.
- Maximum weight capacity: 50 lbs.
- Gender neutral design; all black with colored canopy (bright orange). Other colors included (all with black bodies; colors refer to canopy): Cardinal (red), Allow (gray), Viola (pink-purple), and Willow (lime green).
- Very affordable.
- Travel system compatible; car seat and adapter sold separately.
Cons
- Does not handle quite as smoothly as comparable models that cost a little more.
- Does not feature a parents’ or child’s tray/cup holders.
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. Lower price doesn’t compromise too much quality and convenience, although that, in the end, is up to the consumer to decide.
3. Jeep Unlimited Range Jogger Stroller, All-Terrain Jogging Stroller 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 of the fact 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 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
- Lightweight; 21 lbs. Folds for compact storage and traveling.
- Jeep brand to back product; manufactured by Kolcraft, a respected name in the industry.
- Five-point padded harness; padded seat with reclining capabilities.
- Oversized storage bin underneath stroller; parent tray with covered storage and cup holders. Also includes child’s snack tray.
- Maximum weight capacity: 50 lbs.
- All-terrain, knobby rubber tires for superior traction and smoother navigation on multiple terrains.
- Extendable canopy with reflective sun visor.
- Also available in Charcoal (black with silver) or Berry Tracks (black with pink).
Cons
- Child’s snack tray does not include a cup holder.
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.
Besides, features all the must-haves of a single jogger: sturdy pneumatic tires, optional lock on the front swiveling wheel for long, straight paths, and ample storage to make sure you’re prepared for anything.
Pros
- Side-by-side double design can fit two children (6 months and up; up to 50 lbs. weight); padded seats with reclining features and 5-point safety harnesses, as well as a shared sun canopy across both seats.
- Larger-than-average footrest to keep kids’ feet off the front tire or ground.
- 16” rear pneumatic tires; front 12” wheel can swivel or be locked into position for improved stability on straight paths.
- Large storage basket underneath stroller, as well as a covered compartment and 2 cup holders in parents’ tray.
- Stroller weight: 34 lbs. Not as light as regular joggers, but light for a double jogger.
- Affordable for even a single jogger with similar features, but especially a double.
Cons
- Does not come with a bumper bar or child snack trays/cup holders.
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 Jogging Stroller Reviews
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
- Pneumatic tires; 12” front with swivel feature and adjustable suspension; 16” rear.
- Folds into three different configurations: freestanding for closets or garages, trunk fold for vehicle, and extra-small for longer storage or airplane travel.
- Compatible with travel system components, sold separately.
- Water-repelling fabric; strong and easy to clean with a damp cloth or baby wipe.
- Stroller weight: 28.5 lbs. Maximum weight capacity: 55 lbs.
- Hand-brake.
Cons
- Out of some price ranges.
- Includes removable bumper bar, but no child or parents’ trays or cup holders.
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
Buying stroller 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.