One day in the early 1980s, Phil Baechler, a copy editor for the local Yakima Washington newspaper, returned from an unsatisfying jog with his infant son, Travis. This wasn't the first time he had tried to jog while pushing the stroller, nor was it the first time the experience frustrated him. The typical stroller just wasn't designed for jogging. This time, however, an idea took hold and out of that idea came the design for jogging strollers.
Equipped with three large wheels, these strollers are designed to carry children over uneven terrain in comfort and safety, allowing their parents to continue their running routine while sharing time with the kids. There are strollers available that can carry one, two or three children. When choosing strollers for more than one child, check weight guidelines and purchase one that can accommodate your children's combined weight.
The front wheel of the stroller can be fixed, free swiveling, or both. A fixed wheel is best for jogging, where even a small obstruction can be dangerous with a wheel that swivels. A swivel wheel, on the other hand, is better on flat surfaces and in tight areas because it is more maneuverable. If you'll be using the stroller in a variety of settings, get one with a wheel that can be fixed or allowed to swivel as the need arises.
Wheels come in several different sizes and types. Generally, the size ranges from 12 inches to 16 inches. The larger the wheel, the more comfortable the ride will be over rough surfaces. Larger wheels are more difficult to maneuver in smaller areas that require tighter turns, however. Smaller wheels are a better choice for those conditions. If it is likely that you will use the stroller in both situations, look for medium sized wheels.
Typically, wheels are made from either steel or alloy. Steel is less expensive, but can rust. If you get steel wheels, wipe them off and dry them after use.
A few of the best brands are the Bob jogging stroller, Baby Trend jogging stroller, InStep jogging stroller, Schwinn, Dreamer Design, InStep 5k, Bell, Phil and Teds and Zooper strollers.
Choose a stroller that has a canopy that can be adjusted to protect your child from the elements. Make sure that there is a hand brake, so you can actually jog downhill, and not act as the brake yourself. There should be at least a 3 point harness in the stroller. If you are going to use the stroller over rough terrain, a 5 point harness would be better. The stroller should also have a wheel lock to keep it at rest when you want it to stay in one place. Finally, an adjustable handle will add to the jogger's comfort, particularly if one parent is taller than the other.
You should also consider convenience as well. Is it easy to fold the stroller away? Is it small enough when collapsed to fit in your car trunk? Some strollers fold twice, allowing them to fit in smaller areas. Strollers with smaller wheels fold more compactly. Can one person set it up after it has been collapsed? If not, it probably will never be used, or will never be folded away.