Stroller Wheels & Tires Guide (Best Inner Tubes & Tires for Baby Strollers)

Stroller wheels and tires provide a better riding experience, and are available in a variety of sizes and materials. Find replacement tires, wheels, and casters for strollers and other baby travel gear.

Stroller Wheels / Tires: Buying Guide

Why Stroller Wheels Matter

Stroller wheels & tires are important stroller parts as they provider a better riding experience to the child in the stroller, and also makes it easier for the parent to steer and maneuver the stroller.

There are various kinds of strollers, each suited to a different purpose and lifestyle. Depending on how they are going to be used, these strollers are equipped with different kinds of wheels.

It’s common for City/Urban strollers to have 4-wheels to provide better balance; these wheels are sturdy and make easy to maneuver the stroller in the busy city streets.

However, for off-roading, you need wheels that are better suited to the uneven terrain. All-terrain strollers use bigger sized wheels (compared to the city/traditional strollers), either pneumatic or rubber, as these are better suited for the uneven surfaces.

Jogging strollers are typically 3-wheeled and come with pneumatic tires (same as those on bikes) which enable the stroller to move faster.

Stroller Tire Structure: Anatomy of a Stroller Wheel

Most stroller tires are hollow air tires (some are made of foam as well) and have the same structure as that of a bicycle tire. A well-inflated tire provides a comfortable riding experience.

Here’s the structure of a stroller tire.

Anatomy of a Stroller Wheel

 

• Stroller Wheel: The black polymer wheel or the aluminum wheel is found on most strollers. The tire and inner tube mount on the wheel.
• Stroller Tire: The tread that makes contact with the ground (but doesn’t holds air).
• Inner Tube: Holds the air. Even though everybody says “pump up the tire”, more often than not, you are actually pumping up the inner tube.

 

Typical air tire structure

Anatomy of a Stroller Wheel

 

The stroller wheel part uses the same bearings that are commonly used in automobiles. The best stroller wheels use bearings that greatly reduce the resistance, and suppress the noise that is generated due to the rotation of the wheels, thus providing a better riding experience.

 

 

Tread of Stroller Wheel

Another important thing to check is the tread of the stroller wheel, which can vary from stroller type to stroller type. An umbrella stroller will not need as much grip as an all-terrain or jogging stroller that need the extra grip for a safer journey on varying landscapes.

Umbrella strollers typically feature a smooth tread, a traditional stroller could range from a smooth tread to a traditional tread, whereas all-terrain and jogging strollers need rugged or semi-rugged tread for better grip.

Diameter of the Stroller Wheel

This basically relates to the size of the wheel. You get wheels of different diameters – some are four and a half inches while others are seventeen inches.

It is good to pay attention to the diameter of your stroller’s wheels when looking for replacements.

• Traditional strollers & Umbrella strollers usually have smaller wheels
• All-terrain and jogging strollers have larger wheels for more speed and to adapt better to varying landscapes.
• Some strollers use four – ‘six inch’ wheels which easily swivel to allow the user to easily glide around town during quick errands.
• Some use two – six and a half inch front swivel wheels with two rear ten and a half inch wheels. The varying size allows parents to easily maneuver over uneven sidewalk or from sidewalk to street without too much disruption to the child.
• Some feature nine and a half inch front swivel and lockable wheel with two twelve and a half inch rear wheels. The large diameter of the wheels allow for an even ride for the child while transporting the stroller across uneven and rough landscape.

Determining the Wheel Size

You can determine the tire and inner tube size by taking a look at the print on the sidewall of your stroller tire. The first number indicates the diameter of the wheel, which also indicates the tube size.

For example: A 16 x 1.75 tire means it has a 16 inch inner tube.

So, in case you need to replace the tire, you will need to buy a tire of the same tire size.

Wheel Size Matters

Some strollers come with pneumatic tires (air-filled), and some use foam core rubber tires. While the best strollers use high quality wheels, strollers with pneumatic tires have better maneuverability, because of their smooth, easy rolling wheels.

So the size and type of wheels have a direct impact on the maneuverability of the stroller. That is one of the reasons why jogging strollers with air filled tires usually rank higher than the others in maneuverability.

Strollers with bigger wheels are always easier to push than those with smaller wheels. Bigger wheels move much easily over bumps and non-paved surfaces.

In other words, it takes lesser effort to push a stroller with bigger wheels and air filled tires. Your baby too can enjoy smoother rides, however because the tires are air filled, it could have a flat tire just like a bicycle.

Many parents avoid air-filled and bigger tires fearing that it may add to the weight of the stroller but if you are a frequent traveler and if you stroll over unpaved terrain, you should consider air-filled tires (you need to keep a spare tire tube handy, although a flat tire is a rare occurrence).

If budget is not a constrain, you can also opt for some of the higher-end products that offer “never-flat” tires. These tires a foam-filled rubber offering more cushion than solid wheels, and there is no risk of a flat tire either.

We found these be a good compromise if you are anxious about a flat. While not as smooth rolling as an air-filled tire. These products are just as smooth as the air filled tires and absorbs all the bumps and has a good performed rating.

So, any downside of bigger wheels?

Bigger wheels add on to the weight of the stroller and if you travel frequently, loading and unloading it in and out of your car or using the public transport often can be a bit of a hassle.

Material Used

Stroller wheels come in a variety of sizes and materials, each have their own pros and cons and are suited for specific purposes. Earlier, stroller wheels were made from plastic but they are now available in more durable materials.

Nowadays you get four main tire types:

Aerotech tires: Lightweight and easy to replace, superior durability, look nice but lack in grip and ride comfort.

Ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) tires: Lightweight and easy to replace, great durability, but aren’t designed to move fast so are not suited for jogging strollers.

Polyurethane foam-filled tires: Bit heavier than aerotech or EVA tires but provide a comfortable ride. Easy to replace, durable, and provide better grip.

Foam wheels can be used for do-it-yourself projects, carts, wagons, strollers, dog wheelchairs, and just about anything else that rolls. These also work fine with dog wheelchairs, golf cart, carriage replacement wheels, strollers, garden carts, tote barrel cart wheels, industrial or warehouse cart projects, two-wheelers, laundry carts, trash can carts, fireplace wood carts, and more!

Compared to pneumatic tires, these require less maintenance and you don’t have to repair tire tubes every few weeks. Companies like Bugaboo have made foam tires standard on all their strollers.

Pneumatic tires: Heaviest, less durable but offer superior grip, speed and ride comfort.

The good quality tires use high quality rubbers that provide good grip on the surface. The rubber sealing inside retains the air for longer periods (compared to plastic caps) requiring less frequent inflation.

Stroller (pram) wheel types

Stroller Wheels & Tires: Maintenance

Stroller Wheels Replacement

With baby strollers, flat tubes or lacerated tires are a common phenomenon. Almost every parent / caretaker has to deal with it.

So, its good to know how to replace the inner tube / tire of a stroller, else you could be in trouble if you’re far away from home.

Stroller wheels & tires, available in a variety of sizes and materials.

You will find replacement tires, wheels, and casters for all kind of baby travel gear such as carts, wagons, strollers, dog wheelchairs, and just about anything else that rolls. You can choose from a wide variety of stroller wheels. You can also choose from aluminum alloy, stainless steel, polyester, and plastic.

Your choice of stroller wheels should depend on the purpose – whether its for errands around town, for maneuvering city streets in a hurry, for adventures/getaways, in parks or at your favorite hiking trail.

If you live in an area with lots of thorns or burrs on the road, sidewalk or trail, the tires of your stroller can go flat.

Fortunately for you, its easy to get it replaced.

Related: How to replace the inner tube in a stroller wheel

How to install (replace) wheels on a stroller

Secure the wheels of a stroller

When replacing the wheels of a stroller, you must take care to secure the wheels of the stroller, so that it doesn’t come out when you’re actually using it.

In the past few months, there have been instances, when the front wheel of the stroller detached from the stroller. This can be a serious issue, especially in the case of jogging strollers.

One such case involved BOB jogging strollers. A mechanism in several different models allowed an adult to quickly remove and reinstall the front wheel so that the stroller can be carried or stored when not in use.

However, the problem was that if the quick-release mechanism wasn’t tightened properly, the front wheel could detach while the adult was jogging with the child. This could cause the stroller to tip over, and cause grievance injury to the child. Several cases of abrasions, concussions, and dental injuries were reported. CPSC had announced the recall of the affected models (the removable front wheel was attached to the stroller using a quick release).

Britax still uses the quick release but have changed the design a bit to make it safer.

If you own a Bob stroller or are planning to buy one, and have safety concerns, here’s what you need to know about the controversy surrounding the BOB stroller. Those who own an affected model to visit the BOB Gear Information Campaign website for instructions on how to make sure the stroller’s front wheel is properly secured.

“It is important to engage your quick release correctly because the function of the quick release is to secure your front wheel to your stroller. If the quick release is improperly engaged, your front wheel could detach in use, and you or your child could be injured.”

• Britax released an informational video, under a public safety campaign, detailing how to adjust and secure the front wheel of its popular Bob jogging stroller
• The company also offered replacement parts and discounts to consumers who request them.

The bolts were offered to consumers as a free replacement for the factory-installed quick-release thru-bolts on 17 models of BOB jogging strollers manufactured between January 2009 and September 2015.

If you have a pre-2016 BOB stroller, make sure the front quick release works fine on the stroller. Here’s a YouTube video that shows how it is rightly done.

 

Wheels Require Regular Cleaning

The performance of a stroller is highly dependent on the condition of its wheels, so it is important to take regular care of the wheels and clean them on a regular basis.

You should periodically remove all the wheels, and clean the dirt and other visible chunks that are entangled in them.

Stroller wheels stuck, not turning: How to fix rotation / swivel problems

Lubricate the moving parts of the stroller if necessary, with a light application of a silicone based lubricant. You should regularly check the condition of the wheels and keep clean of dust, dirty and sand.

Related: Slime the tires to fix the puncture

Related: Best Air Pump for Stroller Tires

Bestselling Stroller Wheels, Inner Tubes, tires

The wheels are useful stroller parts that, over a period of time, get subjected to the maximum wear and tear. At times, you may have to replace the inner tube of the wheel, or in some cases you will need to look for replacement tires.

Give your trusted stroller a new lease of life with these wheels/kits. You just have to replace the front wheel (easy to do so) and not the whole stroller.

Its probably time to stop trying out DIY fix-its for the original wheel, and get a replacement.

Here we take a look at the best Inner Tubes & Tires for Baby Strollers.

Always replace with the same type of tire, previously used on your stroller (be it air or foam tires).

Take a look at these stroller wheels to choose the one for your needs.

Universal wheels and tubes work with a range of strollers; many of these also work with kids bike/kids trike.

• 2- Pack 10″ universal replacement inner tubes (by StaiBC)
• Durader innertube (16″ Rear Tube)
• Jolik 16″ universal Inner Tube
• 2-Pack 12” universal inner tubes (Calpalmy)
• 16” back and 12.5” (2+1) front wheel replacement universal inner tubes (Calpalmy)

8-Inch Inner Tubes and Stroller Wheels

Most strollers (the standard ones) use 8 inch stroller wheels. So if you’re looking for an 8-inch stroller wheel (as replacement) you can checkout these options.

 

 

A wide variety of 8 inch baby stroller wheels options are available to you, such as baby stroller, baby walker, and baby carrier. Strollers that use 8-inch baby wheels are most popular in several countries around the world.

8″ foam wheel with bearings

This is a sturdy, yet lightweight tire with rim. These work well over rough terrain and offer minimal rolling resistance.

Dimensions – Height: 8″, Width: 1 1/2″ , Weight: 12oz , Axle: 5/16″
Bearing: Yes
Read more user reviews here.

In order to ascertain if it will work with your stroller (or any other product), check the diameter of the axle; that’s the determining factor.

8-Inch Stroller Wheels – Uses
8-inches stroller wheels are most popular on pet/dog strollers and wheel chairs. These can also be used for dog wheelchairs, carriage replacement wheels, garden carts, tote barrel cart wheels, industrial or warehouse cart projects, two wheelers, laundry carts, trash can carts, fireplace wood carts, and more.

12-inch Inner Tubes and Stroller Wheels

Universal Inner Tube Tire Replacements (12.5” x 1.75/2.25) by Mata1

Universal inner tubes for smooth and quiet run, durable and ability to withstand all weather, doesn’t use BPA and LATEX, and is compatible with a range of jogging stroller brands such as Baby Jogger Summit X3, BoB Revolution, Bugaboo Runner, Bumbleride Speed, Burley Solstice, Graco Joggers, Joovy Zoom Ultralight 360, Mountain Buggy Terrain, Schwinn Interval, Thule Urban Glide, and more.

• Buy on Amazon

12-inch Foam Wheel (by Small Tires and Wheels)

These are made of hard, dense foam material, similar to what you find a baby stroller wheel or tricycle wheel. These are better than the air filled tires, and offers a smooth ride.

Height: 11 3/4″. Width: 1 11/16″. Weight: 1lb 5oz. Axle: 1/2″. Bearing: Yes
Buy on Amazon

Cameleon 12in Foam Back Wheel
This has both – a replacement wheel AND axel (metallic rod from wheel that attaches to the frame). It works with the cameleon + (original). Works with Bugaboo frog. Will not fit Cameleon3.
Weight: 6.6 pounds. Dimensions: 12 x 12 x 1 inches

So go ahead and choose from these hard-to-find tires and wheels.

16-inch Inner Tubes and Stroller Wheels

Universal Inner Tube Tire Replacements (16″ x 1.5/1.75/1.95/2.125) by Mata1

2 Inner Tube Tire Replacements 16″ x 1.5/1.75/1.95/2.125 for Jogging Stroller. Compatible with most brands of jogging strollers such as BoB Revolution, Graco Joggers, Thule, Baby Jogger, Bugaboo Runner, Bumbleride Speed, Burley Solstice, Graco Joggers, Joovy, Mountain Buggy, Schwinn, and more.

Installing is easy. You just need to remove the outer tread, place the Mata1 Inner Tube around the wheel rim, pump air in the tire. These inner tubes also come with spare caps. This will also wok on most kids bike.

• Buy on Amazon

16” Back Wheel Replacement Inner Tubes (2-Pack) by CALPALMY

16” stroller replacement tubes (16” x 1.5/1.75/1.95/2.125) that works with a range of jogging strollers form various brands. Thick butyl rubber absorbs shocks better. Easy to replace and install.

• Buy on Amazon

Baby Jogger Wheels

Find replacement inner tubes and tires for Baby Jogger stroller.

Read more here.

BOB Inner Tubes & Tires

Find replacement inner tubes and tires (front as well as back) for Bob Jogging stroller.

Read more here.

Graco Jogging Strollers: Tubes & Tires Replacement

Find replacement inner tubes and tires (front as well as back) for Graco Strollers.

Read more here.

Baby Trend Inner Tubes & Tires

Find replacement inner tubes and tires (front as well as back) for Baby Trend stroller.

Read more here.

Grog/Gecko 6″ Swivel Wheel

6″ swivel wheel replacement for Bugaboo Frog or Bugaboo Gecko strollers. Wheels sold individually.

If you own a Bugaboo stroller (Frog or Gecko) and need new wheels because the existing ones are worn out, you need to buy these tires.

Connecting this is as simple as click and go…

So if your Bugaboo’s wheels are damaged, you don’t have to throw your stroller away because of the damage, these single wheels and other parts are easily available that help fix these expensive strollers in a breeze.

Stroller Wheel Pin

How to Replace the Locking Pin on a Stroller. Even though the model shown is a Mountain Buggy, you will get an idea of how to replace the stroller wheel pin. You will have to follow the steps shown here if you have lost the locking pin or if the wheel is not locking onto the stroller (wheel falls off), or if the wheel won’t come off the stroller (detach).

 

 

 

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