Jogging Stroller vs Regular Stroller: Top differences

There are different types of strollers available, and it is better to be clear out how you are going to use your stroller (something that suits your lifestyle) even before you start looking for a any specific stroller model.

If you love exercising, running and jogging or are planning to resume fitness regime, you should definitely consider a jogging stroller.

But is a jogger suitable for errands and everyday shopping trips too?

Here we take a look at the differences between a jogging stroller (also known as running stroller) and a regular stroller.

Jogging Stroller vs Regular Stroller

Jogging Stroller

• 3 air-filled rubber wheels. Front wheel is bigger in size.
• Front wheel has lock mechanism, you can lock the wheel while jogging/running. Jogging strollers in the past used to have stationary/fixed front wheels. However, jogging strollers nowadays offer a swivel front wheel instead. You can lock it or unlock (make it swivel) the front wheel with a simple locking mechanism.
• Single, sturdy handlebar for one-hand operation
• Better suspension offers smooth ride, works nicely on rough terrains.
• Bulkier/heavier because of the sturdy construction and bigger wheels, can be a challenge to transport.

Read: Best jogging strollers

Regular Stroller

• 3 or 4 foam-filled or hard-plastic wheels. Front wheels swivel.
• Front wheels do not lock
• Some have single handlebars, while some have separate handlebars (requiring two hands)
• To be pushed at slow speeds as the plastic wheels can by bumpy, suited for smooth surfaces like city roads, floors of the supermarket/malls
• these are lightweight and more compact.

Read: Lightweight strollers vs umbrella strollers vs standard strollers

Can You Jog With a Regular Stroller?

You can but it won’t be a great experience and personally I feels its risky for the baby.

• Plastic wheels will make lot of noise
• Small wheels can get stuck easily, front wheels may turn abruptly (risky while running)
• You cannot make the front wheels stationary on most strollers
• It will be a bumpy ride for the baby, especially on uneven surfaces, rough terrains.

So I wouldn’t use a regular stroller for jogging; its too much of a risk. You may use it for walks in the park but for jogging, you definitely need a jogging stroller.

Can You Use a Jogger as a Regular Stroller?

Yes you can. You can lock/unlock the front wheel and use it for running in the park or for walking in the mall.

But as mentioned, they are heavier and at times you just don’t feel like using a big stroller just to go to the grocery store; you wish there was something lighter.

Running strollers can also look awkward in crowded areas because of its long front wheel which will most likely touch people around you.

Jogging strollers are also heavy and take up more storage space (some jogging strollers feature removable wheels which makes it a bit easier to transport in your car but they are still bulky).

That is why lot of parents invest in a a separate lightweight stroller (in addition to the jogger).

Note: Air-filled tires can puncture (like tires of bikes). so you will need to carry a puncture repair kit in case you intend to use the stroller regularly.

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StrollerBoards is a family managed website with me (Ben) and my wife doing most of the work. We are proud parents of two wonderful kids and love reviewing baby travel gear. We have a firm but friendly “democratic parenting” style and offer several practical solutions backed by extensive research. Our own experience with raising two children prompted us to share our knowledge. Read more.