Shopping for baby gear can be both exciting and overwhelming. There is this joy of going around the stores imagining all the activities you can do with your little one. But of course, you also have to do your research well on what things will be the safest and most comfortable for your child before purchasing them. Otherwise, you run the risk of wasting space, money, and effort on an item just because other parents have them.

However, there is no doubt that a stroller gets a high rank among baby must-haves. Exploring the outdoors with your child is an awesome bonding experience, but even energetic kids get tired, and when they’re young, you will wind up using a stroller to keep them safe. So in your quest on what strollers are worth the investment, you might have come across jogging and all-terrain strollers as well.

As you can see here, all-terrain strollers are one of the best types to get in the market. They are built specifically to withstand wear and tear. On the contrary, jogging strollers are also durable enough to be stable when you’re using one at high speed. And since the market offers both strollers with similar characteristics, it can get confusing if there is really a difference between the two.

What is the Difference Between a Jogging Stroller and an All-Terrain Stroller

Jogging Strollers: The Good

From the name itself, a jogging stroller is your perfect partner if you intend on jogging with your little one. Its overall build is meant to withstand running compared to other types of strollers. However, don’t mistake a jogging stroller as an all-terrain stroller because they are different.

In order for a jogging stroller to handle high speeds, it offers the option to lock the front wheel. This way, you have more control over its stability if you opt to jog. However, you should also know that this feature is not unique to jogging strollers since manufacturers seem to add this feature to other strollers as well.

At the same time, you might also notice a trend among jogging strollers where its wheels are in a triangular configuration. Add this to having a front locking wheel, and you will have an easier time with maneuvering on different paths even while running.

Another safety feature that jogging strollers also utilize is a handbrake. Instead of you needing to step on it, it’s easier to access near the handle when you are jogging with your little one. And of course, you might also find jogging strollers more lightweight because of their purpose. If you happen to run in an uphill trail, you won’t struggle as much because of this.

All-Terrain Strollers: The Good

If you don’t intend on jogging with your little one, and you need something more durable in all kinds of conditions, you should get an all-terrain stroller. Among the different types of strollers, an all-terrain model is probably the sturdiest among them all.

Manufacturers have designed these models to be heavy-duty and usable regardless of how tough your trail would be. According to CuteLittleDarling, you can use this stroller on various surfaces from grass, sand, gravel, and even dirt roads.

In order to maintain their stability, all-terrain strollers usually come with four-wheel configurations instead of three like the jogging strollers. However, do not be confused if some models only come with three wheels since manufacturers continue to innovate their products.

The tires of these strollers are also one of their best features since they are virtually puncture-proof. At the same time, the models have amazing suspension systems, so your child will still feel comfortable in a bumpy terrain.

Jogging Strollers: The Bad

Jogging strollers are not always the best pick because they might not match with your lifestyle. They are usually smaller and lighter, so this also meant a lower weight limit capacity. If you intend to use a stroller for longer, it might not last for a fast-growing child.

At the same time, because this type of stroller uses air-filled tires, they are more prone to getting punctured. Jogging strollers utilize this type of tires because they help in mobility, especially when jogging. However, this also meant that you have to be always ready with a puncture repair kit when using this stroller.

All-Terrain Strollers: The Bad

Because of their heavy-duty built, you can also expect all-terrain strollers to be bulkier than other strollers. If you are traveling, you might be limited by your choice of transportation. Or instead, you might not be able to carry it around as easily.

Which One Should You Pick?

Get a Jogging Stroller If…

If you are the type of parent who sees himself/herself running with his/her little one more often, then it’s worth investing in a jogging stroller. They will be safer and more comfortable to use because of the features we mentioned earlier.

The handbrake is easier to access, and the overall design of the stroller makes it safer to steer even if you are speeding. If you use an ordinary stroller, you will have a difficult time controlling it because you can’t lock the front wheels.

The triangular configuration of a jogging stroller and lightweight built will also demand less effort from you compared to a square configuration and bulky built. You don’t risk tilting the stroller at high speed, and your child won’t feel uncomfortable because you can control the model’s direction.

Get an All-Terrain Stroller If…

On the other hand, if you’re the adventurous type, there’s no doubt that an all-terrain stroller is more fitting for your family. With the compromise of it being on the heavier and bulkier side, you don’t have to worry about the frame or tires wearing out while you’re outdoors. You can also use your all-terrain stroller in a variety of trails, so you don’t need to bring multiple models when traveling with your little one.

However, it is worth mentioning that there are brands out there that are expanding their lines of all-terrain strollers. Don’t be surprised to find hybrids between an all-terrain and jogging stroller or a double all-terrain stroller. With these options available in the market, you can enjoy the durability and off-road capabilities with added benefits on an all-terrain stroller.