Best Strollers for Hiking & Jogging (2025 Update)

Last Updated on 10/2025 by Mom Goes Camping

About this guide: I’ve been testing jogging strollers on trails, sidewalks, and camping trips for the past six years with my two kids. This guide reflects hands-on experience with multiple models, conversations with other outdoorsy parents, and extensive research into the latest 2025 models. I personally own and have extensively used the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0, and have tested several others through friends and at outdoor gear stores.

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Buying an off-road jogging stroller definitely made transitioning to life with a new baby easier for me. Instead of being stuck in “baby prison,” I was still able to get outdoors and do things like jogging, camping and hiking with my baby.

Even with an off-road jogging stroller, getting outdoors with a baby still isn’t easy. There’s a lot to figure out. You’ll definitely need to carry a bunch of crap around with you (literally and figuratively!). But a jogging stroller can be looked at as a tool which makes it all easier.

Oh, and if anyone tries to say you are crazy for getting outdoors with a young baby or little kid, just casually remind them of all the benefits that come with getting kids outdoors from a young age like lower incidences of asthma, allergies, and even fewer mental disorders like depression. 😀

Quick Picks: Best Hiking Strollers at a Glance

Jump to detailed reviews below or use this comparison to find your perfect match based on budget and needs.

Price Range Guide

Price Range	What You Get	Models
$200-350	Basic off-road capability, good for light trails and park paths	Jeep Hydro Sport Plus
$350-450	Everyday stroller that handles some bumps, no serious suspension	Britax B-Free
$550-700	Excellent suspension, durable construction, premium features	BOB Revolution Flex 3.0, Thule Urban Glide 3.0, BOB Wayfinder, UPPAbaby Ridge
$750-900	Top-tier suspension, waterproof features, serious trail performance	BOB Alterrain Pro, Thule Chariot (varies by model)
$900+	Multi-use systems, innovative features, highest quality materials	Veer Switchback, Thule Chariot Sport

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re serious about hiking and running with your stroller 2-3+ times per week, invest in the $550-700 range. If you only need occasional off-road use (once a month or less), the budget options will work fine. For hardcore adventurers who camp and hike weekly, consider the premium tier—you’ll use it enough to justify the cost.

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⬇️ Keep reading for in-depth reviews with real-world testing, pros & cons, and buying advice ⬇️

Best All-Terrain Strollers Reviewed

1. BOB Revolution Flex 3.0

My Experience: This is my personal stroller, and I’ve put it through six years of heavy use. I’ve pushed it through muddy forest trails, over snow-covered sidewalks during Canadian winters, and across rocky beach paths. The suspension has held up remarkably well, and I’ve only needed to replace the tubes once (after running over some thorny branches on a camping trip).

Verdict: Great stroller for really tough terrain and snow. It has fully upright seating and folds with the fabric inwards. It doesn’t have a hand break so it’s not ideal for jogging on steep hills. While not as feature-rich as the #2 and #3 picks, it gets my vote because it is more affordable and has proven durable over years of use.

Features

• 12.5″ front wheel; 16″ back wheels
• Air-filled tires
• 28.5lbs
• 75lbs capacity
• Foot brake
• Adjustable handle
• Lockable front wheel
• Folded dimensions: 39″L x 24.5″W x 16″H
• Open dimensions: 45″L x 24.5″W x 43″H
• Interior seat width: 14.5″
• Max child height: 44″

Buy here at Amazon or here at REI

In-Depth Review:

BOB stands for Beast of Burden and, yes, it lives up to its name. The stroller has a great suspension system which allows it to handle tough terrain better than most similar strollers in this price range. I’ve found that it glides over tree roots and rocks that would jar other strollers. The tradeoff is that the BOB Revolution is very large. It takes two steps to fold down and, even when completely collapsed, might not fit in the trunk of some small cars.

The brand did a good job of designing this hiking and jogging stroller. It has so many extras like an adjustable seat, padded handles which adjust to 9 positions (which really saves your wrists going up or downhill!), a wrist strap, reflectors, huge basket and pockets. Your child will be comfortable because of the great ventilation and canopy with UV 50 protection.

Real-world performance: I’ve used this stroller on everything from groomed bike paths to rough forest trails. On smooth surfaces, it rolls effortlessly with one hand. On bumpy trails, the suspension really shines—my kids have fallen asleep in it even on moderately rocky paths. The 9-position handlebar adjustment has been essential since my husband is 6’2″ and I’m 5’4″. We adjust it every time we switch who’s pushing.

What I wish it had: A hand brake would be nice for steep downhills, though the foot brake works well once you get used to it. The two-handed fold is manageable but annoying when you’re juggling a kid and gear.

Read the full BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 review here.

Pros

• Car seat compatible (with adapter bar)
• Fully upright seating option
• Adjustable suspension
• Handlebar has 9 positions
• 5-point harness
• Ventilation in multiple areas
• UPF 50 canopy that goes all the way down
• Wrist strap, huge basket, peek-a-boo window and other nice extras
• Folds with fabric facing inward (stays clean)

Cons

• Two-handed folding
• Very large and bulky, even when folded
• No hand brake

Buy the BOB here on Amazon or here at REI

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2. Thule Urban Glide 3.0

My Experience: I’ve tested this stroller extensively at REI and through a friend who owns one. I’ve taken it on several day hikes and neighborhood runs to compare it directly with my BOB.

Verdict: Has amazing suspension system that can handle tough terrain but is lighter and more compact than BOB strollers. Great for ease-of-use, car seat compatibility and has tons of features. The hand brake is a game-changer on hilly terrain. It’s pricy though!

Features

• 16″ rear wheels, 12″ front wheel
• Air-filled tires
• 26.2lbs
• 75lbs capacity
• Twist hand brake AND foot brake
• Adjustable handlebar
• Lockable front wheel
• Folded dimensions: 34.6″L x 22.8″W x 12.2″H
• One-handed fold
• Fully upright seating

In-Depth Review:

The Thule Urban Glide off-road jogging stroller has long been a favorite with outdoorsy parents. It’s tough enough for hiking trips but lighter than other hiking and jogging strollers. They recently upgraded it to the 3.0 version, which has even more features.

One of the standout features is the twist-hand brake. This makes it very easy to control speed on hilly terrain. During my test runs, I found the hand brake much more intuitive than using only a foot brake, especially on steep descents where you want gradual speed control. The foot brake is also large and easy to use.

I love that you can fold the Urban Glide with just one hand. You just need to pull a blue bar located under the foot rest. Once the stroller has been folded, you can even fold in the wheels. This makes the stroller fold down very compact, so it could even fit in smaller cars. Like all one-handed fold hiking strollers though, this means that it folds with the fabric outwards. There is a universal car seat adapter (sold separately), so you can use this hiking stroller with babies too.

Comparison with BOB: Having used both, the Thule feels more refined and easier to maneuver in tight spaces. The lighter weight (2 pounds less than the BOB) is noticeable when lifting it into a car. However, my BOB has proven more durable over years of heavy use—some parents report the Thule’s fabric showing wear faster.

As for downsides, it is annoying that the stroller folds with the fabric outwards, which is a problem if you need to fold it somewhere muddy. I also wish it had more extras like a cup holder included (it’s sold separately). Unlike the Urban Glide 2.0, the 3.0 version has fully-upright seating. Also note that the door pass-through on the Urban Glide 3.0 is 27.2 inches, which is two inches more than with BOB strollers—something to consider if you have narrow doorways.

Pros

• One-handed folding
• Hand and foot brakes
• Fully upright seating option (new in 3.0)
• Universal car seat compatibility
• Zip storage compartment
• Lighter than most competitors
• Excellent maneuverability

Cons

• High price point
• Folds with fabric outwards
• 27 inch door pass-through (wider than some doorways)
• Cup holder and extras sold separately

Get the Thule Urban Glide 3.0 Here on Amazon

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3. BOB Alterrain Pro

My Experience: I’ve tested this model on technical mountain trails and compared it side-by-side with my Revolution Flex. My friend who hikes regularly in the Pacific Northwest swears by hers for serious trail running.

Verdict: The best for serious terrain and trail jogging. The upgraded suspension handles technical trails better than almost any other stroller. If it were slightly cheaper and more compact, it would be the #1 or #2 pick.

Features

• 16″ rear wheels, 12.5″ front wheel
• Air-filled tires with premium suspension
• 32.3lbs
• 75lbs capacity
• Hand brake AND foot brake
• Adjustable handlebar (9 positions)
• Lockable front wheel
• Folded dimensions: 39.3″L x 25.5″W x 17″H
• One-handed fold
• Fully waterproof canopy

In-Depth Review:

All BOB strollers have insanely good suspension systems, but the Alterrain Pro takes it to even higher standards. It also has some features which are lacking on the Revolution Flex. (See how the Alterrain and Revolution Flex compare here).

In particular, the Alterrain Pro has one-handed opening—something that makes it much easier to use. However, this means that it (like the Thule Urban Glide) folds with the fabric outwards. The Alterrain Pro also has a hand brake (something the Revolution Flex and regular Alterrain do not have). While the hand brake isn’t nearly as good as the one on the Thule Urban Glide, it’s still nice to have for controlling speed on steep descents.

On the trail: The difference in suspension quality becomes obvious on technical terrain. On a rocky trail with lots of roots and embedded stones, the Alterrain Pro absorbed impacts noticeably better than my Revolution Flex. My kids stayed asleep through sections that would typically wake them in other strollers.

There are also some other nice features, like a fully-waterproof canopy, many handlebar positions, lots of reflector trim, tons of pockets, and UPF protection. It’s also slightly smaller than the Revolution when folded with the wheels off, so fits small cars better.

Alterrain vs. Alterrain Pro

There are two versions of this jogging stroller: the Alterrain and Alterrain Pro. The regular Alterrain does not have a hand brake, waterproof canopy (it’s just water resistant), enclosed basket, venting on the canopy, or lots of reflective trim. Because the Pro version isn’t that much more expensive, I’d only recommend getting the Pro. If you want to save money and don’t need a hand brake, then get the Revolution Flex 3.0 instead.

See the Alterrain here on Amazon and here at REI.

Pros

• Insanely good suspension system—the best for technical trails
• Hand and foot brake
• One-handed folding
• Fully waterproof canopy with UPF protection
• Compatible with many car seats
• Excellent for serious runners and hikers

Cons

• High price point
• Folds with fabric facing outwards
• Handle brake in a slightly awkward position
• Heavier than some competitors

Get the BOB Alterrain Pro at Amazon or here at REI

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4. BOB Wayfinder

Verdict: The toughness of a BOB jogging stroller with a more compact design. Best for parents who need serious off-road capability but have limited vehicle space.

Features

• 16″ rear wheels, 12″ front wheel
• Air-filled tires
• 31.1lbs
• 75lbs capacity
• Hand brake AND foot brake
• Adjustable handlebar
• Lockable front wheel
• Folded dimensions: 32.5″L x 22″W x 16.5″H
• One-handed fold
• 44″ length when open (more compact!)

In-Depth Review:

The Wayfinder is the newest off-road jogging stroller by BOB Gear. The suspension system is on par with the Revolution Flex 3.0, though not as advanced as the Alterrain Pro. It has a hand brake and a lot of nice extra features like storage pockets.

The real reason to choose the Wayfinder is because it is more compact than other BOB strollers. It folds down much smaller, so is better for vehicles with limited trunk size. It also is 44″ long when open. Other BOB strollers are 46″ long and the Thule is 48″. Those extra few inches can make a big difference when maneuvering around town!

Who this is for: If you drive a compact car or frequently navigate tight spaces (narrow store aisles, small elevators, etc.) but still want BOB-quality off-road performance, the Wayfinder hits a sweet spot. You sacrifice a bit of suspension quality compared to the Alterrain Pro, but gain significant practicality.

Pros

• More compact than other rugged strollers
• Great suspension system
• Hand and foot brake
• One-handed folding
• Lots of storage extras
• Compatible with many car seats
• Easier to maneuver in tight spaces

Cons

• High price point
• Folds with fabric facing outwards
• Suspension not quite as robust as Alterrain Pro

Get the BOB Wayfinder at Amazon or here at REI

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5. Thule Chariot Bike Trailer/All-Terrain Stroller

Verdict: Good if you want just one piece of gear for biking, hiking, and even skiing. The versatility is unmatched, though the lineup options can be confusing.

Features

• Converts between bike trailer, jogging stroller, and ski sled
• Air-filled tires
• 25.8lbs (frame only)
• 75lbs capacity (combined for 2 kids)
• Hand brake (on some models)
• Adjustable suspension (on some models)
• Folded dimensions: 34.2″L x 31.5″W x 15″H
• Available in 1-child and 2-child versions

In-Depth Review:

Do you have a smaller stroller for everyday use and need something for adventures? Consider getting the Thule Chariot. It has a conversion kit that allows you to use it as a 4-wheel offroad stroller, 3-wheel jogging stroller, or a sled for skiing. The “Thule VersaWing system” means that you can quickly convert between activities—I’ve watched parents switch from stroller to bike trailer in under 60 seconds.

Other than the high price, the only frustrating thing about the Thule Chariot is that its lineup is confusing. There are currently 4 options in the Chariot line: Sport, Cross, Lite, and Cheetah XT. Each model of Chariot includes the trailer, rear wheels, stroller conversion, and cycling attachment. Here’s the difference between them:

• Chariot Sport: This is the model with the most features. It has adjustable suspension, reclining seats, padding, removable side panels, and comes with a hand brake and lock kit.
• Chariot Cross: Has a seat which can recline, padded seats, removable side panels, and adjustable suspension. It differs from the Sport in that it doesn’t come with a hand brake or lock kit (sold separately).
• Chariot Lite: Does not have adjustable suspension or reclining seats and has less padding
• Chariot Cheetah XT: Does not have any suspension, does not have seat padding, and the handlebar only has 2 heights. The rain cover isn’t removable.

Real-world use: Friends who own the Chariot Sport love it for family bike rides and trail adventures. The ability to bike to a trailhead, switch to stroller mode, and hike is genuinely useful. However, as a dedicated jogging stroller, it doesn’t perform quite as well as the purpose-built BOB or Thule Urban Glide models.

Pros

• One frame for multiple activities
• Easily switches between stroller and bike trailer
• Fast and easy to collapse
• Front wheels come off for storage
• Great suspension (on higher-end models)
• Lots of storage space
• Available in 2-child version

Cons

• Confusing options and extras
• Pricy
• Not quite as refined for jogging as dedicated joggers
• Takes up more space due to trailer design

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6. Britax B-Free Stroller

Verdict: More budget-friendly jogging and hiking stroller for everyday use which can handle some bumpy trails. Best for light trail use and parents on a tighter budget.

Features

• Rubber tires (not air-filled)
• 22lbs
• 65lbs capacity
• Foot brake
• Adjustable handle
• Lockable front wheel
• Folded dimensions: 32″x24″x 15″

Buy Here

In-Depth Review:

As far as hiking and jogging strollers go, the Britax B-Free is very affordable. However, when it comes to hiking or off-road use, it isn’t nearly as capable as the pricier options by BOB or Thule. It doesn’t have a suspension system or shocks and the rubber wheels are smaller. Despite this, the stroller can still handle some tougher terrain and even go over packed snow (it won’t be easy, but it’s possible!). There are also some other nice features, like lots of handle positions and storage.

Best use case: If you want just one stroller for everyday use plus occasional hiking on groomed trails or gravel paths, this is a good solution. Don’t expect it to handle technical trails, but for park paths and light off-road use, it’s surprisingly capable for the price.

What you’re giving up: The lack of suspension becomes obvious on bumpy terrain. Your child will feel more jostling, and you’ll feel more vibration in your hands. The smaller wheels also struggle more with soft surfaces like sand or deep gravel.

Pros

• One-handed folding
• Lightweight
• No need to pump tires
• Good storage space
• Affordable price
• Great for everyday use

Cons

• Not for rough terrain
• No hand brake
• Small wheels
• No suspension system
• Lower weight capacity (65lbs vs 75lbs)

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7. Jeep Hydro Sport Plus Stroller

Verdict: Budget hiking stroller for kids up to 50lbs. Good for occasional trail walking but not for serious hikers or runners.

Features

• Air-filled tires
• 29lbs
• 50lbs capacity (note: this is lower than most)
• Foot brake
• Lockable front wheel
• Folded dimensions: 17.5″L x 14.9″W x 30.5″H

Buy Here

In-Depth Review:

Considering it is so cheaply priced, the Jeep Hydro Sport Plus jogger stroller actually gives a pretty smooth ride when walking on trails. However, the suspension system doesn’t compare to the more expensive brands which use mountain bike suspension systems: the stroller will start to wobble on bumpy trails or if you try to run on smooth trails. Despite this, the stroller is still good enough for some occasional off-road use.

Important note: Jeep also makes a cheaper stroller called the “Cross Country.” This one does not have a suspension system. If you plan on going off-road with your baby, pay a bit more to get the Hydro Sport Plus with suspension!

The catch: The 50lb weight limit is significantly lower than other strollers (most are 75lbs). This means you’ll outgrow it sooner, especially considering that limit includes your child plus anything in the basket.

Pros

• Very affordable
• One handed folding
• Cup holder and tray included
• Wheels easily removable for storage

Cons

• Suspension not the best
• Only for 50lbs (much lower than competitors)
• Wobbles at higher speeds
• Not as durable for long-term use

Buy the Jeep Hydro Sport Plus Here

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8. UPPAbaby Ridge

Verdict: Choose if you want foam-filled tires instead of air-filled. Otherwise, choose a BOB or Thule stroller.

Features

• 16″ rear wheels, 12″ front wheel
• Foam-filled tires (never need inflating!)
• 29.2lbs
• 55lbs capacity
• Hand brake
• Adjustable handlebar
• Lockable front wheel
• Folded dimensions: 36.5″L x 26″W x 18.5″H
• One-handed fold

In-Depth Review:

The UPPAbaby Ridge is another high-end stroller with an amazing suspension system for going off-road. It also has some nice features like tons of storage pockets, comfortable seat and lots of ventilation.

The feature that really sets it apart though is the foam-filled wheels. You don’t have to worry about filling them or having them pop like with air-filled tires. This is genuinely appealing if you’ve ever dealt with a flat tire mid-hike. However, the UPPAbaby Ridge is very pricy and doesn’t have upright seating. The weight limit is also lower than other good off-road strollers (55lbs vs 75lbs).

The foam tire tradeoff: While you never have to pump them, foam-filled tires don’t absorb shock quite as well as properly inflated air tires. The difference is subtle on most terrain but noticeable on very bumpy trails.

So, unless foam-filled tires are really important to you, I’d go with a BOB or Thule stroller for better value and performance.

Pros

• Foam filled tires (maintenance-free)
• Great suspension system
• One handed folding
• Lots of storage
• Wheels easily removable for storage
• Premium materials and construction

Cons

• Expensive
• Only for 55lbs (lower capacity)
• No fully upright seating
• Foam tires don’t cushion quite as well as air

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9. Veer Switchback Jog

Verdict: Best for serious adventurers with a large budget who want one seat that works everywhere—stroller, bike, camp chair.

Features

• 16″ rear wheels, 12″ front wheel
• Air-filled tires
• 27.7lbs
• 80lbs capacity
• Hand brake
• Adjustable suspension on each wheel
• Folded dimensions: 25.5″L x 35″W x 19.0″H
• One-handed fold
• Seat detaches for use as bike seat, camp chair, or booster

In-Depth Review:

The brand Veer specializes in hardcore outdoor gear for babies and children, like off-road wagons. Their products come at a very high cost but are insanely cool and well-made. This stroller system consists of their Switchback seat plus a 3-wheel jogging frame. There is also a 4-wheel stroller frame that can also go off-road. The 4-wheel frame can fit two Switchback seats (the jogger only fits one), in case you need a double stroller.

The stroller frame has an insane suspension system on each wheel and it’s adjustable. The front wheel also has adjustable tracking. The hand brake is awesome at decelerating and the system really can handle tough off-road use. You can detach the seat and all parts can be hosed down for easy cleaning. Perfect for when you go off-roading with your baby through a mud pit 😀

The Switchback advantage: The standout feature is that the seat can be used in other ways. It can be your child’s bike seat, camp chair, or even a portable booster seat. For some of these functions though, you need to buy accessories—and those are also not cheap.

Real-world value: If you’re the kind of parent who bikes to trailheads, camps frequently, and truly uses all these features, the Switchback system can replace multiple pieces of gear. But if you’re mainly using it as a jogging stroller, you’re paying a premium for features you may rarely use.

If the Switchback was cheaper, it would be my #1 pick. But, because it is so expensive, I can only recommend it for super hardcore parents or those who have a high budget and will actually use all the versatility.

Pros

• Use seat on bike, as camp chair, as booster…
• Insanely good suspension system
• Hose washable (everything!)
• Easy to open/close
• Innovative design
• Excellent build quality

Cons

• Narrow 11.5″ seat width
• Wide door pass-through
• Very expensive
• Extra accessories also costly
• Overkill if you won’t use all features

Buy the Veer Switchback system here at Amazon or REI

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Hiking Strollers Comparison Table

Stroller	Capacity	Stroller Weight	Hand Brake	Folded Size	One-Handed Fold?	Fully Upright Seating
BOB Revolution Flex 3.0	75lbs	28.5lbs	No	38″x25″x16″	No	Yes
Thule Urban Glide 3.0	75lbs	26.2lbs	Yes	34.6″x22.8″x12.2″	Yes	Yes
BOB Alterrain Pro	75lbs	32.3lbs	Yes	39.3″x25.5″x17″	Yes	Yes
Britax B-Free Stroller	65lbs	22lbs	No	32″x24″x 15″	Yes	No
Jeep Hydro Sport Plus	50lbs	29lbs	No	30.5″x17.5″x14.9″	Yes	No
BOB Wayfinder	75lbs	31.1lbs	Yes	32.5″x22″x16.5″	Yes	Yes
UPPAbaby Ridge	55lbs	29.2lbs	Yes	36.5″x26″x18.5″	Yes	No
Thule Chariot	75lbs	25.8lbs	Yes*	34.2″x31.5″x 15″	No	Yes
Veer Switchback Jog	80lbs	27.7lbs	Yes	25.5″x35″x19.0″	Yes	Yes

*Hand brake availability varies by Chariot model

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How to Choose an All-Terrain Stroller for Hiking

Baby Carrier or Off-Road Stroller?

Hiking strollers are awesome at navigating trails and going off-road. They are also great for snow and ice. But you need to be realistic. Even the best off-road strollers aren’t going to be able to handle tough trails with narrow paths, steep inclines, or technical terrain. If you want to do any serious hiking on small pathways or steep inclines, you’ll need a baby carrier.

Also bear in mind that all-terrain strollers are heavy. Add in the weight of your child and it’s going to be tiring to push on a bumpy path. I’ve found that pushing 60+ pounds (stroller + child + gear) uphill on a rocky trail is a serious workout.

On the flip side, it’s also tiring to carry a baby in a carrier. My second kid had to be born with an emergency C-section, so I definitely wasn’t carrying her in a carrier the first couple months!

My recommendation: Use a stroller for wide, relatively flat trails and groomed paths. Switch to a carrier for narrow, steep, or technical trails. Many hiking parents keep both options available. For more detailed guidance, check out these tips for using child hiking carriers.

Read more about strollers vs. carriers for hiking here.

Size and Practicality

Sorry to break it to you, but you won’t find a lightweight, compact all-terrain stroller. These strollers have to be made from heavy-duty construction in order to navigate tough terrain. They also need to be big enough to remain stable.

Unfortunately, this means that most hiking strollers are too big for everyday use. Don’t be surprised if the all-terrain stroller won’t fit in narrow supermarket aisles, elevators, and other tight places. Once I even had a sitcom-worthy incident where my stroller knocked over a giant display in a store!

When folded, the hiking stroller might not even fit in your car. You might have to remove wheels just to get it inside, which is super annoying when those wheels are covered in mud.

My family’s solution? We have two strollers.

Our main stroller is the “beast” (BOB Revolution Flex 3.0) which we use for hiking as well as everyday tasks and trips to the playground.

Then we also have a much smaller stroller that can be opened/closed with one hand. This is the stroller we use when we will be going anywhere by bus or are traveling by airplane. It’s also the stroller that we take when going anywhere by car because it’s much easier to get in/out of the trunk of the car.

I know that having to get two separate strollers sucks. But, realistically, you aren’t going to find one single stroller that meets all of your needs.

Warning! Be cautious when switching back to a smaller stroller. After you get used to an off-road stroller, it’s easy to forget that you can’t just plow over broken sidewalks! My poor kid has gotten a lot of jolts this way. 😮

Suspension System

For hiking on bumpy trails, you’ll need a stroller with a really good suspension system. The suspension system absorbs shock and ensures the wheels can maneuver well over obstacles. It is what gives your baby a smooth ride. It also removes strain on your wrists (trust me: this matters when pushing a stroller over bumpy paths for hours!).

Why brand matters here: I usually don’t care about brand names when shopping for gear. But, with hiking strollers, this is a time where brand reputation matters. When you get an off-road stroller from a brand like Thule or BOB, you can count on the suspension to be good quality. They use mountain-bike type suspension systems. The technology has gotten crazy good in recent years, but does come at a cost.

From experience: I’ve pushed cheaper strollers with basic suspension on the same trails I’ve used with my BOB. The difference is night and day. With a good suspension system, tree roots barely register. With a cheap one, every root sends a jolt through your wrists and wakes your sleeping baby.

Wheel Size

If the stroller is going to maneuver over tree roots, grass, gravel, and old cobblestone streets, it needs to have big wheels. The best all-terrain strollers have back wheels that are around 16 inches in diameter, and a front wheel which is around 12 inches.

Yes, these wheels are large, which means the stroller is going to be large. But smaller stroller wheels simply can’t handle rough terrain. They get stuck in divots, struggle with obstacles, and make pushing exponentially harder.

Notice the difference? Large wheels on the left handle sand effortlessly. Small wheels on the right sink and struggle.

Weight Capacity

Most all-terrain hiking and jogging strollers have weight limits of up to 75lbs. However, there are many that have weight limits of only around 50lbs.

Remember that the weight capacity is for the child PLUS anything you’ve got in the basket. If you are like me and use your stroller to haul a week’s worth of groceries, you can quickly surpass this limit.

Think long-term: A 50lb limit might seem fine for your toddler, but factor in:
– How fast your child grows
– The weight of items in the basket (my diaper bag alone is 10lbs!)
– How long you want to use this stroller (buying 75lb capacity means years more use)

Air-Filled or Rubber Tires?

All the best all-terrain strollers will have air-filled tires. The UPPAbaby Ridge is an exception (it has foam-filled tires). Yes, you do have to pump air-filled tires occasionally. But they really do maneuver much better than rubber tires, especially when it comes to handling bumps. Likewise, they are much better on the beach.

What if you get a flat?

Instead of calling your hike quits and rushing off to the bike repair shop, you can just carry a little container of Slime Tube Sealant. The stuff is awesome at fixing flats, even when you are in the middle of a long hike! I keep a bottle in my car at all times.

Pro tip: Make sure you get good tubes for your stroller wheels. A lot of parents said their stroller wheels were constantly going flat. Then they got better tubes and the problem was solved. Invest in quality tubes from the start—it’s worth it.

Lockable Front Wheel

If you want to jog with the hiking stroller, you’ll need one with a lockable wheel. It is more stable for your baby and prevents the wobbling that happens at speed with an unlocked wheel. However, when hiking on tough terrain, the unlocked position is better because it’s easier to maneuver around obstacles this way.

My usage pattern: I lock the wheel for jogging on paved paths or smooth trails. I unlock it for technical trails, tight turns, and navigating crowded spaces.

5-Point Safety Harness

Pretty much every off-road stroller is going to have this feature. On a side note, I think that ALL strollers (off-road or regular) should have 5-point harness. Maybe your baby isn’t as squirmy as mine, but I know that the harness has kept her from falling out of the stroller on several occasions!

Adjustable Handlebar

When you push a stroller with handlebars at an awkward height, it can put a lot of strain on your wrists. Now imagine pushing the stroller over uneven terrain while your wrist is in a weird position!

You might get lucky and find a stroller which has the handlebars at the exact right height for you. But is your partner at the same height? Probably not. So, I believe that an adjustable handlebar is a must-have feature in all strollers (not just hiking strollers). For this reason, only strollers with adjustable handles made my best of list.

Height differences matter: My husband and I have a 10-inch height difference. Without an adjustable handlebar, one of us would always be uncomfortable. The 9 positions on the BOB Revolution mean we both can find a comfortable pushing height.

Car Seat Compatibility

Some all-terrain strollers come with adapters that allow you to put an infant car seat over them. This is useful because you’ll be able to use the stroller from day 1. Without a car seat adapter, you’ll probably need to wait until your child is 6-8 weeks old to put them in the all-terrain stroller.

The car seat adapter is also nice if you don’t want to wake your sleeping baby (and who wants to wake a baby?) when transferring her from the car seat to the stroller.

Just be warned that an off-road stroller with a car seat on top is going to be even bulkier and heavier. You definitely don’t want to push the stroller off-road with the car seat on top. This is only for situations like grocery shopping or walking on flat, smooth paths!

Seating Positions (Including Fully Upright)

When going over tough terrain, it’s best to have your baby sitting at an incline. This will help distribute the impact over their entire body instead of focusing it at the head and spine (as would happen when sitting straight up).

However, it’s also nice to have fully upright seating, such as if you want to feed your child while they are sitting in the stroller. A lot of off-road strollers don’t have fully-upright seating though. For example, the Thule Urban Glide 2.0 doesn’t (the upgraded 3.0 version does).

Note that some cheap all-terrain strollers have hammock-type seats. The idea of these seats is that the hammock configuration prevents the baby from banging against the stroller. I personally think these aren’t great options though. You can’t adjust them and there are times when you’ll want your kid sitting upright or lying down.

Accessories (especially for a second kid)

The big thing you want to consider is whether you will have a second kid. If this is the case, then it’s nice to get an all-terrain stroller that can attach a ride-along board. The ride-along boards don’t exactly handle well on off-road terrain, but they are a great option to have around town.

From experience: When my second was a baby and my first was a toddler, the ride-along board attached to our BOB was a lifesaver for trips to the store or zoo.

Other Nice Features

• Tether/Safety Wrist Strap: If the stroller doesn’t come with a tether, you can use something like this instead. Just attach one side to your wrist and another to the stroller handlebars. We use one of the coil-style tethers (pictured in the original images) instead of a standard tether for our stroller. I like that the coil expands long, so we don’t have to worry about pulling the stroller down with us if we fall.
• Snack tray: These are nice. Though I find that the baby cup holder is always useless. Your kid will probably just toss the cup out of the stroller. Instead, I use a piece of paracord and the two-half hitches knot to tie my baby’s sippy cup to the stroller. The knot slides, so I can easily remove the cup.
• Cup holder (for parent): Coffeeeee!!!! Though note that your coffee will probably slosh around on uneven terrain. I usually end up using the cup holder for holding trash or random things that come with parenthood.
• Pockets: You’d be surprised how much a few pockets in your stroller will make your life easier. It’s nice to be able to have things close at hand, and to toss random items in there. I keep snacks, sunscreen, and my phone in the handlebar pocket for quick access.

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FAQ: All-Terrain Strollers for Hiking and Jogging

1. What is an all-terrain stroller?

An all-terrain stroller is designed for outdoor adventures, with larger, durable wheels and suspension systems to handle rough, uneven surfaces like gravel, dirt, grass, and packed trails. It’s perfect for hiking, jogging, and off-road adventures with your little one. The key differences from regular strollers are the larger wheels (typically 12-16″), better suspension, and more rugged construction.

2. Can I use an all-terrain stroller for regular walks?

Absolutely! While all-terrain strollers are built for more rugged terrain, they are just as suitable for everyday walks in the park or around the neighborhood. Their sturdy design ensures a smooth ride even on smooth surfaces. However, keep in mind that they’re larger and heavier than regular strollers, which can make them less convenient for tight spaces like store aisles or small elevators.

3. What are the benefits of using an all-terrain stroller for hiking?

• Smooth Ride: The larger wheels and good suspension provide a smoother, more comfortable ride for your child, even on bumpy trails.
• Versatility: These strollers are built to handle a variety of terrains, from rocky paths to forest trails to snow-covered sidewalks.
• Durability: Designed to last, they can withstand outdoor conditions better than regular strollers.
• Storage: Most have larger baskets perfect for hauling camping gear, diaper bags, and groceries.

4. How do I choose the best all-terrain hiking and jogging stroller?

When selecting an all-terrain stroller, consider the following:

• Wheel Size: Larger wheels (16 inches or more on back wheels) are better for rougher terrain.
• Suspension: A good suspension system helps absorb shock, making the ride smoother for both you and your baby. BOB and Thule brands are known for excellent suspension.
• Weight: Look for a balance between sturdy construction and manageability. Most quality models range from 26-32 lbs.
• Storage: Ensure there’s enough storage space for your gear and baby essentials.
• Hand Brake: Essential if you plan to jog on hilly terrain.
• Folding mechanism: Consider whether one-handed folding is important for your lifestyle.

5. Are all-terrain strollers safe for newborns?

Most all-terrain strollers are not suitable for newborns directly. However, many models are compatible with infant car seats through adapter attachments, which allows you to use them from birth. Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines. Without a car seat adapter, most brands recommend waiting until 6-8 weeks old when babies have better head and neck control.

6. Can I use an all-terrain stroller on any hiking trail?

While all-terrain strollers can handle many types of trails, be mindful of the difficulty level. They work best on wide, relatively flat trails with packed surfaces. Trails with steep inclines, narrow paths, technical terrain, or lots of steps may be challenging or impossible with a stroller. You may need to carry the stroller over sections or switch to a baby carrier. Always check trail conditions and width before you go. For more tips, see this guide on gear for hiking with kids.

7. Are there any specific brands that are recommended for hiking?

Several brands are known for making high-quality all-terrain strollers, including BOB Gear, Thule, and Veer. Each of these offers durable, well-designed models suited for outdoor adventures. BOB is particularly known for their suspension systems and durability, while Thule offers more compact folding and refined features.

8. How do I maintain an all-terrain stroller?

Regular maintenance includes:
– Checking tire pressure before long trips
– Cleaning mud and debris off wheels and frame after use
– Lubricating moving parts occasionally
– Inspecting the brake system regularly
– Replacing tubes if you get frequent flats
– Wiping down fabric to prevent mold (especially after muddy or snowy adventures)

9. What’s the difference between a jogging stroller and a hiking stroller?

The terms are often used interchangeably, but jogging strollers typically emphasize features like hand brakes and lockable front wheels for safe running at speed. Hiking strollers emphasize suspension and rugged construction for navigating uneven terrain. Many modern models (like the ones reviewed here) are designed to do both well.

10. What about winter hiking with a stroller?

All-terrain strollers can handle snow and ice, but you’ll need to take extra precautions. Dress your baby in appropriate layers, be aware that metal parts can get very cold, and consider the terrain carefully. For detailed guidance, check out this post on hiking with a baby or toddler in cold weather.

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Also read:

• BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 Review
• BOB Revolution Flex vs BOB Alterrain Comparison
• Stroller vs Hiking Carrier: Which is Better?
• Ultimate Guide to Hiking with a Baby
• What Gear Do You Need for Hiking with a Baby?
• 14 Expert Tips for Using Child Hiking Carriers
• Soft Carrier vs. Framed Backpack Carrier
• How to Go Camping with a Baby
• How to Go Tent Camping with Toddlers
• Benefits of Getting Kids Outdoors
• Best Camping Wagons for Families

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Image credits:

“Elevator” (CC BY-NC 2.0) by tim ellis,
“Road Warrior 4: Jogging Stroller” (CC BY 2.0) by ChiefG_G,
“IMG_5719” (CC BY-ND 2.0) by ebmarquez,
“Hike at Waldron Fen” (CC BY-NC-ND 2.0) by Odalaigh
“stroller ad?” (CC BY-NC-SA 2.0) by dolanh,
“Day 035 – Photo365 – Cool” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by UnknownNet Photography,
“Carry the buggy” (CC BY-NC 2.0) by Rory OBrien