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An all-terrain stroller is a great idea for parents that want to take young children off-road for adventures in the countryside. The best strollers have the durability and security to handle rougher surfaces while keeping kids comfortable. The problem s that we don’t always know which brands and designs to trust. Can we be sure that these “off-road” models are safe and up to the job?
Can we still find something that is practical and suitable for our needs? The products below are all top-rated all-terrain strollers available on Amazon.com. I have provided a brief overview of the pros and cons for parents to help you choose the best option for your needs. First, let’s consider some of the key features in the best off-road strollers.
What Is an All-Terrain Stroller?
An all-terrain stroller is generally a traditional stroller or a three-wheeled stroller which has large and air-filled tires. These types of tires give better shock absorption. It is basically intended for various surfaces like pavement, mall floors, grass, etc. Furthermore, it has to resist tipping and a wide base.
If we talk about the size, it is an oversized stroller with a high weight limit and it can be used for slightly older children as well.
You should keep in mind that both all terrain and jogging strollers are not made for babies of under six months in general. But if the manufacturer specifies the model’s target age group, then that is an exception.
All-terrain strollers vs jogging strollers
It is very common that people get confused about the jogging stroller and all terrain stroller. It is also true that both types of stroller has many common characteristics and features, but still, there are few significant intervening spaces between the two. Let’s have look at the differences:
- Though all terrain strollers can be used for jogging, it is not what is intended for. All-terrain strollers are basically intended for hills, in mulch, dirt roads, and other rough surfaces. It can come with both four-wheel and three-wheel variations.
- On the other hand, jogging strollers are only intended for jogging. These strollers have three wheels where the front wheel is designed to lock into place so that it can add balance while jogging. These types of strollers are not useful for places like sand, mud, grasses, or mulch.
- In general, all-terrain strollers are bulky and heavy objects. If you are up to buying a compact, small and lightweight one, then you should avoid the all terrain stroller.
Why choose an All Terrain stroller?
An all terrain stroller is not limited for joggers and walkers or joggers nowadays. It can be used in many other places like amusement parks, the zoo, and beaches. You can choose this for its easy glide over rough gravel and sidewalks.
What Should You Look For When Choosing The Best All-Terrain Stroller?
Before making the decision of buying an all terrain stroller, you have to check that the stroller you are up to purchasing is serving your purpose or not. So, here are the factors you should look for before buying an all terrain stroller:
The wheels and tires.
An off-road stroller needs the ideal tires and wheels to handle the dips in the ground or slippery surfaces. Look for air-filled tires with a thick width and good tread – even though there is the risk of deflation. Three-wheeled strollers with swiveling front wheels are more maneuverable.
The frame.
There are two choices when it comes to the frames. Some brands like to stick with steel frames because they are tougher, although this can add to the weight. Aluminum frames are lighter but might not be as sturdy. Choose the one that feels right.
Portability and shape.
This is a problem area with off-road strollers. Many are more cumbersome and difficult to fold down. This is an issue when transporting them in your car or storing them at home. Look for products with a special collapsible frame, quick-release wheels, and a more compact shape.
Child security.
Security is essential over those bumpier paths and tracks so you need a safe seat with a strong harness. At the same time, your child must be comfortable enough to enjoy the ride and fall asleep if they need to. Look at the designs and padding. Also, consider the option of a sunshade for the summer.
Parent-friendly features.
The experience isn’t all about the child. We deserve a product that provides something practical and userfriendly to make our lives easier. You will see many brands talking about their parent consoles/pouches/trays/organizers. Whatever they want to call it, this typically means a helpful storage area with cup holders and a place for your phone. Also, check to see if there is ample storage underneath the stroller.
Adaptability.
Finally, you might want to look at the adaptability of the stroller if you plan to use this for a while. Some convert to suit different ages with options for a car seat and seat positions for older children. Others are more static and designed for a more limited age group.
The products below are 10 recommendations that are top-rated on Amazon.com. Whichever models you like the look of, be sure to compare the specifications in detail and look at the customer reviews.
Ease of Use
The flexible stroller can make everything easy and this is what most parents are looking for. The signs of flexibility include easy folding and unfolding, smooth insertion of the infant seat, reliable brakes, adjustable harness and backrest, easy infant seat removal, and basket accessibility. Furthermore, the stroller should be easily pushed in hills, grass, dirt, blacktop, mulch, and narrow space areas.
Infant Car-Seat Compatibility
The compatibility of an infant car seat in an all terrain stroller is an added advantage. Because it will allow the parents to put the car seat onto the stroller straight away. It is helpful to move the sleeping child from the car into the stroller without waking them up.
Adequate Storage
People buy strollers for babies so that they can go to various places with their babies and parents need to carry different belongings for different occasions. So, a larger storage area will help you to carry a few belongings, hold drinks & snacks, and toys on the stroller. Not only that, if the stroller comes with a spacious saddlebag or a storage basket below the seat or a pocket, it will aid the stroller’s handlebar free from hanging items.
Price
Price is another buying factor to look at because not everyone’s budget is equal. There are many all terrain strollers in the market where few are budget friendly and few are expensive. However, the stylish, sporty and well-known brand’s stroller popularity is growing rapidly. High end all terrain strollers will provide exceptional performance no doubt but you can get good quality strollers in a mid and low budget as well.
9 Best All Terrain Strollers
1) Graco Roadmaster Jogging Stroller
If you like the look of the features of the Graco FastAction, but also worry about the size, this Roadmaster model could be the option for you. It is a more compact model that is 20% smaller than the FastAction model. I appreciate the effort here having dealt with large strollers in tight spaces. You just accept the struggle as the norm.
Otherwise, the features are pretty much the same with the same approach to the off-road specification. The tires should be tough enough to handle the rougher tracks and there is the option to lock that swiveling wheel. Most parents praise the way that it handles itself.
Again there are some drawbacks in this design that you need to be aware of. I have seen some comments that this is unacceptable for kids over 2 years old. This isn’t ideal if you are looking for something with much wider appeal as they develop into toddlers. There is also no tray, and we all know how helpful those can be.
The pros and cons of this off-road stroller.
[i2pc][i2pros]The 20% smaller size compared to the FastAction .
The comfort for the child over longer trips
The off-road features are still effective, which suggests consistency in the Graco brand[/i2pros][i2cons]The lack of adaptability for children over the age of 2 .
There is no parent tray, which is an oversight when comparing this to over products. [/i2cons][/i2pc]
2: Baby Trend Expedition Jogger Stroller
There are clear themes in the best-selling off-road strollers on Amazon.com. One is the frequency of the name BabyTrend. This Expedition model has an additional benefit over the Graco Roadmaster: two trays! This is something that everyone using the stroller can appreciate. We can space at eye level for our drinks and any other personal items while kids can find support on the tray in front of them.
The off-road capabilities are also pretty good. One thing that I like here as well is that there is an emphasis on the padding on the seat. It is surprising how often brands forget about this with an all-terrain stroller. While we hope that our kids enjoy the journey and the sights on the walk, it is nice to know that they can take a nap too.
One downside here is the canopy as many parents wish that it would extend a little further. The material is fine and there is some shade but it could offer a little more protection for young eyes in the summer. There are also parents dealing with the same old issues of storage and transportation.
The pros and cons of this off-road stroller.
[i2pc][i2pros]The use of two trays instead of one (or none) .
The padding on the seat for extra comfort.
The off-road capabilities of the wheels[/i2pros][i2cons]The sunshade needs a few tweaks to be of help in the summer
Some parents struggle with storage [/i2cons][/i2pc]
3: Baby Trend Expedition LX Travel System
There is also the BabyTrend Expedition LX that has some of the same helpful features and a few extra details to help us, parents, out. The off-road features here are pretty familiar by now with the three wheels, decent tires, and the swivel on the locking front wheel. The back wheels are large at 16’’ so should handle the worst terrain.
There is also the fact that this is adaptable. We can play around with the set-up so that it can accommodate kids of different ages. Therefore, it should remain functional for longer than some of the more rigid products I have seen.
However, I want to point out a complaint from parents. baby trend, if you are somehow reading this, don’t claim to have oversized storage when this clearly isn’t the case. It is a struggle to get a diaper bag into space under the chair. There are also some problems putting the stroller together, which isn’t ideal for all those parents that are out on a mission.
The pros and cons of this off-road stroller.
[i2pc][i2pros]The same reliable BabyTrend off-road capabilities
The reliability of the stroller on longer walks
The adaptability for kids of different ages[/i2pros][i2cons]The storage area isn’t as big as you might hope
It doesn’t go together quite as easily as hoped either [/i2cons][/i2pc]
4: Baby Trend Pathway 35 Jogger Stroller
An alternative model from this brand is Pathway 35 – another one that receives high praise from consumers. There is a lot to like here in the off-road design of this stroller. There are large quick-release wheels at the back and a small 12’’ inch wheel at the front. The latter is adaptable with two possible positions and locks into place.
There is also great attention to detail with the seat and console. I could see myself using this detailed tray with ease when heading into town and see the appeal in the multi-position seat.
I want to love this stroller and say that it is perfect. However, some parents worry about some of the details in the construction, such as the clips and connections. I can see why this would be a concern if you plan to pick up speed up try rougher terrain. What I can’t understand is why BabyTrend repeatedly makes the choice to place the air valve on the front tire is such an awkward position. We are busy mothers, not mechanics. Make it easier for us!
The pros and cons of this off-road stroller.
[i2pc][i2pros]The same use of tough quick-release wheels at the back
The choice of positions for the front wheel
The nice parent console area[/i2pros][i2cons]The concerns about the security of the clips and connections
The position of the air valve on the front tire [/i2cons][/i2pc]
5: Baby Trend Range Jogger Stroller
This last BabyTrend model is worth a look at because it does make up for the previous issues with the storage. When they say extra-large here they aren’t kidding and I am sure that most parents will be able to get most of their stuff in there safely. It goes to show that you really do need to compare products across a range to see the details in the specifications.
There are also some nice features with the construction, the all-terrain wheels, harness, and seat. The addition of the parent and child trays adds to the sense that the brand designed this for busy, organized parents more than anyone else.
The problem in this stroller lies with the same design flaws that Babytrend is yet to fix. Be prepared to struggle with the air valves and folding them up. At this point, BabyTrend customers will probably accept this as the norm for this company. They are going to make us work a little bit to enjoy the benefits they offer. It is up to you if you think this is a fair deal or not.
The pros and cons of this off-road stroller.
[i2pc][i2pros]The extra-large storage compared to other products
The off-road capabilities
The inclusion of the separate tray for your child[/i2pros][i2cons]The all-too-familiar flaws in the design that are common with BabyTrend
The compromise of ease of storage for that all-terrain travel system [/i2cons][/i2pc]
6: Joovy Zoom 360 Ultralight Jogging Stroller
It is time to move away from BabyTrend and look at someone else. This Joovy Zoom model stands out because it really wants to be the best all-terrain jogger possible. The wheels are great with just enough height and tread on the tires. The rear wheels are also quick-release. But, there is also the inclusion of the ultralight aluminum frame. This reduction in weight can make all the difference when lifting and carrying these strollers on our own.
I also love the fact that the company points out the visibility from the seat as a selling point. We don’t always consider this for older children but it is so nice to know that they are engaging with the world around them. What fun is a nature walk in an all-terrain stroller if they can’t appreciate the sights? The brand’s thoughtfulness continues with parent-friendly features like the parent organizer and the leash.
One drawback here is the width. But, we should expect this. Some parents have also experienced construction issues so make sure to double-check all fixtures and have a slow test run first.
The pros and cons of this off-road stroller
[i2pc][i2pros]The attention to detail in the all-terrain system
The lightweight frame to help with transportation
The visibility from the seat for curious children[/i2pros][i2cons]It is still quite wide because it is an off-road model
Rare issues with the construction. [/i2cons][/i2pc]
7: Costzon Baby Jogger Stroller
This is another popular choice from Costzon that really tries to add in plenty of practical features. Kids can benefit from the comfortable five-point harness system that should keep them secure, as well as the removable sun canopy. Parents will also appreciate the large storage bag and the decision to include trays for both the parent and the child. No more reaching for your kid’s juice bottle rather than your coffee because you no longer have to share.
As for the off-road features, I couldn’t help but notice how thick those tires are when compared to some of the other products in this guide. It is easy to get complacent and assume that just because a product claims to be off-road that it is well-designed. There can be a big difference in the tread and the width of those tires.
One comment from a fellow parent does concern me, however. They worry about the stroller tipping despite the steel frame. While this doesn’t seem to be likely, you might want to test it out before committing to using it. There are also comments about it being difficult to fold up – but there is nothing new there!
The pros and cons of this off-road stroller.
[i2pc][i2pros]The wealth of security features with the harness and canopy
The size of the storage bag
The thickness of the tires compared to some “off-road” models[/i2pros][i2cons]The concern about it tipping over
The usual issues with storage and transportation [/i2cons][/i2pc]
8: Schwinn Interval 2-in-1 Jogging Stroller
My penultimate choice is this Schwinn model. If you are going to get an all-terrain stroller then why not go for a company known for making bikes and that knows their way around a tire. There are thick tires on the wheels and there is also shock-proofing built into the frame. I wonder why shock-proofing isn’t something more common in these designs when there are small children involved. I know that I would have more peace of mind using this stroller if it meant that my kid could be more comfortable. I also like the design of the parent tray on this model.
The main downside here is one that I have mentioned before. This product is too big and heavy for a lot of parents and this is the compromise we make for those rugged specifications. If you are on the smaller side and plan to head out alone a lot then this might not be for you.
The pros and cons of this off-road stroller.
[i2pc][i2pros]The addition of the shock-proofing for added security and comfort
The off-road capabilities of the wheels
The design of the parent tray[/i2pros][i2cons]The size is too much for some smaller users to handle
Storage and transportation (again)[/i2cons][/i2pc]
9: Jeep Sport Utility All-Terrain Stroller
Finally, there is this Jeep Sport option. You might think that we are upgrading from a Schwinn to an all-terrain Jeep. However, there is a reason that this model is at the bottom of my list. This is an odd-one-out because there are four wheels instead of three – and their tires aren’t the best either.
Even so, there are still lots of great features that we shouldn’t overlook entirely. For example, it is adaptable with different modes and secure fastenings as our kid’s age. It is lighter than some strollers too with the aluminum frame. This should make it a little easier to carry around.
I also love that they went all-out with the parent organizer pouch rather than just the tray. This detail is perfect for those of us that always seem to have far more to carry than we anticipated. It is secure and more convenient than always having to reach down into a bag under the chair.
The pros and cons of this off-road stroller.
[i2pc][i2pros]The adaptability with the different modes and fastenings
The lightweight aluminum frame
The design of the parent organizer pouch[/i2pros][i2cons]The use of four wheels means that it isn’t as maneuverable
The tires aren’t as good as those on other products[/i2cons][/i2pc]
Tips to Use Strollers
Here are few tips to aid you to use the all terrain stroller more safely and smoothly:
- It is common to see people put their hanging items in the stroller’s handlebar. This is not a good practice and people should avoid it. Putting too much weight in the handlebar can make the stroller imbalanced and result in tipping. If your child’s weight is less, this can happen more often. So, you should be aware of these things.
- All-terrain strollers are tipping resistant. So, if you can make sure that the unit’s weight is correctly distributed, you are one step ahead in avoiding an accident.
- Take an extra set of stroller blankets and spare sweaters so that you can use these whenever needed. These will help your infant to regulate their own temperature.
- Wear a lightly colored dress during low light conditions. It will make you more visible to others. The reflective components of your dress and stroller will make the vehicle drivers see your presence and make them alert.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, none of these products are perfect. If you want something that has a more rugged construction and suitable wheels then you have to put up with the extra bulk and weight. Collapsible, adjustable, and aluminum models can help. If you can accept some of the flaws with the size and storage, you can still find some great products. There are still impressive designs with all-terrain travel systems, adaptable seats, and parent-friendly features.\
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the all terrain stroller indoor?
Yes, you can use the all terrain stroller indoor. Its air filled wheels will not make any damage to the floor or leave any marks. But, all terrain strollers are slightly wider than the regular doorways and this can be a little bit of a headache but overall you can use this stroller easily indoors.
Can I use the all terrain stroller for a newborn?
Before buying an all terrain stroller, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines regarding age and weight requirements. This will give you an idea about whether it is suitable for your infant or not.
There are few all-terrain strollers available in the market that have infant car seat compatibility. In that case, you can buy one of those models for your infant.
Are all hiking strollers safer than other strollers?
Yes, hiking strollers give more safety than other regular strollers. This type of stroller has a better suspension system in comparison with others and keeps your baby safe from bumping.
But be careful if you have an infant. Because all terrain strollers are not dedicated to infants. So, before buying an all terrain stroller, make sure that it has such features which can facilitate your infant to sit.
