The best running buggies of 2024 recommended for active parents – tried and tested

Running or jogging, these are the best buggies for a smooth ride.

best running buggies

by Sophie Knight |
Updated on

We all know that when you become a parent, your mid-week run often turns into daily pram strolls. You’ve likely got the best pushchair already. But while these walks are great for getting your daily steps in, active parents who prioritise fitness may want to invest in a running buggy.

Running with a buggy offers a great way to stay in shape while keeping your baby safe and comfortable beside you.

In 2024, several top-notch models have earned praise for their performance, safety features, and versatility. These buggies have been extensively tested by real parents on various terrains to ensure they can keep up with a busy, active lifestyle.

The best deals on running buggies

Save £112: Thule Urban Glide 3 Stroller, WAS £749.95, Save 5% code: SAVE5
£125 off: Cybex Avi Spin, WAS £629.95, Save 5% code: SAVE5
26% off: Hauck Runner 2, WAS £229.90, NOW £170.16
Save £3349.95 Cybex AVI Running Pushchair, WAS £579, NOW £229.95

Here are our best running pram picks known for their durability, ease of handling, and value for money, ideal for all sports activities with your baby, whether running or jogging. When selecting a buggy for running, it's essential to choose one designed specifically for this purpose, not just any pram.

How Mother&Baby selected the best running buggies

Our product recommendations are based on a combination of real-world testing from our burgeoning army of mum testers and the extensive knowledge of our experienced editorial team and product specialists. Where we can, we also consult experts who specialise in that field to ensure you get the right advice along with the right product, and we listen to what you say as well.

Our thriving mum community on our Facebook group #mumtribe also often hold great insights as to which products mums really like best and why, helping us highlight the products that meet what you really want. For the essential products, our annual Mother&Baby Awards shortlist the top products tested, and you can find full reviews from our mum testers provided on the product page. The winners and runners-up for each category then will appear in our top picks article for that product, along with other products that were rated highly by our team.

Testing the best running buggies

We did some in-depth testing of our own. Who better to turn to for the latest tips and guidance than our army of parent testers who have been there and done that?

When it comes to finding the best running buggy, we focused on what really matters to make your runs safe and enjoyable. We looked at performance, safety features, comfort, how easy it is to push and steer, durability, weight, how easy it is to fold, wheel quality, suspension, storage space, and overall value for money.

To bring you the best options, we checked out customer reviews and tested various models to see how they performed in real-life situations. Our goal was to find buggies that not only give a smooth and comfy ride but are also tough, easy to use, and worth every penny.

Here are our top picks based on these criteria, so you can find the best running buggy for your family.

Can I use any stroller for jogging?

If you specifically want to run with your baby or toddler, you do need to buy a specialist running stroller suitable for the terrain that you want to run on with a wheel size of 16 inches or larger.

Some are designed as all-terrain prams for off-road running or rough terrain, while others cater for smooth pavement running, so it's important to think about where you live and research the best buggy for where you want to run.

Stability and comfort for you and your child are important, so make sure the buggy has suitable suspension and shock absorption too.

The best running buggies of 2024 at a glance:

• The best running buggy overall: Thule Glide 2, £649.99
• The best running buggy for compactness: Hauck Runner Stroller, £179.95
• The best running buggy for two children: Out ‘n’ About Nipper Sport Double Stroller, £625
• The best running buggy for all sports: Cybex ZENO Multisport Pushchair, £149.95
• The best running buggy for versatility: Ickle Bubba Venus Max Jogger Stroller, £239.99

Running buggies are designed similarly to all-terrain pushchairs and prams, built to move smoothly over any surface at a faster pace than a walk. Once your baby has outgrown the newborn part of the pram and can sit more upright (often between six and nine months), you'll be able to enjoy a faster-paced stroll or even a jog while pushing them in a pushchair.

The best running buggies of 2024

The best running buggy overall

Testing Thule Urban Glide 2 Jim Foster/Geriatric Dad Blog

This sleek all-terrain jogging pushchair has a lightweight design with large 16” wheels, suspension for comfort and control and a swivel front wheel for strolling and manoeuvring around town, which easily locks in place for jogging or rougher terrain. The integrated twist-hand brake ensures security and braking control on any hilly terrain and while running. We love the one-handed, compact fold which makes storing and transporting a doddle.

Our dad tester Jim said: “We've used it now pretty much since the start of the year and have been very impressed - the pros the Urban Glide 2 offers seriously outweigh the minor cons, by a long way. We get a lot of admiring glances when people see us with it - especially at the various parkruns we've been to - and are asked a lot of questions about it, which we're happy to answer. Mr Sprout (my son) seems happy and comfortable enough when riding in it, and is happy to sleep in it when tired.Perhaps its biggest boon is how easy it is to run with. It's just so smooth. You can adjust the position of the handle to suit your running style and you expend minimal extra energy pushing it along with you as you go.”

Read our Thule Urban Glide 2 review here.

Pros

  • Very easy to assemble from the box
  • Superb build quality
  • Easy to take rear wheels off, fold & put in boot of car
  • Handlebar brakes - very useful safety feature when running
  • Baby loves it - comfy suspension seems to help

Cons

  • Don't press/ lean downward on handlebars too hard: feels like it could tip backwards when baby is reclined
  • Maybe more storage area (accessories are available)
  • 0.1
Folded dimensions:87 x 69 x 34cm
Suitable for:6 months+
Item weight:11.5kg
Maximum child weight:22kg
Maximum capacity:34kg
Door pass through:69cm
Shoulder width:31.5cm
Safety harness:5-point
RRP: £599.99
  • All-terrain pushchair
  • Lightweight and easy to push when running
  • Great for parkruns
  • Smooth, ergonomic
  • Front wheel can swivel or be fixed
  • Integrated, twist-handle handbrake for safety
  • Foot brake
  • Quick release rear wheels
  • One-handed compact fold

Testing Out n About Nipper Sport V4 Running BuggyHatty/ Mother&Baby

The wide spacing between the front and back air-filled tyres gives the Out ‘n’ About Nipper Sport extra stability on all terrains. And it might be just us, but the aerodynamic design seems to give us extra speed on those sprints. It also comes with a rain cover and quilted seat liner.

Our mum tester Hatty commented: “As an active couple living in the Oxfordshire countryside, we found that the OutNAbout Nipper Sport v5 is a sturdy and versatile buggy for off-road adventurous walks across bumpy terrains as well as for smooth jogs with baby in tow. The three large 16” air filled tyres and wheel suspension help to ensure a comfortable ride for baby across a multitude of terrains whilst the easy-to-remove wheels and compact folding allow for it to be neatly stored.”

Read our Out n About Nipper Sport review here.

Pros

  • Sturdy build
  • Excellent suspension
  • Comfortable for baby/toddler
  • Smooth across rough terrains
  • Easy to fold and compact when folded

Cons

  • Not so easy to manoeuvre round corners
  • Less suitable for use indoors, quite bulky
Folded dimensions with wheels on:61.5 x 61 x 104cm
Folded dimensions with wheels off:48 x 29 x 90cm
Dimensions:103 x 137cm
Handle height:83 - 111cm
Weight:9.8kg
Maximum load:22kg
Age suitability:6+ months for jogging
  • Light, easy to fold, easy to clean
  • 16” air-filled tyres and suspension for bumpy terrain
  • Parent-facing car seat compatible

The best running buggy for two children

Nipper Sport DoubleNipper
Price: £645

The Nipper Double is an excellent pushchair solution for parents who require a multipurpose pushchair for two. With an extensive range of features it is the ideal choice for use with twins or children of different weights and ages. A smooth ride is assured for both parent and children thanks to the independent rear wheel suspension, 12" pneumatic wheels and swivel front wheel. At a slimline width of 72cm the Nipper Double will glide through all standard doorways. Weighing just 12.8kg the Nipper Double makes for easy handling, it is the ultimate solution for family life.

One mum tester said: "This pushchair is lovely and lightweight, making it easy to maneuver on different surfaces with my baby and 3-year-old in it. It was very easy to assemble, only taking 5 minutes and comes with clear instructions. The Nipper Double has been very intelligently built. It is very spacious but doesn’t look cumbersome. It easily fits through the doorways I’ve used so far. My 3-year-old daughter comfortably fits in this pushchair with room to spare."

Some reviewers did mention that although the Nipper Double folds flat, it's still a large item to fit in the boot. It was also suggested that the peekaboo hood could be fixed with magnets rather than velcro - as it sometimes woke baby up. The lack of a basket under the buggy was also commented on, which some parents would have preferred. However overall, testers were impressed.

Read our Out n About Nipper Double review here

Pros

  • Lightweight but sturdy construction for long-term use
  • Fits through standard doorways
  • Large wheels and good suspension

Cons

  • Too large for some boots
  • May be difficult to fit through narrow spaces
Folded dimensions:72 x 42 x 36cm
Dimensions:72 x 96 x 119cm
Weight:12.8kg
Maximum load:22kg per seat
Age suitability:Newborn to 4 years
Handle height:77-103cm
  • 12" air filled tyres
  • Swivel lock front wheel
  • Rain cover
  • Removable basket
  • Easy fold

The best running buggy for compactness

26% OFF

Hauck Runner StrollerHauck
Price: £170 (Was £229.90)
Alternative retailers
Walmart$176.00View offer
Wayfair$299.99View offer

If you're looking for a low cost, basic buggy that you can rely on during your morning run, this one from Hauck Runner Stroller is for you. With all the amenities you'd expect from a pushchair including air-filled front and rear tyres, sun visor and waterproof awning, this is perfect for new mums experimenting with combining exercise and parenting. It helps that it's a compact design too!

One reviewer said: "Honestly better than expected. The wheels are huge and air filled so you can go over rough ground alright (within reason). Comes with a little warning label that says "Do not run with this pram". Despite that, it works well for jogging, speed walking and marathon training."

Pros

  • Suitable for all terrain
  • Compact design
  • Budget-friendly option

Cons

  • More suited to jogging
Folded dimensions:87 x 57 x 47cm
Dimensions:124 x 60 x 109cm
Weight:10.75kg
Suitable for ages:N/A
  • Compact fold
  • Multi-adjustable
  • Height adjustable handle
  • Canopy with ventilation outlets
  • Washable footrest
  • Big air wheels

Best all-terrain running buggies

Baby Jogger Summit X3 Baby Jogger

The Baby Jogger Summit leaves you in total control, with its unique hand-operated deceleration brake and even a tether strap on the handlebar. You can switch between lock and swivel modes and it also has a great amount of storage for you and your baby's belongings. The Baby Jogger also has a one handed compact fold.

One reviewer said: "This stroller is simply the best I have ever owned! It has been designed and built beautifully! Perfect for long strolls over bumpy roads and gravel. Manoeuvres easily and the brake is oh-so-useful when going down steep hills. The ride is so smooth (for both the 'driver' and the 'passenger'), my boy almost instantly falls asleep when he's in there."

Pros

  • Unique hand operated deceleration brake
  • Easy to manoeuvre

Cons

  • Additional costs for the rain cover
  • Takes up significant space when folded
Folded dimensions:
Dimensions:78 x 55 x 26cm
Weight:15.8kg
  • Tether strap on handlebar
  • Deceleration brake on handle
  • Peek-a-boo mesh window
  • Side vents
  • UV 50+ canopy
  • One-hand compact fold

Mountain BuggyMountain Buggy

Specifically designed for the active parent, this Mountain Buggy Terrain™ has a compact stand fold, making it great for storing away in car boots. Other key features of the Mountain Buggy include retractable leg extension, a longer seat back and a multi-adjustable handlebar. It also comes with both 16" and 12" rear air-filled tyres, that works with the hand operated control brake for maximum control.

One review said: "We are absolutely thrilled with the mountain buggy. Yes, it is quite bulky, but offers good comfort and is so easy to use. The tires can be easily removed from time to time. For me, the handbrake is pure luxury. With the foot brake, another solution would have been more convenient, because it is difficult to release the brake with your foot underneath."

Pros

  • Compact one handed fold
  • Adjustable handlebar
  • Hand operated active brake allows for maximum control to slow the buggy down
  • It has a zip covered gear tray to secure your belongings when running

Cons

  • Some mentioned it feels a little bulky
Dimensions:116.84 x 63.5 x 106.68cm
Weight:12.9kg
  • 5 point safety belt
  • Swivel wheels
  • Retractable leg extension
  • One hand fast fold

The best running buggy for versatility

Ickle Bubba Venus Max Jogger StrollerIckle Bubba
Price: £269.99

With plenty of handy features, including the large shopping basket underneath and a wrist strap for securing, the Ickle Bubba Venus Max Jogger Stroller can be used from birth, and for jogging from nine months. It comes with a tyre pump, UPF 50+ sun protection and protective rain cover, so you can make sure the pram is ready whatever the weather.

A parent said: "I love this pushchair! I have been so much more active since getting it. So far I can’t fault anything about it, I’ve even been using it on my everyday jobs like shop run and school run. My 20-month-old son is very comfortable and enjoys a nap on our longer walks, the hood is big and keeps him out of the sun. A pleasure to push around."

Pros

  • Secure wrist strap
  • Large sun canopy keeps little ones safe from the harsh UV rays
  • Large shopping basket

Cons

  • Some mentioned it is big when folded
Dimensions:N/A
Suitable for ages:Birth+ but 9+ months for jogging
  • Coordinating hood and footmuff
  • Tyre pump
  • Protective rain cover
  • Large shopping basket
  • UPF50+ sun protection
  • Breathable mesh panels
  • Refelctive trim
  • Zip pocket hood viewing window
  • Wrist strap

UPPAbaby Ridge StrollerNatural Baby Shower

The UPPAbaby Ridge All Terrain Stroller is a jogger pushchair that's super comfortable for your child. It has state of the art suspension, large tyres with deep tread and a padded harness with lumbar support. It also has an adjustable handle bar, so you can choose a height that suits yourself. It also comes with a water bottle holder and spacious basket.

Pros

  • State of the art suspension
  • Comfortable for little ones
  • Water bottle holder and spacious storage

Cons

  • Higher price point
  • Takes up more space when folded
  • Heavier than some other models
Folded dimensions:47 x 66 x 92.7cm
Unfolded dimensions:97.8 x 66 x 102.9cm
Weight:13.2kg
Suitable for ages:6+ months
  • Padded seat
  • Five point harness
  • Lumbar support
  • Two-stage suspension
  • Disc hand brake system
  • Swivel-locking front wheel
  • Etendable canopy with mesh window
  • Four position handlebar
  • Reflective accents
  • Rain cover and water bottle holder

SAVE 10% WITH EXTRA10

Pram World

The Cybex Avi Running Buggy is perfect for parents who love to stay active and want to take their baby along for the ride. This jogging stroller looks sleek and modern while being super functional, giving both you and your baby a smooth and comfy experience. It's lightweight, has adjustable suspension, and air-filled tires, so it works well on all kinds of paths. The handlebar is easy to grip and adjust, and the stroller folds up compactly for easy storage. Plus, the seat is spacious and the harness keeps your baby safe.

Our mum tester Finley said: “Firstly, with its large wheels, it was a great deal easier to push with an overly optimistic amount of grocery shopping shoved underneath its nice large undercarriage, making unexpected yellow sticker days at the supermarket sheer bargainous joy. Secondly, being able to push it with one hand was wonderful. I can’t even use the old regular pram anymore even for walking into town because I love being able to do things with my other hand without my previous cargo veering off to the left or right or having to steady it with my belly while juggling a coffee, phone, mask, sunglasses, headphones, you get the gist. Multi-tasking mommas will love this for both walking and running.” 

Read our Cybex Avi review here.

Pros

  • Easy to push and steer. Can be navigated with one hand
  • Simple to fold up and store away
  • Handles bumps and rough paths with ease

Cons

  • It’s wider and much longer than other prams so you can get stuck down narrower aisles
  • Would be better if there was a head support insert for sleeping little ones

Cybex
Price: £149.95

If you're an active parent who loves a bit of everything, the Cybex ZENO Multisport Pushchair is perfect for you. This versatile buggy isn't just for jogging—it's also great for cycling and even cross-country skiing! It's like having four buggies in one, making it a fantastic choice if you enjoy mixing up your fitness routine. The sleek design and sturdy build ensure a smooth ride on all kinds of terrain, while the adjustable handlebars and comfy seat mean both you and your little one can enjoy the adventure. Plus, it offers quick and easy switching between the four different sports configurations, making transitions easy peasy. 

Our mum tester Nikki says: “I really love how the Cybex Zeno has running and cycling attachment fittings as it helps me and my partner, Dave, stay active while also being able to look after Louie, 16 months, and keep him entertained at the same time. I recently signed up for a 5k running race so was able to take Louie with me on training runs using the running adapter, while my partner, Dave, was working. This made my life much easier as it meant I could keep up with my exercise routine while caring for Louie, which gave us more free time together as a family.”

Read our full Cybex Zeno review here.

Pros

  • Can be used for different sports like jogging, biking, and skiing
  • Quick and easy switching between the four different sports configurations
  • Glides over different terrains effortlessly
  • Well-padded seat and good suspension

Cons

  • While versatile, it’s a bit bulkier than some more compact models
<strong>Fabric Type</strong>Plush
<strong>Material</strong>Polyester
<strong>Frame material</strong>Aluminium
  • From approx. 6 months – 4 years
  • Comes in pink and black

What age should your baby be to go buggy running?

Most experts and paediatricians recommend waiting until your baby is at least six to eight months old before going buggy running, as this is when babies typically develop sufficient neck and head control to handle the bumps and movements of jogging. Make sure you use a buggy specifically designed for running, featuring safety elements like a five-point harness, suspension system, and a fixed or lockable front wheel. Before starting, get approval from your pediatrician to confirm your baby has reached the necessary developmental milestones. Begin with smooth surfaces and short, gentle runs to gauge your baby's comfort and response.

How should I run with a buggy?

Posture when running with a buggy is very important. Have a light grip on the handlebars and use a wrist strap so that the buggy is attached to you. If the front wheel of your buggy swivels you should lock it into a fixed position for stability. Make sure you run with your chest out, shoulder blades back and down and you are in an upright/tall position.

Your buggy’s handlebars should sit at the right height for you so you are not stooping over, which could lead to injuries and lower back pain. This is where adjustable handlebar height comes in handy. Keep your elbows soft, not locked out, and when running, keep your core drawn in to support your lower back.

How long should I run for, before my baby gets bored?

This is down to individual babies and may be subject to their age and how long a nap time they have. Younger babies are more likely to be content in the buggy on a run for longer than an active toddler who wants to get out and play.

Sophie Knight is a journalist and mum of two, and previously edited motherandbaby.com before moving on to write about family cars for Parkers.co.uk. Sophie went on to become Commercial Content Editor for M&B, Closer, Heat, Empire, Yours, Garden News, and WhatsTheBest.co.uk before deciding to dedicate more of her time to her family and write freelance.

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Mother & Baby is dedicated to ensuring our information is always valuable and trustworthy, which is why we only use reputable resources such as the NHS, reviewed medical papers, or the advice of a credible doctor, GP, midwife, psychotherapist, gynaecologist or other medical professionals. Where possible, our articles are medically reviewed or contain expert advice. Our writers are all kept up to date on the latest safety advice for all the products we recommend and follow strict reporting guidelines to ensure our content comes from credible sources. Remember to always consult a medical professional if you have any worries. Our articles are not intended to replace professional advice from your GP or midwife.