Best All Terrain Stroller

Are you surprised at the amount of gear a baby needs? It seems like there’s a gadget, clothing item or cream/lotion/balm for every specific detail of a child’s life. While these specialized items are totally necessary at times, most parents would probably say they prefer a multipurpose solution whenever possible.

Fortunately, all-terrain strollers fit nicely in the multipurpose category. These adaptable devices can let you easily push your child over almost any surface, navigate through crowded spaces, take your child along for a jog or enjoy outdoor family adventures.

If streamlining your baby gear sounds like a good thing, check out our shopping tips and reviews to find the best all-terrain stroller for your needs.

Our Top Picks at a Glance

• BOB Revolution Flex 3.0
• BOB Revolution Flex Duallie 2.0
• Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 Single Stroller
• Mountain Buggy Terrain Premium Jogging Stroller
• J is for Jeep Brand Cross-Country Sport Plus Jogger
• BOB Rambler Jogging Stroller
• Baby Trend Expedition RG Jogger Stroller

Note: There’s a lot more information below but clicking the above links will take you to current prices, further information and customer reviews on Amazon.

What is an All-Terrain Stroller?

Traditional baby strollers typically have four small plastic wheels that can give them limited functionality on anything much rougher than a crack in the sidewalk.

Also known as off-road strollers, all-terrain models typically feature a three-wheeled design, a front-wheel lock, large wheels and rubber tires. They are usually very easy to push, and they steer accurately on almost any surface. You can also use them to take your child along for a jog.

All-terrain strollers are typically larger than most traditional models, but they usually have a very thoughtful design with lightweight materials that reduces bulk and weight as much as possible.

Why Choose an All-Terrain Model?

Versatility

With the combination of a strong frame and a smoothly swiveling or securely locked front wheel, the term “all-terrain” is not an exaggeration. Here are a few of the places/situations where you could use an all-terrain stroller:

• City sidewalks
• Gravel paths
• Jogging on paved or wooded trails
• Grassy meadows at the park
• Shopping centers
• Theme parks
• Outdoor festivals or events

An all-terrain stroller is just as much at home in the city as it is in the great outdoors, so one product can meet your needs in a wide variety of situations.

Great for a Variety of Ages

Depending on your family’s specific routine, an all-terrain stroller could be the only one you need from birth through toddlerhood.

While you won’t be able to put your baby in the actual stroller seat for at least a few months, most all-terrain strollers accommodate certain infant car seats with either a direct attachment or an adaptor piece. Every stroller on our list has an adjustable seat back, so you can fine-tune the incline to suit your child’s needs as they grow.

Many all-terrain strollers have a high upper weight limit that should be enough to accommodate an older toddler or preschooler.

Easy to Maneuver

Most all-terrain strollers have a three-wheeled design that makes them incredibly easy to steer, and this usually holds true even if you have only one hand free to push.

Front Wheel Lock

This smart feature gives you the option of having either a swiveling or a fixed-position front wheel to suit whatever the situation calls for.

The lock is usually a simple switch mechanism located near the front wheel. When engaged, the lock secures the front wheel in a forward position. When disengaged, the front wheel can swivel smoothly.

You must always engage the front wheel lock whenever you move at a pace faster than walking, and you may also find the lock handy if you want a greater degree of control when crossing very rough terrain.

Heavy-duty Construction

Wheels – Larger wheels are typically able to roll over bumps and ruts more easily due to their increased surface area, and they are also far less likely to get stuck.

Tires – Rather than hard plastic, all-terrain strollers usually have rubber tires with a tread pattern that helps increase traction on both smooth surfaces and materials that could shift under a tire, such as gravel.

Air-filled rubber tires also reduce shock and help give your child a comfortable ride.

Frame – Lightweight but strong metals like aluminum and steel are the most common frame materials. These metals are rust-resistant and hold up well even in wet or muddy environments.

Suspension – Not every all-terrain stroller has a suspension system, but the ones that do often feature shock absorbers that resemble something you might expect to see on a mountain bike.

What is the Difference Between All-Terrain and Jogging Strollers?

As long as it’s done safely, taking your child along on your jog can be a great way to get outside together. One key safety concern is making sure that you have the right stroller for the job.

One of the hallmarks of a jogging stroller is the extended, fixed-position front wheel. The lack of swivel is a child safety feature since you’ll be less likely to veer off course accidentally, and you can also have a greater focus on your run since you won’t have to worry about steering as much.

Many all-terrain strollers have a mechanism that locks the front wheel in the forward position, and these models are also often referred to as joggers. The terms can get a little bit confusing, but there are a few key differences between an all-terrain jogger and a true jogging stroller.

Front Wheel Construction

All-terrain strollers allow you to switch between a swiveling or a locked front wheel. A true jogging stroller has a fixed front wheel position with no unlocking or swiveling option, and the front wheel typically sits a bit farther forward for better weight distribution.

Shock Absorption

A true jogging stroller typically has better shock absorption system, so your child can have a smooth ride even when they roll over bumps at jogging speed. As mentioned previously, however, some all-terrain strollers also feature an impressive suspension system.

Storage Pockets

Some all-terrain strollers have a few securely-closing storage areas, but actual jogging strollers usually have locking, zipper or drawstring closures on all storage pockets and bins to prevent your gear from falling out while you run.

All-terrain strollers have a versatile design that makes them a great choice in a wide variety of environments. If you typically take your child running on paved surfaces or lightly wooded trails, an all-terrain jogger will probably meet your needs well while also giving you the option to use the stroller in almost any indoor or outdoor context.

On the other hand, if you do any distance running, competitive running or like to run on rougher wooded trails, you might want to consider a true jogging stroller. One thing to keep in mind is that a true jogging stroller is very difficult to maneuver in a crowded or indoor space due to its fixed front wheel, and its usefulness outside of running will probably be limited.

What to Look For in an All-Terrain Stroller

Most all-terrain strollers have several features in common, so taking the time to look at the details can help you determine which model might be best for your family’s needs.

Storage

We’ve already established the fact that most babies need quite a bit of gear to leave the house, and the number of items you tend to carry with you on a daily basis can be an important consideration when choosing a stroller.

If you have a large diaper bag, look a for a stroller with a generous lower storage bin. If you plan to take a drink along for your child or yourself, look at the number of cupholders a model offers. If you plan to take your child along for a jog, you might appreciate having small compartments that close securely to hold things like your keys.

Canopy Design

Most all-terrain strollers have a hinged sun canopy that provides some important shade for your little one, and they usually have a clear viewing window so you can see your child even when you have the canopy fully extended.

Some models have canopies that extend further than others, and thinking about your normal routine can help you determine if an extended canopy would be helpful. For instance, if you usually take your child out for a late afternoon or early evening jog, you may find that the lower angle of sunlight hits your child directly in the eyes. In this case, a canopy that extends further down could help make the ride more enjoyable for your child.

Wheel Size

While most all-terrain strollers have a standard 12-inch front wheel, the rear wheels can vary in size.

If you plan to use your stroller primarily on pavement with minimal trips across rough surfaces, choosing one with 12-inch rear wheels should be more than sufficient. On the other hand, if you like to go truly off-road or jog frequently, a stroller with 16-inch rear wheels should provide a less bumpy ride for your child and greater overall stability.

Ease of Transport

It’s probably safe to say that no one enjoys struggling to get the stroller folded down when they’re trying to get their child and all the baby gear packed into the car.

Most all-terrain strollers are fairly easy to fold down once you get the hang of it, and some models have a one-handed collapse feature that could make it a bit easier to put it away while holding your child.

While an all-terrain stroller will never be as lightweight or easy to transport as an umbrella stroller, some models fold more compactly than others or have removable wheels that lessen the folded bulk. Especially if you have a small car trunk or use public transportation, the stroller’s folded size can be an important factor.

Our Choices for the Best All-Terrain Stroller

BOB Revolution Flex 3.0

Known for sturdy frames and smart design features, BOB strollers have earned a reputation for quality and performance.

Whether you want to travel at walking speeds or take your child along for a jog, a simple switch mechanism locks or unlocks the front wheel to easily adapt the Flex 3.0 to any situation.

Large, air-filled tires easily roll over rocks, gravel, tree roots and grass, so you and your child can enjoy some truly off-road adventures. Additionally, the suspension system BOB builds into their strollers is impressive. Based on a design similar to that of a mountain bike, the shocks have a couple of inches of play that effectively soften bumps and ruts to give your child a comfortable ride.

The canopy provides your child with SPF 50 UV protection, and the canopy extends far enough to almost completely cover your child’s whole body. If you want to check on your child without breaking your stride, there is a clear viewing window with flap closure, and a mesh panel also lets you talk to your child.

The seat offers multiple incline settings from nearly flat to almost totally upright, so you can select the setting that is safest for your child’s age or help them rest comfortably if they fall asleep in the stroller. The Revolution Flex 3.0 accommodates several infant car seats with the additional purchase of an appropriate adaptor, so you can begin using the stroller even when your child is a newborn.

The Flex 3.0 offers ample storage in the form of a generous lower bin, elasticized mesh pockets, a zipper pouch and an attached parent bag with multiple zippered and elasticized pockets. You can also purchase an additional parent console with cupholder and a child snack tray.

Whatever height you or your partner happen to be, the Flex 3.0’s nine-position adjusting handlebar should have a setting that makes it easy to push.

Folding the Flex 3.0 down is easy, but you probably won’t be able to fold it while holding your child since the two-step process requires you to use both hands at once.

Special Note: You may have heard about some concerns regarding the front wheel on BOB strollers loosening or detaching while the stroller is in motion. This is obviously worrisome, but the manufacturer has determined that parents shouldn’t have a problem as long as they set the quick-release mechanism properly.

The strollers in question have manufacture dates between 2011 and 2015, so you shouldn’t have to worry about this issue if you’re purchasing a new model. However, always make sure you thoroughly read the owner’s manual, understand how each securing mechanism works, follow the directions exactly and check connections frequently. Finally, never push the stroller at a jogging pace without securing the front wheel first.

For more details and helpful information, visit the BOB website.

Manufacturer’s Specs

• Weight: 28.5 pounds
• Unfolded Dimensions: 45 inches long, 24.5 inches wide and 43 inches tall
• Folded Dimensions: 39 inches long, 24.5 inches wide and 16 inches tall
• Maximum Weight Capacity: 75 pounds
• Rear Wheel Size: 16 inches

Summary

The Revolution Flex 3.0 is easy to handle and gives your child a comfortable ride in the city or on a wooded jogging trail, and the seat recline and adjustable handlebar make it easy to adapt it to your family’s needs.

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BOB Revolution Flex Duallie 2.0

Whether you have twins or two children close in age, the Duallie delivers a smooth ride from the infant days to the preschool years.

Owing to a larger frame size and more weight to move around, pushing a double stroller can be a challenge. The Duallie features a smooth front wheel swivel that makes maneuvering a breeze even in tight indoor spaces. The large wheels easily glide, so you should be able to push two toddlers without having to exert too much effort. You can also go on a three-person jog with the locking front wheel.

While extra width and folded bulk are unavoidable with a double stroller, the Duallie does a great job of minimizing both issues. Amazingly it is only about 5 inches wider than the single model, so you should still be able to fit through most spaces. You will need a bit of extra space to transport or store the Duallie, but the quick-release feature definitely makes life easier by letting you easily detach all three wheels.

One way that extra width works on your favor is in the size of the lower storage bin. Even with the additional gear that two children require, the deep basket should be able to hold the essentials.

This stroller has BOB’s signature suspension system, so you can confidently take your little ones along while you get out and enjoy nature.

With the additional purchase of the appropriate adaptor, the Duallie is compatible with a number of infant car seats. However, the frame can only support one car seat at a time, so you won’t be able to seat newborn twins simultaneously.

Manufacturer’s Specs

• Weight: 33.1 pounds
• Unfolded Dimensions: 48 inches long, 30.5 inches wide and 43 inches tall
• Folded Dimensions: 40 inches longs, 30.5 inches wide and 17.5 inches tall
• Maximum Weight Capacity: 100 pounds total; each seat can accommodate up to 50 pounds
• Rear Wheel Size: 16 inches

Summary

With a narrow but comfortable seat design, smooth gliding wheels and great maneuverability, the Duallie makes using a double stroller easy and fun.

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Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 Single Stroller

If you’re looking for a stroller with a sleeker design to fit through tight spaces, the City Mini GT2 offers smooth handling and several convertible seating options.

This stroller is most ideal for navigating urban or semi-urban areas. The narrow frame makes the GT2 easy to steer through crowds, and the air-filled tires and handle sidewalk bumps and cracks with ease. You shouldn’t have problems crossing the occasional bumpy surfaces like grass or fine gravel, but the City Mini GT2 lacks the suspension and large wheels to comfortably roll over true off-road terrain.

The one-handed folding mechanism makes collapsing it a breeze, and the lightweight frame and compact folded size make the City Mini GT2 easy to take along even if you have a small car or use public transportation.

With the option to purchase an additional infant bassinet or adaptor pieces for select car seats, you can safely take your little one along starting in the newborn days. The upper weight capacity is quite high, and you have the potential to get several years worth of use from this stroller.

A smooth hinge lets you extend the SPF 50 canopy to your preferred setting, and you can easily take a look at your little through the clear viewing window. One cool feature is that the window cover flap secures by a magnet and not Velcro, so you won’t run the risk of waking your child if you want to check on them while they are sleeping in the stroller.

Even though the City Mini GT2 bears the brand name “Baby Jogger” and has a front wheel lock, this stroller is better suited for walking speeds and is ideal not for actual jogging.

Manufacturer’s Specs

• Weight: 21.4 pounds
• Unfolded Dimensions: 41 inches long, 21.2 inches wide and 42.8 inches tall
• Folded Dimensions: 13 inches long, 25.7 inches wide and 32.5 inches tall
• Maximum Weight Capacity: 65 pounds
• Rear Wheel Size: 12 inches

Summary

Smooth handling and a streamlined frame make the City Mini GT2 a great option for traveling around on city sidewalks, parks and indoor spaces.

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Mountain Buggy Terrain Premium Jogging Stroller

This versatile stroller is equally at home walking down city streets as it is hiking on rugged trails.

The Terrain Premium includes a total of five tires: one 12-inch front wheel, two 12-inch rear wheels and two 16-inch rear wheels. Attach the 12-inch wheels when you’re taking your child out and about around town, and switch to the 16-inch wheels when you need more surface area and increased stability to easily roll over bumps or ruts off-road.

Changing the tires is a simple and fast process thanks to a quick-release clip, and this mechanism also comes in handy for reducing the stroller’s folded bulk.

If you like to take your child jogging on wooded trails, the Terrain’s suspension system and sturdy tires are up for the task. The front wheel lock is a simple lever mechanism, so setting your desired position for walking or jogging is a snap.

If you’ve tried to work the parking brake on some strollers while wearing sandals, you know how frustrating and difficult that process can be. Deemed “flip-flop friendly” by the manufacturer, engaging or disengaging the Terrain’s parking brake is as easy as pushing a large lever straight down. In addition to the parking brake, the Terrain Premium adds an extra layer of protection with a hand brake. This feature can be especially useful for controlling your speed when walking or jogging downhill.

Every parent has probably experienced the surprisingly big mess that a little baby can produce, and trying to spot-clean a stroller can be difficult. The Terrain helps make your life a little easier (and cleaner) with a removable, washable seat liner. As an additional plus, the liner has one colored side and one black side, so you can change up the look of your stroller if you choose.

The seat reclines to a nearly flat position, and you also have the option to purchase an infant bassinet piece.

The Terrain offers zippered side storage pockets and two water bottle holders, but the lower storage bin is fairly small.

Manufacturer’s Specs

• Weight: 28.5 pounds
• Unfolded Dimensions: 39 inches long, 24.8 inches wide, 36.5 inches tall
• Folded Dimensions: 15.3 inches long, 24.8 inches wide and 36.6 inches tall
• Maximum Weight Capacity: 55 pounds
• Rear Wheel Size: 12 inches and 16 inches

Summary

The Terrain offers a number of smart features like interchangeable rear wheels, a hand brake and a washable seat liner, and this stroller works well in an urban or an off-road setting.

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J is for Jeep Brand Cross-Country Sport Plus Jogger

When you think of a Jeep vehicle, you probably picture something quite rugged and outdoorsy. While this stroller’s steel frame and large wheels live up to that reputation, you also get some surprisingly upscale design details.

Rather than the functional woven fabric canopy most strollers have, the Cross-Country Sport features a cool quilted surface that gives it a baby-friendly but still fancy look. The canopy is easy to extend and has a sun visor tip, so your little one can ride comfortably at almost any time of the day.

With spokes that are thin and shiny, the Cross-Country Sport’s wheels closely resemble bike wheels. The large, air-filled tires easily roll over bumps and ruts, so you and your child can both enjoy nature walks.

The lower storage bin is deep, but it is also somewhat narrow. You should be able to fit in several small bags/items, but you may have a hard time carrying a larger piece like a diaper bag. However, a detachable upper storage bag can fit some diapers, a small package of wipes and a few other essentials, and you may not need to bring along your regular diaper bag at all. A parent console can also hold a bottle of water, and you can put your phone, keys or wallet in a covered pouch.

A convenient child tray gives your child plenty of room for a snack or a few small toys. Push down to click the tray securely in place, or swing it up and out of the way to easily get your child in and out of the stroller.

The seat has several degrees of recline, and you can also use one of several popular infant car seats in the Cross-Country Sport. The stroller directly accommodates most compatible car seats, and an adaptor piece for the others is included. Many other strollers require you to separately purchase an adaptor for all infant seats, so the fact that you don’t need any additional pieces with this model is really nice.

While this stroller is easy to use with young babies, the upper weight limit is less than some other brands.

Manufacturer’s Specs

• Weight: 27 pounds
• Unfolded Dimensions: 45 inches long, 24 inches wide and 41 inches tall
• Folded Dimensions: 19 inches long, 24 inches wide and 36 inches tall
• Maximum Weight Capacity: 45 pounds
• Rear Wheel Size: 16 inches

Summary

The Cross-Country Sport is very easy to use with several infant car seats, making this stroller a great choice for young babies. The stylish looks and sturdy construction make it ideal for city or off-road conditions.

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BOB Rambler Jogging Stroller

If you love the smooth handling, superior suspension system and easy gliding of BOB strollers but you prefer a basic model with a lower price point, the Rambler could be an ideal option.

The Rambler has the same air-filled tires and deep tread of the other BOB models, but one difference is that all three of the Rambler’s wheels are 12 inches. This smaller wheel size makes it a little easier to fit the stroller in a car trunk or other small space without removing the wheels.

While larger rear wheels usually help maintain stability on uneven surfaces, you shouldn’t encounter any problems on paved surfaces and light off-road terrains like grass, gravel or small tree roots. The Rambler also has the same impressive suspension system as any other BOB model.

The front wheel also has the standard BOB locking mechanism. If you take your child jogging on paved surfaces, the Rambler provides a smooth ride.

The frame has almost the same length and width measurements as the Revolution Flex 3.0, but the height is a few inches lower. The Rambler does not have a handlebar height adjustment feature, so you may want to keep that in mind if you or your partner are above or below average height.

One gripe is the Rambler’s lack of storage. The lower storage bin is somewhat small, and there are no other pockets or storage areas.

Manufacturer’s Specs

• Weight: 25.2 pounds
• Unfolded Dimensions: 45 inches long, 24.5 inches wide and 39.5 inches tall
• Folded Dimensions: 38 inches long, 24.5 inches wide and 10 inches high
• Maximum Weight Capacity: 75 pounds
• Rear Wheel Size: 12 inches

Summary

The Rambler is a great option if you want several of the standard BOB features at a lower price point. It is easy to maneuver in an urban setting and can easily handle light off-road environments.

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Baby Trend Expedition RG Jogger Stroller

While this stroller may not be from an easily-recognizable brand, the Baby Trend Expedition offers several more features than you might expect given its price point.

Thanks to its large wheels and air-filled rubber tires, the Expedition glides easily and makes rolling over city sidewalks, grassy meadows or bumpy trails a breeze. The handle has a rubberized grip that is both comfortable and easy to grasp.

The child seat has a sliding strap support, so you can adjust the seat to nearly any degree of recline that you want. Baby Trend car seats instantly click into the Expedition’s snack tray, so using the stroller as a travel system is beyond easy.

The Expedition has a handy parent console with two cupholders and a covered center compartment, so your keys or phone can stay safely tucked away even on a jog. A front tray with two cupholders also gives your child a place to put their drink or snack, and the tray easily swings out of the way when you are getting your child into or out of the stroller. The lower storage bin is deep, but it is a bit on the small side.

One downside is the parking brake design. Each wheel has a small push-down latch that fits into a groove to lock the wheel in place. Setting the brake can require a fair amount of force, and you need to set each brake separately to secure the stroller in place. Disengaging the bake can also require some effort, but the good news is that the brakes are very solid once you set them properly.

The Expedition is easy to fold with a push-button release on either side. However, you need to push both buttons at the same time, so this is not a one-handed process.

The canopy isn’t as long as some other strollers, but that won’t stop you from getting sun protection at whatever angle you want. The entire canopy is separate from the frame and pivots on a smooth hinge, so you can move the whole canopy to whatever position you want. Thanks to mesh panels on the canopy and seat back, your child should have good airflow and stay a bit cooler on warm days, and you can keep an eye on your child through the clear viewing window with flap closure.

Manufacturer’s Specs

• Weight: 27 pounds
• Unfolded Dimensions: 38.5 inches long, 24 inches wide and 42.1 inches tall
• Folded Dimensions: 33 inches long, 22.5 inches wide and 16.5 inches tall
• Maximum Weight Capacity: 50 pounds
• Rear Wheel Size: 16 inches

Summary

The Expedition has many convenient features that can make it a great choice for moving around town or light jogging on paved surfaces. The lower price point is attractive, as well.

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Conclusion

Selecting the right all-terrain stroller for your family really comes down to how you plan to use it. If you are a serious runner or like to jog wooded trails, investing in a specially-designed model is probably a wise move.

On the other hand, a smaller model with fewer bells and whistles might be a perfect choice if you are a casual jogger or you are looking to mainly walk around town and on lightly bumpy surfaces like grass or gravel.

Whether you’re headed out to run some errands, go for a jog or take a nature hike, an all-terrain stroller can help make outings easier and give you the chance to make some memories with your child.

We’d love to hear your thoughts! Did you use any of these all-terrain strollers? What did you think of them? Is there another one you’d recommend? Share your ideas in the comments!