8 best running buggies for zooming around with your little one

This buggy just takes the edge in terms of running handling, it’s noticeably smoother around corners and feels much easier to push and pick up proper speed than other running strollers. We also preferred the simplicity of the handlebar and twist hand brake, vs the more traditional and bulkier bike brake on other models.

It handled well on every terrain from pavements to pretty uneven cross country tracks, despite the wheels looking like they are more akin to a road bike. Clearly, the wheels are not as rugged as those on the Out n About or Mountain Buggy, but during extensive testing, we had no issues on any surface.

The seat is comfortable and the padded straps were easy to adjust and the babies are clearly very secure. The full recline and very sturdy SPF50 sun canopy is beautifully made and while only available in two colourways, the pram looks chic and streamlined. It is a very nice piece of design.

The hardwearing basket underneath the chair is very generous in size and ideal if you want to use it on a hike. For safety, the front wheel fixes in place while running but easily unfixes into a full swivel wheel, making it suitable for everyday use. In a city, you would want a smaller everyday buggy, but if you live somewhere with space, there is no reason this couldn’t double up as an everyday pram.

We also loved the subtle mesh pockets on the back of the seat – ideal for a phone or keys, while bulkier items can go underneath. The folding mechanism is also really simple and when the wheels are removed the buggy is pretty much flat-packed and fitted easily into the car boot.

If you’re keen to try running with a buggy or you need an off-road pushchair that performs well on different terrains, this simple but effective option from Hauck is cheaper than many of its leading counterparts but still performs well, thanks to surprisingly solid wheels.

Hauck’s buggy feels a bit flimsy compared with some posher pushchairs but still sports a padded seat to keep your little one comfy, and it can be pushed over muddy ground. A good sun canopy and rain cover are included, so you’re sorted for all weather. 

We’ve tested a few Baby Jogger models and reckon they offer some of the best performance on the market, with easy-to-fold frames and long-lasting, rugged tyres.

The summit is the brand’s stroller designed specifically for running, and it can be used for jogging with your baby from nine months – you just lock the front wheel when it’s time to pick up the pace. This hardy design is ideal if you’re into getting off tarmac and onto trails, with all-wheel suspension and a smooth ride even over rocky ground. Folding is also a doddle (and can even be done one-handed), which is great for storage, and we like the deceleration brake for when you’re coming to a stop.

The Swedes know a thing or two about outdoorsy parenting, so, it’s no surprise Malmo-based Thule’s running buggies are so well designed.

The urban glide 2 is the most expensive running buggy we tested, but you do get fantastic quality for your money. This all-terrain pushchair comes with a bassinet, so it can be used from day one of your baby’s life – it’s great for running from six months onwards.

On test, we found this stroller on the large and bulky side but it was also one of the comfiest models to push over long distances, with slim but hardy wheels that are best on tarmac and smoother trails. We like the wrist strap and generous storage space, too.

If you’re buying a buggy specifically for regular running sessions, you can’t go wrong with Out n About’s nipper sport, which is suitable for newborns and can be used for running once your child is six months old.

The latest version of this popular design sports large solid tyres that roll easily over rough terrain – during testing, it was the best at dealing with mud, roots and rough trails.

This buggy also folds up neatly, ready to pop in the car boot, and is compatible with some car seat makes. However, it’s too big for everyday use in town – save it for exercising.

If you aren’t planning on clocking up marathon miles with a buggy but like the idea of a go-anywhere model you can jog with now and then, we reckon Ickle Bubba’s well-priced venus max is for you.

Despite its entry-level price point, this buggy still comes complete with a decent footmuff and rain cover, plus a sun visor and a big shopping bag, so it’s ready for all kinds of outings. It’s also reasonably lightweight and is easy to fold – all in all, this model offers excellent value for money.

On test, we thought the wheels of the venus didn’t feel quite as sturdy as some other all-terrain pushchairs we tested. While we didn’t have to use the included tyre pump during testing, it’s probably good to have it handy.

Got two little ones raring to get outside? You can still go jogging with Out n About’s brilliant nipper double V4. This model comfortably takes two small people aged from birth to four years, so it’s great for twins or young siblings.

It doesn’t feel too wide or heavy to use casually, either. At 72cm wide, the nipper double can still be pushed along pavements and trails without an issue, and its 12.8kg weight is similar to that of many of the single buggies we tested. It’s well worth the investment.

This rather weird-looking contraption is actually a super clever trailer buggy design that means you can run hands-free with your mini-me – ideal if you find it uncomfortable to push a buggy while you jog along behind it.

What’s clever about the zeno is that, once you own the frame and seat, you can then customise the buggy for different adventures, using it for running with a harness, cycling and even skiing. Great fun for outdoorsy families.