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do I need air tires if I don't jog?

(the #1 question at LetsGoStrolling.com)

This is one of the number one questions we hear from customers when we recommend any all terrain stroller, whether a single or a double, that have large 12” air tires. Since it’s such a good question – we thought it was time to address it in writing.

Air tired strollers usually have two big advantages for most stroller users: 1) The air in the tires provides a natural level of suspension so that the ride, even over bumps, is smoother for both the rider and the pusher and 2) air tires are usually larger tires (10 or 12”) and bigger tires go over bumps better whether it is broken urban sidewalks and curbs or more off-road obstacles. Many stroller users are looking for a full-featured stroller that they can push easily whether walking around their neighborhood, cruising the local mall, or on outdoor adventures (e.g., the Zoo, local parks). Oftentimes an all-terrain stroller can provide this full functionality and flexibility for parents who prefer to have one main stroller that takes them smoothly wherever their life does. The added benefit of course, is that if Mom or Dad does decide they want to do some light exercise with baby – the same stroller can stand up the rigors of power walking or light jogging. Of course if you expect to do more than light jogging with your stroller you might want to check out the BOB Revolution stroller which has 16” rear tires so your stroller will glide effortlessly during faster paced runs.

Currently many of the reversible seat strollers that are popular on the market (think Bugaboo Cameleon, Quinny Buzz, Valco RAD) also have two rear air tires but rubber front tires. These strollers provide many of the same benefits of the all-terrain strollers mentioned above but are better suited to urban terrain instead of rougher off-road territory since the front tires do not have air suspension and are smaller.

Many people searching for a double are also reluctant to take on the extra weight that accompanies double all-terrain strollers in the marketplace today. While it is valid concern for parents who do not want to be lifting a heavy double stroller, it is also important to understand the trade-offs involved. Many lightweight double strollers, when loaded down with the 60 pounds or more combined weight of two children, simply do not push well over bumps. The problem being that when you load a 20 lb stroller frame with triple its weight in children, it is no longer the stroller pushing the weight but the pusher who is bearing the brunt of pushing these children along. A high quality 35 pound all-terrain stroller however, while admittedly hard to lift, will glide effortlessly along even the roughest urban terrain loaded with the weight of two toddlers.

So in summary:

Air Tire advantages:
• Smoother push
• Better suspension
• Handles rougher terrain
• Is flexible enough for exercise/light jogging

Air Tire Disadvantages:
• Adds more weight to the stroller
• Air tires require regular maintenance to stay properly inflated and leak-free

Only you know how you intend to use your new ride and what trade-offs truly make sense for you. Understanding the wonderful attributes of a high-quality all-terrain stroller, however, might help you pick your perfect stroller as you determine which option is right for your family and lifestyle.

Jo Ilfeld
Co-Owner and Baby Gear Guru at Let’s Go Strolling (letsgostrolling.com) where she and her staff are always available to help you buy just the right stroller, diaper bag or accessories to meet your needs and lifestyle.