6 Best Strollers For Gravel and All Terrain in 2024
For traveling over gravel, sand, and other unstable terrain, a traditional stroller just won’t cut it. The smaller wheels can get overwhelmed and the lower suspension makes for a rough ride.
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast who wants a stroller that can tackle any ground or your local geography demands it, a jogging or all-terrain stroller is the ideal solution to keep you and your little one rolling smoothly.
But how do you choose the best stroller for your all-terrain adventures? We’ve rounded up a list of our favorites:
- Best Overall: Orbit Baby X5 Stroller
- Best Off-Road Handling: Thule Glide 3
- Most Compatible: BOB Alterrain Pro
- Best on a Budget: Jeep Apollo
- Most Compact: Guava Family Roam
- Most Lux: Bugaboo Fox 5
Best Overall: Orbit Baby X5 Stroller
The Orbit Baby X5 stroller marries the sturdiness you love in a jogging/all-terrain stroller with the versatility you’d expect from a more traditional option. With puncture-free, high-tread, all-terrain tires and a smooth suspension system, you’ll have an easy go over even the roughest ground. Adjustable handlebars on the X5 stroller provide the perfect ergonomic fit for parents of all heights—tall moms and dads, rejoice!
But what makes the Orbit Baby X5 a standout is its versatility. With the patented SmartHub technology, you can make use of the existing stroller seat (with or without the included infant insert in a forward or rear-facing position) … or sub it out for the infant car seat, toddler car seat, bassinet—if you can dream up a seating option, the X5 can probably accommodate it.
Pros
- Unparalleled versatile seating options: use the attached infant insert to accommodate the smallest babies or use with the Orbit Baby car seat or bassinet; standard seat accommodates up to 50 lbs
- Robust suspension absorbs impact and provides a smooth ride for baby, even when parents are running or off-road adventuring
- Puncture-free all-terrain tires that are lightweight and high tread
Cons
- No hand braking
- Seat must be removed before stroller can be collapsed
Best Off-Road Handling: Thule Glide 3
The Thule Glide 3 is responsive enough for an urban environment but shines off-roading with its 16-inch tires and handbrake for ultimate control.
Pros
- Tires and suspension designed to always provide a smooth ride
- Full coverage canopy
Cons
- Fixed-seating when bought as-is; other options, like a car seat adapter, must be purchased separately
- No handlebar storage for parent
Most Compatible: BOB Alterrain Pro
The BOB Alterrain Pro wins our “plays well with others” award—it’s compatible with Britax, Chicco, Peg Perego, and Graco car seats.
Pros
- Integrates easily with many of the most popular car seat brands
- All fabrics are designed for all-weather, including water resistance
Cons
- At more than 30 lbs, it’s a heavy stroller to lift or store
- Buyers have commented the braking systems can be stiff and hard to use
Best on a Budget: Jeep Apollo
At less than $200, the Jeep Apollo is the most inexpensive all-terrain stroller on our list.
Pros
- Budget–friendly price point
- Includes a safety tether for use when jogging
Cons
- Handlebar isn’t adjustable
- More spartan design with less comfortable seating
Most Compact: Guava Family Roam
If your trunk or storage space is at a premium, its nesting fold design allows the Guava Family Roam to fold up the most compactly of any stroller on our list.
Pros
- Lightweight and compact fold design make storage a breeze
- 60 day trial period
Cons
- No handbrake
- You’ll need a car seat adapter that’s sold separately to use with babies younger than six months
Most Lux: Bugaboo Fox 5
Incredibly lightweight and maneuverable with first-class comfort for both you and baby, the Bugaboo Fox 5 is the most lux option on our list.
Pros
- Comes with both a bassinet and standard stroller seat
- One handed folding mechanism with two folding options: standing or flat
Cons
- All that luxury comes with a hefty price tag; the Bugaboo Fox 5 is the most expensive option on our list (besting some of the competition by more than $1,000)
- Add-ons can drive the price tag up even further
How To Choose a Stroller For Gravel and All Terrain?
When choosing the right jogging or all-terrain stroller for your family, there are a few things you’ll want to prioritize. Consider the stroller’s wheels and suspension, maneuverability, ease of use, and comfort for both the pusher and the rider.
Wheels + Suspension
Large, no-puncture tires are a must for uneven terrain, and a robust suspension will provide for a smooth ride.
Maneuverability
The best stroller options will allow the front wheels to swivel when needed to maneuver in tight spaces or lock into place on rough terrain or when jogging on the trails.
Ease of Use + Storage
Consider how easily the stroller is to set up and collapse, as well as its storage. Jogging strollers tend to be bulkier, and may have to be stored upright.
Comfort
For your own comfort, look for adjustable, ergonomic handles and good storage options. For your child’s, you want the seat to have ample padding and recline options, a full-coverage canopy, and a five point harness to keep them secure.
FAQ
Can you push a stroller on gravel?
With the right stroller, pushing on gravel is no problem. The right tires and proper suspension are everything.
Are jogging strollers good on gravel?
Jogging strollers can handle gravel better than a traditional stroller, which makes them a good all-terrain option.
Do I need an all-terrain stroller?
If you plan to frequently need a stroller on unpaved trails, beaches, and gravel, an all-terrain stroller or a jogging stroller with all-terrain tires might make the most sense.
