Baby Jogger Summit X3

After having my third child, I needed a jogging stroller to allow me to get moving. Not only did I want to begin a regular exercise routine, but my older two children are very active, and I needed a stroller that could keep up with the whole family. The Baby Jogger Summit X3 has been a perfect match for us.
It arrived on my doorstep on a gorgeous Friday, and we were rolling our youngest around in it at ball practice and dinner that very evening. I was a little leery of assembly at first, but it was a very simple and straightforward process. From opening the box to strapping my child in the stroller was less than 10 minutes. I was impressed with how easy it was, and also impressed with the sleek, clean styling of the stroller.
I’m tall—5’9”—so it is hard to find strollers that aren’t too low. This jogger sits high enough for easy pushing without me having to bend over to reach. The best feature of the stroller though, in my opinion, is the one-hand folding. It was easy to figure out, and it makes closing up the stroller to stick it in the trunk or garage very convenient (since my other hand is usually full of baby). The fold is compact enough for easy storage. Like most jogging strollers, it’s larger than an umbrella or lightweight stroller when folded, but it is a good size when considering its purpose. Additionally, this jogger is very durable and has great shocks to withstand walking or jogging on uneven surfaces. It could easily be used on a trail or in a mall. The front wheel has a locking option, so you can use it in swivel position (for regular use) or locked position (for jogging use). It’s very maneuverable and readily completes 360 degree turns.
The Summit XC has a retractable weather cover, hand-operated brakes, a multi-position sun canopy with a clear window to keep an eye on baby, and side ventilation panels. There is a large under seat basket for storage as well as a compartment in the seat back. The seat appears to be comfortable for the rider, making it an all-around winner. Comfy push for mom, comfy ride for baby. (The all-wheel independent suspension system factors into both of these.)
Most jogging strollers I have looked at only allowed the child to sit upright while riding. However, the X3 seat is designed for a child to sit up and enjoy the ride or lie down to rest or nap. The recline is almost completely flat. Even though it isn’t recommended to jog with a baby until he is older and has gained full head control, a recline option is nice for smaller riders if you’ll also be using this stroller to walk or run errands. It is suitable for children up to 75 pounds. (Wouldn’t that be a workout?!)
If you wanted to use this stroller as your one and only, you could buy a car seat adaptor to make it into a travel system; Baby Jogger’s standard adaptor is compatible with many of the popular car seat brands (including the Britax Chaperone and Graco SnugRide). I would say the only disadvantage to this stroller is having to purchase the extra accessories separately (cup holder, child tray, etc), but all in all, this stroller has been an ideal match for us.
Price: $430
To buy: mbeans.com