Which baby jogger is right for you? If your answer to that question was “all of them!” then we have some great news. As shown in today’s comparison, these models offer something different depending on what type they’re intended – the City Mini GT2, the City Mini 2 for everyday use, the City Elite 2 for an active lifestyle, and Summit X3 for runners.
The three-wheeler market is a tough one to work in. There are so many different types with varying characteristics and it can be hard for consumers who want something that does just one thing well without any bells or whistles attached. However, we think Baby Jogger has done really well at least when compared to other brands specifically made for jogging as opposed to their everyday strollers which tend to have a better balance between functionality vs compactness open position, terrain capability, etc.
So, let’s get started then! Our jogging comparison will look at each model in terms of child comfort and ease of use. We’ll compare them against longevity rates as well so you know what to expect from your purchase before making it yours for good measure. Finally, there are driving characteristics that were also important enough for us to include here; these determine how varying conditions affect performance across different types of roads or surfaces available within a country.
Baby Jogger Strollers: GT2 vs Elite 2
The City Elite 2 and the Mini GT2 are two of our favorite models that function as all-around everyday strollers. They both have a nice selection of features to choose from, making them perfect for any child.
- Baby Jogger City Mini 2 Jet
- Lift a strap with one hand and the City Mini 2 folds itself simply and compactly; The auto lock will lock the fold for transportation or storage
- The adjustable calf support provides on the go comfort for baby
- Seat reclines to near flat position for baby's comfort on all your adventures together
- For Kids from 1 month to 54 Months
The current iteration of the Elite 2 is a bit heavier and larger than its predecessor, coming in at 11.6kg with dimensions that fold down to 35x67x85 cm. The updated model has grown from previous models while still maintaining high-quality materials throughout all stages. The new, slimmer, and lighter GT2 is a fantastic addition to our lineup. It folds down to a smaller 26 by 62 by 75 centimeters, making it lighter – 10.3 kilos.
The biggest difference here is that joggers come with either smaller or larger wheels, depending on your needs. The Elite 2 and GT2 strollers have large seats capable of comfortably seating a child well through their years, both in full recline or upright at least as far as three-wheeled models go. Some parents may find that too sloped for them but can be brought up to an acceptable height with either padding on the seat itself (which is common) alongside straps from occurring when needed most; these types are usually found close by footprint-type babies who will need more room then say older kids would after growing.
The off-road capabilities of these vehicles make them great for exploring remote areas. They’re not great when it comes time for jogging, but they do have enough power off-road that you can take them anywhere without worrying about getting stuck. However, the Elite 2 baby stroller has a few advantages over its counterpart. For one thing, it can tackle rougher hiking conditions with 12-inch wheels while even though the GT2 model only comes equipped with eight-and-a-half-inch tires they are more oriented towards the lighter rough ground like dirt roads or cobblestones so on which makes them better suited for you.
- Forever air rubber tires with all-wheel suspension provide a comfortable stroll on any terrain
- Adjustable handlebar and hand-operated parking brake provide comfortable steering and control, all within arm's reach
- Customize your ride for 4 different modes of use with accessories like the infant car seat, pram, glider board, parent console, child tray, and more (sold separately)
- The included infant car seat adapter is compatible with all Baby Jogger infant car seats
- Create a travel system with most Britax, Chicco, Clek, Cybex, Graco, Maxi Cosi, Peg Perego, and UPPAbaby infant car seats (adapters for other brands' infant car seats sold separately)
These two baby jogger three-wheelers are often compared because they both have the ability to take on rough terrain. One thing that may help you decide between them would be how much weight your child weighs and what size stroller will fit in certain spaces, but if it’s just about sitting down with some coffee while watching their little one play outside then either model should work well. The GT2 Stroller is a great choice for someone who wants the versatility of an all-terrain vehicle but needs something with less storage space. The Elite 2 strollers are ideal if you plan on hiking or going deeper than expected snowfall during winter months because they can handle more challenging terrain like cobblestone streets without breaking apart.
Baby Jogger City Mini 2 Stroller
The City Mini 2 stroller is perfect for parents on the go. It weighs less than 10 pounds, folds down to 83 by 61 and a half by 23 and a half inches (without GT), and has a nonadjustable handlebar which makes it easy enough even when you’re pushing this little guy around all day.
- Baby Jogger City Mini 2 Jet
- Lift a strap with one hand and the City Mini 2 folds itself simply and compactly; The auto lock will lock the fold for transportation or storage
- The adjustable calf support provides on the go comfort for baby
- Seat reclines to near flat position for baby's comfort on all your adventures together
- For Kids from 1 month to 54 Months
There are many who think that the regular City Mini is more similar to its GT counterpart. However, the City Mini is not as close to its GT counterpart in terms of performance and handling.
Despite the fact that there are many differences between these two models, I wouldn’t recommend buying the regular Mini. Despite they only have front-wheel suspension and no adjustable handlebars. The other thing which completely disqualifies this stroller for me is its wheels; Whereas those similar sized to my GT2, they would be of much poorer quality. The foot break on the Elite 2 and GT2 strollers is a little more complicated than it needs to be, but I actually prefer this type over simple handle-mounted static breaks.
The most crucial difference between this model and its counterparts is the tires. The GT2s are much more durable, providing better traction on any surface they may come across. The wheels on the regular Mini stroller are much weaker and wear down at an accelerated rate, making it difficult to steer. The front wheel has a dual setup like older models which can get hung up over even minor obstructions in the road.
Baby Jogger Summit X3 Stroller
The Summit X3 is the big brother of this group and it’s a little larger and heavier than all these other models. It weighs 12.7 kilos with its folding frame that measures 85 x67.5×35.5 inches when downsized to become more compact for storage. This three-wheeled stroller has some great features that make it perfect for rough terrain.
- Patented quick fold technology fold your stroller with one hand
- 3 Wheel Stroller: 16" rear and 12" front air filled tires with front wheel lock mounted on the handlebar for easy conversions between jogger and stroller mode
- All wheel suspension system soaks up road bumps making it the perfect all terrain stroller
- Hand operated rear brakes for more control on hilly or uneven terrain
- Large adjustable sun canopy with peek a boo windows and side vents
For starters, the mainframe folding mechanisms are stronger and more durable which means they can withstand larger amounts of pressure when you’re on your travels through mountain trails or other difficult areas where there may not always be smooth ground available. With a lockable swivel wheel, this stroller will be able to really stand up against the rigors of handling actual jogging due to its strength. The front wheel housing and locking mechanisms are often built with stronger materials that can take more wear and tear over time so you don’t have to worry about it breaking when out running errands or taking your kids on hikes.
The model also includes a few additional features beyond this meant to support its jogging mode. It has both dynamic hand brakes and front wheel tilt adjustments, making it great for people who go on long walks or run with their kids every day.
For those who love to run, it’s important to know the difference between a jogging stroller and one that is designed specifically for running. The Summit X3 can be used as an all-around option but will never have your performance expectations met like with dedicated models.
The Summit X3 is a more rugged and outdoorsy stroller, perfect for parents who need something that can withstand any terrain. The design includes tough components such as a steel reinforced frame which makes it great in inclement weather or if you’re taking your baby on walks near the beach where there may be rough surfaces. In our opinion, the best all-around choice would be this model instead of an Elite 2.
This stroller is great for parents who need a hybrid model for everyday usage. This can be good if you don’t own any cars, live in rural conditions, and plan on hiking often or just want an all-around suitable product instead of getting another specialized jogging/hiking-specific model.
We hope that this article was helpful in showing you the differences between the four popular three-wheeled strollers. For more information on each model, please check out our standalone reviews.
We all know that strollers are a necessary buy, but how do you decide which one? The Stroller Workshop has an extensive buyer’s guide on their youtube channel with detailed descriptions and pros/cons for every model on the market.
