A stroller or jogger should perform like a well-oiled machine, allowing a parent to move a child from place to place while stowing all the necessary gear -- diaper bags, toys, snacks -- in handy storage pockets. Regardless of the type of stroller you need, it should be easy to steer, simple to fold and provide a comfortable ride for its passenger. Plan to pay more for a jogger stroller than a standard stroller. Our top picks in the stroller/jogger category have a price range of $150 to $450 and sport practical features that will stand the test of time.


Zooper Boogie Stroller

The Zooper Boogie Stroller performs like a champ. If you plan to put serious miles on a jogger stroller, or if you simply want top-of-the-line features, the Zooper Boogie Stroller should be on your short list. At about $450, the Zooper is feature-rich and easy to push. A swiveling front wheel means it can turn on a dime, but the wheel also can be locked into a fixed position. We like the large, pneumatic tires that can handle uneven and rough terrain. Plus, the Zooper has plenty of luxury features. It has a large canopy that pivots to multiple positions, including to the front of the stroller. It also comes with a sunshade, rain shield, tire pump and all-weather boot. The seat can be reversed to face forward or back, and the Boogie has plenty of under-seat storage. The stroller is heavy (about 26 pounds). Don't expect it to fold compactly. We found it was easier to ferret out additional storage space and leave it unfolded between frequent uses.

Zooper Boogie Stroller

Kelty Speedster Deluxe Stroller

For about $340, the Kelty Speedster Deluxe Stroller offers many of the same features as more expensive jogger strollers. The stroller has nylon rip-stop fabric, 360-degree reflective piping and a safety bell. The handlebar height is adjustable from 34-inches to 45-inches, and the Kelty Speedster Deluxe can carry children up to 85 pounds, nearly double the capacity of many models. It has a user-friendly design that includes plenty of walk-behind room for those with long strides (there's not a horizontal brake bar to bruise shins). Few jogger strollers have reclining seats, but the Kelty Speedster Deluxe does. It also has a large canopy and a protective fender that fully covers the front wheel. The Speedster has a compact shape means less storage room, but it folds easily. Overall, the Kelty Speedster outperforms several of its more expensive competitors.


Chicco Cortina Stroller

With a price tag of about $150, the Chicco Cortina Stroller is a practical full-size stroller with several convenience features. It can be folded with one hand and it has an innovative "memory" recline. This means that when you unfold the stroller, the seat returns to the last recline position. We like the Cortina's adjustable footrest and its large canopy that can be placed in a front- or rear-facing position. The Cortina's all-wheel suspension offers a smooth ride, and the front wheels swivel. There are cup holders for parent and child, as well as a storage basket. The Cortina is compatible with Chicco infant car seats.


Baby Trend Symmetry Stroller 5578

The Baby Trend Symmetry is a full-size stroller with a reasonable price tag of about $150. This lightweight stroller has a number of features we like, including a larger-than-average canopy, generous under-seat storage and parent/child cup holders. We like how this stroller performs. It has dual front wheels and it steers easily. The rear tires are larger than the front, and all the tires are larger than most we've seen on lightweight strollers. We like the Baby Trend Symmetry's five-point harness because it is simple to buckle and has wide straps that don't easily twist. The seat reclines and is fully padded. Plus, it has a one-hand fold feature. The Symmetry is compatible with the Baby Trend Latch-Loc infant car seat.

Peg Perego Aria OH Classico Stroller

Peg Perego Aria OH Classico Stroller

The Peg Perego Aria OH Classico Stroller, at just under $200, is a feature-rich luxury stroller at a budget price. This lightweight stroller has a large, comfortable seat with several recline positions. The five-point harness and buckle system is easy to use. There is a large canopy that offers plenty of sun and wind protection, as well as a child tray and parent cup holder. Plus, the stroller has all-wheel suspension -- something we don't often see in this price range -- and the front wheels swivel. One of our favorite features is the ability to remove and wash the stroller's upholstery. The Aria OH Classico has a one-hand fold feature and a convenient handle to use when carrying it in a folded position. The Peg Perego Aria OH Classico is compatible with Peg Perego infant car seats.