Well guys, it’s time for our next edition of ‘Emmett’s ABCs’, and this time we’re reviewing….
The Schwinn Arrow Single Jogging Stroller!
I’m going to be real here for a minute… the amount of actual ‘jogging’ that’s happened with this stroller has been next to none (although it was initially recommended to me by a legitimate runner, I swear!). My use for this specific stroller is a bit more unique than that. We spend A LOT of time in the summer at the cottage, and our regular stroller just wasn’t cutting it on the country terrain. So, I went in search of the perfect second stroller, to tackle any road/path/trail terrain, that I could also use for jogging… you know, when THAT happens. Those of you who cottage, camp, hike, or just enjoy some off-roading fun will get where I’m going here. Read on!
AFFORDABILITY: Frankly, the price point on this stroller is one of it’s finest selling features. In the jogging stroller category, where $500-$1000 models seem to be the norm, the Schwinn Arrow is a steal at $249.99 (this is the lowest price I’ve found in Canada, check it out HERE). We’ll get into the key features in the Blueprint section below, but after talking to both serious runners, and casual 3-wheel stroller enthusiasts, the consensus is that all of the key features are present on the Arrow, and the price/value comparison is stellar.
BLUEPRINT (our evaluation of the overall design): The first thing you’ll need to consider when looking at jogging/off-road strollers is whether you’d like the front wheel to be fixed, or on a swivel. If you’re either a frequent runner, or someone who’s looking to use the stroller off-road like me, then fixed wheel is the way to go. This allows the stroller more stability, and you’re less likely to get the front wheel wedged in a root/rock/rut. The Schwinn Arrow is fixed-wheel. Check.
This large wheels on this stroller roll over just about anything. Grass, rocks, sticks – check out this quick video for a cottage terrain demonstration.
There are a few qualities that help the Arrow to take on rough terrain:
- 16” inflated rubber tires, with aluminium rims
- Exposed shocks on both rear tires – I’ve seen these in action!
- A comfortable 5-point harness that keeps your babe strapped in, and an adjustable seat to suit your desired amount of recline (there’s a nylon strap across the back to operate this)
NOTE: This stroller is only for use on babes 6+ months, who have very strong neck control. They will get bumped and jostled no matter how great the shocks are, so make sure you’re comfortable with them handling this before you take them for their first ride! That being said, it has a weight limit of 50 lbs and a height limit of 40”, so you should get some serious use out of this bad boy.
Now, despite the amazing value of this stroller, you’re bound to give up a few small conveniences vs. the $1000 models. So here are my notes on things to watch out for:
- There’s a smaller canopy on this stroller that some of it’s luxury counterparts. Check out Em in the stroller below, and you can see how depending on the angle of the sun, a good chunk of his bod could be exposed.
Don’t fret! I’ve found a quick and affordable fix! We found this elasticized netting that both helps to keep bugs out, and is UV treated to reduce harmful sun exposure. The best news? It’s under $15! You can buy it HERE
- The stroller isn’t made in Canada as far as we can tell (which is always a bonus in my books), but it is widely available in Canada.
- A quick reminder that the hand brake only activates the front wheel. So, if you happen to be lifting the front tires to steer, while going down a bumpy cottage hill, it will not prevent you front almost falling on your face behind the stroller as you trip over rocks… not that this happened… you know, just FYI.
Quick note: The Schwinn Arrow is also available in a Red/Grey colour combination, we just went for the jazzier blue print this time!
CREATIVITY:
We’ve mentioned above that there are lots of jogging stroller available, and many of them have similar features to the Schwinn Arrow, so this item isn’t remarkably innovative or creative. That being said, solving all of the key needs of a jogging stroller, at a price point that keeps it accessible and reasonable as a second stroller for families, is pretty darn innovative in my books!
Needless to say, if you jog, spend time outdoors with your fam where your typical stroller just doesn’t cut it, or are looking for an affordable three-wheel stroller for your little, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the Schwinn Arrow. Happy strolling!!!
