InStep 10K Ultimate Jogging Stroller Review

According to users and reviewing sites alike, the InStep 10K Ultimate Jogging Stroller seems like a pretty good deal for parents wanting a jogging stroller that handles well, has a few extras, and doesn't cost a fortune. While it's not absolutely perfect, the reviews are almost universally positive, and users seem quite happy with the performance of this stroller.

On the whole, it appears to handle very well, managing a few small potholes and sidewalk cracks – even a sandy beach – with little difficulty. With independent rear suspension, and 16-inch pneumatic tires, baby's ride is quite smooth and the parent's pushing work is a breeze. According to some users, though, tire pressure needs to be kept balanced and checked, because if it becomes uneven, then the stroller can veer to one side or the other. (The Baby Gaga website recommends 40 psi of pressure, i.e. 40 pounds per square inch.) And one user on the Epinions.com website talked about an axle that broke under ordinary use, not long after she got the stroller. But that appears to be an exceptional case, and most other reviewers feel that their strollers are pretty well built. Some have also mentioned, however, that the back hand brakes could possibly use some strengthening.

The baby's comfort and safety is well taken care of too – that is, once you get the knack of working the harness system. This is a five-point system that is found in all the best strollers and helps hold the baby securely in place. In this stroller, though, it seems rather difficult to fasten and unfasten. (One user mentioned that it got easier over time, perhaps from constant use.)

The reclining seat is comfortable for the baby, and there's good sun protection, with the option to buy an equally good rain cover and mosquito protection. The seat cover is made of stain-resistant material, is reversible, and can be removed for cleaning. There's also plenty of storage, starting with a spacious basket under the seat, two pouches on the back, and a parent tray with a cup holder.

A few reviewers comment that the stroller was quite easy to assemble when they first got it; in fact, one user said that it took her and her husband five minutes, and only took that long because they made a mistake at first. The stroller is also pretty easy to fold down, and many reviewers remarked on the quick-release wheels that helped the process. Removing the wheels comes in handy when the stroller needs to fit into a fairly small trunk, but they come off quite easily. One reviewer comments that when folding down, you have to watch out for the base of the lower storage compartment, to make sure it doesn't get stuck in the wrong position. And other users feel that the stroller is still a bit bulky when folded down, but that's not uncommon even with more expensive strollers, and parents don't seem to consider this a breaking point.

All in all, the users of the InStep 10K Ultimate Jogging stroller seem quite happy with it. Even when mentioning something negative, they consistently repeat that they like this stroller and would recommend it. Coming with the voice of experience, that's high praise.