I don’t mind running in the cold, but I was unsure how the baby queen would feel. After our first successful cold run, I was very pleased. However, over the past few months I have learned a few things that make cold runs easier with a baby and more comfortable for them.
Prior to getting the JJ Cole Polar bundle me, I was bundling Riley up in 2 pairs of socks, mittens, a hat, snow suit, winter jacket, 2 extra thick blankets, and snow boots. She was very bulky and it was a huge ordeal to get out of the house. Thirty minutes to get ready for a 30- 60 minute run. Ugh!
Now, most days, I can just zip Riley up in the Bundle me and we are good to go. It has been such a time saver.
Cold weather must haves:
JJ Cole Polar bundle me
I spent a lot of time comparing different brands of foot muffs (mini sleeping bags for strollers) and the materials used/ thickness of them. I decided on the JJ Cole Polar bundle me because it offered a few points that interested me.
Pros:
- Interior is a super soft fleece
- comfortable for baby to be in (Riley sleeps the WHOLE time she is in this)
- WARM (I have used this in temps of 20-40 degrees (F) without anything on Riley other than her sleepers. If the temperatures are lower than 20 and/ or if there is a lot of wind I will added a blanket, light jacket, mittens, or hat depending.
- extends (bottom zipper) for tots (1-4 years old)
- wind proof outer material
- easy to put on the stroller (and take off)
Cons:
- only one thickness, if baby gets too hot your only option is to unzip the whole thing
- more expensive than other foot muffs, I got mine at Bed Bath and Beyond for $119.00
Bob running stroller
So far, I have been very impressed with how the BOB handles ice, snow, slush, and mud. Riley finds it quite comfortable as she usually naps while we are out. To ensure safety the front wheel must be locked at all times while jogging. Even thought this makes turning a bit more difficult. From experience, do not unlock the front wheel! I forgot to relock it after a walk one day and once I hit a bump the stroller (and baby!) went sideways.
I purchased the snack tray and handle bar storage separately from the stroller, but they are both with it (somewhere to put your water and phone). I have not yet bought the weathers shield (for rainy days), but I am thinking I may later this spring. We have done just fine this far without it.
I have the BOB Revolution Pro in Black :
Fuzzy mittens for mom:
- Easy on and off
- Keep hands warmer than gloves (in my opinion)
- Double as a snot rag (yuck!)
Riley is still young enough to enjoy the jogging motion that puts her to sleep. I haven’t yet had to think of ways to entertain her while we are out. I know that day is coming soon, but until then I am enjoying having a happy SLEEPY running partner.
What are your tricks for running in colder temps? Do your little ones nap while running?
