BOB vs Thule is the jogging stroller rivalry, and the two best-selling models, the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 and the Thule Urban Glide 3, are both serious running strollers that also work for everyday walks. The BOB is the heavier, plusher ride with a long reputation. The Thule is lighter, narrower, and folds smaller, with a hand brake built into the handlebar. Here is how they compare.
Quick Verdict
Choose the Thule Urban Glide 3 if you run regularly and also use the stroller daily: it is lighter, easier to fold and store, narrower through doorways, and has the better integrated hand brake. Choose the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 if you run on rough trails, want the most cushioned ride, or prefer a slightly lower price. Both are excellent runners; the Thule is the more livable all-rounder.
BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 vs Thule Urban Glide 3 at a Glance
| BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 | Thule Urban Glide 3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | About $550 | About $600 to $650 |
| Weight | About 28 lb | About 25 lb |
| Wheels | 12 inch front, 16 inch rear, air tires | 12 inch front, 16 inch rear, air tires |
| Front wheel | Swivel with lock | Swivel with lock |
| Suspension | Mountain-bike style, adjustable | Rear suspension |
| Hand brake | Not on the Flex 3.0; on the Flex 3.0 Duallie and Alterrain Pro | Integrated twist hand brake on handlebar |
| Fold | Two step, large folded | One hand, compact, stands folded |
| Width | About 25.4 inches | About 27 inches |
| Child limit | 75 lb | 49 lb |
| Amazon rating | 4.7 stars, 3,200+ ratings | 4.5 stars |
Running
Both lock the front wheel for running, roll on 16-inch rear air tires, and track straight at pace. The BOB's adjustable suspension is the more cushioned of the two and the better choice on rutted trails. The Thule's rear suspension is firm and composed on roads and packed paths, and its lighter weight is noticeable on hills. The Thule's twist hand brake on the handlebar makes downhill running safer; the standard BOB Flex 3.0 relies on the foot brake, with a hand brake on the Alterrain Pro model.
Everyday Use
The Thule wins. It folds with one hand into a compact shape that stands on its own, its handlebar adjusts through a wide range, and its front wheel unlocks for swivel steering through stores. The BOB folds in two steps into a large, flat package that takes most of a trunk and does not stand. The BOB's swivel mode is fine, but it is the bigger stroller to live with.
Seat, Comfort, and Limits
The BOB has the roomier seat and the higher weight limit, 75 pounds against 49, so it carries a big kid longer. Both recline deeply and have large canopies with ventilation. Both accept infant car seats with adapters, though neither should be used for running with a baby under about 6 to 8 months or without the manufacturer's guidance.
Build and Reputation
BOB has been the default American jogging stroller for two decades and its strollers are known for lasting through multiple children. Thule, the Swedish rack company, builds to a similar standard with a cleaner design and better small details, such as the integrated brake and the fold. Both have strong warranties.
Who Should Buy the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0
Trail runners, parents of big kids who want the 75-pound limit, and anyone who prefers the softest ride and a slightly lower price.
Check BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 Price on Amazon
Who Should Buy the Thule Urban Glide 3
Road and path runners who also want an everyday stroller, and anyone short on trunk or storage space.
Check Thule Urban Glide 3 Price on Amazon
Frequently Asked Questions
When can a baby ride in a jogging stroller?
For walking, from birth with a compatible infant car seat or a fully reclined seat. For running, most manufacturers and pediatricians say to wait until the baby has strong head and neck control, typically 6 to 8 months, and some advise waiting until 12 months.
Do jogging strollers need the front wheel locked?
Yes, for running. A locked front wheel keeps the stroller tracking straight at speed. Unlock it for walking and turning in tight spaces.
Which stroller holds its value better?
Both resell well. BOB strollers have a very active used market in the US; Thule's newer models hold a high percentage of their price because of demand and limited discounting.
