Bob vs Bumbleride: The Stroller for the Jogging Parent

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For many moms and dads, running, jogging, and hiking in the Great Outdoors form an important part of their leisure time. Whether you’re a hardcore fitness fanatic or you just like to enjoy a gentle stroll along the trails, investing in the right stroller is crucial if you have young kids who like to ride along too.

Why Trust Us?

Because my full-time job is being mom to 2 precious daughters, and I know a thing or two about strollers. Besides personal experience, I get feedback from other moms who use these strollers every day and put all that research into our unbiased stroller buying guides

- Kyli

No doubt, your search for the perfect jogging or all-terrain stroller will find you considering the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0. The Revolution Flex 3.0 is a hugely popular best-selling stroller from a well-established brand whose jogging vehicles have dominated the marketplace for many years. A more recent arrival on the jogging stroller scene is the Bumbleride Speed.

So, how does Bumbleride’s new kid on the block match up against BOB’s seasoned campaigner?

In this comparison guide, we give you an overview of the two strollers so that you can see which one would best suit your family’s needs and lifestyle.

Table of Contents

What Exactly is a Jogging Stroller?

First of all, let’s consider what makes a specialist jogging stroller a jogging stroller. After all, wouldn’t a regular or lightweight umbrella stroller do the job just as well for a lower price?

Most jogging strollers are designed with three wheels. The front-wheel should have locking capability. That’s because a locked front wheel will keep the stroller straighter and on course when you’re moving over rough ground.

If your front wheel suddenly turns when you’re moving at a higher speed, there’s a very real danger that the stroller and its precious cargo could tip right over.

In theory, any stroller with a locking front wheel or wheels could be used for running. However, we wouldn’t recommend that, because proper jogging strollers are specially designed and optimized for coping with the bumps and vibrations that off-road travel attracts.

A regular stroller will translate every jarring jolt straight to your passenger, and a lightweight umbrella stroller will bounce around all over the place, potentially becoming unstable and tipping over.

So, what essential features should a jogging stroller possess?

  • Large, air-filled tires, usually 12-inches to 16-inches
  • High-quality suspension, preferably adjustable
  • A single, lockable front wheel
  • A long wheelbase
  • A semi-reclined seat angle

It’s also handy if your jogging stroller has a generous canopy that can be adjusted to follow the angle of the sun, and a spacious underseat storage basket to take all your baby essentials.

Now, let’s find out more about BOB and Bumbleride.

BOB: Off-Road, On-Road Fitness

BOB is a U.S. firm that was formed in 1991, specifically to design and manufacturer jogging strollers. The brand has since grown to gain a global following in the jogging stroller niche. If you buy a BOB stroller, you’re guaranteed to get plenty of extra features, as well as all the essentials you need from a top-end jogging stroller.

BOB’s ever-popular Revolution Flex jogger was upgraded in 2019. The Flex 3.0 is the latest model, and it’s this one that we take a close look at in our review.

Bumbleride: Simple, Intuitive, Eco-Friendly

Bumbleride is a U.S. manufacturer that was founded in 2004. The strollers created by this family-owned company are designed to fit with families who enjoy an active, outdoorsy lifestyle, and who have the future health of the planet in mind when making buying choices.

All Bumbleride’s strollers are safe, comfortable, and user-friendly. The fabric that Bumbleride uses on their strollers is created from a blend of recycled material and bamboo, so it’s fully recyclable and environmentally-friendly.

Now, let’s take a look at the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 and the Bumbleride Speed in more detail.

BOB Revolution Flex 3.0

BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 Jogging Stroller, Graphite Black [Old Version]
  • Fit: Birth to 75 pounds; 0 to 8 weeks with the use of an infant car seat adapter and compatible infant car seat, maximum child height 44 inches; stroller dimensions 45 x 24.5 x 43 inches...
  • Smooth, speedy stability: Locking swivel front wheel, air filled tires, and mountain bike style suspension system
  • Adjustable and safe: 9 position adjustable handlebar with wrist strap, no re-thread 5 point harness, near flat, recline, and extra-large UPF 50 plus canopy

The BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 is a versatile stroller that’s designed for use as an everyday stroller and for taking off-road when you want to go out running or hiking in the backwoods.

The Flex 3.0 is equipped with rugged wheels that will handle any terrain with ease. There’s also a two-stage suspension system to ensure a smooth push and a comfy ride for your tiny passenger. Furthermore, BOB has included a convenient carry handle so that you can pick up the folded stroller up and move it around hassle-free.

BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 Jogging Stroller, Graphite Black [Old Version]

In 2019, BOB launched the upgraded Revolution Flex 3.0 stroller in both a single and double format. The new versions of the old favorite include additional features, such as a new range of color choices with reflective detailing on the basket and canopy, a silent magnetic closure on the canopy, and additional storage pockets.

BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 Jogging Stroller, Graphite Black [Old Version]

You can see a video clip of the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 in action at this link.

Bumbleride Speed

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The Bumbleride Speed is a step up for Bumbleride and is proving popular with active families too. The stroller is versatile and can also be used for regular daily activities.

At 26.6 pounds, it’s not the lightest jogger on the market, but it does compare pretty favorably with BOB’s stalwart.

The Speed is fairly easy to push and turn and has a unique two-angle locking wheel for running over rough going. However, some users have commented that the Speed’s tracking is not ideal and could be improved. The Bumbleride Speed is fitted with thick, rubber tires for easy pushing through mud, sand, and snow.

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The Bumbleride Speed has a generous canopy and features an adjustable handlebar.

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Also, the Speed comes out on the pricy side, given that it’s a relative newcomer to the niche.

You can see a video clip of the Bumbleride Speed jogging stroller in action at this link.

BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 vs. Bumbleride Speed

So, how do these two similar strollers measure up when compared with each other?

The new Bumbleride Speed has had an upgrade since its launch in 2017 that is designed to improve its eco-friendly profile and usability.

The new canopy is taller than the original to accommodate tall toddlers, and the canopy fabric is now treated with an eco-friendlier water repellent that has less potential toxicity to the environment. The folding trigger has also been improved so that it’s more ergonomic. Also, there’s a new range of colors and seat liners to choose from.

Like the Revolution Flex, the Speed has a two-handed fold, but this stroller also has the advantage of an auto-lock and self-stand. However, you’ll need to have the Speed’s handlebar to be at the correct height, or the self-stand function doesn’t work.

BOB’s special Lunar edition of the Revolution Flex has an ultra-reflective print on the canopy and on the basket so that the stroller stands out more in dim light conditions.

Braking

The brakes on the Speed are standard, single-action design and are not flip-flop-friendly. The Revolution Flex 3.0 also has just one standard footbrake, but it is flip-flop-friendly. However, if you’ve bought the stroller specifically for jogging, it’s unlikely you’ll be wearing sandals when you’re out and about.

Storage

The Speed has an underseat storage basket that has a 10-pound weight limit, so there’s plenty of space to carry a large diaper bag and a few essentials. However, you can only access the basket from the back of the stroller unless the seatback is in the upright position.

Also, the Speed has two mesh pockets on the seatback, a passenger stow pocket inside, and a zippered pocket on the rear of the canopy, giving you plenty of extra storage space.

The BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 has a deep basket that will comfortably take all your stuff, but it doesn’t have a cover. Unfortunately, that means that your things could get dirty on a muddy trail and could even bounce out of the basket if you’re running over bumpy ground.

Sun canopy

The Speed has a large sun canopy with a handy peek-a-boo window that’s made of mesh but has a cover and a silent magnetic closure. Due to this, you can easily zip off the panel of the shade for better ventilation on hot days.

Harness and seat

The Bumbleride Speed has a 5-point safety harness that’s adjustable. The mechanism for fastening and adjusting the harness is easy enough, but somewhat more complicated than that of the Revolution Flex, which could be a pain if you’re struggling with a fidgety toddler. The seat is sling style, providing a comfy ride for passengers and an easy push for parents.

The seat on the Speed can be reclined to an almost flat position for comfortable napping, and you can open out the canopy just wide enough to provide a shady, twilight spot without the glare of sunlight. You can adjust the seat recline to infinite settings by using the simple plastic toggle system.

Although both these strollers are intended for use with kids who can hold their head up independently, adding a car seat or bassinet makes the strollers suitable for younger babies.

Thanks to a recent upgrade, the seat on the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 can be set in an upright position, as well as reclined for napping. It’s worth noting here that the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0’s seat recline doesn’t have the scope for the adjustment that’s offered by the Bumbleride Speed.

Most jogging and all-terrain strollers have seats that are positioned at a slight recline. That can prevent a whiplash injury to the passenger, should the stroller stop suddenly, and is an important safety consideration. That said, most older kids prefer to travel sitting upright so that they can take in what’s going on around them.

Convertibility

The Speed is compatible with some infant car seat carriers, provided that you buy an adapter, sold separately. Although the seat is easy to install, it does require a second strap attachment, which can be incorrectly installed if you aren’t careful.

The Revolution Flex 3.0 can be used with a child car seat to create a handy travel system. However, you can’t use either of these strollers with two car seats, which could be a real problem if you have twins or two kids of similar ages. You’ll need to put the car seat on top of the stroller seat to carry out the conversion, as the seat isn’t easily removable.

BOB is owned by the well-known car seat manufacturer, Britax. So, the Revolution Flex 3.0 is compatible with the Britax B-SAFE car seat, which is designed to coordinate with the stroller. And if you prefer, you can buy BOB car seat adapters that fit Chicco, Peg Perego, Graco, and Nuna.

Handling

The Bumbleride Speed moves nicely and is easy enough to maneuver thanks to its locking front wheel and unique, two locking location system. The swivel and shorter footprint also makes it easy to move through smaller spaces and around tighter turns. The stroller performs okay on rough tracks thanks to its large rubber tires.

The Speed has a suspension system on all three wheels and an adjustable, rubber-covered handlebar for comfy pushing.

The BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 can feel a little on the heavy side, but that’s a big plus when you’re running over rough ground. The Revolution Flex 3.0 has a smart suspension that makes for easy pushing through sand, snow, and mud. The suspension system is adjustable to accommodate the weight of the passenger.

When it comes to handling, we recommend that you take each stroller out for a short test run before making a purchase. This is because every brand of stroller handles slightly differently, so you’ll need to try it out first.

BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 Pros and Cons

Pros

  • The FLEX 3.0 has a high-tech suspension system that can be adjusted according to the passenger’s size. It has two settings that provide a smoother, safer, more enjoyable ride. 
  • Thick, chunky tires equip the BOB Revolution FLEX 3.0 perfectly for life off-road, including through mud, snow, and sand.
  • The seat can be set in an upright position so that your passenger can enjoy the view as you jog.
  • The Britax B-SAFE infant car seat coordinates with the BOB Revolution FLEX 3.0.
  • Although the BOB Revolution FLEX 3.0 isn’t the lightest jogger on the market, the manufacturer has incorporated a carry handle into the design for easier portability.

Cons

  • The BOB Revolution FLEX 3.0 is not the lightest jogger on the market, which could be an issue for you if you intend to travel with the stroller or if you live somewhere with flights of steps to negotiate.
  • The Revolution Flex 3.0 has a two-handed, two-step fold, which could be tricky if you have a wriggling toddler in one hand!
  • Once folded, the BOB Revolution FLEX 3.0 has a buckle fastening lock, whereas the Bumbleride Speed has a handy auto-lock.

Bumbleride Speed Pros and Cons

Here’s a summary of what we like about the Bumbleride Speed and areas where we think there’s room for improvement:

Pros

  • The Speed has a unique two-configuration locking system on the front wheel for improved maneuverability.
  • The Speed is well-made and built to last. Also, only eco-friendly fabrics are used, which could be an important consideration for environmentally conscious parents.
  • The Speed’s rugged tires and all-round suspension make for good off-road performance.
  • The Speed has a handy auto-lock once folded so that the stroller can be self-standing.

Cons

  • Given its performance and level of quality, the Bumbleride Speed is expensive compared with other more established jogger brands.
  • The frame joints are made of plastic, and the fabric is a little rough.
  • The self-stand function doesn’t work unless the handlebar is adjusted to the correct position. This may pose as a nuisance if you’re on the go or in a hurry. 

BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 Duallie vs. Bumbleride Indie Twin

BOB and Bumbleride both manufacture jogging strollers that carry two passengers, the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 Duallie and the Bumbleride Indie Twin.

Of the two strollers, the Indie Twin wins hands down in the beauty stakes! However, you must be prepared to pay top dollar if you want to dip into the gorgeous color palette that Bumbleride has used for this stroller.

The BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 Duallie is designed and built for life in the Great Outdoors. Although it’s a smart, practical-looking vehicle, the Duallie doesn’t have the curb appeal of the Indie Twin.

Bumbleride Indie Twin

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  • The Twin has an easy folding system with ergonomic fold levers.
  • The Twin’s canopies offer plenty of space (23-inches) for tall kids who are still growing.
  • The fabric used is eco-friendly, and there’s a back-canopy extension too, giving the stroller a more tailored look.
  • The Twin comes in a wonderful choice of stunning colors, including coral, mint, green, blue, turquoise.
  • Thanks to four huge air-filled tires, the Twin is a very easy push, despite its bulk.

Seats

The two seats on the Twin recline independently and almost flat, meaning that you can use the stroller for a newborn. There are adjustable leg rests for a super-comfy ride, and the total weight capacity is 90 pounds or 45 pounds per seat.

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Car seat compatibility

A double car seat adapter is available for the Twin that’s compatible with several car seats, including Cybex, Maxi Cosi, and Nuna.

Canopies, accessories, storage

The Twin has two huge canopies that can be adjusted to follow the sun. Furthemore, both canopies have mesh windows that unzip at the back to give more ventilation on hot days. Also, both canopies have a pop-out extension panel.

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The stroller’s handlebar is height adjustable to accommodate parents of different heights.

The Twin has a massive storage basket that has plenty of space to carry everything you’ll need for a day trip, including a large diaper bag, snacks, drinks, wipes, etc. Although there’s no parental organizer included, you can buy one separately if you want to.

Suspension and wheels

The Twin has an impressive all-wheel suspension system that gives your child a super-smooth ride. Likewise, the front wheels of the stroller are lockable to keep you steering a straight path. You will need to keep the large, air-filled tires topped up and re-inflated from time-to-time, but an air-pump is included with the stroller.

BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 Duallie

BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 Duallie Jogging Stroller, Graphite Black [Old Version]
  • Fit: Birth to 50 pounds each seat; 0 to 8 weeks with the use of an Infant Car Seat Adapter and compatible Infant Car Seat, maximum child height 44 inches; Dimensions 48 x 30.5 x 43 inches...
  • Smooth, speedy stability: locking swivel front wheel, air filled tires, and mountain bike style suspension system
  • Adjustable and Safe: 9 position adjustable handlebar with wrist strap, reflective accents, no rethread five point harness, near flat recline, ultra padded ventilated compression seats, and...

In a nutshell:

  • The Duallie has a four-step fold and doesn’t self-stand, which can be a problem if you have limited storage space at home.
  • It also has a huge underseat storage basket, as well as additional pockets for smaller items.
  • The Duallie also has two huge, independently adjustable canopies, providing excellent shade and sun protection for your passengers.
  • Like all their joggers, the Duallie is created and designed specifically for off-road use. However, it operates just fine as a regular stroller as well. 

Fold

The Duallie has a two-handed, four-step fold and a fiddly manual locking mechanism that doesn’t self-stand. Also, there’s no carry handle or strap.

BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 Duallie Jogging Stroller, Graphite Black [Old Version]

Brakes

The Duallie has a single-action brake set up with one long bar across the rear of the stroller. The brake pedal is large, flip-flop-friendly, and very easy to access and set.

Storage

The Duallie has a large, underseat storage bin that you can access both from the rear and the sides. There’s also plenty of space in the basket for your large diaper bag and essential supplies. However, the back-strap can make it difficult to fit larger items into the basket. Though, unlike some double strollers, you can easily access the basket when the seats are fully reclined.

BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 Duallie Jogging Stroller, Graphite Black [Old Version]

There is also useful additional storage provided by large stow pockets on the rear of each seat. These pockets will hold and secure all of your important belongings. Unfortunately, these pockets are tricky to access when you have the seats reclined. Also, BOB has provided two mesh pockets for each passenger, which will hold a toy or sippy cup.

Canopy

The Duallie has two huge canopies that can be individually adjusted for the comfort of each passenger. Furthermore, the canopies extend over the knees of most kids, providing excellent sun protection and shade on hot days.

Both canopies have a large vinyl peek-a-boo window with silent hook and loop closures. The window covers can be rolled up and secured so you can keep an eye on your kids. 

Seat

The seats on the Duallie can also recline independently. This allows one passenger to nap while the other enjoys the passing scenery. Adjusting the recline is achieved by using a strap on the seatback. That can be fiddly and needs two hands to operate.

BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 Duallie Jogging Stroller, Graphite Black [Old Version]

Car seat compatibility

The BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 Duallie accepts one infant car seat and is compatible with a range of popular brands. A few of these brands include Britax, Chicco, Graco, and Peg Perego. All of the seats click onto the car seat adapter but also require the addition of a strap. This factor is one that can be easily forgotten if not noted in advance. 

Handling

The three-wheel design and chunky, pneumatic tires make the Duallie super-easy to push and maneuver. This makes pushing it through tight spaces and around sharp corners a breeze. The stroller fits through standard-width doorways without a problem.

Like the Twin, the Duallie has large wheels and rubber tires. So, pushing through deep-going and over uneven terrain is a breeze for both passengers and pusher. 

The Duallie has an easy-grip handlebar that can be adjusted to suit parents of different heights. There’s also a safety tether that prevents the stroller from getting away from you when moving downhill.

Final thoughts

BOB is a specialist manufacturer of off-road strollers that are aimed at families who enjoy an outdoorsy lifestyle. Their products are all well-made and thoughtfully designed, and can be slightly more expensive to comparable strollers.

However, Bumbleride’s off-road strollers are relatively new to the niche. The strollers are built using high-quality materials and eco-friendly fabrics. They look great and certainly perform well, but you’ll find Bumbleride’s vehicles are more expensive than most other comparable strollers, including BOB’s.

Both these brands have plus and minus points, which we’ve highlighted for you in this article. Buying a stroller is not a cheap undertaking, so before you part with any cash, be sure to study the in-depth reviews on our website and take your preferred stroller for a test drive before signing on the dotted line. 

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Alison Page