BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 Review

The BOB (Beast of Burden) company began when two fathers craved something different to get their baby out and about. After searching for a stroller they could jog with, the two men created the first fixed-wheel jogging stroller. Over time, the company created a variety of joggers, including the first locking swivel front wheel that increased the versatility of the once awkward stroller. Britax now owns BOB.

Performance Comparison

Run-Ability

While fixed wheel strollers have traditionally outperformed their swivel wheel counterparts, in recent years, we've seen a shift and find that a locked swivel wheel is easier to run with, and our professional runner feels the same about the Flex 3.0.

With useful adjustable tracking (above left), handlebar height (above right), and suspension, the 3.0 allows for some custom settings to improve running ergonomics, making it a comfortable option to push and tilt for turning. The Thule Urban Glide 2 offers similar adjustability. Our stroller ran straight, and we didn't have any difficulty keeping it on track.

The Details

For run-ability, each product undergoes multiple weighted tests to obtain the overall run-ability score. The tests help tease out what helps create a picture of how one jogger compares to another. The testing details can help you determine which stroller has the functionality and performance you need for your running goals. We include detailed charts to show a side-by-side comparison of how the Revolution 3.0 measures up to the competition.

The running tests we perform make up 35% of the total score for run-ability. Running tests include multiple ratings from various runners on their experience running with each jogger. The chart below shows the Revolution's running results compared to the competition.

Rolling resistance is 20% of the overall run-ability score. How freely the wheels spin with weight in the stroller can influence how easy it is to push a stroller while running. With a longer rolling distance test result, you can infer that the wheels have less natural resistance and require less energy to push. A longer distance in the rolling test is better.

Ease of Use

The 3.0 is slightly easier to use than the previous version of Flex, with an increase in storage options that improve parents' day-to-day experience, especially those who want to use their jogger as their everyday option.

Fold and Unfold

The 3.0 has the traditional BOB fold and requires two hands and three steps, including release levers, a pull handle, and a manual lock. This stroller does not self-stand it doesn't have a carry strap. The larger size and bulky fold mean it can be awkward to lift and carry. Unfolding also requires two hands, and it simply unfolds and locks in place.

Brakes

The 3.0 has single-action brakes that engage by pressing the rocker pedal in the middle of the brake bar near the rear axle. This pedal used to be metal and has grown in size and is now plastic. The pedal is sandal foot friendly and easy to set and release.

During testing, our brakes had difficulty staying or engaging thoroughly, and we found that we had to jiggle the stroller somewhat to ensure that the teeth on the brakes engaged fully with the slots on the wheel. The stroller often moved forward without this wiggle adjustment when slightly bumped or on an incline. This brake issue is something we haven't seen in the BOB strollers of yore.

Storage

The 3.0 has under-seat storage on par with previous Flex options and is accessible from the back and somewhat from the sides. Unlike the covered storage on the BOB Alterrain Pro, the bin is open but shares the same 10 lb weight limit. The BOB also has interior passenger pockets for snacks and water bottle storage.

The new 3.0 has additional pockets on the back of the canopy and seatback. Instead of only a single or double mesh pocket (above left), it now has a zippered pocket for a phone or keys (above right) and larger pockets for other convenience items. This additional storage means you could potentially do without a parent console.

Sunshade

The sunshade is still large and covers little ones to the knees. The peek-a-boo window is somewhat smaller than previous years, but it also has ventilation and a vinyl window. The new canopy has a magnet closure on the window cover, which is a much-desired improvement over the loud Velcro used in the past. The shade is sturdy, even if it looks a little frumpy when open. While the shade is extensive and useful, it doesn't look as taunt as the canopy on the BOB Rambler.

Harness

The harness on the BOB is easy to put on and take off with dual red loop pull tabs to tighten both shoulders and waist. This simple system is easy to adjust, and the shoulder height adjustment is the non-rethread style we prefer. The buckle doesn't require excessive finger strength, and the clips pop out, making it a quick and smooth operation.

Seat

The 3.0 seat is a padded and molded canvas with a sling-style design. The seatback reclines almost flat, and the leg rest is stationary but padded and extends to a rubber-covered footrest. Overall, the seat is cozy enough for napping.

Car Seat Compatibility

The 3.0 is compatible with various infant car seat carriers with the purchase of an adapter. Most of the BOB adapters require a small amount of assembly with a screwdriver and need to be attached to the stroller using tools as well. The adapters are a to step process that requires clicking the car seat in place and then securing it to the stroller with side straps. The two-step process leaves more room for error or negligence than the single-step process found on some competition. We worry parents will forget or forgo the second step leaving little ones open to potential injury. So while you can pair it with a car seat, it isn't our favorite.

Ease of Setup

The 3.0 is easy to set up with clear instructions and limited parts. It took about 4:30 minutes to assemble, and the Allen wrench you need to tighten the front axle comes in the box, but we did need to use pliers to hold the other side to tighten.

Maneuverability

The Revolution 3.0 is easy to maneuver with a swivel front wheel you can lock in place for traversing rough terrain or uneven surfaces.

The large pneumatic rubber tires go over almost any surface with ease, and the three-wheel design makes tight turns a breeze. Despite the larger size of this stroller, it is easy to navigate in crowded spaces, and we think it outmaneuvers the competition on bumpy surfaces. This BOB can be pushed one-handed and moves smoothly without a hiccup.

Weight and Folded Size

The 3.0 is 27.3 lbs and measures 14,748 cubic inches when folded. These measurements make the Revolution about average for the group.

It can fold smaller if you remove the wheels, giving you a folded size of 10,672 cubic inches. While not practical for everyday use, the smaller fold could be helpful for longer trips or smaller trunks.

Quality

The 3.0 has similar quality construction and parts to the rest of the BOB lineup though not much has changed over the years, and things that have changed didn't necessarily improve.

The BOB uses thick canvas for the fabric that gives the impression of durability and longevity. The thermo-molded seat is padded and easy to clean with a liquid-resistant coating. The frame is sturdy and has little flex or rattle, and the plastic wheels are dense and look off-road ready.

The overall fit and finish are nicer than the 2.0, with a few more features and better canopy detail. We appreciate the adjustable suspension (a rare treat in joggers) and the ability to adjust the tracking and handlebar height.

Should You Buy the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0?

We love the Revolution and think it offers a lot for most families. This stroller is a good runner with high scores in our detailed tests for running, plus, it is good for going off-road hiking and running errands. While this stroller is somewhat big and heavy, and some competitors are easier to fold and lift, we think most families will love what the Flex offers and will find it meets their needs for years to come.

What Other Jogging Strollers Should You Consider?

While we adore the Revolution and it is hard to find a flaw, we do think some runners will prefer the sleek style and lighter weight of the Thule Urban Glide 2. This similarly priced stroller has a one-hand fold, rolls like luggage, and has fewer exposed connection points. The Urban Glide 2 offers slightly better performance for ease of use and maneuverability than the Flex and could be a possible contender in a side-by-side shootout.

Accessories

BOB offers some accessories that make life easier.

• 

  BOB Parent Console — A great console is useful for keeping supplies close at hand. The BOB console has deep cup holders and a zippered center pocket good for phones or keys. It fits nicely on the handlebar, with little movement, which can translate to a lower potential for items to fall out when strolling.

• BOB Single Snack Tray — This useful snack tray for passengers provides locations for cups and snacks that can make longer trips more enjoyable for little ones. While this tray isn't great for running, as items can fall out when moving at speed, we think many parents and passengers will find it useful when strolling.

• BOB Single Weather Shield —

  

  Depending on your local weather patterns, a weather shield can increase how often you can use your stroller by protecting your baby from the weather. This cover creates a protected bubble good for rain, snow, wind, and even general cold.

• Infant Car Seat Adapters — BOB offers car seat adapters for many popular infant car seats.

  

  These adapters allow you to attach your car seat carrier to the stroller for walking with your baby until they are old enough to sit on their own. Adapters are specific to the brand of car seat you own. The BOB website provides a nice tool to help you determine which adapter you need for your specific seat. BOB currently offers four different adapters, including the BOB 2016 Single Infant Car Seat Adapter for Peg Perego, BOB 2016 Single Infant Car Seat Adapter for Chicco, BOB 2016 Single Infant Car Seat Adapter for Graco, and BOB 2016 Single Infant Car Seat Adapter for Britax & BOB. You can read more about infant car seats in our complete review, including crash test results.

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