In Depth Baby Product Reviews Led by a Pediatrician

Guava Roam Crossover Review

A beauty created from a stellar balance of form and function, it is a great all-in-one option, though it isn't a superior runner
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Guava Roam Crossover Review (The Guava performed well in our tests for run-ability, pleasing testers and kids alike.)
The Guava performed well in our tests for run-ability, pleasing testers and kids alike.
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Price:  $600 List
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Manufacturer:   Guava
By Juliet Spurrier, MD and Wendy Schmitz  ⋅  Sep 10, 2024
88
OVERALL
SCORE


RANKED
#1 of 10
  • Run-ability - 35% 8.3
  • Ease of Use - 20% 9.0
  • Maneuverability - 20% 9.3
  • Transport and Storage - 10% 8.2
  • Quality - 10% 9.8
  • Kid Comfort - 5% 7.8

Our Verdict

The Guava Roam Crossover is a favorite jogging stroller in this review, with testers hailing its fine attributes and impressive performance. It isn't often a newcomer wows us, and the Roam definitely did just that. With never-flat tires, an adjustable handlebar and tracking, with a straightforward fold there is nothing to dislike about this stroller that is small and functional enough to use as your everyday stroller. This comfy, high-quality option is easy to use and great for running, earning one of the highest run-ability scores in the group. We like the attention to detail and the thoughtful design that offers much for parents and passengers. If there was anything amiss here, it would be the lack of handbrake and perhaps the need for a larger canopy. Otherwise, this is a great option for most parents whether they are running a marathon or running for groceries, the Guava is an impressive choice with a reasonable price tag lower than other high-ranking competitors.
REASONS TO BUY
Great runner
Handlebar lock wheel adjustment
Compact fold
Never-flat tires
All-in-one
REASONS TO AVOID
No hand brake
No color options
Shows scratches

Compare to Similar Products

 
guava roam crossover
Awards Editors' Choice Award
Best Overall Jogging Stroller
Top Pick Award
Best Jogger for Longterm Use
Top Pick Award
Highest Quality Jogging Stroller
 Best Value Award
Best for Small Budgets
Price $600 List$550 List
$439.99 at Amazon
$600 List
$599.99 at Amazon
$173 List
$129.99 at Amazon
$150 List
$129.99 at Amazon
Overall Score Sort Icon
88
77
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55
53
Star Rating
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Bottom Line An excellent performer for both running and everyday life, it is hard to go wrong with this compact folding joggerA sturdy, high-quality crossover option that is easy to run with, but the fold requires two hands, and it doesn't self-standNice crossover with an appeal to many but has some limitations to consider before choosing it over better-performing optionsThe Race Tec is somewhat nicer than other Baby Trend joggers we've tested, but it isn't the best for runningBudget jogger that is lightweight and easy to maneuver but it lacks dedicated running features like tracking and suspension
Rating Categories Guava Roam Crossover BOB Revolution Flex... UPPAbaby Ridge Baby Trend Expediti... Baby Trend Expedition
Run-ability (35%)
8.3
7.7
7.3
3.9
3.9
Ease of Use (20%)
9.0
7.4
9.2
6.4
5.8
Maneuverability (20%)
9.3
8.4
6.4
6.8
6.7
Transport and Storage (10%)
8.2
6.2
4.5
6.1
8.1
Quality (10%)
9.8
8.7
9.8
5.1
3.7
Kid Comfort (5%)
7.8
7.2
7.4
6.8
5.2
Specs Guava Roam Crossover BOB Revolution Flex... UPPAbaby Ridge Baby Trend Expediti... Baby Trend Expedition
Capacity Limits Minimum: 6 months
Maximum: 60 lbs / 42 in
*car seat adaptor (sold seperately) allows for usage from 0 - 6 months
Minimum (Walk Only):
Infant Car Seat: 0 - 8 week
Stroller Seat: 8 week - 8 months
Jogging & Off-Road: 8 months - 5 year
Maximum: 75 lbs / 44 in
Minimum: 3 months
Maximum: 55 lbs
Minimum: 6 months
Maximum: 50 lbs / 42"
Minimum: 6 months
Maximum: 50 lbs / 42"
Measured Weight 28.5 lbs 27.3 lbs 30.5 lbs 28.1 lbs 23.6 lbs
Measured Folded Dimensions 28.5" x 17.4" x 15.1" 37.8" x 25.5" x 15.3" 37.3" x 26.3" x 17.0" 36.5" x 24.5" x 16" 16.3" x 23.5" x 33.1"
Folded Volume 7,488 cu in 14,748 cu in 16,677 cu in 14,308 cu in 12,679 cu in
Handlebar Height - Min/Max 34" - 45" 34.5" - 48" 41.25" - 45.5" 41.5" 41"
Fixed/Swivel Wheel Swivel Swivel Swivel Swivel Swivel
Measured Rolling Resistance Average 24 Ft 37 Ft 21 Ft 21 Ft 45 Ft
One-handed Fold Yes No Yes No No
Auto or Manual Fold Lock Manual Manual Auto Manual Manual
Self-standing Fold Yes No Yes Yes Yes
Included Accessories Parent console (removable) Water bottle holder Parent Console (removable)
Child Tray (removable)
Parent Console (removable)
Child Tray (removable)
Setup Time 5 mins 5 - 10 mins 5 - 10 mins 5 - 10 mins 5 - 10 mins
Warranty 2 Year warranty

60 Day trial period
Frame is warranted for 5
years. Components and fabric are
warranted for 1 year
3 Year warranty 1 year limited warranty 1 year limited warranty

Our Analysis and Test Results

Guava has been producing gear for babies, focusing on portability, travel, and activity since 2009. They pride themselves on creating designs with parent feedback in mind, creating gear that is more travel-friendly and less bulky. They work to create original designs instead of working from what came before. They offer a travel crib, stroller, and bassinet.

Performance Comparison



The Guava performed well in most of our tests for run-ability and was a tester favorite.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Run-ability


The Guava earned one of the highest scores in our review for run-ability. This is extra impressive, considering it is an excellent cross-over stroller, making it a potential one-and-done option for runners.

Run-ability Performance Ratings
ProductRunningTrackingSuspensionErgonomics
Best9.09.08.08.3
Guava Roam Crossover9.59.08.55.2
Average76.46.45.8
Worst5.03.01.03.2
The Guava earned impressive run-ability test results for a relative newcomer to the market.

With an adjustable handle and tracking, the Roam makes creating a custom fit for your body and running style easy. It has excellent suspension and a locking front wheel that felt stable and wasn't bouncy.

The front swivel wheel on the Guava can be locked in place for running and all-terrain.
Credit: Genaveve Bradshaw

The Roam's tracking is adjustable and helps it stay moving straight, decreasing the runner's effort.

guava roam crossover - tracking adjustment on the guava is operated by a dial on the side...
Tracking adjustment on the Guava is operated by a dial on the side of the frame near the front wheel.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

It handles well, and we only had to adjust the tracking at the beginning and near the end of the testing after 5 miles of run time. This is far better than some, which require adjustment on almost every run.

The Guava handlebar easily adjusts by pressing the side button on the pivot point.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

The handlebar is adjustable, with four height options from 34 to 45 inches from the ground. Like much of that competition, it is a pivot-point rotating bar, which puts taller pushers closer to the rear axle, which would be a problem for longer strides. However, this is true of all the rotating handlebars in the group. Adjustability helps increase running ergonomics and can decrease effort and fatigue for the runner.

We measured the rolling resistance of each stroller and the Guava did not go as far as some competitors.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

The only lower-scoring sub-metric for the Roam is the rolling resistance, which was 24 inches on average across three tests. In this test, a longer distance is better; some traveled almost twice the distance. However, we did not think the Roam was difficult to push or run with, even over long distances.

The Guava Roam is an impressive do-it-all stroller that could be your only stroller for running and everyday adventures.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Ease of Use


You need ease of use in a great crossover stroller, and the Roam delivers one of the highest scores in this metric.


We could fit our extra large diaper bag in the Guava storage basket by way of the open access in the back.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Storage


The main storage bin under the Roam's seat has very easy access. We fit our extra large diaper bag inside. The downside is the 10 lb limit, as this might not be high enough for an everyday stroller. While you are not likely to carry much when going on a run, it won't be enough for running errands and perhaps not even enough for a full day of fun.

guava roam crossover - the zip pocket inside the storage basket is a handy place to stow...
The zip pocket inside the storage basket is a handy place to stow things you don't want falling out and stay organized.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

The bin has an interior zippered pocket that can keep small, important things from getting lost. Two mesh pockets outside the zippered pocket are for quick access items like a phone.

The parent console on the Guava can be especially useful for strolling with a pocket for a smartphone and a cup holder.
Credit: Genaveve Bradshaw

The Guava has an easy-to-remove parent console. It includes a zippered pocket in the center and a mesh cup holder that could fit smaller bottles, like a bike water bottle. However, it is too small for larger or wider insulated bottles.

The passenger stow pockets on the Guava are perfect for water...
The passenger stow pockets on the Guava are perfect for water bottles and snacks.
The Guava seatback pocket is mesh and can hold smaller items.
The Guava seatback pocket is mesh and can hold smaller items.

The back of the Roam's seat has a large mesh pocket that fits larger water bottles, but if the bottles are big or heavy, you'll want to keep an eye on how well the mesh wears over time. The passenger seating area also has two mesh pockets that fit some kids' water bottles, but wider sippy cups could be a problem.

The Guava folds small and will self-stand with the handlebar in the lowest position.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Fold and Unfold


The Roam is somewhat unique and includes folding instructions right on the stroller! This is cool and will definitely come in handy for any parent who is not the primary user and might find themselves on the town with no folding knowledge.

guava roam crossover - we love that guava offers folding instructions on the stroller, so...
We love that Guava offers folding instructions on the stroller, so you never need to get frustrated with folding it.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

It is a one-hand fold with a manual locking mechanism. It self-stands and has a carry strap, which is really useful. If you put the handle in the lowest position before folding, it will self-stand without a problem. The pull handle is under the legrest.

guava roam crossover - the roam harness has padding on the shoulders, waist, and around the...
The Roam harness has padding on the shoulders, waist, and around the buckle for a comfortable ride. Adjusting it is easy, but using the buckle is less so.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Harness


The Guava harness is somewhat harder to get on than others, but it is easy to adjust once you do. The buckle is hard to open and requires two hands to accomplish. You can likely get it done with some practice with one hand, but it takes time and isn't intuitive. The harness has 5 points with adjustable padding and a cover for the crotch strap.

The Guava parking brakes are easy to set with a single pedal that is sandal foot-friendly.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Brakes


This stroller only has parking brakes and no deceleration brake. The brakes are easy to set and sandal foot-friendly.

guava roam crossover - the brake on the guava is a single action, has a rubber grip on the...
The brake on the Guava is a single action, has a rubber grip on the pedal, and is easy to operate.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

The brake feels strong and is easy to set and release. Releasing requires lifting the pedal with the top of your foot, but it isn't stiff and didn't create a problem during testing.

The only setup you need to do on the Guava is unpacking and putting on the parent console.
Credit: Genaveve Bradshaw

Ease of Setup


This stroller comes pre-assembled and only requires unpacking. The parent console is the only part you need to put on if you choose to. Now that we've experienced this, we think all strollers should come ready to roll. The manual is presented in a protected place and is the first thing you see when you open the box. The foam-filled tires mean no tire pump is required. Well done Guava! We see you!

guava roam crossover - we tested the guava for maneuverability on hard surfaces and...
We tested the Guava for maneuverability on hard surfaces and all-terrain in tight spaces and open places.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Maneuverability


The Guava was made to maneuver, earning it one of the highest scores in the group and demonstrating its great versatility as a crossover stroller.

Maneuverability by Surface Type
ProductPavementAll-terrainCurbs
Best10.09.09.5
Guava Roam Crossover10.08.510.0
Average87.18
Worst7.05.08.0
The Guava Roam had no problems in our on and off-road maneuverability tests.

The Guava handled the hard-surface obstacle course with grace and ease. This nimble stroller made tight turns and sailed through doorways and tight aisles. It never felt tippy, awkward, or too long for the smaller spaces.

The Guava is easy to push and turn, even with a single hand, including over uneven and all-terrain surfaces.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Moving off-road, its all-terrain tires helped it maneuver without trouble. It cruised over dirt roads, pine needles, sand, mulch, and more without a problem. Deep sand required two-handed pushing, but it managed without significant effort. It felt responsive without being squirrely or overreactive.

Our box test on the Guava showed it was easy to lift, and the front end was not bouncy or tippy.
Credit: Genaveve Bradshaw

The Roam tackles the curbs without a bouncy front wheel or hopping. It feels secure and stable, with no wobble or hints of tipping. It is easy to lift the front and back wheels, and it never feels sketchy.

The Roam is easy to fold, lift, and stow; it is much smaller even if it is somewhat heavier than the average jogger.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Transport and Storage


If you are looking for a smaller folded jogger, the Guava is your choice. It earned one of the highest scores in the group, and for good reason.

Weight and Folded Size Ratings
ProductWeightFolded Size
Best9.57.2
Guava Roam Crossover5.410.0
Average6.36.3
Worst3.04.6
Transporting and storing is largely made up of how much a product weighs and how small it can fold with smaller measurements in both being better.

The Guava is a small, folded jogger. It measures 28.5" x 17.4" x 15.1", or 7,488 cubic inches.


The Guava was measured when folded and had the smallest fold in the group.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

This is more than half the size of the average jogger and almost a third of the size of the biggest folded option. If your space is limited, the Guava will be smaller than even many of the full-size strollers we've tested.

guava roam crossover - during testing, we weighed each stroller for an apples-to-apples...
During testing, we weighed each stroller for an apples-to-apples weight comparison. The Roam weighed 28.5 lbs, which matches the manufacturer's claims.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Sadly, it isn't all that light. While small, it is heavy, weighing 28.5 lbs. This is about a pound heavier than the average stroller in our lineup but more than 2 lbs less than the heaviest. In the end, it really depends on what your greatest concern is in your buying decision: size or weight.


Overall, the Guava performed well in this metric despite the heavier weight. Its unbelievably small folded size can be just the ticket for anyone driving a smaller car or living in a smaller space.


guava roam crossover - the roam appears to be one of the highest quality options in the...
The Roam appears to be one of the highest quality options in the review, with a thoughtful design and premium materials.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Quality


As Guava's first dip into the stroller pool, they pulled out all the stops and presented a nice, quality stroller they can be proud of. It earned one of the highest results in this metric, with an impressive side-by-side comparison to the competition.


The fabric's durability and softness are better than most. It has a soft but somewhat slippery feel for easy cleaning. It is the same fabric throughout, which means no strange material switch-ups or rubbing points. It feels like it would be unlikely to snag. The material fits the aluminum frame well and is tight, which is where it needs to be to create a sleek final look.

guava roam crossover - the overall fit and finish of the guava are sleek yet rugged, with a...
The overall fit and finish of the Guava are sleek yet rugged, with a subtlety that inspires confidence.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

The frame is matte gray and black with parts that fit together well and have few exposed connectors. It rides a fine line between being sporty and elegant. The frame sits on rubber foam-filled tires, so you never need to worry about a flat or how to change an inner tube (woohoo!) The rear wheels have independent suspension with plastic spokes that look good. We like the all-terrain tread and the low-maintenance design.

guava roam crossover - the guava's wheels are dense plastic with foam-filled, airless tires...
The Guava's wheels are dense plastic with foam-filled, airless tires we love since not all parents know how to change a stroller tire inner tube.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

The handlebar is one of our favorites, with a comfortable foam wrap and a premium feel. It didn't stain our hands like some stroller bars or get wet or sticky on longer runs. The safety strap can move from side to side; the only bummer is that there is no deceleration brake. The upside is that you can adjust the locking front wheel from the handlebar without bending over.

The Guava has a nice range of seatback angles, allowing for upright seating and reclining for napping.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Kids' Comfort


The Guava is one of the most comfortable options for passengers, earning it one of the highest scores in this metric.


The Guava has a wide range of recline angles, with a more upright angle than most competitors and a deep enough recline for napping. It uses two straps from each side for recline adjustment and a center pull.

The Guava has a one-hand recline adjustment but requires pulling the two straps to raise, which will take two hands.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

It works well enough, but this one is somewhat tight until you get it going. It is a straightforward design. The Guava has a padded leg rest similar to those of some other competitors, as well as a deep plastic footrest with plenty of room for feet.

The Roam's pop-out visor helps provide additional sun protection...
The Roam's pop-out visor helps provide additional sun protection without impeding the passenger's vision.
The Roam's peek-a-boo window is mesh and offers more ventilation if...
The Roam's peek-a-boo window is mesh and offers more ventilation if the day is hot.

The Roam's sunshade is not huge but is high quality, looks taunt, and fits the frame well. It has a peek-a-boo window, ventilation, and a pop-out visor for more coverage. The window has a magnet closure and open points, so you can leave it open for continuous peeking. While it doesn't come down as far or out as far, it does have more headroom for taller riders, and it covers enough that only low sun will be a problem.

No matter what test we threw at the Guava it sailed through with relative ease.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Should You Buy the Guava Roam Crossover?


Yes! What are you looking for? Odds are the Guava has it. No, really. This stroller performed well in our testing for run-ability, ease of use, maneuverability, and darn near everything! If you want a great runner that can head off-road with no flat tires and enough storage and features to keep kids and parents happy, then the Roam is your stroller of choice. Don't walk; run to buy this stroller.

What Other Jogging Strollers Should You Consider?


If you love a great-quality stroller and are looking for a user-friendly cross-over, the UPPAbaby Ridge is a potential choice we really love. This good-looking stroller has a thoughtful design that is good for both the parent and the passenger. With one of the coolest water bottle holders in the business and the best storage in the group, the Ridge can keep you going no matter what the adventures bring. If your goal is a jogger that will last as long as possible, the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 has a max child capacity of 75 lbs, making it one you can use for longer than the Ridge or the Guava. This tried and true jogging legend is of good quality and performed well overall with a giant canopy, adjust suspension, adjustable tracking, and more.

Manufacturer Video



Juliet Spurrier, MD and Wendy Schmitz