In Depth Baby Product Reviews Led by a Pediatrician

Thule Glide 2 Review

A sporty, fast, and light thoroughbred for distance runners, but the safety manual from Thule says it is "not suitable for running"
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Thule Glide 2 Review
Credit: Matt Lighthart
Price:  $650 List
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Manufacturer:   Thule
By Juliet Spurrier, MD and Wendy Schmitz  ⋅  Sep 10, 2024
73
OVERALL
SCORE


RANKED
#6 of 10
  • Run-ability - 35% 8.0
  • Ease of Use - 20% 7.0
  • Maneuverability - 20% 6.8
  • Transport and Storage - 10% 5.3
  • Quality - 10% 8.8
  • Kid Comfort - 5% 6.6

Our Verdict

The Thule Glide 2 is one of the best jogging strollers for serious runners. As one of the few fixed-wheel options we've tested, it is a standout gem in a group of multipurpose strollers trying to do it all. This stroller is lighter, long, and lean, with a design that clearly longs for the open road. It has adjustable features and suspension so runners can find a setup that suits their bodies and running style. We appreciate the quality features, the useful storage, and the deacceleration brake that works well with a fun throttle design that requires less strength than a traditional handbrake. On the flip side, the stroller is not for indoor use with the long body length and fixed wheel. It is a pain to maneuver in tight spaces, and even the folded product feels big. It is also expensive for a product that largely fills a limited running and off-road terrain niche. However, it is hard to find a better-performing fixed-wheel choice if you are more than a casual or occasional jogger and long for the open road for long runs with your child.
REASONS TO BUY
Lightweight
Better deceleration brake
Rugged tires
REASONS TO AVOID
Fixed wheel
Handbrake wire placement
Large
Costly
49lbs capacity
Not suitable for running (safety sheet warning)
Do Not Recommend
We do not recommend this stroller based on the information from the manufacturer included in the package. Read more below

Compare to Similar Products

 
thule glide 2
This Product
Thule Glide 2
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 $650 List
$649.95 at Amazon
$600 List$550 List
Check Price at Amazon
$600 List
$599.99 at Amazon
$150 List
$149.99 at Amazon
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Bottom Line For serious runners and those dedicated to fitness, this option could be worth the price but the Thule Safety Manual warns it is "not suitable for running"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 optionsBudget jogger that is lightweight and easy to maneuver but it lacks dedicated running features like tracking and suspension
Rating Categories Thule Glide 2 Guava Roam Crossover BOB Revolution Flex... UPPAbaby Ridge Baby Trend Expedition
Run-ability (35%)
8.0
8.3
7.7
7.3
3.9
Ease of Use (20%)
7.0
9.0
7.4
9.2
5.8
Maneuverability (20%)
6.8
9.3
8.4
6.4
6.7
Transport and Storage (10%)
5.3
8.2
6.2
4.5
8.1
Quality (10%)
8.8
9.8
8.7
9.8
3.7
Kid Comfort (5%)
6.6
7.8
7.2
7.4
5.2
Specs Thule Glide 2 Guava Roam Crossover BOB Revolution Flex... UPPAbaby Ridge Baby Trend Expedition
Capacity Limits Minimum (Walk Only):
Infant Car Seat: Birth
Stroller Seat: 6 months
Jogging & Off-Road: 6 months - 4 year
Maximum: 75 lbs Total Capacity Limit with 49 lbs as max seat weight
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"
Measured Weight 24.4 lbs 28.5 lbs 27.3 lbs 30.5 lbs 23.6 lbs
Measured Folded Dimensions 36.5" x 27.2" x 20.5" 28.5" x 17.4" x 15.1" 37.8" x 25.5" x 15.3" 37.3" x 26.3" x 17.0" 16.3" x 23.5" x 33.1"
Folded Volume 20,352 cu in 7,488 cu in 14,748 cu in 16,677 cu in 12,679 cu in
Handlebar Height - Min/Max 37" - 44.7" 34" - 45" 34.5" - 48" 41.25" - 45.5" 41"
Fixed/Swivel Wheel Fixed Swivel Swivel Swivel Swivel
Measured Rolling Resistance Average 46 Ft 24 Ft 37 Ft 21 Ft 45 Ft
One-handed Fold Yes Yes No Yes No
Auto or Manual Fold Lock Auto Manual Manual Auto Manual
Self-standing Fold No Yes No Yes Yes
Included Accessories Parent console (removable) Water bottle holder Parent Console (removable)
Child Tray (removable)
Setup Time 10 - 15 mins 5 mins 5 - 10 mins 5 - 10 mins 5 - 10 mins
Warranty Limited Lifetime warranty on Frame / 3 years fabric and parts 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

Our Analysis and Test Results

Thule (pronounced Too-La) is a Swedish company founded by Erik Thulin. The company started creating products for fishermen in 1942, and as the years went on, they created more products for outdoor enthusiasts and families. Their new focus centered on gear that made adventures and the transportation of outdoor toys easier. Thule continues to expand its product line, including roof racks, luggage boxes, bike seats for kids, bike racks, the best bike trailers for kids, and top-ranked full-size strollers.

We Do Not Recommend This Stroller
The Glide 2 is currently the only stroller listed on the Thule website as a jogging stroller. While this would indicate it is a stroller for running, and the manufacturer confirms it was designed for running in our communications with them, the safety sheet included with our stroller clearly states, “Not suitable for Running” in writing. While we like the Glide 2 and enjoy running with it, we cannot recommend a jogging stroller where the manufacturer includes a statement that it is not suitable for that kind of activity. The company told us this safety warning is a result of an EU mandate that does not recognize any stroller as a jogging product and requires the warning be included. This EU mandate is not applicable in the US or Canada, and they confirm it is indeed suitable for running and was designed for this purpose. However, because they have put in writing that this stroller is not suitable for running, we have no choice but to list this product as a do not recommend option and provide transparency to our readers so they can make their own decision.

thule glide 2 - the highlighted portion of this screenshot shows the thule safety...
The highlighted portion of this screenshot shows the Thule Safety Manual where it says this stroller is not suitable for running.
Credit: Thule Safety Manual

The company gave us an official statement in regards to the warning:
"As a global brand, Thule meets all relevant safety standards where the product is sold, as such, select countries require more stringent safety warnings. In the US and Canada, Thule Urban Glide 3 meets the North American regulatory standard (ASTM F833) which makes it safe and suitable for both jogging and strolling. When jogging with the product, the front wheel must be locked in the jogging position. For strolling with the product when the wheel is unlocked and in the swivel position, the product is not suitable for running or skating."

Performance Comparison



The Glide 2 is best as a dedicated jogger as the front wheel is fixed and the wheelbase is long.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Run-ability


The Glide 2 is easy to run with but not as easy as the swivel-wheeled options we've tested. It did earn a fairly high score, but not the same as other strollers we tested.


The Glide 2 has a fixed front wheel with adjustable tracking that works well to keep the stroller moving in a straight line. While tracking takes a little effort, we don't think you will need to make adjustments often. This stroller has pneumatic rubber tires, low rolling resistance, and tips back easily, making wide turns easy.

The center of the Glide 2 handlebar has the deceleration brake, but...
The center of the Glide 2 handlebar has the deceleration brake, but the design means it is harder to push with two hands.
The Glide 2 has an adjustable handlebar that rotates on a pivot point.
The Glide 2 has an adjustable handlebar that rotates on a pivot point.

The Glide 2 has an adjustable handlebar for better biomechanics that could translate to running longer distances. The twisting handbrake works well, and we used it regularly to slow the roll.

thule glide 2 - the glide 2 has suspension near the rear axle.
The Glide 2 has suspension near the rear axle.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

There is some flex in the frame where the stroller folds, but we found it absorbed some of the pressure on the runner while tipping and turning. Our professional runner feels it is a good lightweight option for those who require less weight for hilly terrain or who regularly and frequently run.

thule glide 2 - the glide 2 feels lightweight and easy to push.
The Glide 2 feels lightweight and easy to push.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

After 5 miles of running on various surfaces, we have some thoughts about the Glide 2. Overall, this jogger is stable and sturdy, lightweight, and easy to push, but we had to use two hands frequently on surfaces that weren't flat and firm. Running with a single hand is more challenging as the brake is in the middle, and it can take some practice and patience to use the brake only when you want to slow and not accidentally.

Pushing uphill is a moderate effort, but it really excels when the path is flat and relatively straight with minimal turns. While an excellent runner, the longer design makes it a great option for the open road but less for off-road trails.

thule glide 2 - the glide 2 has a quick fold using a handle to slide and twist under...
The Glide 2 has a quick fold using a handle to slide and twist under the leg rest.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Ease of Use


This stroller is one of the easier-to-use joggers in the review. While not the highest in the group, it is higher than average.


thule glide 2 - we fit our extra large diaper bag in the storage basket on the glide...
We fit our extra large diaper bag in the storage basket on the Glide 2, but it doesn't have the zippered top like the Urban Glide 3.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Storage


The storage bin has a maximum weight allowance of 10 lbs and is accessible from the back and sides. We were able to fit a large diaper bag inside.

The Glide 2 has seat pockets for the passenger that are big enough...
The Glide 2 has seat pockets for the passenger that are big enough for some water bottles and sippy cups.
The Glide 2 seatback has a mesh pocket for smaller items. However...
The Glide 2 seatback has a mesh pocket for smaller items. However, the design is not the best for water bottles.

The stroller also has a mesh stow pocket in the back seat and two inside stow pockets for the passenger. The bin is not covered, so if something is important, keeping it in the mesh pocket is better. There is no parent console.

Folding the Glide 2 is easy and can be done one-handed with some practice.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Fold and Unfold


The Glide 2 fold is one-handed and has a twist-and-pull folding handle under the seat. It requires two hands to lift the seat to access the handle, and it doesn't self-stand, but the new version has an auto-lock. Unfolding is a two-step process that is simple but will take some practice to do smoothly.

The Glide 2 has two prongs to put in the buckle, and there is no...
The Glide 2 has two prongs to put in the buckle, and there is no nesting of multiple parts.
The shoulder straps on the Glide 2 harness have soft padding for...
The shoulder straps on the Glide 2 harness have soft padding for comfort when hitting the bumpy trails.

Harness


We found the Glide's five-point harness easy to use. The new buckle is much better than the old version, and it pops open with only one hand.

The Glide 2 has a nice feeling harness with a straightforward buckle and adjustments.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

The harness is one of the easiest to adjust, with one strap simultaneously reducing the waist and shoulder straps.

The Glide 2 has single-action brakes with a central pedal that is easy to use but could be more foot-friendly.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Brakes


The Thule Glide 2 has single-action brakes that are easy to set and release but aren't the best for sandaled feet.

It has a unique deceleration brake on the handlebar. This brake has more of a twist/throttle style movement instead of the more common squeeze lever style. We prefer this design and think it is better for anyone who has hand mobility issues that decrease grip strength. It isn't as responsive as others, but it will slow the stroller down.

Putting together the Glide 2 is easy and intuitive, which is good because the manual is a disappointment.
Credit: Genaveve Bradshaw

Ease of Setup


This stroller doesn't require any tools to assemble and only needs the wheels put on. The manual is awful and arguably one of the most useless user guides we've seen. The entire thing is full of Xs and check marks, as well as some drawings and a stick figure. We get that it is for multiple countries and languages, but it feels lazy and fails to relay useful information on safety and how to use the product. Kind of a bummer for a stroller that costs this much.

The Glide 2 must be topped to turn because of the fixed front wheel, and it will be more of a problem as spaces get tight.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Maneuverability


The Glide 2 struggles compared to the swivel wheel options, as the fixed wheel design limits tight turns and navigating through small spaces.


It is easy enough to use outdoors, but indoors and tighter spaces will remind you why it is a dedicated running stroller.

The fixed wheel and longer length of the Glide 2 make it more of a challenge indoors where situations can get tight.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

The fixed wheel and longer length of the Glide 2 meant it bumped into objects in the course, but it is easy to tip and turn if you plan and have the room.

Getting around indoors with the Glide 2 can be a real challenge, given the length and fixed front wheel.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

This stroller manages well over various terrains, and we barely broke stride going over gravel and grass. Overall, it is easy to push and turn as the longer handle helps make the turns smoother and limits bending, but the fixed wheel takes more energy and space to turn than a swivel wheel. The adjustable handlebar is foam-covered, and tires and suspension provide a forgiving design for pushers moving over bumpy surfaces.

The Glide 2 is long, and while it is easy to fold, it takes up a lot of space compared to other joggers.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Transport and Storage


The Glide 2 earned a lower score for this metric because it is longer and heavier than much of the competition.


This stroller weighs 24.4 lbs, 4 lbs heavier than the old model and heavier than the average option in this review. Its lighter weight makes it easier to lift, but its longer dimensions make it harder to stow in your car or smaller spaces.


When folded, it measures 20,352 cubic inches, which is one of the largest folded options in the group, with dimensions of 36.5" x 27.2" x 20.5".

thule glide 2 - the glide 2 is on the larger side and is heavier than its...
The Glide 2 is on the larger side and is heavier than its predecessor by 4 lbs.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

It can be slightly smaller if you remove the wheels, but we don't think parents are going to bother, or it won't be convenient. If your space is limited, it could make it challenging to fit the Glide 2 into your life.

thule glide 2 - the glide 2 offers a sleek running-specific stroller with few...
The Glide 2 offers a sleek running-specific stroller with few connections and a minimal-looking design.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Quality


The Glide 2 earned a higher-than-average quality result. While some earned higher marks, including the other Thule in our review, it is still very nice and well put together.


The fabric on this stroller is nice, feels breathable, and does not snag. The seat has minimal padding, but the fabric is fitted tightly to the frame. This stroller has a sleek, sharp-looking aluminum frame that hides all connection points. It has a seamless connection with the fabric in a groove. The folding joint has some movement, but it doesn't impact the stroller's performance. It is the sleekest stroller in the group, with all the components creating a clean fit and finish.

thule glide 2 - the glide 2 has lightweight spoke wheels compared to the urban glide...
The Glide 2 has lightweight spoke wheels compared to the Urban Glide 3 that has dense plastic wheel spokes.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

The aluminum spoked wheels are nice, with easy-to-access valves. The tires are of good quality and did not go flat or need refilling during testing. All of the components worked as they should and showed no manufacturer defect.

thule glide 2 - the glide 2 seat back reclines enough for napping but not as flat as...
The Glide 2 seat back reclines enough for napping but not as flat as some competitors.
Credit: Matt Lighthart

Kids' Comfort


The Glide 2 earned a below-average result for passenger comfort. This stroller has a padded sling-style seat, nice suspension, and rubber air-filled tires to provide a comfortable ride for passengers.


The Glide 2 has a padded leg rest and an adequate footrest for taller children. The seat back adjustment is a one-handed plastic toggle, and the recline angle is suitable for napping.

The legrest on the Glide 2 is padded most of the way down until it...
The legrest on the Glide 2 is padded most of the way down until it transitions into a hard plastic footrest that is easy to clean.
The plastic adjustment toggle on the Glide seat is one-hand...
The plastic adjustment toggle on the Glide seat is one-hand to-recline and a two-hand to raise operation.

The seat offers good air circulation through a vented portion at the top, which can be covered in cold weather.


The canopy on the Glide 2 is large and sleek, with a fabric visor and a plastic peek-a-boo window with a magnetic closure cover. The new canopy has a zip-open panel that reveals added ventilation when you unzip it. The entire canopy can rotate forward to the knee for running with a low sun or oncoming wind.

thule glide 2 - tipping and turning the glide 2 is easy enough, but the lack of a...
Tipping and turning the Glide 2 is easy enough, but the lack of a swivel option means it struggles in tight spaces.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Should You Buy the Thule Glide 2?


We would like to recommend this stroller for dedicated runners as it performed well in our tests and is a high-quality dedicated fixed-wheel option. For a serious runner, putting in the miles with quickness, it is hard to find better than the Glide 2. It has larger wheels, a fixed front wheel, adjustable tracking, suspension, an adjustable handlebar, and a handbrake, all designed to make a dedicated runner feel at ease at speed. However, the Thule Safety Manual includes a warning that the stroller is “not suitable for running.” After reaching out to Thule, we understand this is included because an EU mandate requires it, and it is not applicable in the US and Canada. Unfortunately, given that the company has put in writing that this stroller is not suitable for running and included it in the box with our stroller, we have no choice but to take them at their written word, making this option one we do not recommend.

What Other Jogging Stroller Should You Consider?


Overall, if you need a more casual option for occasional jogging, the Guava Roam Crossover is one to consider. This option performed well in our running tests and offers much for the baby's comfort. It has a locking swivel front wheel for indoor and outdoor use, making it a great one-and-done stroller that can save you money over buying two strollers. If you are hoping for a stroller you can use for as long as possible, the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 is a high-performing option that has a maximum child capacity of 75 lbs.

Manufacturer Video



Juliet Spurrier, MD and Wendy Schmitz