When I decided to move to an area known for poor roads, I decided it was time to invest in a good stroller for my 5-month-old son. I scoured the local stores, but did not find anything suitable, so I turned my search onto the Internet. There were many options, but I settled on the BOB Stroller Strides Single Fitness stroller.
The BOB Stroller Strides is the same model as the BOB Revolution stroller, but was specifically designed for the Stroller Strides fitness program that is available in many larger towns. While I was not going to be located near one of these fitness programs, I liked the extra features, such as a cup holder and exercise bands that I received for less than the cost of buying the Revolution model and adding on a cup holder.
Specifications of the BOB Stroller Strides
The BOB Stroller Strides has a tripod design with a front swivel wheel and 2 large 16" pneumatic rear wheels. The front swivel wheel has a locking mechanism that allows you to fix the wheel for running if desired. In addition to the large air filled tires, the BOB stroller has a shock system that allows for 3" of give. It is 23lbs and has a folded dimension of 43"X23"X17".
The BOB Stroller Strides is listed for children up to 70lbs and can be used with children as young as 6 weeks. With the optional car seat adaptor kit, the stroller can be used from birth and can double as a travel system. It comes with a large sun canopy with parent's window, exercise bands, an underneath storage basket, two side pockets in seating area, and a parent's console with a single cup holder.
In terms of safety, the BOB stroller has a five point safety harness, a safety strap, and a very sturdy parking break that can easily be put on in an emergency. For all fitness activities, this stroller was designed to balance the needs of the parent with the safety needs of the child.
Pros of the BOB Stroller Strides
Compared to many strollers on the market, the BOB is extremely sturdy and durable and has an attractive design. It is great for all fitness activities including running, walking, hiking, or even strolling the mall. Additionally, the BOB stroller has the best sunshade available and has an excellent shock system along with pneumatic tires that can easily be refilled or repaired. For storage needs, the BOB has a large basket underneath the seat, a large zippered pocket on the parent's console, and two stretchable pockets inside the seat area. The BOB has the distinct advantage of available add-ons for different weather conditions (bugs, rain, etc.). Unlike many strollers, the BOB has a great height for both tall and short parents. At 6 feet tall, this stroller is the perfect height for me, but is also comfortable for my 5'1 Grandmother.
Cons of the BOB Stroller Strides
While the BOB stroller has many positive attributes, it does have a few flaws. The seat area is too large for a younger child without some additional padding or the car seat adaptor. The lack of padding also makes for an uncomfortable ride. I was able to add a towel to the back and seat area and that was sufficient for my son. The biggest drawbacks to the BOB are the lack of a locking mechanism when in the folded position and the bulkiness of the stroller for storing or transporting. Additionally, to use the stroller as a travel system, an add-on must be purchased and the adaptor must be screwed on and off. For many, this will be a very pricey stroller to use on a day-to-day basis, but it is comparable in price to other high end jogging strollers. However, this price can be offset if you have multiple children due to the reliability and sturdiness of the stroller.
Conclusions regarding the BOB Stroller Strides
Overall, I have enjoyed having the BOB Stroller Strides Fitness Stroller. It has allowed me to roam uneven terrain with confidence and my son has enjoyed a mostly comfortable ride. This could be considered the perfect stroller with the addition of some seat padding, an easy way to lock the stroller in the folded position and a slightly smaller footprint for transport and storage. I would recommend this stroller to anyone with the need for a sturdy all-terrain fitness stroller that has sufficient storage and transport space.
Source: http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/884097/a_review_of_the_bob_stro...