In Depth Baby Product Reviews Led by a Pediatrician

BOB Alterrain Pro Review

Expensive jogger with nice features but not enough to merit the price hike
gearlab tested logo
bob alterrain pro jogging stroller review
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Price:  $700 List
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
Manufacturer:   BOB
By Wendy Schmitz, and BabyGearLab Review Team  ⋅  Dec 4, 2021
75
OVERALL
SCORE


RANKED
#4 of 12
  • Run-ability - 35% 6.5
  • Ease of Use - 25% 7.8
  • Maneuverability - 20% 8.8
  • Quality - 10% 9.3
  • Weight/Folded Size - 10% 5.4

The Skinny

The BOB Alterrain Pro is the newest option presented by BOB, famous for the Revolution Flex. It has high-end features and a new design that aligns it with some of the nicer competition. The new stroller features a streamlined folding process, covered storage, taunt canopy, and new suspension that reminds us of the Thule Urban Glide 2. It still features a locking swivel front wheel, adjustable tracking and handlebar, and an aluminum frame. Unfortunately, the heavier weight and larger size mean it struggled in testing compared to thebest jogging strollers and we experienced more rolling resistance over the competition. Overall, this is a nice stroller with some impressive features, but for the price, we think there are better options to be had that will save you money.
REASONS TO BUY
Easy fold
High-quality
Hand brake
REASONS TO AVOID
Heavy
Large
Expensive
Editor's Note: This gear review update for the BOB Alterrain occurred on December 5, 2021. It includes an increase in information to help readers compare options and make buying decisions.

Compare to Similar Products

 
bob alterrain pro jogging stroller review
This Product
BOB Alterrain Pro
Awards  Editors' Choice Award Editors' Choice Award Editors' Choice Award Best Value Award 
Price $700 List
Check Price at Amazon
$750 List
$549.95 at Amazon
$550 List
Check Price at Amazon
$470 List
$409.99 at Amazon
$150 List
$103.99 at Amazon
Overall Score Sort Icon
75
87
79
73
65
Star Rating
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
Pros Easy fold, high-quality, hand brakeTop scores for run-ability and maneuverability, easy to use, high qualityMore storage, tight turns, adjust-ability, smooth runnerEasy to move, great runner, quality materialsSuper easy to maneuver, low price
Cons Heavy, large, expensiveHarder to transport and stow as it doesn't self-standNo self-stand, awkward to lift and carryHarder to lift and carryHarder to run with, lower quality
Bottom Line Expensive jogger with nice features but not enough to merit the price hikeOur favorite jogger that also makes a great everyday stroller, which can save you moneyA rugged jogger good for every day use, going off-road, and runningA great jogger for a good price that works for every day useAn affordable jogger, but not the best option for serious runners
Rating Categories BOB Alterrain Pro Thule Urban Glide 2 BOB Revolution Flex... BOB Rambler Baby Trend Expedition
Run-ability (35%)
6.5
9.6
8.0
7.7
5.2
Ease of Use (25%)
7.8
7.7
7.4
5.7
6.8
Maneuverability (20%)
8.8
9.2
8.3
8.0
8.3
Quality (10%)
9.3
9.2
8.9
8.6
6.1
Weight/Folded Size (10%)
5.4
7.0
6.7
7.2
7.2
Specs BOB Alterrain Pro Thule Urban Glide 2 BOB Revolution Flex... BOB Rambler Baby Trend Expedition
Measured Weight 31.4 lbs 24.4 lbs 27.3 lbs 25.1 lbs 23.6 lbs
Rolling Resistance Test 116 Feet 144 Feet 145 Feet 140 Feet 124 Feet
Folded Dimensions 25.4"W x 17.3"H x 39.5"L 27.2"W x 15.5"H x 36.5"L 25.5"W x 15.3"H x 37.8"L 25.3"W x 13.5"H x 38.5"L 23.5"W x 16.75"H x 33.75"L
Capacity Limits Minimum:
Walk Only:
Infant Car Seat: 0 - 8 wk.
Stroller Seat: 8 wk. - 8 mo.
Jogging & Off-Road: 8 mo. - 5 yr.
Maximum: 75 lbs/44"
Minimum:
Walk Only:
Infant Car Seat: Birth
Stroller Seat: 6 mo.
Jogging & Off-Road: 6 mo.
Maximum: 75 lb Total Capacity Limit
Minimum:
Walk Only:
Infant Car Seat: 0 - 8 wk.
Stroller Seat: 8 wk. - 8 mo.
Jogging & Off-Road: 8 mo. - 5 yr.
Maximum: 75 lbs/44"
Minimum:
Walk Only:
Infant Car Seat: 0 - 8 wk.
Stroller Seat: 8 wk. - 8 mo.
Jogging & Off-Road: 8 mo. - 5 yr.
Maximum: 75 lbs/44"
Minimum: 6 mo.
Maximum: 50 lbs./42"
Included Car Seat Compatibility None None None None Baby Trend
Any Baby Trend car seat
Click-in Car Seat Adapters Available Summer/Fall 2020:
Britax
B-Safe® 35, B-Safe® 35 Elite, B-Safe® Ultra, Endeavours®
Chicco
KeyFit® 30, KeyFit® 30 Zip, KeyFit® Zip Air, KeyFit® Magic, Fit2®
Graco
All SnugRide® models, SnugRide® Click Connect® models, SnugRide® SnugLock® models
Peg Perego
Primo® Viaggio 4-35 , Primo® Viaggio 4-35 Nido
BeSafe
Izi GO Mod, Izi GO X1
Chicco
KeyFit, KeyFit 30
Cybex
Aton, Aton 2, Aton 4, Aton 5
Maxi Cosi
CabrioFix, Citi, Mico 30, Mico Max 30, Mico NXT, Pebble, Pebble Plus
Nuna
Pipa
None None None
Strap-in Car Seat Adapters None BOB
Unity
Britax
Affinity Unity, B-Safe, B-Safe 35, B-Safe 35 Elite, Chaperone, Unity, Unity ISOFIX Compatible
Britax-Romer
Baby-Safe, Baby-Safe Plus II
Chicco
KeyFit Plus
Combi
Shuttle 33
Evenflo
Discovery 5
Graco
SafeSeat, SnugRide, SnugRide Click Connect, SnugRide Click Connect 30, SnugRide Click Connect 35, SnugRide Click Connect LX 35, SnugRide Click Connect 40
Peg Perego
Primo Viaggio SIP 30/30, Primo Viaggio 4-35
Safety 1st
Comfy Carry Elite, onBoard, onBoard Air
Safe-n-Sound
Unity, Unity Neos
UPPAbaby
Mesa
Britax/BOB
Britax® Chaperone®, B-Safe®, B-Safe® 35, B-Safe® 35 Elite, Endeavours™, B-Safe® 35 Ultra, BOB® B-Safe®, BOB® B-Safe® 35
Chicco
Fit2, KeyFit, KeyFit 30
Cybex
Cybex® Aton 2, Aton Q, Cloud Q
Graco
SnugRide­ Click Connect 30, 30LX, 35, 35LX, 40, SnugRide­ Classic Connect, SnugRide ­Classic Connect 30, 32, 35, SafeSeat
Maxi Cosi
Maxi Cosi® Mico 30, Mico Max 30, Mico AP
Nuna
Nuna® Pipa, Pipa Lite
Peg Perego
Primo Viaggio 4-35, SIP, SIP 30/30
Britax
B-Safe, B-Safe 35, B-Safe 35 Elite, Chaperone
BOB
B-Safe, B-Safe 35
Graco
SnugRide Click Connect 30, 30LX, 35, 35 LX, 40, SnugRide Classic Connect 22, 30, 32, 35
Peg Perego
Primo Viaggio 4-35, Primo Viaggio SIP 30/30, Primo Viaggio SIP
Chicco
KeyFit, KeyFit 30
Baby Trend
Any Baby Trend Car Seat
One-handed Fold Yes Yes No No No
Locking Fold Auto Auto Manual Manual Manual
Self-standing Fold Yes No No No Yes
Handlebar Height - Min/Max 32.5"/47.5" 30"/46" 34.5"/48" 38.8" 41"
Fixed/Swivel Wheel Swivel Swivel Swivel Swivel Swivel
Sandal-friendly Brake Yes No Yes Yes No
Included Accessories None None None None None
Setup Time 5:46 min:sec 5:13 min:sec 4:26 min:sec 5:30 min:sec 6:30 min:sec

Our Analysis and Test Results

BOB (Beast of Burden) was launched by a pair of new fathers looking to run off-road with their babies. Determined to find the perfect stroller, the two designed the first fixed 3-wheel jogging stroller. The company also created the first locking swivel front wheel for increased versatility for everyday events. BOB is now owned by the Britax company who specializes in car seats and parent favorite full-size strollers.

Performance Comparison



bob alterrain pro jogging stroller review - the alterrain pro is set up with jogging in mind with adjustable...
The Alterrain Pro is set up with jogging in mind with adjustable tracking and a useful hand brake.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Run-Ability


The Pro offers adjustable tracking that took us a little practice to get just right. Once we did, it rolled true and straight without a problem. It also features a handbrake, suspension, and an adjustable handlebar to suit the pusher's height. The locking front wheel is perfect for running, and all of the running features work well. We think most runners will enjoy using the Pro, as long as they don't try it side by side with some of the competition (ehm, Thule Urban Glide 2.

bob alterrain pro jogging stroller review - to ensure straight on the path running, the pro includes adjustable...
To ensure straight on the path running, the Pro includes adjustable tracking.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Because this stroller is heavy, it makes it more challenging to push and could cause early fatigue while running. It also has more rolling resistance in our tests than some of the competition we tested, which hurt its overall score for running. While it didn't earn the lowest score in the lineup, it struggled to keep up with other BOB products (like the less expensive BOB Rambler) and similar high-end choices.

Ease of Use


The Pro is one of the easier joggers to use in this lineup. It fared well in our tests compared to the competition.

The Alterrain folds by twisting the handle under the seat and...
The Alterrain folds by twisting the handle under the seat and pulling. It is smooth, easy, and works well.
The BOB can lock in place when folded.
The BOB can lock in place when folded.

Fold and Unfold


The Pro folds less like a BOB and more like a Thule. The bottom of the leg rest flips up, and the handle is a slide and twist that folds the stroller in half. It is a quick and easy fold that creates a product that rolls like luggage. It does not have a carry handle, but it does sort of stand.

bob alterrain pro jogging stroller review - the new pro brakes have a pin and hole design that seems to work well.
The new Pro brakes have a pin and hole design that seems to work well.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Brakes


The Pro has a round bar brake "pedal" with a newly designed brake system we've never seen before. The bar pushes "pins" into holes to engage the brakes. The brakes work well, are foot-friendly and single action.

bob alterrain pro jogging stroller review - the pro has a round brake pedal instead of a flat peddle.
The Pro has a round brake pedal instead of a flat peddle.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

The handbrake on the Pro is often considered a must-have for serious runners as it helps slow the stroller downhill. The handbrake works well, and we appreciate it in a group of joggers that didn't all sport this feature.

The storage bin on the Pro has a cover you can seal with a zipper.
The storage bin on the Pro has a cover you can seal with a zipper.
The bin on the Pro is large enough for most supplies, but probably...
The bin on the Pro is large enough for most supplies, but probably won't be large enough for your groceries.

Storage


The Pro's storage bin includes a cover to protect items from falling or weather damage. If the bin isn't big enough, there is a pocket on the back of the canopy with a zipper perfect for smartphones. The Thule Urban Glide 2 also has a storage cover.

bob alterrain pro jogging stroller review - the zipper pocket on the back of the pro canopy is perfect for a...
The zipper pocket on the back of the Pro canopy is perfect for a smartphone or keys.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

It also sports two mesh pockets on the seatback, and there are passenger stow pockets on the sides of the seat.

bob alterrain pro jogging stroller review - the pro has a vinyl peek-a-boo window and mesh for ventilation.
The Pro has a vinyl peek-a-boo window and mesh for ventilation.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Sunshade


The Pro sunshade is UPF 50+, wind-resistant, and waterproof. It has a large peek-a-boo window with a cover sporting magnetic closures. The shade is far less frumpy than the canopy on other BOBs, and we like the new taunt look. It has a huge canopy that covers almost down to the knee, providing excellent protection from the elements.

bob alterrain pro jogging stroller review - the pro has a new buckle and emblem that is stiffer than bob buckles...
The Pro has a new buckle and emblem that is stiffer than BOB buckles in the past.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Harness


BOB has redesigned its buckle and harness for the better. The no-rethread shoulder height straps work well, and the straps are soft in hand. Unfortunately, the buckle is somewhat stiff and could be a problem for some users.

bob alterrain pro jogging stroller review - while you can recline the pro seat with one hand. you need two hands...
While you can recline the Pro seat with one hand. you need two hands to pull the straps to raise it.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Seat


This stroller has a sling-style seat with light padding. The deep seat and padded leg rest should make any passenger comfy. The seatback reclines almost flat and is easy to adjust to preference.

Car Seat Compatibility


The Pro works with a variety of infant car seats (get seat details in our best infant car seat review) with the purchase of an additional adapter. Seats from Britax, BOB, Graco, Peg Perego, and Chicco are all possible combinations. The adapters include three components that you'll need to keep track of, but at least there are no straps like previous versions of the BOB strollers.

No Running Until 8 Months
Experts recommend that running with a baby be limited to those little ones over the age of 8 months. We recommend discussing running with your child's pediatrician before starting outdoor adventures with your baby.

Ease of Setup



The Alterrain Pro took about 5:46 minutes to set up. There is a useful user manual, and no tools are required. Assembly includes adding the wheels and canopy. If assembly is one of your worries, this is one to add to your shortlist.

bob alterrain pro jogging stroller review - the new pro has nice shocks but they are not adjustable like those...
The new Pro has nice shocks but they are not adjustable like those found on other BOBs.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Maneuverability


Maneuverability is critical, whether it is running on the trail or negotiating the grocery store. This stroller can manage anything that comes its way. With the swivel front wheel unlocked, it makes tight turns and is a quick navigator around the tightest areas. The 3-wheel jogging design with a locked front wheel and suspension makes it easy to tip and turn when running. This stroller has pneumatic tires and larger wheels to limit the bumps along the way, and we had no difficulties during testing over grass, gravel, asphalt, carpet, wood bridges, roots, rocks, curbs, and more.

The front wheel on the Pro can lock in place for running or swivel...
The front wheel on the Pro can lock in place for running or swivel to negotiate tight spaces like crowded sidewalks and stores.
The handlebar on the Pro is adjustable to best suit the height of...
The handlebar on the Pro is adjustable to best suit the height of the pusher for ergonomic running.

The Pro includes a rotating handlebar so each parent can adjust the bar to the best height for them. Finding the right height can help prevent the fatigue that leads to discomfort.

bob alterrain pro jogging stroller review - the alterrain is both heavy and large when folded making it a...
The Alterrain is both heavy and large when folded making it a possible no-go for those with limited space or smaller vehicles.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Weight and Folded Size


Joggers, in general, are large and heavy, but even with that in mind, the Pro is a big beast compared to the group. With an overall weight of 31.4 lbs, this stroller is one of the heaviest in the group, which hurt its run-ability. While we like the beefier wheels and other upgrades that likely contribute extra weight, we aren't sure the trade-off is worth it when other brands offer similar features without the heft. The folded BOB is 17,357 cubic inches; it is one of the largest options with a swivel front wheel. While perhaps not a deal-breaker for all, this could be a problem for some parents if they can't lift the stroller or fit it in their trunk.

bob alterrain pro jogging stroller review - bob once again delivers in quality with high-end materials and...
BOB once again delivers in quality with high-end materials and attention to detail for construction.
Credit: Abriah Wofford

Quality


BOB has traditionally created high-quality products, and the Alterrain Pro is no exception. This stroller has a sturdy aluminum frame with few connection points of fasteners and almost no flex. The fabric and design attach the material to the frame, canopy, and basket without bunching or errant stitching for a finished look. While this option lacks adjustable suspension, something we love on other BOB strollers, it does have suspension and an adjustable handlebar for better ergonomics while running. The overall fit and finish of the Pro are impressive, with a sleek look that feels modern compared to its brothers at BOB. The stroller we bought was flaw-free and felt like it would live up to the standards we've come to expect from the brand.

Should You Buy the BOB Alterrain Pro?


The Alterrain Pro is a super high-quality option from BOB that brings some new design features to the traditional BOB we all know and love. This BOB looks sleek and has a more straightforward fold than the BOBs of yore. It also features a lot of adjustable features for running like tracking and handlebar. However, this option is heavier than similar joggers and we experienced more rolling resistance than the competition, which hurt its overall run-ability score. While we suspect anyone who buys the Alterrain Pro will be over the moon about its performance and features, we do think it may not be worth the higher price compared to the competition from BOB and other brands.

What Other Jogging Strollers Should You Consider?


If you think the Alterrain might be the option for you, but you have concerns about price or performance, then the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 and the Thule Urban Glide 2 both earned higher scores and have lower prices. The Revolution has a more utilitarian look and feel that we think is great for hiking and running on trails. The Urban Glide 2 is easy to use, has impressive run-ability, and offers a similar sleek finish to the Alterrain without the added expense.

Manufacturer Video



Wendy Schmitz, and BabyGearLab Review Team
 

Honest, objective reviews. Led by a Pediatrician.

BabyGearLab was founded by a Pediatrician Mom with a mission to provide a reliable, independent, source of information to new parents. Our experts have tested thousands of baby and kids products to share key performance, health, and safety findings. We spend tens of thousands of dollars crash testing car seats to inform our ratings. And, we combine our review work with gobs of expert parenting advice. To assure complete independence, we buy all the products we test ourselves. No sponsored content. No ads. Just real, honest, side-by-side testing by people who care.

Learn More