BOB Alterrain Pro Review

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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