BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 Review

In 1994, Philip Novotny and Roger Malinowski launched BOB (Beast of Burden Company) in California. The bicycle pro and the airplane mechanic created Yak bike trailers before strollers. After having families, the two needed a different type of stroller, so the BOB Sport Utility was born. Fun fact: they were also the first to put a locking swivel wheel on a jogger in 2005. Since its inception, BOB has produced some impressive strollers. Britax purchased BOB in 2011.

Performance Comparison

Ease of Use

The Revolution 3.0 is easy to use with a few more features than the Revolution 2.0, making it more convenient for everyday use.

Fold and Unfold

The 3.0 has a two-hand fold and four steps. The fold is easy to accomplish with two release levers (above left) and a rear pull loop (above right). It has a strap manual lock and doesn't self-stand. No designated carry handle makes it harder to lift and carry. Unfolding is also two steps.

Brakes

The Flex has single action brakes with a center plastic pedal near the rear axle. The brakes are easy to operate and have a rocker movement that is foot-friendly.

Storage

The 3.0 has a large storage bin with pockets on the back for better organization (an upgrade from the 2.0). It fit our large diaper bag and has back and side access with a 10 lb limit.

While it doesn't have a console, it does have extra back pockets over the 2.0 version, including a zippered pocket. There are also inside passenger pockets for little knick-knacks, like snacks, a top-ranked baby pacifier, or a baby teether toy.

Sunshade

The 3.0 has a large canopy with a large vinyl peek-a-boo window and mesh ventilation which is an upgrade from the previous model. It also has magnet closure which is also a much-desired upgrade.

Harness

The harness on the 3.0 is 5-points and padded. It is easy to use and adjust. The height adjustment is non-rethread, and the crotch strap is adjustable. The harness pull rings help make adjustments quick and painless.

Seat

Like other BOBs, the 3.0 has a stationary one-piece leg rest/footrest. The leg portion is padded, and the large footrest has a durable rubberized surface. The seat back recline is almost flat, creating a very cozy napping place with a sling-style seat design.

Car Seat Compatibility

The 3.0 does not have standard car seat attachment capabilities; you must purchase an adapter separately. The adapters require assembly and need screwing onto the stroller frame. Once you click the carrier in place, you also need to connect straps to ensure a safe and proper connection. We worry some parents will forgo the strap, and this is why we aren't huge fans of two-step strap installation methods. The 3.0 can be compatible with some car seats from Britax/BOB, Chicco, and Peg Perego, including some of our favorite infant car seats, the Chicco Keyfit 30, and the Peg Perego Primo Viaggio 4-35.

Ease of Setup

The 3.0 took 4:26 minutes to assemble, requiring an Allan wrench and pliers to complete. The manual is longer than it needs to be, and it increased our assembly time just by going through the pages.

Maneuverability

The 3.0 swivel wheel is super one of the easiest strollers to maneuver. On hard surfaces, this stroller excels with easy one-handed pushing and turning. It has a smooth feel and requires little effort to move.

For off-roading, this BOB is one of the best. Given its jogger design, large pneumatic rubber tires (with useful tread), and adjustable suspension, the 3.0 is comfortable to push over uneven and rough surfaces like gravel and hiking trails. You can also lock the swivel wheel if you need to move over larger bumps or roots and need help keeping the stroller tracking straight.

The adjustable suspension, padded sling-style seat, and rubber tires give passengers a comfy ride. The padded, foam-covered, adjustable handlebar that pivots for height helps make this stroller comfortable for the pusher as well.

Weight and Folded Size

The 3.0 is still one of the cumbersome options. At 27.3 lbs, it is the same weight as the 2.0 and above average for the review. It folds slightly larger than the previous version, with a size of 14,748 cubic inches. This folded size is one of the largest in the group, making it a poor fit for those with smaller trunks or limited space at home. You can take the wheels off for a smaller folded package, but this won't change it much and may not be enough to matter.

Quality

The 3.0 is the same quality as other BOB options and is above average for the group. The heavy canvas fabric wears well over time and several children making it a good buy if you need it for the long haul. The canvas is part of the molded seat and leg/footrest, and canopy. The padded seat has some side reflective accents, and the 3.0 storage bin has more fabric and less mesh than the previous version.

The 3.0 has an aluminum frame with numerous connection points that are tight and don't flex. The folding joint on the 3.0 has a fabric cover, a new addition to this Revolution version. The adjustable suspension, locking front wheel, and tracking features work well, and the plastic parts do not detract from the overall look or feel.

Should You Buy the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0?

The Revolution is a fantastic all-terrain stroller that offers a smooth ride and ultimate comfort. Although not the heaviest option in our lineup, it is on the heavier side. But, if you're not planning on traveling with it, this stroller is one we think most people will enjoy using for daily outings.

What Other Full-Size Strollers Should You Consider?

Hands down, the Thule Urban Glide 2 surpasses the Revolution, bringing a hard-to-beat design to the world of full-size strollers (and the best jogging strollers too!). This award-winning contender is lighter, one of the easiest strollers to push, and beats the Revolution in every testing metric. Also, another great perk, it's basically the same price as the Revolution. Therefore, it's a no-brainer question for us. We would choose the Urban Glide over the Revolution any day.

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