Stroller Info

BOB Revolution Duallie - Recommended

The BOB Revolution Duallie: one of the most well-constructed, functional double strollers currently on the market.  BOB has been setting the standard in sturdy, durable stroller construction for a years now, perfecting their original designs with function rather than over-zealous features.

The BOB Revolution Duallie is our choice as the best side-by-side double stroller currently on the market.

The Revolution Duallie is becoming more and more popular as a dependable, easy-to-push double stroller in both urban areas and on dirt paths and trails.  Not only does the stroller boast pneumatic tires, but like all BOB strollers there is a suspension system built directly into the frame structure instead of being placed directly above the rear or front wheels (such suspension placement acts merely as an extension of the suspension absorption of the pneumatic - or air filled - tires).  The placement of the Revolution's suspension is important - not only does it absorb the shock and bumps of dilapidated sidewalks and larger objects in the park - it absorbs the force of a turn - making it one of the easiest and lightest strollers to maneuver.  Even with larger 35 lb children in each seat.  This suspension system is not found on any other side-by-side double stroller.  Other stroller systems are easier to push if pneumatic wheels are incorporated (see Mountain Buggy Urban Double and Valco Runabout Tri-Mode Twin ATS), but B.O.B.'s suspension system makes it even easier to navigate - especially on the wrists and back.

INNOVATIONS

The BOB Revolution Duallie has given each seat a canopy of its own - and a large one at that.  The Mountain Buggy Urban Double (or, MBUD) incorporates one hood to cover both seats, and it does not shield as much as the Revolution Duallie.  The Revolution's hood is fully adjustable, allowing for as much or as little coverage as desired.

The frame structure is lighter, making storage and travel a little more convenient than the competition. 

The stroller incorporates one swivel wheel in front instead of two.  This feature reduces the overall weight of the stroller, and makes maneuvering more convenient: there aren't two wheels that have to interact together while pushing.

There is an absence of exposed metal pieces in the stroller seat and on the footrest.  Many times exposed metal surfaces react to weather conditions, getting quite hot or cold.

Larger seats offer the most growth potential for older children.

High impact composite polymer wheel spokes make the wheels easier to clean and maintain.  Polymer also inhibits deterioration from rust.

FEATURES

• Front wheel swivels for supreme maneuverability and locks out for jogging or while navigating over rough terrain.  It is also helpful to lock out the front wheel while going up or down steep inclines as it prevents the stroller from veering.
• Seats independently recline to 70 degrees from the vertical position.  This allows for their use with an infant - 2 months old without added head or body support, from birth with with an added body support (JJ Cole Body Support is fantastic).  Note:  it is not recommended to jog with a child under 8-9 months.  Please consult with your pediatrician.
• Well padded 5-point height and girth adjustable harnessing system.
• Fully adjustable, dual canopies with individual peek holes.
• Two pockets located in each seat to store sippy cups, snacks and toys.
• Storage pockets located on the back of each seat.
• Adjustable (two position) suspension system built into the frame structure. 
• 16" quick-release rear wheels and a 12" front wheel - versatile enough for jogging, urban walking, or trailblazing.
• Low Boy Cargo Basket - note its height from the ground.  Many of the competitor's baskets are too close to the ground, allowing the basket to scrape when going up/down curbs or through snow.
• Fast, easy, compact folding system for storage or travel.
• Parking brake engages both rear wheels with one movement.
• Lightweight aluminum frame structure.
• Suitable from birth to 50 lbs in each seat.
• Includes wrist safety strap so you don't lose your stroller if it tries to get away.

COMPATIBILITY:

The BOB Revolution Duallie is adaptable with the following infant carriers with additional Infant Car Seat Adapter (sold separately):

• Britax Companion - 2003 and newer
• Graco Snug Ride - 2003 and newer
• Graco Safe Seat - 2006 and newer
• Peg Perego Primo Viaggio - 2003 and newer
• Peg Perego Primo Viaggio SIP - 2006 and newer

The Infant Car Seat Adapter also includes two snack trays that can be easily attached the the Infant Car Seat Adapter's frame.  The prolongs the life the the adapter, transforming it into two trays for snacks, sippy cups and the attachment of toys.

Please note: the adapter is for one infant carrier, it cannot be used for two at a time. 

ADDITIONAL ACCESSORIES: 

BOB brand specific and sold separately:

• Infant Car Seat Adapter
• Duallie Handlebar Console
• Weathershield
• Sun Shield
• Warm Fuzzy
• Stroller Diaper Bag
• Stroller Strides Fitness Kit

SPECIFICATIONS

• Weight: 33.2 lbs
• Capacity: 100 lbs. or 50 lbs in each seat

DIMENSIONS

• Seat dimensions: 13.5" wide x 21" high x 10" deep (one of the widest and tallest seats available)
• Open 51.4" L x 30.8" W x 40.7" H
• Folded w/ wheels:  38.8" L x 30.8" W x 18" H
• Folded w/o wheels:  33.7" L x 13.2" H

THE PRICE: $569 [Updated for the July 2008 price increase]

COLORS

• Navy / Cool Grey
• Mesa Orange / Chocolate

ALSO CONSIDER

• Mountain Buggy Urban Double
• Valco Runabout Tri-Mode Twin ATS
• Baby Jogger City Series Double

Something we missed?  Want more information? Email us: strollerinfo@gmail.com

Double stroller woes . . . a few tips

The market for durable, urban-friendly double strollers in the US seems to be larger than ever.  Unfortunately, manufacturers continue to focus on making the single stroller more streamlined and high tech (see the completed Orbit Baby System and the newly re-designed Bugaboo Cameleon). 

Many parents complain that there are not enough durable double strollers on the market to choose from.  We have recently reviewed the Phil & Ted's Vibe, which promised many upgrades to their SPort and e3 models, but seems to focus on aesthetics rather than more user friendly features (it is harder to fold the Vibe with the second seat attached than it is to fold it after the seat has been removed; the braking system is placed in an awkward place).   

Here are a few tips:

How will the stroller be utilized? 

Many parents that live in urban areas are most likely going to purchase two strollers.  It is hard to accept, but will most likely happen eventually.  The first will be lightweight - used in and out of the car for quick trips to the grocery or post office (etc) and for travel; the other needs to be more rugged - used while walking outside, maneuvering through the park, snow or sand, and (if the opportunity presents itself) out on a trail.  Each will serve important functions for their respective uses. 

How is the stroller composed? 

The composition of a stroller is extremely important, and is often overlooked.  A stroller's features are important, but can often lead to structural issues later.  The best strollers (double or single) include the features that you absolutely need - without the addition of features that add too many small parts and/or pieces easily fractured or broken.  There are few strollers out there that have every single feature that you want: make sure the stroller you choose performs well with the features you need.  Many double strollers with smaller plastic wheels are more likely to break-down if used outside:  especially when your children get larger and heavier. More weight on the frame structure means more stress on the frame and on the stroller's wheels.  It is always better to have larger, pneumatic (air-filled) tires if you are walking outside for longer periods of time.  The stroller will also be easier to push, offering a smoother ride for your little ones.

...more tips to come.  Questions?  Email us . . . strollerinfo@gmail.com

Phil & Ted's Vibe - Review

The Phil & Ted's Vibe: marketed as a streamlined upgrade to the Phil & Ted's SPort all-terrain walking stroller.  The Vibe has been eagerly anticipated for quite some time, being one of the only stroller types that conveniently allows for the addition of a second seat - converting it from a single to a double stroller.  The look of the Vibe is definitely more streamlined than that of the Phil & Ted's SPort and the now discontinued e3. 

The Vibe has been upgraded to accommodate a one piece fold with the In-line Doubles Kit (sold separately) attached.  Unfortunately, we have found the Vibe more difficult to fold with the Doubles Kit attached.  The parking brake has also been moved to the handlebar for easier access - but in an impractical position, leading to accidental engagement while strolling.  Initial handling has also revealed that the Vibe is not as easy to maneuver as the SPort: the front wheel seems to be positioned a little differently.  The tires are pneumatic, offering more fluid maneuverability than the plastic wheels - but Phil and Ted have yet to add any suspension to their stroller's basic frame structure, making the handling more difficult as weight is added.

The underseat basket has been increased in size over earlier models, but some have observed that it is still far to close the the ground, especially when trying to tip the stroller up a curb or while maneuvering through any amount of snow.  Like the SPort, the all-terrain wrist strap is still attached to the handle, creating a possible tipping hazard if the stroller loses control: all of the stopping force is applied to the handle and could cause the stroller to tip back.

There are a few features that Phil & Ted have not included with the Vibe that are available on the SPort: there is no integrated locking system to hold the stroller together while folded, and there is no carrying handle to use when the stroller is folded for easy transport. 

The padding and support added to the Vibe is much more comfortable for younger children than the padding on the SPort, and the hood has been increased in size to offer more shade than the SPort - both great additions.    

The differences between the Vibe and SPort seem only to be aesthetic - there is only a 1 pound difference in weight between the Vibe and SPort.  Conclusion:  It is not practical to get a Phil & Vibe over the SPort unless one prefers the Vibe's Bugaboo and Quinny-esque appearance.

FEATURES:

• Added ergonomic, contoured padding for additional comfort and support.
• Aluminum tubing used to provide a sleek appearance and reduce weight.
• All tires are pneumatic, making pushing the stroller easier and lighter feeling.
• Larger, more secure storage basket.
• Stroller seat fully reclines into a bassinet for an infant.
• The seat is now adjustable using a strapping system, offering more recline positions.
• Parking brake located on handle, making its implementation more accessible.
• Larger hood shades child from the elements.
• Quick-release wheels for storage and/or travel.
• Wheel guards located on both rear wheels.
• Folds with the second seat attached (In-line Doubles Kit sold separately).

COMPATIBILITY:  The Phil & Ted's Vibe is compatible with the following infant car seats (individual adapter sold separately) Corrected :

• Phil & Ted's Vibe Infant Carrier (not yet released)

*Adapters cannot be used while In-line Doubles Kit is attached

ADDITIONAL ACCESSORIES:

• In-line Doubles Kit (MSRP: $109.99)

SPECIFICATIONS:

• Weight: 22 lbs (without In-line Doubles Kit)
• Capacity: 55 lbs (88 lbs total with In-line Doubles Kit)

DIMENSIONS:

• Width: 29"
• Folded without wheels: 29.9" L x 22" W x 8.6" H

THE PRICE: $599.99 [Note: Price does not include In-line Doubles kit, which is an additional $109.99]

AVAILABLE COLORS:

• Black
• Red

Something we missed?  Want to see a specific stroller reviewed?  Contact us: strollerinfo@gmail.com