Thule Urban Glide 3 Double Review: The Ultimate All-Terrain Companion for Two?

I remember the exact moment the challenge became real. Our second child had just arrived, and my daily solo jog—my moment of sanity—suddenly felt like a distant memory. The thought of wrangling a toddler and a newborn, let alone trying to navigate a clumsy, standard double stroller over anything but perfect pavement, was overwhelming. We were a family that thrived outdoors, on trails, and in parks. The fear was that our adventures would be relegated to manicured sidewalks, our pace dictated by tiny wheels that seized up at the sight of a stray pebble. This isn’t just about exercise; it’s about maintaining a piece of your identity as a parent. The problem is that many double strollers compromise on performance, forcing active parents to choose between their lifestyle and practicality. The Thule Urban Glide 3 Double promises a world where you don’t have to choose, offering a high-performance solution designed to keep up with your family, no matter where the path leads.

Before You Run: What to Consider When Buying a Double Jogging Stroller

A double jogging stroller is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for active parents of two. It’s an investment in your freedom, your health, and your ability to share the activities you love with your little ones. Unlike conventional strollers, these are engineered with performance in mind: superior suspension to absorb shock, large air-filled tires to roll effortlessly over uneven ground, and advanced safety features like hand brakes to control your speed on declines. The main benefit is the ability to maintain an active lifestyle without needing a babysitter, turning a daily run or a weekend hike into a shared family experience. This specialized design ensures your children are safe and comfortable, even as you pick up the pace or tackle a challenging trail.

The ideal customer for this type of product is a parent who refuses to be confined to the pavement. You might be a dedicated runner, a weekend trail hiker, or simply someone living in a rural area with gravel roads and grassy fields. If the thought of a bulky, hard-to-maneuver stroller makes you cringe, and you’re willing to invest in premium engineering for a smoother, safer ride, then a high-end jogger is for you. However, it might not be suitable for those who live in a small city apartment with limited storage, primarily navigate tight store aisles, or only plan for leisurely walks in the mall. For those users, a more compact, lightweight tandem or standard side-by-side stroller might be a better, and more economical, fit. If performance isn’t your top priority, the size and cost of a dedicated jogger may be unnecessary.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: Pay close attention to the stroller’s width. Will it fit through your front door and other standard doorways you frequent? The Thule Urban Glide 3 Double is cleverly designed to be narrow enough for this. Also, consider its folded dimensions. As we confirmed in our testing and as users note, these strollers are bulky and will require significant trunk space in your vehicle.
• Capacity/Performance: Check the total weight capacity to ensure it will accommodate your children as they grow. The key performance metrics are wheel size (larger wheels roll better), suspension quality (critical for off-road comfort), and the type of braking system. An integrated hand brake, like the one on the Thule, is a non-negotiable feature for anyone who runs or walks on hilly terrain.
• Materials & Durability: The frame should be lightweight yet strong, typically made from high-grade aluminum. The fabrics, like the polyester used on the Thule, should be durable, easy to clean, and offer good UPF protection. High-quality construction means the stroller will last through years of heavy use and retain its value.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: A simple, intuitive folding mechanism is a must for busy parents. Look for a one-handed fold if possible. Be aware that the large, air-filled tires that provide such a smooth ride will also require occasional maintenance, just like a bicycle tire, including checking the air pressure and patching potential punctures.

While the Thule Urban Glide 3 Double is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Impressions: Unboxing and Assembling the Thule Urban Glide 3 Double

From the moment the box arrived, the Thule brand’s premium reputation was evident. The packaging was robust and well-organized, ensuring all components were secure. Pulling the main frame out of the box, the first thing I noticed was the surprising lightness of the aluminum chassis relative to its size. Assembly was refreshingly simple and intuitive, confirming user reports about its ease. It primarily involved snapping the three large wheels into place—a process that took less than five minutes and required no tools. The fabrics felt substantial and high-quality to the touch, and the overall fit and finish were impeccable, with no loose threads or misaligned parts. Compared to other strollers that can feel like a complex construction project, the Thule Urban Glide 3 Double felt engineered for immediate gratification. It unfolded with a satisfying click, ready for adventure right out of the box. The sleek, black design is modern and purposeful, looking less like a childcare utility and more like a piece of high-performance outdoor gear.

Performance in the Real World: A Deep Dive into the Thule Urban Glide 3 Double

A stroller’s true worth is only revealed when the wheels hit the ground. We put the Thule Urban Glide 3 Double through its paces over several weeks, subjecting it to everything from smooth suburban pavements and morning jogs to rugged hiking trails and grassy park fields. Our goal was to see if its real-world performance lived up to its premium price tag and stellar reputation. It’s one thing to look good on a spec sheet, but it’s another to deliver a flawless experience with two precious passengers on board.

Unrivaled All-Terrain Maneuverability and Suspension

The single most impressive attribute of this stroller is its ride quality. To say it “glides” isn’t marketing hyperbole; it’s a fact. The combination of the large 16-inch rear wheels and the sophisticated suspension system works in perfect harmony to absorb nearly every bump and imperfection in the path. On a gravel trail where other strollers would rattle teeth, the Thule Urban Glide 3 Double floated over the surface. As one user aptly put it, the “baby barely moves,” and we found this to be consistently true. Our little testers remained comfortable and undisturbed, whether we were jogging on pavement or navigating tree roots on a light trail.

Maneuverability is equally brilliant. The front swivel wheel allows for an incredibly tight turn radius, making it surprisingly nimble in tighter spaces like a farmers market or a crowded park path. We could easily steer it one-handed while holding a coffee, a testament to its perfect balance and engineering. When it was time to pick up the pace for a run, a simple twist of a knob locked the front wheel in place, providing the stability needed for higher speeds. This dual functionality is seamless and makes the stroller incredibly versatile. It handles every surface with an authority that inspires confidence, confirming a sentiment we saw echoed by many users: it’s an absolute “pleasure to push.” The effortless push is so pronounced that the stroller feels significantly lighter than its actual weight. For any parent who has wrestled with a cumbersome stroller, this buttery-smooth experience alone might be worth the price of admission.

The Art of the Fold: Portability and Storage

For a stroller of this size and capability, portability is a critical factor. Thule has engineered an impressively simple one-hand folding mechanism. A quick lift and twist of a handle located under the children’s leg rest collapses the entire frame in one fluid motion. It even has a self-stand feature, which is a thoughtful touch for storage in a garage or entryway. Unfolding is just as easy, making setup and breakdown a painless process. We also appreciated the ability to quickly pop the rear wheels off with the press of a button, which can make a significant difference when trying to fit it into a packed car.

However, there’s no escaping physics. While the fold is easy, the resulting package is undeniably large and bulky. This was the most common “con” cited by users, and our experience confirmed it. In our mid-size SUV, it took up the majority of the trunk space. One user mentioned having to fold down a seat in their Subaru Forester to make it fit, a scenario we found entirely plausible. This isn’t a design flaw so much as a reality of the all-terrain double jogger category. You simply cannot have massive wheels, a robust frame, and spacious seating without a large folded footprint. Prospective buyers must be realistic about their vehicle’s cargo capacity. This is not the stroller for a compact car; it’s designed for active families who likely already have a larger vehicle to support their lifestyle.

Safety and Comfort on the Move

When you’re moving at speed or navigating hills, safety is paramount. The standout safety feature on the Thule Urban Glide 3 Double is the integrated twist hand brake. Located on the center of the adjustable handlebar, it operates like a bicycle brake, providing smooth, proportional braking power. On a long, steep downhill stretch, this feature was an absolute game-changer. It allowed us to effortlessly control our speed without putting strain on our wrists or having to muscle the stroller to a stop. This is a massive improvement over strollers with no hand brake or a simple wrist-strap emergency brake.

Comfort is equally well-addressed. The two seats are spacious and well-padded, easily accommodating both our 1-year-old and 3-year-old with plenty of room to grow. The five-point harnesses are secure and easy to adjust. The canopies are enormous, providing fantastic sun protection with a UPF 50+ rating. They extend far down and feature peek-a-boo windows with magnetic closures and side ventilation panels, ensuring airflow on hot days. We did, however, validate a common user critique: the seats, even in their most upright position, maintain a slight recline. While this is often for safety reasons in jogging strollers, our more curious toddler sometimes strained to sit up further. One user mentioned placing a small wedge behind their child, a simple but effective solution for those who dislike the recline. The thoughtful design details, like the fantastic braking system, show a deep understanding of an active parent’s needs.

Design, Materials, and Thoughtful Details

Thule’s Scandinavian design heritage shines through in every aspect of the Urban Glide 3. The aesthetic is clean, modern, and functional. The high-quality polyester fabric is both durable and stylish, and the aluminum frame feels incredibly robust. One of the most parent-friendly features is the adjustable handlebar, which offers a wide range of positions. We confirmed one user’s experience: at 5’11” I found it perfectly comfortable, as did my 5’4″ partner, making it an excellent choice for couples with a height difference.

Storage is another strong point. The under-seat storage basket is massive and features a full-zip cover. This is a brilliant addition that keeps your belongings secure, clean, and contained, whether you’re jogging through a dusty trail or just want to prevent items from bouncing out. There are also rear mesh pockets and small interior pockets within the seats. As one user noted, these interior pockets are quite small, best suited for a pacifier or a tiny toy rather than a snack cup or bottle. It’s a minor gripe in an otherwise exceptionally well-designed product. Every element, from the frame to the fabric to the covered basket, feels purposeful and built to last, reinforcing the idea that you are investing in a top-tier piece of equipment. You can see the full list of thoughtful features and color options here.

What Other Users Are Saying

Across the board, the user sentiment for the Thule Urban Glide 3 Double is overwhelmingly positive. The most frequently praised feature is, without a doubt, the ride quality. Phrases like “glides like butter,” “incredibly smooth,” and “effortless to push” appear constantly. Parents love its ability to handle grass, gravel, and bumpy paths with ease, ensuring a comfortable ride for their children and a pleasant experience for the person pushing.

However, the feedback also provides a balanced perspective. A few users have noted potential design quirks, such as the permanently reclined seat position which can frustrate toddlers who prefer to sit bolt upright. The most significant negative feedback centers on two areas: the stroller’s bulkiness when folded and the occasional quality control issue upon delivery. While rare, a couple of reviews mentioned serious problems like a frame being bent or a tire that wouldn’t hold air right out of the box. While these are likely isolated incidents, they serve as a reminder to inspect the product thoroughly upon arrival. Despite these points, the consensus is clear: for active families who need a high-performance double stroller, the Thule Urban Glide 3 Double is considered one of the absolute best on the market.

How the Thule Urban Glide 3 Double Compares to the Competition

No product exists in a vacuum. To give you the clearest picture, we’ve compared the Thule Urban Glide 3 Double against three popular alternatives, each serving a slightly different niche in the market.

1. BOB Gear Revolution Flex 3.0 Duallie Jogging Stroller

The BOB Gear Revolution Flex 3.0 Duallie is the Thule’s most direct and formidable competitor. Both are premium, all-terrain double joggers beloved by serious runners. The BOB boasts a legendary mountain-bike-style suspension system that is arguably even more robust for extremely rugged terrain. It also features a nine-position adjustable handlebar and spacious seats. Where the Thule pulls ahead is in its more refined, sleek design and its integrated twist hand brake, which offers more nuanced speed control than the BOB’s runaway wrist strap. The Thule also features a fully covered storage basket, a premium touch the BOB lacks. Shoppers might prefer the BOB for its slightly more aggressive suspension, while those who value a sleeker aesthetic and a true hand brake will lean towards the Thule.

2. Baby Jogger Belly Bar City Mini 2

It’s important to clarify that this is an accessory, not a stroller. This belly bar is designed for the Baby Jogger City Mini 2 Double or GT2 Double strollers. The City Mini GT2 Double is a worthy competitor to the Thule, offering all-terrain forever-air tires (no flats) and a compact one-step fold. However, it’s more of an all-terrain “do-everything” stroller rather than a dedicated jogger like the Thule. It lacks the large, air-filled tires and advanced suspension needed for serious running. A family might choose the Baby Jogger ecosystem if their primary need is a versatile daily stroller that can handle parks and cobblestones, with only very occasional, light jogging. The Thule is for those who prioritize running performance first and foremost.

3. Delta Children Jeep Classic Jogging Stroller

The Jeep Classic Jogging Stroller by Delta Children represents the budget-friendly end of the spectrum. It offers the basic three-wheel jogging stroller design at a fraction of the price of the Thule. It has a lightweight frame, a compact fold, and is designed to fit a compatible infant car seat. However, this is where the comparisons end. The Jeep lacks the sophisticated suspension, premium materials, air-filled tires, and advanced hand brake system of the Thule. A parent might choose the Jeep stroller for casual walks or very light jogging on perfectly smooth surfaces if budget is the primary concern. The Thule Urban Glide 3 Double is a significant investment in superior engineering, comfort, and safety for those who demand high performance on varied terrain.

The Final Verdict: Is the Thule Urban Glide 3 Double the Right Choice for Your Family?

After extensive testing, we can say with confidence that the Thule Urban Glide 3 Double is a masterpiece of engineering for the active family. Its performance is simply phenomenal. The combination of a silky-smooth ride, effortless maneuverability, and top-tier safety features like the twist hand brake puts it in a class of its own. It’s built with impeccable quality, designed with thoughtful details, and makes the prospect of taking two children on a run or hike not just possible, but genuinely enjoyable.

However, it is not without its considerations. Its premium performance comes with a premium price tag, and its bulky size when folded is a logistical reality that requires a large vehicle. It is not the stroller for everyone. But for the dedicated runner, the weekend trail adventurer, or any parent who refuses to let two children slow them down, it is arguably the best tool for the job. If you have the space and the budget, and your lifestyle demands uncompromising performance, the Thule Urban Glide 3 Double isn’t just a purchase; it’s an investment in family freedom. If you’re ready to transform your family outings, we highly recommend you check the latest price and availability for the Thule Urban Glide 3 Double today.