BOB Rambler Review

Beast of Burden, or BOB, was founded in California. In 1994, an airline mechanic and bicycle professional started with trailers for bikes but moved on to jogging strollers after starting families. The founders continue to offer new technology in 2005 with a locking swivel wheel that revolutionized the jogging stroller industry. BOB was purchased in 2011 by Britax.

Performance Comparison

Run-Ability

The BOB Rambler is easy to run with earning results similar to other BOB options and just below the top performers.

The Rambler has a locking swivel front wheel with adjustable tracking that is easy to use and keeps the stroller running straight on any surface. While this option lacks an adjustable handlebar, the height is good for most users to maintain good running ergonomics. Both the BOB Alterrain Pro and the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 feature adjustable handlebars if that is a priority for you.

The adjustable suspension can help create comfort for the passenger and less fatigue for the pusher. This option has limited rolling resistance and is a pleasure to push at speed. While it isn't as smooth as some competitors, casual and serious runners will enjoy the price and its run-ability.

The Running Details

We “run” multiple tests within the run-ability metric that are weighted and add up to the overall score for run-ability. These detailed tests help create a more complete picture of each jogger and how they compare to the competition. This information can help you select which jogger is right for you based on details you might find important or valuable when picking a product in your price range.

Our running tests encompass ratings and information from our running testers as they use and compare each product side-by-side. Running test results make up 35% of the run-ability final score.

Testing the rolling resistance of each jogger helps provide information on how challenging it might be to push each jogger or how much fatigue you might experience from one product to another. The wheels on each stroller have natural friction and resistance built-in from the design of the product and the manufacturing process. Theoretically, the farther a stroller travels in this test, the less resistance it has and the easier it is to push, making it better for serious runners. This test is 20% of the overall run-ability score.

Ease of Use

The Rambler, much like other joggers, lacks some useful features, making it more challenging to use than some of the competition.

The features it does have are easy enough to use, it won't cause frustration.

Fold and Unfold

The Rambler has a traditional BOB fold that requires two hands and some practice. While not difficult it has multiple steps and isn't as straightforward as that of the Thule Urban Glide 2. It does not self-stand or have a carry handle, and the locking mechanism is a manual connection that gets you up close and personal with your stroller. Unfolding has fewer steps, but it requires some strength to shake it open.

Brakes

The parking brake is a large center pedal that is easy to set and release as it rocks forward and back. it is friendly for sandal feet.

Storage

The bin is large and holds our large diaper bag. It has a weight allowance of 10 lbs and rear and side access. There are no other storage features.

Sunshade

The Rambler's sunshade is large and has a small but useful vinyl peek-a-boo window nicely placed for easy viewing. The window cover is Velcro and it can be folded away in the open position. This canopy covers to the knee and can be rotated forward.

Harness

The 5-point harness on the Rambler is straightforward with easy to tighten and adjust straps. This stroller has an adjustable crotch strap and shoulder height adjustment for a good fit.

Seat

The seat is a sling-style option with stationary leg rest and a narrow footrest. The back reclines almost flat for cozy napping, and the thermo-molded seats help increase breathability and support little bodies.

Car Seat Compatibility

The BOB Rambler is compatible with several infant car seats, including some in our favorite infant car seats when you purchase an adapter. All of the adapters require strap-in attachment, which isn't our favorite but can be functional and secure. You can purchase adapters for several Britax and BOB infant car seats, including some Britax seats; Graco SnugRide Click Connect and SnugRide Classic Connect seats; Peg Perego car seats, including the Peg Perego Primo Viaggio 4-35; and Chicco car seats including the Chicco KeyFit 30, Chicco Keyfit 35 and Chicco Fit2.

Ease of Setup

The Rambler is easy to set up, with an assembly time of 5:30 minutes. While it requires the use of an Allen wrench, the instructions are easy to follow. The manual could be more direct and concise, but it is easy to understand.

Maneuverability

This BOB is easy to push and turn on all surfaces with impressive maneuverability results.

The swivel front wheel and rubber tires make it easy to move in small spaces despite the bulkier size. It can be moved with one hand and makes the transition from one surface to another without any trouble. The rear wheels are somewhat smaller than other BOBs but it still manages well.

Weight and Folded Size

The BOB Rambler is smaller and lighter than other BOBs and much of the competition.

This stroller is 2 lbs less with a weight of 25.1 lbs and one of the smallest in the review with a folded size of 13,150 cubic inches. These measurements make it a good choice if your vehicle is smaller or you are worried about how you will lift your jogger.

Quality

The BOB Rambler is similar in quality to other BOB products with solid construction and better materials.

This product has thick durable canvas and molded portions for increased airflow and comfort. The parts align well and we don't see any manufacturing defects or lack of attention to detail. The frame is sturdy with no flex and the wheels spin with little resistance. The brakes work well and the pedal is solid and smooth.

This stroller has a padded sling-style seat with a giant canopy and adjustable suspension. The plastic wheels have rubber air-filled tires and the handlebar is foam covered and not adjustable. We think passengers will be comfortable in the Rambler and most pushers will find it useable as well, but taller users might wish for a taller handlebar.

Should You Buy the BOB Rambler?

The Rambler is a smaller more compact BOB with a few less features than the BOB Revolution Flex 3 and the BOB Alterrain Pro. It moves well in tight spaces and offered impressive test results in run-ability. We like the smaller size for everyday errands and the lower weight makes running somewhat easier. There is nothing wrong with the Rambler and a lot of things right. We suspect anyone who owns it will be pleased.

What Other Jogging Strollers Should You Consider?

This BOB is missing some key components serious runners might want like an adjustable handlebar, which could be a real concern for parents with a vast height difference or those who are taller than average. If you have more money to spare and budget isn't a huge restriction, you might consider the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 or the Thule Urban Glide 2, as both offer better run-ability and a few more features that make the easier to use.

Accessories

BOB makes a variety of optional accessories from fitness add ons to car seat adapters.

• BOB Parent Console — This console is canvas and Velcros to the handlebar of the stroller. It has two cup holders and a center pocket. It is easy to attach and quick to remove. The cup holders are deep enough for tall water bottles and the center pocket will hold most smartphones.

• BOB Single Weather Shield — This weather shield is a useful cover to protect little ones from the elements. It is a potential must-have option if you plan to run no matter what the weather, or if the weather where you live can be unpredictable.

Manufacturer Video