In Depth Baby Product Reviews Led by a Pediatrician
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The Hamax Outback is a [bike trailer that works with an accessory jogging kit as a jogger. This cool trailer pod is suitable for jogging, strolling, trailing a bike, and even sledding with the purchase of the appropriate adapters. The Outback is a versatile wagon that will get you and your little ones on the road to adventure without concern for the terrain or weather. The Outback is a quality option for two and comes with a wallet-friendly list price, given the similarity to the more expensive competition. We love the Hamax and feel you are getting a lot for the price, given the upgrades over the previous model, including reclining seats and new sled ability. While it may be somewhat heavier than other trailers, we still think most families will find much to love in this compact adventure trailer jogger. The Hamax has much in common with the Thule Chariot Cross 2 with Kit, but the price is typically lower, making it great for adventurers on a budget.
REASONS TO BUY
Versatile
Less expensive than similar trailers
REASONS TO AVOID
Heavy
No adjustable tracking
Expensive just for jogger
Editor's Note: This Hamax Outback gear review update occurred on December 5, 2021. It now includes more details about our run-ability tests and test results for each jogger to help make a comparison between models easier.
Our Analysis and Test Results
In 1958 Norway, Hamax AS became a pioneer in gear for family activities that include kids. Hamax offers products for outdoor fun like bike seats for kid passengers, top-ranked bike trailers for kids, and toboggans. They design gear with safety and functionality in mind.
Performance Comparison
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Run-ability
The Hamax offers surprising run-ability with comparable scores in our tests to similar trailers like the Thule Chariot Cross 2.
The Hamax Outback includes a fixed front wheel with the jogging kit attached. The wheel ran straight in our tests, but it lacks adjustable tracking found on the dedicated jogging competition. It comes with an adjustable handlebar that is wrapped with dense foam. It has a handbrake in the center which can impact the ability to push it one-handed, but if you are so skilled, the brake handle placement makes it easy to slow your rolling when coming to a stop or heading downhill. This Hamax has an impressive suspension that provides comfort for passengers on rough terrain. It reduces pusher fatigue that can happen while running and moving a bigger product in front of you. Tipping this trailer when completing a turn is surprisingly easy, given the size and heft of this trailer.
The Running Details
Each jogger in our review is put through a multitude of running-related tests that make up the overall run-ability score. Our tests provide information that helps create a bigger picture of a stroller's true ease of running. Our testing details can help you determine what is important to you and help you understand why each stroller earned its score in this metric.
Running Tests
Our running tests are 35% of the overall score for run-ability. Tests include feedback from multiple runners' experiences over time with each jogger compared to the competition. The chart below contains results for every jogger, including the Hamax, for a close-up comparison.
Rolling Resistance
Our tests for rolling resistance are 20% of the run-ability metric. We test how freely the wheels move when pushed to compare the travel distance of each stroller side-by-side. Theoretically, a farther moving stroller indicates less rolling resistance and a better overall running experience that is less fatiguing.
The Hamax has a useful handbrake for slowing the trailer on hills and while running.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Ease of Use
The Hamax earns an average result for ease of use.
The Outback is somewhat more challenging than other trailers to use, but the money you'll save is likely to prevent you from feeling frustrated on a daily basis.
The Hamax includes a patch with the folding directions just behind the handlebar.
The Hamax fold method initiates by pressing the button and pulling the strap then pressing down on the top of the trailer.
Fold and Unfold
The Outback has a convoluted folding process that results in a final package that is not much smaller than the original form. The method includes twisting to unlock the frame, pressing the release buttons on either side of the frame, and pulling on the sides while pushing down. It isn't challenging to fold. It just feels like more work than should be required for such a disappointing final result.
The foot brake on the Hamax is easier to reach than the previous model and some of the competition that hides under the storage bin.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Brakes
The Outback includes a handbrake (above left) for slowing and a footbrake for parking. Our handbrake is more stable than the older version, but we still experienced some rotation on the handlebar that shouldn't be there. The trailer has a rear pedal for the parking brake (above right) that is easy to use and friendly to feet.
cargo space (the flap that is hanging down has a small zippered pocket on the inside which is shown in another photograph)
Ther is a smaller zippered pocket cargo space inside of the larger panel that zips up and down to act as a door for the cargo space.
Storage
This Outback includes rear storage by way of a zippered compartment behind the passenger seats. The compartment is large enough for most supplies, but it could be improved with an internal organization or features that make it more versatile. Each passenger has their mesh pocket inside the pod for stowing all their most prized possessions or treats. Children can access the pockets, even when buckled in place.
The Hamax 2020 has a vinyl peek-a-boo window behind the handlebar.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Sunshade
The Outback sunshade is a full cover over the top with a peek-a-boo window. The trailer can be wrapped in vinyl to protect passengers from the elements, or a mesh component can be used for increased airflow on hotter days outside.
The Hamax harness is easy to use and pops apart with one button push for a quick escape.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Harness
This Hamax has two seats, each with its own 5-point harness. Each harness is easy to use with nesting buckles and shoulder straps with infinite possible positions on a back strap.
This photo shows the recline method of the Hamax. You first twist the bar and it rolls along a track that reclines both seats at the same time.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Seat
The two seats are low and deep inside the trailer and include padded seat backs and bottoms. The kid's legs stick straight out in front of them with ample room but no support. The seatbacks are somewhat angled, and the new Outback includes the ability to recline the seats. Both seats recline together, so there is no customization for each passenger, but we appreciate the upgrade to reclinable seats over the previous stationary seatbacks.
Car Seat Compatibility
The Outback is not compatible with any infant car seat carriers. According to the manufacturer, children need to be at least six months to ride the Hamax, but if you plan to jog, we recommend your little one be even older and closer to 12-18 months. You should always discuss your jogging or outdoor adventures with babies with your pediatrician.
Ease of Setup
This favorite bike trailer for kids is somewhat more challenging to set up than we prefer. We took under 14 minutes to set up this trailer using the user manual, which is poor compared to the competition, with mismatched pictures or unrelated photos next to the step-up steps.
The front jogging wheel accessory for the Hamax can make it more challenging to navigate smaller spaces as the wheel is fixed and long.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Maneuverability
This Outback is sort of wide and somewhat long. This makes it more challenging to use the Hamax inside smaller stores as the side will rub as you enter, and turning will be more difficult. It does perform well outdoors and over uneven terrain with rubber tires and impressive suspension. Tipping to turn is also straightforward, and we had no problem using this ride as a jogger.
This stroller/trailer is a sturdy option and smoothly moves over most obstacles without a hiccup, but it struggles to make tighter turns when you need it to. We feel the suspension on this option could be stiffer, but it isn't terrible and offers enough to keep passengers comfy over bumps.
The Hamax doesn't reduce in size much even when folded. You'll need to remove the wheels if your space is limited to make it smaller.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Weight and Folded Size
The Outback is large and heavy for a jogger, though it isn't compared to other trailers. The folded size isn't much better than its usual size, and even if you remove the wheels, it will still take up a lot of room.
The Outback weighs in at 44.4 lbs which is a weight gain over the previous version of almost pounds! This heft makes it one of the heaviest in the review. Folded, it measures 43,487 cubic inches with is more than 13,000 cubic inches larger than the older Outback. Given the heavier weight and larger size, you'll need to have the space for storing it and the car suitable for carrying it.
The Hamax offers a quality trailer at a lower price than some of the competition that might sport slightly better components or design.
Credit: Abriah Wofford
Quality
The Outback is a high-quality kid's trailer with a sturdy frame and straightforward design.
This compact trailer has no noticeable concerns in chosen materials or construction. This trailer includes heavy canvas, thicker vinyl, and rubberized surfaces that appear as if they will hold up well. While the material is not the friendliest on the skin around the seating area, it seems to be durable, and we think it will hold up well over time. This Hamax includes strong, dense plastic joints, rubber tires, and spoke wheels with ball-bearing hubs. The material covers the frame nicely, and everything works as expected.
Should You Buy the Hamax Outback?
The Outback is a straightforward little trailer that seats two and can stroll and work with a bike. While it is more expensive than a traditional jogger, its ability to do more with the help of accessories is why we like it and think the added cost is worth it. If your budget is smaller and you want a versatile trailer, the Hamax is definitely one to consider and one we love.
What Other Jogging Strollers Should You Consider?
The Thule Chariot Cross 2 with Jog Kit is a higher-priced alternative to the Hamax. It is somewhat more versatile and slightly easier to use and maneuver than the Hamax, but this comes at a cost. Overall, they are both highly runnable for a product of their size and we like what both have to offer, so it really comes down to your adventure goals and budget.
Accessories
The Hamax Outback Raincover
Credit: Hamax
Hamax Outback Raincover — If you plan to run outdoors or don't want the weather to stop your outdoor fun, you'll want to invest in the Outback Raincover that can offer more protection from the elements while allowing passengers to continue to see the world around them. This cover is easy to use and stows in the storage bin.
The Hamax Outback RaincoverCredit: Hamax
