The Thule stroller company recently updated one of their bestselling strollers, the Thule Urban Glide. The updated version is referred to as the Thule Urban Glide 2. It looks fresh and performs even better than the previous version. Expectedly it also costs more than before but I believe the upgrades and the new features are worth every penny.
In this comprehensive review, you will find out all you need to know about the Thule Urban Glide 2. You will also discover its similarities and differences with the original Thule Urban Glide and with other strollers.
Without further ado, let us begin.
The Thule Urban Glide 2 Review Summary
The biggest difference between the new Thule Urban and the older one is in the brake system. The new upgraded model has got an additional hand-operated brake, while the older one does not have a handbrake.
What also makes this stroller to stand out is the fact that it can accommodate a bassinet. Not many strollers allow the attachment of a bassinet.
The fact that you can attach a bassinet on the frame of the Thule Urban 2 means you can use it from birth. You can use it to carry your newborn child by attaching the bassinet which is the safest way to carry your baby when they are still delicate and have not sufficiently developed their backs and necks.
When your baby turns six months old, you can replace the bassinet with the stroller’s toddler seat and continue to carry them using the Thule Urban Glide 2.
- A high-performance jogging stroller with a lightweight, aerodynamic design
- Fixed 16" front wheel and 18" rear wheels for superior jogging performance
- One-handed compact fold for easy transport
- Integrated twist hand brake for speed control
- Convenient one-handed recline
Review summary
- One of the best jogging strollers ever made.
- Has got big pneumatic wheels that can handle any terrain including cracked pavements and unbeaten paths.
- Has got an extra hand-operated brake to help you make sure your baby is safe.
- Its frame is strong, sturdy, and stable. It will serve you for a long time.
- It is made of premium quality fabrics.
- It features a large oversized canopy to fully shield your baby from the elements.
- Comes with a decent sized storage basket that can be closed to keep your valuables protected.
- It is pretty pricey as is the case with most other jogging strollers.
The Thule Urban 2 review – What are the special features of the upgraded model
The original Thule Urban is quite something. It is one of the best jogging strollers ever made and one of Thule’s bestselling strollers. Furthermore, despite being a jogging stroller, it is quite light and a favorite for many active parents because of how easy it is to jog with and how safe it is.
The Urban Glide 2 is a significant improvement of the original model. It includes several new features and add-ons and performs much better when running or strolling. However, it is important to note that some of the features of the original model remain.
So just how different is the Urban Glide 2 from the original model and from other strollers?
Quite different. In this section, we are going to discuss each of the stroller’s major features and how unique or similar they are to those of other baby buggies.
The sleek and stylish Urban Glide 2 stroller
The Wheels and the Suspension System
The new model features a stable and agile 3-wheel design. All the wheels are big and can handle all types of terrain. The front-wheel measures 12 inches in diameter while the back wheels measure 16 inches in diameter.
All the wheels are pneumatic (air-filled). This means two things. First, you will have to check them every now and then to ensure the air pressure is okay so that they function properly. Second, the fact the wheels are pneumatic means they can absorb shock better and make the strolls or jogs smoother and more comfortable for your little passenger.
The large wheels of the new model. They can virtually handle all types of terrain.
The front wheel of can swivel. This has made the stroller more agile and easier to maneuver especially over flat terrain. The wheel can be locked to make the stroller stable when using it over bumpy terrain or when jogging with it.
The stroller comes with a brilliant suspension system. It absorbs shocks when pushing the stroller over rough terrain making the ride stable and comfortable for your kid and yourself.
The swiveling front wheel. It makes the stroller easier to maneuver over flat ground. It can also be locked for more stability over rough terrain.
When I was reading the reviews left on e-commerce sites for the original Urban Glide model, I noticed that many parents really liked its big wheels and its suspension system. Most reviewers were in agreement that the wheels and the suspension provided a very smooth ride. They were also in agreement that the stroller was very agile and maneuverable.
Because of the fact that the new stroller has better wheels and the same suspension system, it then follows that it must automatically offer an even smoother ride than the original model. I am confident that it will not disappoint you even when using it on harsh or rough terrain.
The safety features
Just like the original Urban Glide, the new one is designed with plenty of safety features to keep your baby safe. However, unlike the original one, it has got a few extra safety features that make it safer to use for strolling and jogging.
The handbrake
The new model has got a twist hand-operated brake. It is for allowing parents to control speed when going fast.
One of this stroller’s most unique features is this handbrake. Most strollers have foot-operated parking brakes and only a few like this one have handbrakes for controlling speed.
The handbrake is integrated and will give you better control over the Urban Glide. This is in contrast to the original model that had no handbrake.
You will love using this stroller’s handbrake when going downhill, when jogging, and when pushing the baby carriage over rough terrain. This is because it is very easy to reach and works brilliantly.
The fact that it is a twist handbrake makes it easier to engage and more convenient to use. You just need to twist it.
The Parking Brake
The foot-operated parking brake. It is engaged by pushing it with your foot.
As stated a few moments ago, many strollers have foot-operated brakes. This one too has a foot-operated brake in addition to its handbrake. The foot-operated brake works as a parking brake; it immobilizes the stroller when activated.
The original model also has a brake just like this one.
The brake is activated by stepping on a pedal in-between the axle connecting the back wheels. It is deactivated by lifting the pedal.
The pedal is not flip flop or sandal-friendly. It is discomforting to try to deactivate it when wearing sandals, flip flops, or heels. This is definitely an oversight by the manufacturer. However, considering the fact that it is a jogging stroller it is not such a flaw, right? Because you will always be jogging with running shoes; meaning you can disengage the brake without hurting your foot.
In some of the reviews I was reading for both the original model and this new model, quite a number of parents were saying the parking brake is not the easiest to use. Nevertheless, there were also many who gave updates saying that after a while, the parking brake got less stiff and easier to engage.
The Wrist Strap
The new model’s handlebar with its wrist strap
The Thule Urban Glide 2 comes with a safety wrist strap tethered to the handlebar. Before you start pushing the stroller, you are supposed to wear the strap. The strap will prevent the stroller from rolling away from even when you get distracted. It keeps the stroller tethered to you. It makes this stroller safer.
However, when wearing it, you must watch your step because if you make a wrong move, you could fall and bring the stroller down with you.
The safety harness
The toddler seat on the Urban Glide 2 has got a well-padded seat and a 5-point harness.
The toddler seat on this new Thule stroller is well-padded. Most importantly, it comes with a padded 5-point harness. The fact that the harness is padded means it cannot dig into your baby’s skin, while the fact that it is a 5-point harness means it will fully secure your baby in place and prevent them from flying off the stroller in case your crash, you brake suddenly, or the stroller tips over.
The reflective strips
In terms of safety features, this stroller has got it all. Because in addition to the handbrake, the parking brake, the wrist strap, and the safety harness, the Thule Urban Glide 2 has got several strategically positioned reflective strips.
The strips make the stroller visible even in low light.
The older model has no reflective strips.
The reflective strips glowing in low light
The Seat
This new stroller comes with a well-padded seat. The seat has a maximum capacity of 75 pounds. This is pretty high weight capacity. It means the stroller will serve you for a very long time. In fact, you can carry your child on the stroller until he or she turns 4 or 5 years old. This is because, in addition to the space, the backrest is long enough and the leg space is also sufficient for a tall kid.
The seat on this new model is the same size as that on the old model.
The Thule Urban Glide 2 seat is reclinable. It can recline to a near-flat angle that is perfect for napping. Unlike other strollers whose seats cannot recline or have multi-position recline, this stroller’s seat has an infinite recline. You can, therefore, lock the backrest at any position/ angle that you feel is right.
The Urban Glide 2 reclining seat. It does not, however, recline to the true flat position and is, therefore, not suitable for carrying infants/ newborns.
You will love the reclining mechanism on the stroller because it is super easy to use. It allows parents to recline the seat with 1 hand. However, raising it requires a two-handed effort.
One more thing I must mention about the stroller is the fact that it has a mesh cutout at the top. The mesh top can be opened to facilitate free airflow. Opening it during summer will prevent the stroller interior from overheating. During winter it can be closed to keep the baby warm and cozy.
The Seating Arrangements for infants
You can use this new Urban Glide stroller to carry your infant or newborn baby in two ways. But before I describe the two ways, there is something important you should note. Never go jogging or running with any little one less than six months old. It is dangerous and not safe for them.
That said, you can use this stroller to carry any baby less than six months old as long as you attach either a compatible bassinet or infant car seat.
The New Thule Urban with a bassinet
Unlike the older Thule Urban Glide, this new model can be utilized from day 1. This can be done by replacing its toddler seat with the Thule bassinet.
The bassinet is made in such a special way that it quickly clicks onto the frame when positioned correctly.
Some parents who have used this stroller say removing the toddler seat is a bit difficult. However, considering the fact that you will only need to replace it like one time and return it back to the frame in like six months, the difficulty is definitely nothing to worry about.
The Thule bassinet is flat and, therefore perfect for infants and newborns who are still developing their neck and head control. It comes with a big canopy that provides expansive protection.
Lastly, it can be folded for easy transport and storage. This is certainly something that many parents will find to be very useful.
The high-quality foldable Thule bassinet.
The New Thule Urban with an infant car seat
The Urban Glide 2 is compatible with many strollers and can, therefore, be used as a travel system. Infant car seats such as the Maxi Cosi seats can be attached on the stroller using adapters and without removing the toddler seat.
However, you should note that if you want to use an infant car seat, you will have to buy it separately. You will also have to buy its adapter separately. This is because the stroller does not come with an infant car seat or an adapter.
The new model with the Maxi-Cosi infant car seat.
The Thule Urban with a car seat is the ideal stroller for moms and dads who frequently drive and cannot leave their kids behind with someone else.
It also perfect for carrying babies while running short errands. In case you want to go for a longer stroll, you should use the Thule bassinet as it is more suitable and safer.
The Canopy
This Thule stroller comes with an enormous canopy that I really like. The canopy offers superb protection from the wind and the sun.
The older Thule Urban stroller also has an equally huge canopy that offers the same kind of protection as the one on this one. So there is really no difference in terms of size.
Nevertheless, there are several differences in terms of other aspects. For example, the new Thule Urban stroller has a mesh see-through window to allow you to constantly monitor your little passenger. It also allows free airflow to prevent your baby from overheating. The mesh window can be closed during cold days to keep the baby warm and cozy.
Something else that is different about the new stroller canopy is the fact that it has a high-quality sun visor. The sun visor provides extra protection from the sun.
One more thing I must mention about the Thule Urban Glide 2’s canopy is the fact that the fabric has a special material that provides protection against harmful UV rays. This is pretty cool and a must-have if you live in a hot and dry area.
The Handlebar
The upgraded Thule stroller has an extendable telescopic handlebar. It is the same kind of handlebar found on the original model.
It can be extended from 35.5 inches from the ground to 44 inches from the ground. So regardless of whether you are short or tall, you can set it at just the right height to make it easy for you to push.
The Thule Urban 2’s extendable handlebar.
The storage space
The upgraded Thule Urban has a decent storage capacity just like the original model.
The big storage basket underneath the seat.
According to many people who have used this stroller, the storage basket is big enough to accommodate plenty of stuff including a medium-size diaper bag.
Unlike the storage baskets you will see on other strollers, this one comes with a cover. This means whatever you store in it will be protected from weather conditions and from falling out.
The cover has a zipper for quick access to anything stored in the basket.
In addition to the storage basket underneath the toddler seat, there is a mesh storage attached to the back of the seat. This storage pocket is meant for essentials such as your phone, your keys, and your wallet. It allows you to easily access them.
The mesh pocket where you can keep the stuff you may want to quickly access.
The seat also has two additional mesh pockets where you can keep your baby’s small toys or training cup.
The multiple storage compartments will allow you to find a space for everything you may want to carry for short or long strolls.
The Folding
This stroller is relatively easy to fold. You simply need to pull up the calf rest and to lift the stroller with a specific handle and it will collapse automatically. It is something you can do in seconds and with 1 hand.
Moreover, in addition to collapsing into its fold shape, this stroller will also automatically lock itself in the shape. This is very convenient as it helps with the storage and transport.
One thing, however, that you may not like about the folding is the fact that the fold size is not compact. Although I was expecting this since it is a jogging stroller, I was nonetheless disappointed by the large space the fold size still takes up. However, by removing its wheels, the fold size becomes much small making the stroller easier to store.
The folded Thule Urban Glide with its wheels unremoved.
The size and the weight
Considering that this stroller is primarily a jogging stroller, one would automatically expect it to be big and it is. It comes with a heavy-duty frame and big wheels to handle tough terrain and to safely carry even kids as heavy as 70 pounds. Thus, the fact that it weighs 25.3 pounds does not come as a surprise.
In terms of weight, the upgraded model with its new features is slightly heavier than the older model.
The Pros and Cons of the Thule Urban Glide 2
Pros
The Pros
- It is well-designed with a heavy-duty frame and quality fabrics.
- It is a top-quality stroller.
- It has a big and roomy canopy that provides good protection.
- It has plenty of storage space.
- It features an extendable and telescopic handlebar.
- It can easily be maneuvered through crowds and tight spaces.
- It can handle all terrain and provides a smooth ride.
Cons
Cons
- It is a pretty expensive stroller.
- Its parking brake is not sandal, flip flop, or high heel friendly.
What other moms and dads think about the 2018 Urban Glide
I always read reviews on Amazon.com before buying or reviewing any baby product. In the case of this stroller, I found that most parents really love it and really love many of its features.
Most reviewers on the e-commerce store were of the opinion that it moves really well. In other words, it glides just like its name suggests.
It also handles rough terrain like a charm.
Something else that the reviewers on Amazon liked about the stroller is its many storage compartments. They commented that the main storage basket and the additional pockets were very convenient.
As with most of the reviews on Amazon, not all the reviewers liked everything about the stroller. Some complained about the big fold size, while others complained about its bulkiness. However, as explained earlier, the big fold size and the bulkiness are to be expected from jogging strollers.
Important Details about the Thule Urban Glide 2 review
- Type of stroller: Jogging stroller.
- Weight of stroller: 25.3 pounds.
- Seat weight limit: 75 pounds.
- Handlebar height: Between 35.5 and 44 inches.
- Fold size: 22.8 inches by 34.3 inches by 13.4 inches.
- Size of wheels: 16 inches diameter rear wheels; 12 inches diameter front wheel.
The Colors of the New Thule Glide
This stroller comes in four color options: Mars, Thule blue, Dark Shadow, and Jet Black. In contrast, the older model is available in the same color options except Jet Black.
The accessories for the new model
The manufacturer behind the stroller has a variety of extra accessories on offer. They can help you to customize stroller to match your needs. All of the accessories described below are not included in the set. You have to buy them separately.
1. The Thule universal infant car seat adapter
The adapter is what you need to turn your stroller frame in a travel system. With it you can attach all the compatible infant car seats including the Chicco and the Maxi-Cosi models.
2. The Thule bassinet
The Thule bassinet is what you need to buy to convert your jogger into a pram. It is perfect and safe for carrying newborns as it is truly flat, sheltered, and cozy.
3. The Bumper bar
The bumper bar is what you need to purchase if you want something to protect your child from falling off his or her seat and something for them to hold onto during strolls or jogs.
4. The snack tray
Thule makes a fantastic snack tray. The tray provides a holding space for your baby’s snacks. It also has a cup holder for their sippy cup.
5. The Thule organizer
Thule makes a brilliant parent organizer. It is easy to attach to the Urban Glide 2 handlebar and provides storage space for your valuables e.g. your phone and wallet holder. It also comes with a cup holder. You can use it to have your drinking water or energy beverage at hand.
6. The Thule bottle holder
Buy this accessory if you work out regularly and want somewhere to keep your drinking water close. Don’t buy it if you already have the organizer for the organizer comes with its own bottle holder.
7. The Thule Rain Cover
This is for providing your baby with an extra and complete shield against the rain, wind, and snow.
8. The Thule bug protector
This is for protecting your baby against flying bugs and especially in places where mosquitos are prevalent.
9. The Thule footmuff
This is for those who still want to workout outdoors during winter as it helps to keep the baby warm.
A side by side comparison of the old and the new Thule Urban Glide
These two strollers are pretty similar, which is not a surprise given that one an upgrade of the other.
Generally, the second stroller is slightly heavier and a bit more expensive because of its extra features.
| Stroller | Urban Glide 2 | Old model Urban Glide |
| Brake(s) | Footbrake plus handbrake | Footbrake only |
| Tires | Big and inflatable wheels with reflective strips. | No reflective strips. |
| Canopy | Special oversized canopy + visor. Offers protection against UV rays. | Oversized canopy only. No UV protection. |
| Fold lock | Automatic | Not automatic |
| Color options | Mars, Thule Blue, Dark Shadow, and Jet Black. | Mars, Thule Blue, and Dark Shadow. |
| Weight | 25.3 pounds | 23 pounds |
| Fold size | 34.3 by 13.4 by 22.8 (inches) | 34.5 by 14 by 21 (inches) |
As you may have noticed from the comparison, the new Thule Urban Glide is superior to the older model.
It has an additional handbrake, a better canopy, and rides more smoothly. It is, however, heavier and more expensive. So apart from the features and the performance, the budget may also determine which between the two you will choose.
What you should consider before buying this stroller
There are two things you should keep in mind before purchasing the Thule Urban Glide 2.
First, you should be aware of the fact that you can only start using its toddler seat from when your baby turns six months old. Or when they are old enough to sit on their own and have developed neck and head control. This is because it is unsafe to carry your newborn child on a non-flat surface, which the seat is.
If you really want to carry your newborn baby using this stroller, you will have to buy either the Thule bassinet or a compatible infant car seat. Both are flat and provide perfect platforms for carrying infants.
Second, you need to know that you can only start jogging with your stroller once your baby has gotten to around eight months. This is because it is at this age that they will not be too fragile to go for a jog with you.
Why buy this stroller
1. Because it is one of the safest strollers ever made. This can be seen in the fact that it comes with a variety of safety features include shock-absorbing wheels, reflective strips, a safety harness, a wrist strap, a footbrake, and a handbrake.
2. Because your child can grow with it. You can start using it with a bassinet from day 1 and continue using it with a toddler seat when your baby turns six months old. It will serve you and your baby for a long time.
3. Because it is a premium quality stroller. Every component used to make it is superior quality. The construction and finishing are also superior. It is truly a wonderful sight to behold and a brilliant performer.
See the price directly on amazon, they always have a good deal on the thule urban glide 2
- A high-performance jogging stroller with a lightweight, aerodynamic design
- Fixed 16" front wheel and 18" rear wheels for superior jogging performance
- One-handed compact fold for easy transport
- Integrated twist hand brake for speed control
- Convenient one-handed recline
I’m Jessica Wills, most of my friends just call me Jess. I have 2 kids Astor who is 5, and Cody who is 3. I love writing and found a small passion in writing product reviews from a moms stand.
Let me know in the comments below if you have any questions, i’ll love to answer.
Last update on 2020-10-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API