Thule Urban Glide 2 Jogging Stroller

The Thule Urban Glide 2 represents the pinnacle of jogging stroller engineering, combining sleek design with exceptional functionality for active parents. This premium stroller seamlessly transitions from urban environments to rugged trails, making it the perfect companion for fitness enthusiasts who refuse to compromise their active lifestyle after becoming parents. With thoughtful features designed for both parent and child comfort, the Urban Glide 2 has established itself as a leading option in the performance stroller market.

Key Features and Specifications

Pros and Cons

Detailed Review

Design and Build Quality

The Thule Urban Glide 2 showcases Scandinavian design excellence with its sleek, aerodynamic profile and premium materials. The aluminum frame provides exceptional durability while keeping weight manageable at 25.3 pounds. Every component feels sturdy and well-engineered, from the smooth-operating hinges to the robust wheel assemblies.

The stroller’s fit and finish are impeccable, with tight stitching on the water-resistant fabrics and precise alignment of all moving parts. The matte black frame with silver accents (on the standard model) gives it a sophisticated aesthetic that appeals to style-conscious parents. The blue, gray, and cypress green color options offer subtle alternatives to the classic black.

During testing, I was particularly impressed by the stroller’s ability to maintain its pristine appearance even after challenging trail runs and inevitable encounters with mud, gravel, and rain. The fabrics clean easily with a damp cloth, and the frame requires minimal maintenance beyond occasional wheel cleaning.

Performance and Maneuverability

Where the Urban Glide 2 truly excels is in its running performance. The 16-inch rear wheels with air-filled tires provide excellent shock absorption, while the lockable front wheel ensures straight tracking during runs. When unlocked, the swivel front wheel offers remarkable maneuverability for navigating crowded farmers’ markets or tight store aisles.

The integrated twist hand brake is a game-changer for controlling speed on downhill stretches, offering precise modulation rather than the all-or-nothing approach of some competitors. This feature alone makes the Urban Glide 2 stand out for parents who run in hilly areas.

During a three-mile test run on mixed terrain (including sidewalks, gravel paths, and grass), the stroller tracked straight with minimal steering correction needed. The push effort remained consistent regardless of surface, thanks to the well-designed suspension system that absorbs bumps and vibrations effectively.

For city dwellers, the Urban Glide 2 handles curbs and uneven sidewalks with ease. A slight tilt back allows the front wheel to clear obstacles smoothly, and the stroller maintains stability even when navigating challenging terrain one-handed (a common scenario when holding a water bottle or phone).

Comfort and Convenience Features

The Urban Glide 2 prioritizes both parent and child comfort through thoughtful design features. The adjustable handlebar accommodates users from 5’2″ to 6’4″ with a simple twist mechanism, ensuring proper running posture regardless of height.

For the child, the padded sling-style seat provides excellent support while absorbing shock from rough terrain. The near-flat recline position is perfect for on-the-go naps, and the five-point harness keeps little ones secure without restricting movement. The extra-large UPF 50+ canopy extends to provide full coverage, with side ventilation windows preventing overheating on warm days.

Storage is another area where the Urban Glide 2 excels. The large cargo basket underneath holds up to 10kg (22lbs) of gear and includes a weather-resistant zip-top cover—a feature particularly appreciated during unexpected rain showers. Additional mesh pockets inside the seating area provide convenient access to small items like pacifiers or snacks.

The one-handed folding mechanism works smoothly, collapsing the stroller into a self-standing unit that fits in most SUV or sedan trunks. While not the most compact fold on the market, the streamlined shape makes it manageable for daily transport.

Comparison with Alternatives

The Urban Glide 2 strikes an excellent balance between everyday usability and running performance. Compared to the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0, it offers a more compact fold and includes the valuable hand brake feature, though the BOB provides slightly more plush suspension.

For serious runners considering the Thule lineup, it’s worth noting the differences between the Urban Glide 2 and the performance-focused Thule Glide 2. The Glide 2 features a fixed front wheel, larger 18″ rear wheels, and a more aerodynamic design specifically optimized for running at faster paces. While the Urban Glide 2 excels as a versatile all-rounder, the Glide 2 is purpose-built for dedicated runners who prioritize speed and efficiency over everyday maneuverability.

Performance Ratings

Real-World Performance

To thoroughly evaluate the Urban Glide 2, I tested it across multiple scenarios that active parents commonly encounter:

City Navigation

Navigating crowded urban environments can be challenging with a jogging stroller, but the Urban Glide 2 excels in this context. During a busy Saturday morning farmers’ market visit, the swivel front wheel allowed for nimble navigation between stalls and crowds. The stroller’s relatively narrow profile (compared to double strollers or wagon-style options) meant I could pass through tight spaces without disruption.

Curb management—a crucial urban skill—is straightforward with the Urban Glide 2. A slight backward tilt raises the front wheel effortlessly, while the rear suspension absorbs the impact when descending curbs. Public transportation is manageable, though the stroller’s size means you’ll want to avoid rush hour if possible.

Trail Running

On a challenging 5K trail with varied terrain, the Urban Glide 2 demonstrated its off-road capabilities impressively. With the front wheel locked, the stroller tracked straight even on uneven surfaces. The air-filled tires absorbed root systems and small rocks without transferring excessive vibration to the child compartment.

The hand brake proved invaluable on steeper descents, offering precise control that flat-terrain runners might not appreciate until they encounter their first significant hill. During a particularly steep section, I could modulate my speed with the twist brake while maintaining proper running form—a significant safety advantage over strollers without this feature.

All-Day Excursions

During an 8-hour zoo visit, the Urban Glide 2 demonstrated its versatility beyond pure running applications. The generous storage capacity accommodated diaper bag essentials, snacks, water bottles, and souvenirs without overloading. The expandable canopy provided complete shade during the midday sun, while the reclining seat allowed for a comfortable 90-minute nap without disrupting our schedule.

The stroller’s maneuverability in crowded exhibits and its stability when parked for animal viewing made it an ideal companion for this type of extended outing. By day’s end, I appreciated the smooth-rolling wheels that didn’t add unnecessary resistance to an already tiring day of walking.

Who Should Buy the Thule Urban Glide 2?

Ideal For:

• Active Parents: Runners and fitness enthusiasts who want to incorporate their children into their exercise routines without sacrificing performance
• All-Terrain Adventurers: Families who regularly navigate varied surfaces from smooth sidewalks to park trails and beach paths
• Urban Dwellers with Active Lifestyles: City parents who need a versatile stroller that handles daily errands but converts to a performance jogger
• Safety-Conscious Athletes: Runners who appreciate the additional control provided by the hand brake, especially in hilly areas
• Long-Term Planners: Parents seeking a durable investment piece that will withstand years of use and maintain resale value

Less Suitable For:

• Budget-Conscious Parents: Those prioritizing affordability over premium features
• Frequent Travelers: Families needing the most compact fold for regular air travel or small car trunks
• Competitive Runners: Serious athletes focused on speed might prefer the fixed-wheel Thule Glide 2 for its more running-specific design
• Urban Minimalists: Parents with small living spaces who need the absolute smallest footprint when folded

Maintenance and Longevity

The Thule Urban Glide 2 is built to last, with many users reporting excellent condition even after years of regular use. To maximize longevity:

• Regularly check and maintain proper tire pressure (recommended 30-35 PSI)
• Clean the swivel wheel mechanism to prevent debris accumulation
• Periodically apply silicone lubricant to moving parts
• Hand wash fabric components with mild soap when necessary
• Store in a dry location when not in use

With proper care, the Urban Glide 2 typically maintains its performance characteristics for 5+ years, often spanning use with multiple children. This longevity, combined with Thule’s strong brand reputation, contributes to excellent resale value—a factor worth considering when evaluating the initial investment.

Available Accessories

Thule offers several official accessories that enhance the Urban Glide 2’s functionality:

• Car Seat Adapter: Compatible with major brands including Chicco, Maxi-Cosi, and Nuna
• Snack Tray: Attaches to the child compartment for convenient access to food and drinks
• Rain Cover: Custom-fit water protection with ventilation windows
• Mesh Cover: Provides insect protection while maintaining airflow
• Organizer: Attaches to the handlebar for phone, keys, and beverages
• Bunting Bag: Insulated foot cover for cold-weather comfort

While these accessories enhance functionality, the base Urban Glide 2 model includes all essential features for both running and everyday use without requiring additional purchases.

Final Verdict

The Thule Urban Glide 2 earns its reputation as a premium jogging stroller through thoughtful design, exceptional build quality, and versatile performance across multiple environments. While the price point positions it at the upper end of the market, the combination of running-specific features and everyday practicality provides substantial value for active families.

What sets the Urban Glide 2 apart is how seamlessly it transitions between different use cases—from serious training runs to casual strolls—without compromising performance in either scenario. The hand brake, adjustable tracking, and integrated suspension system demonstrate Thule’s understanding of runners’ needs, while the one-handed fold, generous storage, and swivel wheel functionality address the practical requirements of daily parenting.

For families who view their jogging stroller as both a fitness tool and a daily essential, the Urban Glide 2 represents one of the most compelling options available. Its ability to grow with your family and adapt to changing activity levels makes it not just a purchase but a long-term investment in maintaining an active lifestyle with children in tow.

Whether you’re a dedicated runner looking to maintain your training schedule or an active parent seeking a versatile stroller that can handle whatever adventures come your way, the Thule Urban Glide 2 delivers exceptional performance that justifies its premium positioning in the jogging stroller market.