Thursday, May 26, 2011

The BOB Revolution Stroller Vs. The Joovy Zoom Jogging Stroller. Which Is Best For You?

Comparison
The BOB Revolution and the Joovy Zoom Jogging Strollers are considered to be higher end strollers. Both also have a lot in common, which can make a decision between the two very difficult. First of all, let's look at the core similarities. They are both quality built, sturdy, made from high quality materials. Both include lightweight aluminum frames, a 12-inch front locking swivel wheel and 16-inch rear tires. They both have suspension systems, five-point child safety harness's, parking brakes, sun canopies, large under seat storage, multi-position reclining seats, and running leashes. Joovy Zoom and BOB owners both praised the jogging strollers for being easy to put together right out of the box. They both fold flat, and have removable wheels for easier storage, and they both include a quick fold design. All of these things are very important. When I ask people, what are the 3 main things they're looking for when they're purchasing a jogging stroller, the top 3 are, #1-swivel wheel that locks, #2-large canopy, #3-easy to push. Both of these jogging strollers have all that, and a bag chips (it's slang in case you're wondering, they don't actually come with a bag of chips.)

             BOB Revolution Stroller
Differences
Okay, now let's take a look at the core differences. As far as the design goes, the BOB Revolution really shines in this area. They've added a couple handy features. For example, the BOB has adjustable tracking, this means that it actually goes straight while other joggers tend to pull one way or the other when the swivel wheel is locked, you can adjust the BOB to your liking. The BOB also has adjustable shock absorbers, which can be a nice feature as your child grows. In the younger infant stage, you may want your shocks to be softer, allowing a smoother ride for baby, as they grow and they're weight changes, you can adjust the shocks accordingly. Another nice feature is, the BOB is narrower, so if you plan on using it to go shopping, it should negotiate narrow aisles a bit better. As for the design on the Joovy Zoom Jogging Stroller, it sports a 3-inch travel suspension, and stands up taller, resulting in a taller handlebar. Which could be a problem for some. Also, there is no rear axle, which allows for maximum stride length, a nice feature for the serious runners.

As for the "perks", as I like to call them, the Joovy Zoom outshines the BOB 4 to 1.The Joovy has a signature over-sized canopy that adjusts to multiple positions, blocking the sun at every angle.  Also included with the Joovy Zoom, a parent console with two cup holders and an organizer, even though it's neoprene and is velcroed on, it still super handy to have. With the BOB, you have to order the parent console separately, and they're expensive.  The Joovy Zoom also come with reflective stitching for those of you jogging at night, and a tire pump for emergencies. As I said earlier, they both have quick fold designs, the Joovy Zoom folds in one, and the BOB in two. Both are super simple, but the difference is, the Joovy Zoom includes a folding lock. Therefore when you're loading and unloading the folded jogger, it doesn't come apart on you. Now, I have seen some reviews claiming that the newest version of the BOB Revolution, the 2011, has some sort of a folding lock on it. whether it's just a strap I'm not sure, but it is certainly a nice feature to add. 

The big difference between the two of these strollers is the price. For me that's the deal breaker. The BOB Revolution Stroller is priced at about $120 dollars more than the Joovy Zoom Jogging Stroller. It's not that I'm cheap, but $120 bucks is $120 bucks. Unless of course you can find the BOB used, or on sale. I did hear the REI puts their BOB Revolutions on sale twice a year. That's another thing I should mention, the BOB Revolutions resale value is incredible. They hold their value regardless of how many years you've owned it, as long as it's in good shape of course. 

Conclusion
So to recap, and conclude, the BOB Revolution Stroller is probably the better design, and it's reviewers claim that it is effortless to push, light as a feather. Having the tracking option, and shock adjustments is a big bonus, not to mention the resale value...Amazing! This jogging stroller has a huge following, and I can see why, it's an amazing design that will last for years and years. However, it is very expensive, not just to buy, but to accessorize. It comes with minimal perks, therefore you must buy them all separate, which is a big negative for me. The Joovy Zoom Jogging stroller comes with everything you need, and then some. The parent console with cup holders and an organizer, the reflective stitching, and tire pump. The over-sized canopy with multiple sun blocking positions. Oh, and did I mention that it's $120 dollars cheaper! Just though I'd throw that in. Anyways, for me the choice is clear, I hope now that it is for you as well. 








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