Out of necessity, we own two BOB Revolution jogging strollers–one single and one double. We have used them to cart our children all over Utah and everywhere we’ve vacationed. Without a doubt, both of these strollers have been the staple of our family walks and adventures. That said, I’ve had plenty of experience with these capable strollers.
Comparing the BOB with the Kelty Speedster strollers, I have been anxious to see how they stack up against what are arguably the best strollers on the market. So, the BOB Dualie vs. Kelty Speedster Swivel-Deuce throwdown commenced and in the end, both are awesome and the Kelty surprised us (my better half and I) with its lightweight maneuverability and superior seat comfort. Lets dig into a few more details.
Kelty Speedster Swivel-Deuce Features:
- Swivel front wheel, with lockout option
- Easy folding design
- 5-point adjustable harness
- Independent locking rear brakes
- Independently adjustable seats
- Fully padded seat and frame
- Adjustable-height handle (34-45”)
- Quick-release wheels
- Weight: 26 lb 13 oz
- MSRP: $474.95
Kelty Speedster Swivel-Deuce Double Jogging Stroller Review
Getting the stroller up-and-running was quick and easy. Slipping the quick-release wheels into place and then attaching the large sun shade was about the extent of the effort needed. Once assembled, the entire package seemed very well thought-out and nice-looking.
With double jogging strollers, you’ve just got to pony up to get the swivel front wheel–believe me, it’s worth its weight in gold. With the swiveling front wheel, maneuvering the Speedster Deuce is a breeze while walking and jogging. Oft-times the swivel front wheel experiences speed wobble at a fast running pace on our BOB Duallie, but not so with the Kelty. Only at higher paces is the front wheel lockout needed. Frankly, I have yet to find a pace at which it is required, but maybe at a full sprint (not something I typically do while hauling two kids) it may be required.
The Speedster pushes along very smoothly and feels very racy as compared to the BOB. I’d say the BOB is more like driving around a Cadillac while the Kelty is more akin to a BMW. It feels lighter (by almost 6 lbs) while in use and more nimble. With that nimble feel and race-car chassis, the ride quality may be a little rougher than the BOB, but I don’t think the kids have minded. I’ve appreciated the go-cart feel of the Kelty as it seems smoother and carries momentum better than the BOB.
One of the features I really like about the Speedster-Deuce is the 5-point harness and comfortable seats. These are by far superior to the design of the BOB. Buckling is quick and easy with nicely-shaped and padded straps. Also, strap adjustments are just as easy. The seat is more contoured and better padded, so kudos to Kelty on making the kids comfy and helping parents buckle the kids in with ease. Check out one of our sleepers on a recent trip to the zoo.
The pivoting push handle raises and lowers by pushing two buttons on either side of the handle. This is also a great little feature that my wife and I have appreciated since we can adjust it to our respective heights for a more comfortable running or walking position.
Having a single giant lower pocket is great and provides easy access. I also appreciate the dual built-in water bottle holders in the rear for stashing sippy cups or water bottles. The hanging basket pocket could use a little more structure in the bottom panel as it has begun to sag after carrying items in it. Maybe even just an additional Velcro strap in the center to keep it from sagging would do the trick?
Not everything is perfect with the Speedster-Deuce, so here are a few gripes. I’d say the biggest disappointment is the overall width of the stroller. At 34 in., it is over 3 in wider than the BOB Duallie, thus preventing it from entering many exterior doors. With the BOB, we’ve never once found a door that we couldn’t squeeze through, but the Speedster has to wait outside of many buildings instead of sitting inside because it just doesn’t fit.
We also miss the independently-adjustable sun shades for catered comfort as well as small pockets in the seats for the kids to place toys, books or cups.
Good Speedster Swivel-Deuce
- Lightweight design is easier to stash and carry than comparable BOB Duallie
- Really appreciate the swiveling handle to adjust height to different people
- The seats and harness are superb (we had several sleepers, so it’s kid-approved)
- Overall seat function is much better than the BOB
- Easily-accessed lower stash bin
- Feels quick and nimble
- Front wheel doesn’t suffer from speed wobble
- Runs well and tracks well
- Built-in strap keeps things together when folded
- Over $100 cheaper than the BOB Duallie
Bad Speedster Swivel-Deuce
- Too wide for some doorways
- No dual sun shade
- Pivoting the sun shade back blocks access to your children
- No small seat pockets for the kids to stash their stuff
- Brake engagement is a two-step process
Bottom Line: Kelty Speedster Swivel-Deuce Review
I’m very impressed with the Speedster Swivel-Deuce. As mentioned, it feels more efficient than the BOB Duallie and the overall seat comfort and strap function is far superior. This is an efficient kid-moving machine, just watch out for narrow doorways and you’ll be just fine.
Buy Now: Search for Jogging at REI
