Advnture Verdict
The most durable, versatile and easy-to-use multi-activity trailer you can buy for hike, run, bike and ski. But it’s pricey.
Pros
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Most compact multi-activity trailer
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Rain cover included
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Reflective details and rear light
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Adjustable suspension level
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Easy to assemble/pack away
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Multiple handlebar height options
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Easy clip five-point harness
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Huge cargo space that can be stored while jogging
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Easy stow points for multi-activity wheels/kit
Cons
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Quite long for navigating around small shops
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Handlebar brake not included
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Rain cover tight and fiddly to get on
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Backrest does not lie flat
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Jogger and ski kit additions are expensive
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Thule Chariot Cross 1: first impressions
The Thule Chariot Cross 1 is the running stroller you can take (almost anywhere). It’s a versatile all-rounder that’s more practical for both running and shopping than any other multi-activity trailer on test in our best running stroller buying guide.
It’s more slimline and compact than the Burley D’Lite X so you’ve got more chance of getting it around shops if you only want to take one pram on a trip away.
You are also able to add a handlebar braking kit ($100 / £90), infant sling for one-month-olds onwards ($100 / £100) and a baby head support ($70 / £80) making it even safer and more useful, but again at a higher price.
The build quality is wonderful, though, and this buggy will last forever once you’ve invested. And it’s a nice touch that there is space to store the multi-activity kit that you’re not using it – in case you want to change sport while you’re already out.
The child passenger is guaranteed a comfy and engaging ride, with adjustable suspension and excellent viewing windows, and they’re kept safe with reflective details and a rear light. The only downside is that the rain cover (included) is so tight fitting it is difficult to get on if you’re hands are cold or you’re wearing your best hiking gloves.
Basically, this is a pricey bit of kit but it’s excellent, and if you’re going to use it regularly, it’s worth the outlay.
• RRP: $1,200 (US) / £950 (UK)
• Weight: 13.8kg / 30.4lb
• Folded size: 34in x 25.5in x 15in / 87cm x 65cm x 37.5cm
• Minimum age: Six months
• Maximum weight: 34kg / 75lb
• Colors: Blue
• Newborn crib or car seat attachment possible? Yes
• Double version available? Yes
Thule Chariot Cross 1: on the trails
So the Thule Chariot Cross 1 that we tested didn’t come with the additional handlebar brake that you can buy, which would have been really, really useful.
We hadn’t realized just how heavy a child plus gear could seem on a steep downhill trail in the Peak District, and when you’re used to slowing a specific running buggy with a handlebar brake, it came as a bit of a shock to have to take the buggy’s whole weight again.
We did get sent the newborn sling so we could start using it before the child has reached six months (you can use this from one month). It’s super comfy for a younger kid and means you can get going with your running, biking and skiing sooner.
For all three activities we absolutely loved the Chariot Cross 1, and the only thing we really found tricky was putting on the very snug-fitting rain cover with cold hands in the drizzle. Otherwise, assembly and disassembly is relatively straightforward, but you will need to read the instructions – no one likes doing that, but it’s the best way with a tech piece of kit like this.
