Functional, flexible and colorful, the Thule Spring is a sleek and sophisticated looking stroller which easily navigates life in style.
Quick Summary: Overall, if you are looking for a smaller folding stroller that gives you a sturdy yet nimble push, the Spring is definitely one for consideration. Simple to use, it complimented our daily routine well and we believe it would for a lot of other parents too.
Whats good?
- One hand fold
- Good sized seat and hood
- Clever engineering
Whats not so good?
- Seat doesn't fully recline
- More expensive stroller
Chassis
When sat next to the well known Thule Urban Glide, first impressions are that the Spring is a little on the small side, but this robust yet compact stroller certainly packs a punch.
With only 4 items in the box the Spring was assembled with a few clicks. The chassis, which is available in either aluminium or black finish, feels very sturdy when pushed and its slim 59.5cm width made navigating urban terrain easy. Whether popping into the shops or strolling around the park, we loved the smooth and sturdy push.
We found the no-puncture foam filled 8.5″ tyres provided a smooth ride for our little tester who was comfortable even across the grass at the park and down the more rural pathways. The front wheel can be locked into the forward facing position for those slightly rougher surfaces, though we did find the switch to do so difficult to find at first glance. Located on the front wheel axle, it is a simple switch to click down, but can be mistaken for the quick wheel release on the opposite side.
The basket is deceptively large for a three wheel stroller. Although slim, the deep mesh sides meant we had lots of space for the essentials. Partnered with the mesh pocket on the back of the seat, we had plenty of storage space.
The foot operated break is easy to locate and engage. Distinctly coloured red on the rear right wheel, the brake is operated with a click down for both on and off, saving those summer pedicures from any damage.
Although unusual on a stroller the telescopic adjustable handlebar is a great addition to the Spring. By squeezing the button on the handle bar it can be adjusted with one hand. We found the range perfectly fit both our parent testers at 5ft 7″ and 6ft 2″ with height to spare.
Seat
The Spring is a forward facing stroller suitable from 6 months all the way up to 22kg. Our taller than average 3 year old tester sat very comfortably in the seat and enjoyed the deep recline offered by the draw string mechanism. The well padded 5 point harness was easily adjusted for both width and height with no re-threading needed. Simply slide the shoulder straps up and down, making it even easier.
The fabrics feel durable without being rough on little ones skin and the seat is well padded for comfort. The seat fabrics come in a parent-favourite black but, with a choice of 7 canopy colours and 2 chassis colours, it is easy to customise your stroller to a finish you will love. We tested the Spring in the Misty Rose Melange on aluminium chassis but other canopy colours include; Majolica Blue, Olive, Teal Melange, and staple favourites Grey Melange, Shadow Grey and Midnight Black. The adjustable canopy gives the seat good coverage with UPF 50+ UV protection. With the extension panel opened you also gain a ventilation panel which doubles as a peep window, which we found helpful for keeping an eye on our passenger.
Although the drawstring recline requires two hands to operate, it is deep enough for peaceful naps on the go. Once reclined there is also an extra ventilation panel at the back of the seat which is easy to operate, with magnets holding it down and straps to hold it up. This was particularly helpful on those warmer days.
The handy step-in foot rest enabled our little tester to jump in by themselves and, being made from a durable plastic, was easy to clean from even the muddiest of wellies. Practical and comfy, the seat as standard offers everything you need, though if your little one likes to rest their legs up, or hold onto a bumper bar you will need to purchase these items separately.
The Spring is a stroller that you can personalise both aesthetically and functionally. With a vast array of compatible accessories including a “glider board” and “snack tray” there are options for all. You can also add a selection of infant carrier car seats with the correct adapters. Although only ideal for very quick trips, particularly in the early stages, this does open up the option to use the spring from birth.
Fold
The very clever, one-handed, compact fold is a real selling point for the Spring. It uniquely slims the width of the stroller down by more than 14cm as the rear wheels fold towards each other. The easy to operate mechanism is discreetly hidden under a well cushioned panel on the seat, which may be difficult to find for those that do not know. However by simply sliding the blue button across and picking the handle up, the stroller is folded.
We found it fit in the car boot with ease, leaving enough room for the shopping or other travel essentials. All three wheels can also be removed with the press of a button making the system even more compact for those longer journeys. Once folded the stroller can be stood up, though it is worth noting that the handlebar does need to be in the 2nd lowest position for this. Once in this position, we found we could store the Spring in the hallway without taking up too much space. At 9.5kg it is not the lightest stroller of its size though that only adds to its robust and durable feel, giving you confidence when out and about.
Conclusion
At first glance, you could be forgiven for thinking the Spring was a little highly priced, especially when you consider the price does not include a rain cover. However, after a closer look at the finer details, it is easy to see where the money is going. With Thule’s attention to detail and clever engineering, they have made a sleek and sophisticated looking stroller which easily navigates most circumstances in style. From the obvious features such as the one handed fold to the more subtle reflective trim on the canopy, it is clear that the Spring has been designed for making daily life easier.
It would be nice for some of the additional accessories to be included as standard, but we do love the opportunity to personalise your stroller in both a fun and functional way.
Overall, if you are looking for a smaller folding stroller that gives you a sturdy yet nimble push, the Spring is definitely one for consideration. Simple to use, it complimented our daily routine well and we believe it would for a lot of other parents too.
