How to choose the best Thule Chariot for your family

Purchasing a Thule Chariot stroller is a big investment for a growing family. You want to make the correct choice the first time around and this guide will help you do just that!

When choosing a Thule Chariot it is important to think about what type of activities you will be doing. Will you be using the Chariot primarily for running, biking, strolling, or skiing? Each Thule Chariot has the ability to do all four of these activities but each has features which will make some activities easier and more enjoyable for you and your kids. For a simple overview of the different Thule Chariot models check out the comparison chart below.

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We ship the full line-up of Thule Chariot Child Strollers across Canada. We offer Free Shipping on all models to most locations within Canada.

About the Different Thule Chariot Models

First, lets go over the models of Chariots that you can choose from. Currently there are three models of Thule Chariot multisport strollers: Sport, Cross, and Lite. Each model is available in a single child model and a double child model and each stroller includes the rear wheels, strolling wheels, and a cycling kit. In addition to the strolling kit and cycling kit you can also add a jogging kit or a cross-country ski kit. Each model of Thule Chariot also features a 5-point harness to hold your child safely and securely. What varies between each model of Thule Chariot is the type of padding, the type of suspension, the color choices, and the types of accessories which are included with purchases.

Thule Chariot Sport

The Thule Chariot Sport is the newest model of Chariot stroller and is also the most rich in features. The Sport features reclining seats (seats can be reclined separately on a double child model), premium seat padding, and removable side panels for better ventilation on hot summer days, peekaboo window, a height adjustable handlebar, and adjustable suspension. The Sport models also include the handlebar brake kit which is excellent for jogging as well as the Chariot Lock Kit which locks the Chariot Sport to your bike.

The Thule Sport 2 and Thule Sport 1 come with a durable, powder-coated black frame and midnight black fabric complete with reflective piping. Also available, is a limited edition Sport 2 in Spectra Yellow with powder coated black frame!

Thule Chariot Cross

The Thule Chariot Cross came out in January 2017 as a replacement for the previous Chariot CX model and has quickly become one of our best sellers. The Cross features reclining seats (seats can be reclined separately on a double child model), seat padding, peekaboo window, height adjustable handlebar, and adjustable suspension. The Cross is available in two colors: Majolica Blue and Alaska and each colour is available in a single child model or double child model.

Thule Chariot Lite

The Thule Chariot Lite also came out in January 2017 as a replacement for the previous Chariot Cougar model. The Lite has a few less features than the Cross and Sport models. The Lite has a padded seat but less back padding than the Cross and Sport, the Lite has suspension but it is not adjustable. The Lite includes the height adjustable handlebar. The Lite is available in one color, Agave, and comes in a single child model or double child model.

Free, Fast Shipping

We ship the full line-up of Thule Chariot Child Strollers across Canada. We offer Free Shipping on all models to most locations within Canada.

Comparison Chart (Thule Chariot Sport vs Cross vs Lite)

The chart below allows you to easily see the main feature differences between the three models of Thule Chariot Multisport Strollers. The information below applies to all 2023 model Thule Multisport Strollers.

Main feature differences between the Sport, Cross, and Lite

Seat padding

The Thule Sport, Cross, and Lite all include padding for your child's comfort. The Sport includes fully removable seat and back padding, the Cross includes removable seat padding and built in back padding, while the Lite includes removable seat padding but no padding in the back.

Suspension

Suspension is also included on the Thule Sport, Cross, and Lite multisport strollers. The Sport and Cross models have adjustable suspension allowing you to fine tune the suspension based on the terrain you are using the stroller on. The Lite model has suspension but it is not adjustable.

Reclining Seats

The Thule Sport and Cross models have reclining seats and each seat has two levels of recline. The recline function can be operated with one hand. On double models the seats can be reclined individually.

Hand Brake Kit

The Thule Sport model includes the hand brake kit. The hand brake is located in the center of the handlebar and operates disc brakes on the rear wheels. This allows for better control of the stroller when being used for jogging or running. You can purchase the Hand Brake Kit for both the Cross and Lite models but on these models the brake is a hub style rather than a disc style.

Ventilation

The Thule Sport models include removable side windows for increased ventilation on warm summer days. The Sport, Cross, and Lite models all have two car style air vents located at the front of the stroller to allow increased air flow. Overall the removable side windows on the Sport provide the best ventilation on hot days.

Best Selling Chariot Accessories

A wide range of accessories are available for all the Thule Chariot models. The accessories below are our best sellers!

Thule Chariots and Strollers on Display

We display Edmonton's largest selection of Thule Active with Kids products. Come down and check out our selection of Chariot Multisport Strollers, Thule Sleek Strollers, Thule Spring Strollers, Thule Urban Glide Strollers, Thule Bike Seats, and Thule Child Backpacks.

Explore other Thule Strollers

In addition to the Thule Chariot line of multisport strollers, Thule also designs and manufactures the Urban Glide line-up of all-terrain jogging strollers, the Sleek line-up of urban 4 wheel strollers, and the Spring line-up of everyday compact 3 wheel strollers. Explore the full line-up of Thule strollers by clicking on the images below.

Which Thule Chariot Stroller is best for your family?

Each Thule Chariot model is designed and manufactured with a focus on safety, reliability, and quality. No matter which model you choose you will have the peace of mind that your children are safe you will get to spend more time enjoying the great outdoors with your kids!

Overall, we find that the double Thule Chariot strollers are more popular than the single Thule Chariot strollers as they have a better resale value, allow more room for your growing family, and are only slightly wider (about 5-6 inches) than their single child model. Since the double models are more popular I will link to those models throughout this Buying Guide. If you are shopping for a single child model you can find them all here.

When speaking with customers in our stores I like to ask them about which activities they plan to use their new Thule Chariot for. While every model of Chariot can be used as a stroller, bike trailer, jogger, or xc ski pulk some models have features that will make these activities easier and more enjoyable. Below I have focused on which model is based best on the activity you will be doing most.

Using your Thule Chariot Model for cycling

Every model of Thule Chariot includes a bike kit which allows you to pull the Chariot behind your bike. The bike kit will attach to bikes which have a quick release rear skewer. Some bikes have a rear thru-axle that will require an adapter. Since biking involves higher speeds than strolling I recommend choosing a model of Thule Chariot which has suspension. The Thule Sport and Thule Cross models both have adjustable suspension which allows you to adjust the tension of the suspension based on the type of terrain you are riding on. You can stiffen the suspension when riding on sidewalks or paved pathways and loosen the suspension on gravel or dirt trails. The Thule Lite includes suspension but it is not adjustable and is best used for biking on sidewalks or paved pathways. The type of seat padding also varies from model to model which will assist in child comfort. The Thule Sport has the best back and seat padding and the padding is completely removable for easy cleaning. The Thule Cross has padding in the back and in the seat but only the seat padding is removable. The Thule Lite only has padding in the seat but it is not removable.

Using your Thule Chariot Model for strolling

Every model of Thule Chariot includes a set of strolling wheels which attach to the front corners of the Chariot. The 360 degree rotating wheels allow for excellent maneuverability even in tight spots such as shopping malls and grocery stores. The strolling wheels can also be stored upside down when using the Chariot as a bike trailer or jogging stroller for additional flexibility on the go. Overall, all models of Thule Chariots will do an excellent job when used as a stroller.

Using your Thule Chariot Model for jogging

If you a runner or a jogger you can purchase a Jogging Kit to attach to all models of Thule Chariot multisport strollers. The Jogging Kit includes a single large wheel and frame which attaches to the front of the Chariot. This fixed position wheel allows the Chariot to travel in a straight line, even on rougher terrain. Since running and jogging involve higher speeds than strolling I recommend choosing a model of Thule Chariot which has suspension. The Thule Sport and Thule Cross models both have adjustable suspension which allows you to adjust the tension of the suspension based on the type of terrain you are running on. You can stiffen the suspension when jogging on sidewalks or paved pathways and loosen the suspension on gravel or dirt trails. The Thule Lite includes suspension but it is not adjustable and is best used for biking on sidewalks or paved pathways. The type of seat padding also varies from model to model which will assist in child comfort. The Thule Sport has the best back and seat padding and the padding is completely removable for easy cleaning. The Thule Cross has padding in the back and in the seat but only the seat padding is removable. The Thule Lite only has padding in the seat but it is not removable.

Another concern when using a Chariot for jogging or running is the length of your stride. The Thule Sport and Thule Cross models have drop down storage compartments which can be compacted to allow less interference between the cargo bag and your legs. The Thule Lite and Cheetah XT have mesh pockets and when full you may kick the pocket as you run.

Using your Thule Chariot as a Cross-Country Ski Pulk

If you love to cross-country ski you can also convert your Thule Chariot into a cross-country ski pulk which is pulled behind you while you ski. We have also had customers pull the Chariot behind then while snowshoeing or walking on snowy trails. The Thule Cross-Country Ski Kit will work with all models of Thule Chariot and Chariot branded strollers including the Sport, Cross, Lite, Cheetah XT, CX (with disc brakes), Cougar, and Cheetah. Pulling a Chariot behind you is an excellent workout and a great way to keep active during the winter months with your young children. Accessories such as the Thule Footmuff Sport will help keep infants warm while using your Thule Chariot in colder temperatures.

Customer Reviews

Our customers are always happy with the purchase of their Thule Chariot and the service they receive from our staff! Check out some customer reviews below to see for your self.

Outstanding customer service! Thank you so much! I ordered a Thule twin chariot cross stroller from this company. When I called them the next day to ask a question about my order the person who immediately answered the phone knew exactly what I had ordered and where it was going. This personal level of customer service from a company is so rare it actually took me by surprise! It was really appreciated though! The stroller also arrived in Canmore less than two days after I ordered it! Insanely fast delivery. Will definitely shop here again.

- Katie

Hello Racks For Cars Team,

I just want to say it was a pleasure doing business with you. You're customer service is top notch. I really appreciated when You called to inform me that the chariot came with a rain cover and that I didnt need to buy the separate cover that I purchased online. You don't get that kind of service from Amazon. I was also amazed how fast the chariot arrived! 2 Days.

Thanks again! and we are so PLEASED with our new Chariot my 1.5 year old twins love it

- Robyn

Thorough, knowledgeable, and friendly customer service. We spent 30 minutes with Brad as he answered all of our questions on the Thule Chariot Sport 2. He clearly had a sound knowledge of the product which he demonstrated by confidently and definitively answering each of our questions. It was a no pressure sale.

Strong recommendation based on our first experience.

- Peter