If you are interested in a Thule Shine stroller, you may have seen some of its unflattering reviews on Amazon. However, if you check BabyList or BuyBuyBaby, you will notice the reviews for the Thule Shine are much higher. Why? User error: a few parents couldn’t figure out how to unfold their Thule Shine stroller.
I have really enjoyed using my Thule Shine Stroller: it has a huge canopy and a telescopic handlebar, lays almost flat, is narrow and is super easy to maneuver, and the storage can be accessed from the front or back. It folds down smaller than any other reversible seat stroller we have tried out, plus I love the way it looks!
Summary
Pros
- Easy to change reversible seat to forward-facing or rear-facing.
- Folds whether seat is forward or rear-facing!
- Huge UPF 50+ canopy with extendable, mesh peek-a-boo window.
- Telescopic handlebar.
- Single-hand fold.
- Stands when folded: handlebar doesn’t rest on the ground!
- Under-carriage storage supports up to 22 pounds!
- Adjustable footrest.
Cons
- Price — a little high.
- Bad on bumpy terrains.
- Not machine-washable.
- No additional product warranty.
Key Takeaways
- Smallest footprint when folded of our favorite reversible seat strollers.
- Thule Shine can be folded with one hand, and self-stands when folded.
- Easy to maneuver, with all-wheel suspension, swivel front wheels, and a flip-flop friendly footbrake.
- Leatherette handlebar has 4 telescopic positions: making it up to 42″ tall!
- Seat has three adjustable positions, including near-flat.
- Two panel canopy extends to three with a zipper panel that also has a mesh peek-a-boo window and cover.
- Supports 75 pounds total: stroller supports 50 lbs, storage supports 22 lbs, and backseat pouch supports 3 lbs.
Overall Rating: 9.3
DETAILED CATEGORY RATINGS
Table of Contents
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Our Hands-On Review Of The Thule Shine Stroller
I love using the Thule Shine stroller when I am out and about! It is easy to fold and unfold, plus it is much smaller than other reversible seat strollers we’ve tested and easily fits in my trunk. It looks sleek and unique, and has done an excellent job executing many of the stroller features I love!
We have noticed the Thule Shine Stroller doesn’t perform well on a variety of terrains, so we recommend it for families who typically use strollers indoors, like in malls, or on smooth outdoor surfaces, like sidewalks.
Rating and Scoring Details
Safety and Sturdiness: 8/10
When it comes to my kids, safety is always my top priority. The Thule Shine Stroller is made from chemical-free materials, and includes a sturdy aluminum frame, 4-wheel suspension, a five-point harness with cushioned shoulder pads, and a canopy with UPF50+ sun protection (that is also waterproof).
Some people do find the 5-point harness a little tricky to figure out at first, probably because you first need to slide the hip straps in the center piece before clipping in the shoulder straps.
The Thule Shine Stroller also features a reliable flip-flop friendly footbrake system, front wheel swivel lock, a wrist strap, and reflector tape on the wheels. The wheels themselves are 7″ wide and have removable, rubber coated tires made from solid foam, so that they never go flat.
However, even with puncture-proof wheels and all-wheel suspension, the Thule Shine Stroller is not great for a variety of terrains or speeds, although we do feel it is a smart investment for parents in on-the-go city environments, because it is the sturdiest stroller we’ve tested and does great on smooth terrains!
Ease of Use: 9/10
As a busy parent, I appreciate a stroller that’s easy to handle. The Thule Shine Stroller is a breeze to maneuver, thanks to its narrow design, smooth-rolling 4-wheel suspension tires, and responsive single-hand steering. Also, the Thule Shine Stroller is a one-handed fold stroller (supporting both left-handed and right-handed parents) both when the seat is forward-facing and when it is rear-facing (unlike the UPPAbaby Cruz).
To fold the Thule Shine Stroller:
- Close the canopy
- Lower the seat forward (using back seat button)
- Lower the handlebar down (press large middle button)
- Press a small handlebar button, then the large handlebar button and push forward
To unfold your Thule Shine Stroller:
- Unclip the fold lock by the left rear wheel
- Lift the handlbar
- If it is stuck, check that the seat is not held back by the storage panels
- Adjust the seat to desired incline
The Thule Shine Stroller is the smallest reversible seat stroller we’ve tested, and it’s self-standing design means it can stand on its own when folded, and the handlebar doesn’t touch the ground (although it’s close)! There is a fold lock and a bar under the seat which acts as a carry handle when the stroller is folded.
Speaking of the adjustable handlebar, we love the leatherette and the ability to telescope it out and make it taller, accommodating parents of different heights. The removable bumper-bar also has a leatherette-type material, and can swing open on both sides and move out of the way when I put my daughter in.
Another feature I am excited about is the step-on hard plastic footrest, because, when she is a little older, my daughter will be be able to use it to get herself into the Thule Shine stroller without help. Plus, it acts like a little bumper for me when I need to push things out of the way 🙂
Durability and Quality: 10/10
Thule’s reputation for quality shines through in this stroller, from the UPF 50+ canopy, to the leatherette adjustable handlebar and swinging bumper-bar. I’ve put this stroller through its paces, and I’m happy to report that it’s built to last. We do, however, wish the fabric was machine-washable, but luckily it is durable and easy to wipe clean.
Comfort: 9/10
My little ones love cruising in the Thule Shine Stroller: its plush seat padding, shoulder covers, and adjustable 3-position recline ensure a comfy ride. The reclining seat goes to an almost flat position. The footrest is also adjustable and can be used in two different positions.
The Thule Shine includes an expandable UPF50+ waterproof canopy with a sun visor and an extra zipper panel that provides ample shade and protection from the elements. Plus, inside the extra zipper panel there is a mesh peek-a-boo window with a cover, allowing for increased ventilation and an easy way to check on my little one.
Another option for keeping an eye on my little one is turning the stroller seat around. The Thule Shine Stroller seat is reversible and allows my little one to be rear-facing and comforted by seeing me, or forward-facing and watch the world as we stroll. And I love that I can fold the stroller regardless of which direction the seat is facing.
Also, I am 5″8 and my husband is 6″2, so we love the comfortable leatherette handlebar which is adjustable and can telescope out. The adjustable handlebar has 4 positions with 7 inch adjustability, but the stroller height changes from 36″ to 42″, making it easier to use for taller parents.
Weight and Bulkiness: 10/10
At 21.6 pounds, the Thule Shine Stroller is relatively lightweight compared to similar reversible strollers. Additionally, it happens to be the most compact reversible stroller option out there, and easily fits in the car trunk. It is our top pick for parents who are often on-the-go in smooth-surface environments and need to fold and unfold their stroller frequently.
Thule Shine Unfolded Dimensions: 20”W x 35”D x 37”H (52 x 90 x 95 cm).
Thule Shine Folded Dimensions: 20”W x 13”D x 27”H (52 x 34 x 69 cm).
Flexibility: 10/10
One thing I love about the Thule Shine Stroller is its versatility, accommodating children from birth up to 50 pounds, making it a long-lasting investment. Plus, Thule has a riding board that another kid can use!
To use the Thule Shine Stroller with a newborn you can use the Thule Shine Bassinet, Thule Newborn Nest, Thule Newborn Inlay, or your car seat (with their car seat adapters, not included).
The Thule Shine Stroller is car seat compatible with a variety of car seats, but requires an additional adapter:
- Britax B-Safe (use this adapter, sold separately)
- Chicco Keyfit 30 (use this adapter, sold separately)
- Cybex (use this adapter, sold separately)
- Maxi-Cosi (use this adapter, sold separately)
- Nuna (use this adapter, sold separately)
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Design: 10/10
Let’s talk style! The Thule Shine Stroller comes in five different colors and allows you to customize to your preference:
- Misty Rose
- Alaska Blue
- Black
- Mallard Green
- Grey Melange
Let me tell you, this stroller is a head-turner! I have the Alaska Blue, and I get so many compliments at the mall!
The Thule Shine Stroller has a spacious storage basket with hard panels to prevent it from sagging. In addition to the basket, there is a back seat mesh pouch for small essentials, like your phone and keys. The mesh pouch holds up to 3 lbs (1.4 kg) and the undercarriage storage holds up to 22 lbs (10 kg).
One of my favorite things about the under-carriage storage is that it can be accessed from the front or the back of the stroller! I love the sturdy design, it isn’t wobbly at all! I wish the Thule Shine Stroller included a parent organizer, cup holder, or snack tray… but I can always purchase these separately.
Price: 8/10
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: the price tag. The Thule Shine Stroller is undeniably an investment, but I believe it’s worth every penny for a family looking for a reversible seat stroller that is easy to fold/unfold, store, take on-the-go, and use on smooth terrain. Not to mention, you may need to purchase additional accessories if you want to use it with your newborn.
Purchase a Thule Shine Stroller
Thule Shine Stroller – What’s In the Box?
The Thule Shine Stroller includes:
- Stroller frame (bumper-bar and storage basket attached)
- Canopy
- 2 rear wheels
- Rain cover
Additional accessories, such as a Thule Shine Bassinet, Thule Newborn Inlay, Thule Rider Board, Cup Holder, Thule Shine Infant Car Seat Adapter, or Thule Stroller Travel bag can be purchased separately.
Specifications
- Dimensions – Unfolded: 20”W x 35”D x 37”H (52 x 90 x 95 cm).
- Dimensions – Folded: 20”W x 13”D x 27”H (52 x 34 x 69 cm).
- Weight: 21.6 lbs (9.8 kg) including the frame, seat, wheels, canopy, and storage basket.
How to Assemble the Thule Shine Stroller
Assembling the Thule Shine Stroller took less than five minutes and only required attaching the two back wheels, canopy, and seat. Everything else was already assembled on the frame, and the included instructions were easy to follow. No joke, assembling this stroller is easier than trying to use my baby carrier!
Also, it is extremely easy to reverse the seat: move a gray lock and lift on the seat and bumper bar. In total, it takes about 2.5 second to reverse the Thule Shine Stroller seat!
Thule Shine Stroller User Manual and Warranty
In case you misplaced yours, here’s the Thule Shine Stroller user manual and instructions pdf. If you are having issues folding or unfolding your Thule Shine stroller, double check to make sure the hard storage panels aren’t blocking the seat. Here is a video showing how to fold and unfold the Thule Shine Stroller:
Sadly, the Thule Shine stroller does not have an additional warranty offered by Thule, but rather the warranty falls under the original purchaser (ie: Amazon). Thule has other strollers that do have a separate Thule warranty, these include the Thule Urban Glide 2, Thule Glide 2, Thule Sleek and the Thule Spring.
Thule Shine Stroller Alternatives and Competitor Comparison Table
We tested the Thule Shine Stroller in comparison with other compact strollers that also have reversible seats. A few of the best reversible seat strollers are the Thule Shine Stroller, the Delta Revolve Reversible Stroller, the Mockingbird, the UPPAbaby Cruz V2 Stroller, and the Graco Modes Pramette Stroller.
Purchase a Thule Shine StrollerThule Shine Stroller Competitor Comparison Table
 Thule Shine Stroller |  Delta Revolve Reversible Stroller |  Mockingbird Single-to-Double |  UPPAbaby Cruz V2 |  Chicco Bravo Trio | |
| Our Rating |  |  Full Review |  Full Review |  Full Review |  Full Review |
| Price | $575-750 | $200-350 | $400-625 | $650-800 | $350-450 |
| Max Weight Capacity | 50 lbs (22 kg) | 50 lbs (22.7 kg) | 90 lbs (40.8 kg) | 50 lbs (22.7 kg) | 50 lbs (22.7 kg) |
| Max Height Capacity | 44 inches (111 cm) | 42 inches (106.7 cm) | 42 inches (106.7 cm) | 40 inches (101.6 cm) | 40 inches (101.6 cm) |
| Stroller Weight | 21 lbs (9.5 kg) | 21.5 lbs (9.75 kg) | 26.5 lbs (12 kg) | 25.5 lbs (11.6 kg) | 24.9 lbs (11.3 kg) |
| Number of Wheels | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Wheel Material | solid foam rubber | plastic | treaded EVA foam | solid polyurethane wheels | treaded EVA foam |
| Canopy | y | y | y | y | y |
| Reclines | 3 positions | multi | multi | multi | 3 positions |
| Adjustable Footrest | y | y | y | y | n |
| Adjustable Handle | y | y | y | y | 3 positions |
| Storage Basket | y | y | y | y | y |
| Cup Holder (parent) | y* | y* | y* | y* | y |
| Tray Accessory (child) | y* | y* | y* | y* | y |
| Self-Stands (folded) | y | y | y | y | y |
| Car seat compatible | y | y | y | y | y |
Thule Shine Stroller How We Test: Features & Ratings
When reviewing different products at Baby Gear Essentials we follow a set of review guidelines as well as rate and compare different features. When testing strollers at Baby Gear Essentials, each family is asked to use the stroller for a few weeks to be able to analyze the following categories:
- Safety and Sturdiness (doesn’t tip over easily)
- Ease of Use
- Durability and Quality
- Comfort
- Weight and Bulkiness
- Flexibility (can grow with your baby)
- Design
- Price
Each of these areas is thoroughly tested, thought through, and compared with other strollers in order to identify how this stroller ranks. Each section highlights additional features we like to see such as handlebar adjustability, off-road capability, storage, and more.
Final Thoughts on the Thule Shine Stroller
In conclusion, the Thule Shine Stroller has become my go-to choice for family outings because it is easy to fold/unfold and takes up a small amount of trunk space. Its combination of features, comfort, and style makes it a winner in my book.
If you’re in the market for a high-quality, reversible seat stroller that folds up small, and you don’t plan on going to rough-terrain areas, the Thule Shine Stroller is your ideal stroller. It is extremely sturdy, easy to steer (even with one-hand), comfortable for your little one with the cushiony seat, and comfortable for parents with the adjustable handlebar.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
What car seats are compatible with the Thule Shine Stroller?
The following car seats are compatible with the Thule Shine Stroller:
– Britax B-Safe (adapter, sold separately)
– Chicco Keyfit 30 (adapter, sold separately)
– Cybex (adapter, sold separately)
– Maxi-Cosi (adapter, sold separately)
– Nuna (adapter, sold separately) -
What are the dimensions of the Thule Shine Stroller?
The dimensions of the Thule Shine Stroller are:
Dimensions – Unfolded: 20”W x 35”D x 37”H (52 x 90 x 95 cm).
Dimensions – Folded: 20”W x 13”D x 27”H (52 x 34 x 69 cm). -
What is the best reversible seat stroller that can be forward-facing and rear-facing?
The best reversible seat stroller is the Vista Cruz V2; however, it can only be folded when the seat is forward-facing and is not as compact as the Thule Shine Stroller. If you are looking for a cheaper option, the Delta Revolve stroller is excellent for a single baby, or the Mockingbird Single-to-Double stroller for those with more than one kiddo.
Kate Madsen is a Registered Behavior Technician working towards becoming a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). She has her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and has experience as a Life Coach for the Trula Foundation, helping students set and obtain goals. She is a new mother to adorable Monroe and gets to use her skills first-hand as she tests out baby gear.
