Buying a Small Double Stroller
Double strollers are a big investment that will be used for many years. It is important to choose carefully.
Our testers examined strollers that offer excellent mobility and a smooth ride on any terrain. They also checked whether the models were easy to fold and move.
Size
There are many styles of double strollers, including side-by-side, tandem (single-file) and wagons. The category has evolved from the behemoth vintage 1980s models that a few older millennials might remember--these days they're sleek and come with a range of customizations to make the experience of traveling with kids more enjoyable for all involved.
For parents of toddlers or infants, a double stroller that includes a car seats is a great option to transport them from point A to B. Some of the most advanced strollers come with frames that can accommodate two infant car seat or convertible toddler seats. This allows them to be used by children as young as until they reach kindergarten age. They're generally more expensive than a basic double stroller frame, but they also come with the convenience of a built-in car seat system and a spacious undercarriage basket that can hold both car seats.
Parents with fewer children could opt for a single-to-double stroller that is more simple and less expensive. These frames are usually lighter and some moms utilize their original stroller after their children have outgrown it.
The compact fold is a fantastic feature of some of the tiniest double strollers we've test. They can be tucked away where larger strollers won't, and they're often more maneuverable once folded.
Additionally, the majority of compact double strollers we've tested have a large sunshade, but the coverage varies from nothing to a cocoon-like covering. For budget-conscious families you should look into second-hand strollers on websites like Facebook Marketplace to see if there's a model that meets your family's needs--just be sure to inspect any used stroller carefully for signs of wear and tear before committing to buying one.
Weight
When choosing a small double stroller, parents must consider how much they want to spend and if it's a good fit for their family's lifestyle. For example, a lightweight stroller might not provide enough space to store bulky bags or other gear. It also might not have an expansive canopy or other features that would make the stroller easier to take on long journeys.
The best double strollers are simple to maneuver and sturdy, so that the children can remain comfortable and not be confined to their seats. Strollers that have padded seatbacks as well as adjustable leg rests get higher marks in our comfort tests than those that do not have. The best double strollers also have reclining seating positions that allow kids to take a break during long trips.
Innovative designs and thoughtful features have made strollers that can be used in a variety of ways more popular than ever. Some of the most popular strollers can accommodate multiple car seats and provide many seating options from birth to preschool. Some are even lightweight enough for jogging or even travel with.
One of the most important factors to take into consideration when selecting a small double stroller is whether it can fit through doorways and other narrow spaces. Most older models of side-by-side strollers as well as tandem strollers are wide in general that makes them incompatible with the majority of doors. The most effective small double strollers, however, are usually narrower than traditional models and can be easily pushed into most standard doorways easily.
It is also important to consider whether you need a stroller with additional features like a cup holder and snack tray. These can be handy for longer trips, but they add to the weight and cost of a double stroller .
Folding
A small double stroller folds compactly to fit into tiny spaces. It is also easy to store. Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry and maneuver.
Think about where and how often you will be using a double stroller. The answer to these questions will help you determine the features that are the most important. If you intend to run in the stroller, you'll need one that has an easy suspension so that it can easily glide across rough terrain and pavement.
Also, think about the temperament and age of your children. If they are close in age, then a tandem stroller may be best. If they are in different stages of development, it is possible that a tandem stroller would be better suited for your needs.
A double stroller can be expensive, but it's an investment that pays off in the long term. The purchase of a top-quality model that is suited to your family's needs will make traveling with children easier and will provide years of convenience for both of you.
If you have limited storage space, think about a compact double stroller that can accommodate both infant car seats and toddlers. Evenflo Pivot Xplore Wagon can accommodate twins and is a great option for families with two children. It comes with two canopy options and a storage bin that is attached, and a tray for the child with cup holders. This budget-friendly, lightweight stroller folds up easily and can be carried using only one hand. It is worth pointing out that the majority of double modular strollers require that you remove the second seat when folding them.
Maneuverability
The best small double strollers are easy to maneuver and feature smooth, responsive wheels that glide over all kinds of surfaces. These strollers feature reclined seats that are comfortable and have plenty of storage space for your children's equipment. Many of these strollers are compatible with infant and toddler seats, as well as car seat carriers. These features make these strollers a great choice for families that want one stroller that can be used for multiple purposes.
Alli Cavasino, a certified child passenger safety technician who provides parents with advice on travel gear and strollers, recommends choosing a lightweight stroller that is easy for children to push. She warns that heavy strollers can cause frame fatigue and injuries. If your stroller is too heavy and difficult to push, add a ride-along feature or reduce the number of children.
A few of the double strollers we tested can accommodate multiple infant car seats. The UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double, for example, can hold two infant car seats or toddler seats at once and can be converted to a three-seat layout with the addition of RumbleSeat. It also features a stylish inline design with foam-filled tires that will not flatten, and an adjustable handbar that can be telescoping. The seat belts are simple to fasten and undo, and its UPF 50+ sunshades feature peekaboo windows.
Other models come with different seating configurations. They can be used for twins, triplets, an older child and an infant, or a toddler riding a scooter (sold separately). They also come with brakes that are easy to use and a surprisingly compact fold that can fit into the majority of trunks. Some are so lightweight that they can be carried up and down the stairs. They also require minimal assembly although the Joovy Caboose requires some tools and took the longest time to construct in our tests.
Safety
The top double strollers have multiple safety features, including adjustable handlebars to give you a good grip, and a large base that won't tip over when the kids get up from their seats. They also have large canopy that can be used to protect both children and even rainstorms. They're also simple to use, says Alli Cavasino who is a certified child-passenger safety technician. "Look for an easy oneor two-step fold that is easily carried, and that provides a clear and easy place to put the straps," she advises.
The tiniest of double strollers that are compact can fit through doorways with ease--a major benefit if you have an incredibly small car or a tiny living space. The smallest models are considerably lighter than normal double strollers, making them easy to move from one location to another. No need to strain your arms and back when you carry the heavy stroller over your shoulder.
Parents with children who are close to their age can consider the side-by-side stroller, such as our top choice for the Joovy Kooper X2, which features two child seats that can be adjusted to the width and recline independently. In our testing we discovered that the seats are extremely comfortable, and the reclining was quick and intuitive. Each seat is equipped with only one lever. It also comes with a massive storage basket and a one-step connected parking brake (to reduce hand fatigue when stopping) as well as some of the most comfortable harnesses in our tests.
If your children are of different ages, a sitting-and- stand stroller, such as our top pick UPPAbaby v2 double, is an option. It can accommodate two infant car seats and has two seats which function as bassinets older children. It can also be modified to accommodate a riding board for an even older sibling.