Buying a Small Double Stroller
A double stroller is a major investment, and one you'll use for many years. That's why you need to pick wisely.
Our testers examined strollers that offer great mobility and a smooth ride on any terrain. They also inspected whether the strollers were easy to fold and move.
Size
There are a variety of double strollers available on the market, from side-by-side to tandem (single-file seating) and wagons. The category has changed from the classic 1980s models some older millennials may remember. These days, they're sleek and offer a variety of features that make travelling with children more enjoyable for everyone.
For parents of toddlers or infants, a double stroller with car seat is a great option to transport them from point A to point B. Some of the most modern strollers have one frame that can accommodate two infant car seat or convertible toddler seats. This lets them be utilized by children from birth until they reach the age of kindergarten. They're generally more expensive than double stroller frames but offer an integrated car seat system and a large undercarriage basket.
Parents with fewer children could choose a single-to-double-stroller that is simpler and less expensive. These frames tend to be lighter, and some moms still use their stroller after their children have outgrown it.
Another advantage of a number of the tiniest double strollers we've tried is their compact fold. They can fit into spaces larger strollers can't and are usually more compact when folded.
In addition, all of the compact double strollers we've tested have a large sunshade, although the coverage can vary from almost nothing to a cocoon covering. If you're on a budget it's a good idea to look into second-hand strollers that are available on sites like Facebook Marketplace. Just make sure to check the stroller for wear and tear prior to purchasing it.
Weight
When looking for a compact double stroller, parents should be aware of the amount they wish to spend and whether it's a good fit for their family's lifestyle. A stroller that is light could, for instance, not have the storage space to hold large bags or other equipment. It may also not have a the capacity to cover a large area or other features that would make the stroller easier to use on long trips.
The most comfortable double strollers are easy to maneuver and durable, so that children can remain in a comfortable position and not be confined to their seats. In our tests for comfort, we give higher marks to strollers that have adjustable seatbacks and leg rests with padding. The top double strollers come with reclining seats that allow children to relax on long rides.
Strollers that can be used to serve a variety of functions are becoming more popular than ever, because of their innovative designs and thoughtful features. Some of the best strollers can be used with multiple car seats and provide many seating options from birth through preschool. Some are so light that they can be used for jogging or for travel.
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a small double stroller is whether it will fit through doorways and other narrow spaces. Older models of tandem strollers and side-byside strollers are usually too wide to fit through the doors of many. The most effective tandem strollers are usually smaller than the standard models, and are able to be easily pushed through standard doorways.
Another thing to consider is whether you require a stroller that has additional features like a cup holder, or a snack tray. These can be handy for longer excursions, but they add to the overall weight and cost of the double stroller.
Folding
A small double stroller is designed to fold compactly, easily fitting in tight spaces and making it easy to store. Additionally, its lightweight design makes it possible for it to be easy to maneuver and carry.
Consider the places and times you will use a double stroller. These questions will help you determine the most important features. If you're planning to run in the stroller, you'll need one that has a smooth suspension so it can easily glide across rough roads and uneven terrain.
Consider the age and temperament of your children, too. If they are of the same age, a side by side stroller might be the best option. If they are at different stages of development, then the tandem stroller might be the best choice for you.
A double stroller is costly however, the investment will pay off in the long run. A good model that is suitable for your family's needs can help you travel with children more easily. It will also provide you and your children with years of convenience.
If you are limited in storage space, think about a small double stroller that can fit both toddler car seats and infant car seats. The Evenflo Pivot Xplore Wagon is a great choice for families with two small children, and it can even accommodate twins. It comes with two canopies, an attachable storage bin, and a child's tray with cup holders. This budget-friendly stroller comes with a quick and simple fold and can be carried with just one hand. It is important to note that the majority of double modular strollers require that you remove the second seat prior to folding them.
Maneuverability
The best double strollers for small spaces are easy to maneuver and they have wheels that glide smoothly over any surface. strollers double strollers come with comfortable, reclining seats and plenty of storage space for your kids' gear. Additionally they can accommodate car seat carriers and infant toddler seats. These features make these strollers a great choice for families that want one stroller that can be used for multiple purposes.
Alli Cavasino is a certified child safety technician and a travel gear expert who counsels parents on strollers and other travel gear. She recommends choosing a lightweight, easy-to-push model. "Strollers that are too heavy could lead to frame fatigue and injury," she says. If your stroller is heavy and difficult to push, add a ride-along feature or reduce the number of children.
A few of the smaller double strollers we tested could accommodate multiple infant car seat carriers. The UPPAbaby Vista v2 double, for example can hold two infant seats or toddler seats at once and can be converted to a 3-seat configuration using the RumbleSeat add-on. It also features a chic, inline design, foam-filled tires that won't be flat, and a telescoping handlebar that can be adjusted. The seat belts are simple to secure and remove, and its UPF 50+ sunshades have peekaboo windows.
Other models have seating versatility, making them suitable for multiples, twins, an older child who is a single person, an infant or toddler with a riding scooter (sold separately). They also come with easy-to-use brakes and a compact fold that can fit into the majority of trunks. Some are so light they can be transported up and down stairs. They require minimal assembly. The Joovy Caboose, however, requires some tools and was among the most difficult build in our tests.
Safety
The best double strollers have multiple safety features, including adjustable handlebars that give you a comfortable grip and a broad base that doesn't fall over when the children get out of their seats. strollers double strollers are big enough to accommodate both kids in the event of rain. They're also simple to use, says Alli Cavasino who is a certified child-passenger safety technician. "Look for an easy, one- or two step fold that is easy to carry and has a space where the straps can be placed," she says.
The tiniest of double strollers can be pushed through doorways with ease--a major benefit if you have a small car or limited living space. The smallest models weigh less than standard double strollers. This makes them easier to carry from one place to the next.
Parents with children of similar ages can prefer a side by side stroller like our top choice: the Joovy Kooper X2, that features two child seats that can be adjusted individually for recline and width. We discovered that the seats are extremely comfortable, and the recline was smooth and intuitive. Each seat has one lever. It also has an enormous storage basket, an integrated parking brake that is one-step (to reduce fatigue in hands when stopping) and a few of our most popular harnesses.
If you have kids far apart in age, then a sit-and-stand stroller, like our top pick UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double, may be a good choice. It accepts two infant car seats and comes with two seats that act as bassinets for older kids--and can be adapted to accommodate a riding platform for a sibling who is even older.