Buying a Small Double Stroller
Double strollers are a significant investment that will be used for many years. You must make the right choice.
Our testers looked at strollers that offer excellent mobility and a smooth ride on any terrain. They also checked if the strollers were easy to fold and maneuver.
Size
There are a variety of styles of double strollers on market, ranging from side-by-side to tandem (single-file seating) and wagons. The category has changed from the old 1980s models that older millennials might remember. These days, they're modern and sleek, with a variety of customizations that make traveling with children more enjoyable for everyone.
For parents who have infants or toddlers in tow, an extra stroller that has a car seat is a great option for taking them from A B. Some of the most sophisticated strollers feature a single frame which can accommodate two infant car seat or convertible toddler seats. This allows them to be used by children from birth until they reach the age of kindergarten. They are generally more expensive than a simple double stroller frame, however they also offer the convenience of an integrated car seat system and an ample undercarriage basket that can accommodate both car seats.
Parents who don't have multiple children might prefer a simpler and less expensive single-to-double stroller. These types of frames are typically lighter in weight, and some mothers have told us they're still using their original stroller after their children outgrew it.
The compact fold is a fantastic feature of some of the smallest double strollers that we've test. They can fit in spaces where larger strollers wouldn't and are generally more maneuverable once folded.
Most of the double strollers we tested have a decent-sized sunshade. However, the amount of shade coverage can vary from a bare spot to an entire cocoon. If you're looking for a bargain, you might want to look for 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 shopping for a small double stroller, parents need to consider how much they want to pay and if it's a good fit for their family's lifestyle. A stroller that is lightweight, for example, may not have the storage space to accommodate bulky bags or other equipment. It also might not have a large canopy or other features that make it easier to use for long trips.
The best double strollers are simple to maneuver and sturdy, so that the children can remain comfortable and not get out of their seats. Strollers with padded seatbacks and adjustable leg rests get higher marks in our comfort tests than those without. 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 clever features. Some of the best options are able to accommodate multiple car seat installations and provide an extended range of seating options from the beginning of childhood to preschool. Some are lightweight enough to run or travel.
When choosing a small double-stroller it is crucial to determine if the stroller can be pushed through narrow doors and other spaces. The older models of tandem strollers and side-byside walkers are often too wide to fit through many doors. The top double strollers are typically narrower than the traditional models, and are able to be carried through the majority of doors that are standard.
It is also important to consider whether you need a stroller with additional features, such as a cup holder and snack tray. These can be handy for longer trips, but they add to the overall weight and cost of the double stroller.
Folding
A compact double stroller is designed to fold compactly, easily fitting in tight spaces and making it easy to put away. A lightweight design makes it easy to carry and move.
Think about the frequency and location you will use a double stroller. The answer to these questions will help you determine the features that are most important. If you're planning to run in the stroller, you'll want one that has an elongated suspension so that it can glide over rough roads and uneven terrain.
Also, consider the age and temperament of your children. If they are of similar age and have similar temperaments, a tandem stroller might be the best option. If they are at different stages of development, the tandem stroller might be better suited to your needs.
A double stroller is expensive, but it's an investment that pays off in the long in the long. 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 comfort.
If you have limited 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 ideal for families with two small children and can accommodate twins. It comes with two canopy options and a storage bin that is attached, and a tray for the child with cup holders. This lightweight, budget-friendly stroller is easy to fold and can be carried with just one hand. It is worth pointing out, however, that most double modular strollers require you to take off the second seat prior to folding them.
Maneuverability
The most suitable double strollers for small spaces are easy to maneuver and they have wheels that glide smoothly over any surface. These strollers also come with comfortable, reclining seats and plenty of storage space for your kids' toys. A lot of these strollers are compatible with infant and toddler seats as well as car seat carriers. These features make these strollers a great option for families who want one stroller that is multi-purpose.
Alli Cavasino is a certified child safety technician as well as a travel gear expert who counsels parents on strollers and other travel equipment. She recommends choosing a lightweight, easy-to-push model. "Strollers that are too heavy could lead to frame fatigue and injuries," she says. If your stroller is too heavy and difficult for you to push, add a ride-along or reduce the number of children.
Some double strollers that we tested are able to accommodate multiple infant car seats. The UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double, for instance, can accommodate two infant car seats or toddler seats simultaneously and can be converted to a three-seat configuration by using the add-on RumbleSeat. pushchairsandprams comes with a fashionable inline design with foam-filled tires which will not flatten, and an adjustable handbar that can be telescoping. Its seat buckles are one of the easiest to unfasten and fasten and its large UPF 50+ sunshades feature peekaboo windows.
Other models offer seating configuration that is flexible, making them suitable for multiples, twins, a single older kid and an infant, or a toddler with a riding scooter (sold separately). These models also feature easy-to use brakes and the compact fold that fits into most trunks. Some are even lightweight enough to transport up and down steps. They also require minimal assembly although the Joovy Caboose requires some tools and took the longest time to build in our tests.
Safety
The most reliable double strollers come with multiple safety features. They have adjustable handlebars that provide the user with a comfortable grip and a large base to ensure it will not tip over when children get out of their seats. They also have large canopy that cover both kiddos in rain or storms. Alli Cavasino is a certified child safety technician. She says they're simple to use. "Look for simple one or two step fold that is easy to carry and has a place where straps can be put," she says.
The tiniest strollers are able to fit through doors with ease. This is a great advantage if you live an apartment that is small or have a limited car. The smallest models weigh less than traditional double strollers. This makes them easier to transport from one location to the next.
Parents with children of the same age may opt for a stroller with a side-by-side feature like our top choice: the Joovy Kooper X2, that includes two child seats that can be adjusted individually for recline and size. In our testing we discovered that the seats are extremely comfortable, and the reclining was quick and intuitive. Each seat has only one lever. It also comes with 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 children who are apart in age, then a sit-and-stand stroller, like our top pick UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double, may be a good fit. It accepts two infant car seats, and also has two seats that function as bassinets for older kids--and can be adapted to accommodate a riding board for a sibling who is even older.