Buying a Small Double Stroller
Double strollers are an investment that will last for many years. It is important to choose carefully.
Our test participants were looking for strollers with excellent mobility and smooth rides across all terrains. They also examined whether the models were easy to fold and maneuver.
Size
There are many different styles of double strollers on the market, from side-by-side to tandem (single-file seating) and wagons. The category has come a long way from the behemoth vintage 1980s models that a few older generations might have recalled. Nowadays they're sleek and come with various options for customization to make travel with kids more enjoyable for all involved.
For parents with infants or toddlers, a double stroller and car seats is a great option for bringing them from point A to B. Some of the most modern strollers have one frame that can accommodate two infant car seat or convertible toddler seats. They can be utilized by children from birth until they reach the age of kindergarten. These are typically more expensive than a standard double stroller frame, however they also provide the convenience of an integrated car seat system and a large undercarriage basket which can accommodate both car seats.
Parents with less children can opt for a single-to-double stroller that is less complicated and more affordable. These types of frames are typically lighter in weight, and some moms have shared with us that they're still using their old stroller after their children outgrew it.
Another great feature of a few of the tiniest double strollers we've tested is their compact fold. They can be tucked away in places larger strollers can't, and are often more maneuverable when folded.
Finally, most of the small double strollers we've tested feature a nice-sized sunshade, although the coverage varies from nothing to a cocoon cover. If you're on a budget then you may want to look for second-hand strollers that are available on sites like Facebook Marketplace. Just make sure to inspect the stroller for signs of wear before buying it.
Weight
When shopping for a small double stroller, parents should think about how much they would like to spend and if it is a good fit for their family's lifestyle. A stroller that is light could, for instance, not have enough storage to accommodate bulky bags or additional gear. It may not have a big canopy or other features that make it easier to use on long journeys.
The best double strollers are easy to maneuver and sturdy, so that children can remain comfortable and not get out of their seats. Strollers with padded seatbacks and adjustable leg rests score higher marks in our comfort tests than strollers without. The best double strollers also offer reclining seating positions that allow kids to take a break during long trips.
Innovative designs and clever features make strollers that can be used in a variety of ways more popular than ever. Some of the best options can accommodate multiple car seat installations and offer a variety of seating configurations from the beginning of childhood to preschool. Some are so light they can be used for jogging or for travel.
One of the most important things to consider when choosing a compact double stroller is whether it will be able to pass through doors and other tight spaces. The older models of tandem strollers and side-by-side strollers are usually too large to pass through the majority of doors. The most compact double strollers are usually narrower than traditional models and can be pushed right into the majority of doors easily.
Another thing to consider is whether you require an additional feature on your stroller like a cup holder, or a snack tray. These can be handy for longer trips, but they add to the weight and cost of a double stroller.
Folding
A compact double stroller can fold compactly to fit in small spaces. It is also easy to store. A lightweight design makes it easy to carry and move.
Before you decide on a small double stroller, think about where you'll use it and how often. lightweight double pushchair to these questions will help you determine the essential features. If you plan to run in the stroller, you'll need one that has an elongated suspension so that it can glide over rough surfaces and pavement.
Also, consider the temperament and age of your children. If they are of similar age, then a tandem stroller might be the best choice. However, if they're in different stages of development, then a tandem model may be better suited to your requirements.
A double stroller is expensive however, the investment will pay dividends over time. Making the investment in a high-quality model that meets your family's needs will make travel with children much easier, and it will also give years of comfort to you and your kids.
If you're limited in storage space, the double stroller is an excellent option. It can hold toddlers and infant car seats. The Evenflo Pivot Xplore Wagon is a great choice for families with two children, and it can even accommodate twins. It comes with two canopy options and a storage bin that attaches, and an infant tray with cup holders. This budget-friendly stroller comes with a quick and simple fold, and it can be carried by one hand. It is important to note that the majority of double modular strollers require you to remove the second seat when folding them.
Maneuverability
The most suitable double strollers for small spaces are easy to maneuver, and have wheels that glide smoothly across any surface. These strollers also come with comfortable, reclining seats and ample storage space for your kids' gear. In addition, many of these strollers can accommodate car seat carriers as well as infant toddler seats. These features make these strollers an ideal option for families who want one stroller that can be used for multiple purposes.
Alli Cavasino, a certified child passenger safety technician who offers advice to parents on strollers and travel gear She suggests choosing a light stroller that is easy for children to push. "Strollers that are too heavy can lead to frame fatigue and injury," she says. If your stroller is too heavy and difficult to push, add an extra ride-along option or decrease the number of children.
Some double strollers that we tested can accommodate multiple infant car seats. The UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double, for instance, can carry two infant car seats or toddler seats at once and can convert into a three-seater configuration with the help of the RumbleSeat. It also features a chic inline design, with foam-filled tires that won't be flat and a telescoping handlebar that can be adjusted. Its seat buckles are among the easiest to fasten and unfasten and its UPF 50+ sunshades come with peekaboo windows.
Other models come with different seating configurations. They can be used for twins or triplets, as well as an older child and an infant, or the toddler who is riding a scooter (sold separately). These models also come with easy-to use brakes and the compact fold that fits into the majority of trunks. Some are so light they can be carried up and down stairs. Most require little assembly. The Joovy Caboose, however, requires a few tools and was the most difficult to build during our tests.
Safety
The best double strollers come with numerous safety features, such as adjustable handlebars to give you a good grip and a wide base that doesn't fall over when the kids get up from their seats. The canopies are big enough to accommodate both kids in rainstorms. Alli Cavasino is a certified child safety technician. She says they're simple to use. "Look for a simple one- or two-step fold that is easy to carry and has a clear place where straps can be put," she says.
The most double strollers can be pushed through doors with ease, which is a huge benefit if you have the space of a small car or living space. The smallest models are also much lighter than traditional double strollers, making them much easier to carry from one place to another--no needing to strain your arms or back when you carry a heavy stroller over your shoulder.
Parents with children of similar ages can opt for a stroller with a side-by-side feature, such as our top pick: the Joovy Kooper X2, that has two child seats which can be adjusted individually for recline and size. We discovered that the seats are extremely comfortable, and the recline was smooth and easy. Each seat is equipped with one lever. It also comes with an ample storage basket, a built-in parking brake that is one step (to reduce fatigue in the hands while stopping) and a few of our top harnesses.
If your children are different ages, a sit-and stand stroller, such as our top pick, the UPPAbaby v2 double, could be an option. It is compatible with two infant car seats and has two seats that have been modified which function as bassinets older kids--and can be adapted to accommodate a riding board to accommodate a sibling of a similar age.