Buying a Small Double Stroller
Double strollers are a big investment that you'll use for many years. That's why you need to choose carefully.
Our test participants looked at strollers that offer great flexibility and smooth rides on any terrain. They also inspected whether the models were easy to fold and maneuver.
Size
There are a variety of double strollers on market, from side-by-side to tandem (single-file seating) and wagons. The category has come a long way from the massive 1980s models that many older generation millennials may remember. Today they're sleek and come with various customization options to make traveling with children more enjoyable for everyone involved.
For parents who have infants or toddlers to take along, a double stroller that includes car seats is a great option for getting them from A to B. Some of the most advanced strollers on the market feature frames that can hold two infant car seats or convertible toddler seats, which allows them to be used from birth up until kids reach kindergarten age. They are generally more expensive than a standard double stroller frame, however they also offer the convenience of a built-in car seat system as well as an ample undercarriage basket that can hold both car seats.
Parents who don't have multiple children may prefer a simple and less expensive single-to-double stroller. These types of frames are typically lighter in weight, and a few moms have even told us they're still using their old stroller even after their children have outgrew it.
The compact fold is another great feature of some the tiniest double strollers we've test. They can be tucked away where larger strollers wouldn't and are generally easier to maneuver once folded.
In addition, all of the compact double strollers we've tested come with a decent-sized sunshade, although the coverage can vary from almost nothing to a cocoon cover. If you're on a tight budget then you may want to check out secondhand strollers on auction sites like Facebook Marketplace. Just make sure to inspect the stroller for signs of wear before purchasing it.
Weight
When looking for a compact double stroller, parents should be aware of the amount they wish to spend and if it will fit their family's lifestyle. A lightweight stroller, 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 most comfortable double strollers are easy to maneuver and sturdy, to ensure that children remain in a comfortable position and not be confined to their seats. In our tests for comfort, we prefer strollers with adjustable seatbacks and leg rests that are cushioned. The top double strollers come with reclined seats that allow children to relax on long rides.
Strollers that can be used to serve a variety of functions are more popular than ever before, due to their innovative designs and thoughtful features. Some of the best options can accommodate multiple car seat configurations and provide an extended range of seating configurations from birth to preschool years. Some are so light that they can be used for running or even for traveling.
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a small double stroller is whether it can be able to pass through doors and other tight spaces. Often, older models of side-by-side strollers and tandem strollers have a wide width that makes them incompatible with the majority of doors. The best double strollers are typically narrower than the traditional models, and are able to be carried through the majority of doors that are standard.
Another thing to consider is whether you'll need a stroller that has additional features like a cup holder, or a snack tray. These are helpful for longer trips but add weight and cost to a double stroller.
Folding
A small double stroller can fold compactly, easily fitting in tight spaces and making it easy to put away. A lightweight design makes it easy to carry and maneuver.
Think about the frequency and location you will be using a double stroller. These questions will help you determine which features are most important. For example, if you intend to run with the stroller then you'll want to find one with a smooth suspension that will glide over pavement and rough terrain.
Take into consideration 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 in different stages of development, then a tandem model may be better suited for your requirements.
A double stroller is expensive however, the investment will pay off over time. The purchase of a top-quality model that is suited to your family's needs will make travelling with children easier and will give years of comfort to you and your kids.
If you're short on storage space, the double stroller is an ideal choice. double stroller with bassinet can hold infant car seats as well as toddlers. Evenflo Pivot Xplore Wagon can accommodate twins and is an excellent option for families with two children. It comes with two canopies and a storage bin that can be attached as well as a tray for children with cup holders. This budget-friendly stroller also offers the ability to fold quickly and easily, 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 they have wheels that glide smoothly over any surface. These strollers also feature comfortable, reclining seats as well as ample storage space for your kids' toys. A lot of these strollers are compatible with toddler and infant seats, as well as car seat carriers. These features make these strollers a great option for families who want one stroller that can be used for multiple purposes.
Alli Cavasino, a certified child passenger safety technician who advises parents on travel gear and strollers she suggests selecting a lightweight model that is easy to push. "Strollers that are too heavy could lead to frame fatigue and injuries," she says. "If your stroller is heavy and difficult to push, think about adding a ride-along deck or reducing the number of children in the seat."
A few of the double strollers that 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 convert into a three-seater configuration with the addition of RumbleSeat. It also has a stylish inline design, with foam-filled tires that can't go flat and a telescoping handlebar that can be adjusted. Its seat buckles are among the most simple to secure and remove, and its generous UPF 50+ sunshades come with window-like windows.
Other models are available with multiple seating configurations. They can be used for twins, triplets, an older child and an infant or an infant riding the scooter (sold separately). These models also feature brakes that are easy to use and the compact fold that fits in most trunks. Some are light enough to schlep up and down the stairs. They require minimal assembly. The Joovy Caboose however, requires some tools and was the most difficult to build during our tests.
Safety
The best double strollers are equipped with numerous safety features. They have adjustable handlebars, which provide an ergonomic grip, as well as an extra wide base that won't tip over when the children jump out of their seats. The canopies are big enough to protect both children during rainstorms. Alli Cavasino is a certified child safety technician. She says they're easy to use. "Look for an easy one- or two-step fold that's easy to carry and has a clear, easy place to put the straps," she advises.
The most compact strollers fit through doors with ease. This is a huge benefit if you live in an apartment that is small or have a small car. The smallest models weigh less than normal double strollers. strollers double strollers makes them easier to transport from one location to the next.
Parents with children of similar ages can opt for a stroller with a side-by-side feature, such as our top choice one: the Joovy Kooper X2, that includes two child seats that can be individually adjusted to recline and width. In our tests, we found that the seats were extremely comfortable, and the reclining was quick and intuitive. Each seat is equipped with a single lever. It also comes with a large storage basket, a parking brake that is one-step (to reduce fatigue in the hands when stopping) and a few of our top harnesses.
If your children are different ages, a sit-and- stand stroller, like our top choice UPPAbaby v2 double, is an option. It can accommodate two infant car seats, and also has two seats that function as bassinets for older children. It can also be modified to accommodate a riding platform to accommodate a sibling of a similar age.