Buying a Small Double Stroller
A double stroller is an important purchase, and it's one that you will use for years. This is why you must pick wisely.
Our testers were looking for strollers with excellent flexibility and a smooth ride across any terrain. They also examined whether 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 come a long way from the massive 1980s models that many older generation millennials may remember. Today they're sleek and offer various options for customization to make the experience of traveling with children more enjoyable for everyone.
For parents with infants or toddlers in tow, a double stroller that includes car seats is a great option for transporting them from A to B. Some of the most sophisticated strollers come with a single frame which can accommodate two infant car seats or convertible toddler seats. This allows them to be used by children from birth until they reach kindergarten age. They are generally more expensive than a simple double stroller frame, however they also offer the convenience of a built-in car seat system as well as a spacious undercarriage basket that can accommodate both car seats.
Parents with fewer children might prefer a simpler and less expensive single-to-double stroller. These frames tend to be lighter and some moms utilize their original stroller after their children have outgrown it.
The compact fold is another excellent feature of the smallest double strollers that we've test. They can be tucked away in places that larger strollers cannot and are generally easier to maneuver when folded.
Additionally, the majority of small double strollers we've tested have a large sunshade, though it's possible to have nothing to a cocoon cover. If you're on a budget it's a good idea to look into second-hand strollers for sale on sites like Facebook Marketplace. Just make sure to inspect the stroller for signs of wear before 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 light, for example, may not have enough storage space to hold large bags or additional gear. It may also not have a an expansive canopy or other features that make the stroller more convenient to use on long trips.
The best double strollers are durable and easy to move that helps ensure that the children remain comfortable in their seats and don't move around while riding. In our comfort tests we award higher marks to strollers with adjustable leg rests and padded seatbacks. The top double strollers come with reclined seats that allow kids to take a break during long rides.
Strollers that can be used for a variety of purposes are more popular than ever due to their innovative designs and thoughtful features. Some of the most popular strollers can be used with multiple car seats and offer an array of seating options for babies through preschool. Some are so light that they can be used for jogging or traveling.
One of the most important things to consider when choosing a small double stroller is whether it can be able to pass through doors and other narrow spaces. Older models of tandem strollers and side-by-side walkers are often too large to pass through the doors of many. The top double strollers are generally shorter than the typical models, and can be easily pushed through doors that are standard.
Another thing to consider is whether you'll need an additional feature on your stroller like a cup holder, or a snack tray. These are useful for longer trips but can add weight and cost to the double stroller.
Folding
A compact double stroller that folds compactly, fitting easily into tight spaces and making it easy to store. A light 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 identify the features that are most important. If you plan to run in the stroller, you'll want one that has an elongated suspension so that it can glide over rough terrain and pavement.
Be aware of the age and temperament of your children, too. If they are near in age, then a tandem stroller may be best. If they are at different stages of development, an incline stroller could be more suitable for you.
A double stroller is expensive however, the investment will pay off in the long run. A high-quality model that meets your family's needs can make traveling with kids easier. It can also provide you and your children with a lifetime of comfort.
If you are limited in storage space, double strollers are a great option. It can hold infant car seats as well as toddlers. The Evenflo Pivot Xplore Wagon is ideal for families with two young children and can hold twins. It comes with two canopies, an attachable storage bin as well as a tray for children with cup holders. This budget-friendly stroller comes with the ability to fold quickly and easily and can be carried by one hand. It is important to know that you must remove the second seat of the majority of double modular strollers when folding.
Maneuverability
The most suitable double stroller s for small spaces are easy to maneuver, and they come with wheels that glide effortlessly over any surface. These strollers also feature comfortable, reclining seats and ample storage space for kids' gear. Many of these strollers are compatible with infant and toddler seats as well as car seat carriers. These features make them a great option for families looking for a single stroller that will grow with their family.
Alli Cavasino, a certified child passenger safety technician who provides parents with advice on strollers and travel gear she suggests selecting a lightweight stroller that is easy to push. "Strollers that are too heavy could cause frame fatigue and injuries," she says. If your stroller is heavy and difficult for you to push, you can add a ride-along or reduce the number of children.
A few of the double strollers that we tested are able to accommodate multiple infant car seats. The UPPAbaby Vista v2 double, for instance, can accommodate two infant seats or toddler seats at the same time and can be converted to three seats with the RumbleSeat add-on. It also has a stylish design with an inline design, foam-filled tires that can't be flat and a telescoping handlebar that can be adjusted. Its seat buckles are one of the easiest to fasten and unfasten, and its generous UPF 50+ sunshades have 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 the toddler who is riding a scooter (sold separately). These models also come with easy-to use brakes and a compact fold that fits into most trunks. Some are so light that they can be carried up and down stairs. The majority of them require little assembly. The Joovy Caboose, however, requires some tools and was the most difficult build in our tests.
Safety
The best double strollers are equipped with numerous safety features. They have adjustable handlebars that give you a comfortable grip, and a wide base so it will not tip over when children leap out of their seats. The canopy is large enough to accommodate both kids in the event of rain. They're also easy to use, according to Alli Cavasino, a certified child passenger safety technician. "Look for a one- or two-step fold that's easily carried, and that provides a clear and easy where to place the straps," she advises.
The tiniest strollers are able to be pushed through doors effortlessly. This is a great advantage if you live a small apartment or have a small car. The smallest models are significantly lighter than traditional double strollers, which makes them easier to lug from one location to another. No needing to strain your arms or back as you sling an oversized stroller on your shoulder.
Parents with children of similar ages may prefer an X-style stroller that is side by side like our top pick for the Joovy Kooper X2, that includes two child seats that can be adjusted individually for recline and width. In our tests, we found that the seats were very comfortable and the recline was smooth and intuitive. Each seat has a single lever. It also comes with a massive storage basket as well as a one-step linked parking brake (to reduce hand fatigue when stopping), and some of the most comfortable harnesses we've tested.
If your children are of different ages, a sit-and- stand stroller, like our top pick UPPAbaby v2 double, is a good option. It accepts two infant car seats and comes with two seats that have been modified which function as bassinets older children. They can also be modified to accommodate a riding board for an even older sibling.