Buying a Small Double Stroller
Double strollers are a big investment that will last for a long time. That's why it's important to make a wise choice.
Our testers examined strollers that have incredible flexibility and a smooth ride on any terrain. They also tested whether the models were easy-to-fold and maneuver.
Size
There are a variety of double strollers on the market such as tandem, side-by-side (single-file) and wagons. The category has advanced from the behemoth vintage 1980s models that many older generation millennials may remember. Today, they're sleek and support various customization options to make the experience of traveling with children more enjoyable for everyone.
If you have a child or toddlers to take along, double strollers that include a car seat 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 the age of kindergarten. They are generally more expensive than a standard double stroller frame, but they also provide the convenience of a built-in car seat system, as well as a spacious undercarriage basket that can accommodate both car seats.
Parents with less children can opt for a single-to-double stroller that is more simple and less expensive. These frames are typically lighter in weight, and some moms have even told us they're still using their old stroller years after their children outgrew it.
The compact fold is another excellent feature of the tiniest double strollers we've test. They can fit in spaces that larger strollers cannot and are usually more maneuverable when folded.
The majority of double strollers that we tested had a decent sunshade. However, coverage can range from nothing to a cocoon. For budget-conscious families, it's worth checking out secondhand strollers on sites like Facebook Marketplace to see if there's a stroller that will meet your family's needs. Just be certain to check any used stroller for signs of wear and tear before making a decision to purchase one.
Weight
When shopping for a small double stroller, parents must think about how much they would like to spend and if it will fit their family's lifestyle. For example, a lightweight stroller might not provide enough storage space for bulky bags or extra gear. It may not have a big canopy or other features that make it more comfortable to use on long journeys.
The best double strollers are durable and easy to maneuver that helps ensure that the children stay comfortable in their seats and don't shift around when they ride. In our tests of comfort we award higher marks to strollers that have adjustable leg rests and padded seatbacks. The top double strollers have reclined seats that allow kids to unwind on long rides.
Innovative designs and thoughtful features make strollers that can be used in a variety of ways more popular than ever. Some of the top strollers can accommodate multiple car seats and provide a wide range of seating options for babies through preschool. Some are light enough to jog or travel.
One of the most important things to take into consideration when selecting a small double stroller is whether or not it will be able to pass through doors and other narrow spaces. The majority of older models of side-by-side strollers as well as tandem strollers have an overall wideness which makes them incompatible with many doors. The top double strollers are generally shorter than the typical 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 with additional features such as a cup holder or snack tray. These are great for longer excursions, but they add to the weight and cost of the double stroller.
Folding
A small double stroller is designed to fold compactly, fitting easily into tight spaces and making it easy to put away. Additionally, its lightweight design guarantees that it will be easy to maneuver and carry.
Before you pick a small double stroller, think about where you will be using it and how often. These questions will help you decide the most important features. For instance, if plan to use the stroller for running then you'll want to choose one with a a smooth suspension that will glide over rough and uneven terrain.
Take into consideration the age and temperament of your children, too. If double pram pushchair are near in age, then a side-byside stroller could be the best. If they are at different stages of development, then the tandem stroller might be more suitable for you.
A double stroller can be expensive, but it is an investment that will pay off in the long term. A good model that is suitable for your family's needs can make traveling with kids easier. It can also provide you and your children with years of comfort.
If you're limited with storage space, consider a compact double stroller that can accommodate toddler car seats and infant car seats. The Evenflo Pivot Xplore Wagon is ideal for families with two young children and can hold twins. It comes with two canopies as well as an attached storage bin, and a child's tray with cup holders. This stroller is budget-friendly and offers a quick and simple fold, and it can be carried with just one hand. It is important to note, however, that most double modular strollers require that you remove the second seat before folding them.
Maneuverability
The most suitable double strollers for small spaces are easy to maneuver and they come with wheels that glide smoothly across any surface. These strollers feature seating that reclines and plenty of storage space for your child's gear. Many of these strollers are also compatible with infant and toddler seats, as well as car seat carriers. These features make these strollers an ideal choice for families that want a single, multi-purpose stroller.
Alli Cavasino is a certified child safety technician as well as a travel gear expert who counsels parents on strollers and other travel gear. She suggests selecting a lightweight, easy-to push model. "Strollers that are too heavy could lead to frame fatigue and injury," she says. "If your stroller feels heavy and difficult to push, you might consider including a ride-along board, or reduce the number of kids in the seat."
Several of the small double strollers we tested can accommodate multiple infant car seat carriers. The UPPAbaby Vista v2 double, for example can hold two infant seats or toddler seats at a time, and can be converted to three seats using the RumbleSeat add-on. It also has a stylish, inline design, foam-filled tires that won't go flat, and a telescoping handlebar with an adjustable height. Its seat buckles are among the most simple to fasten and unfasten and its UPF 50+ sunshades come with window-like windows.
Other models offer seating configuration that is flexible, making them suitable for multiples, twins or a single older kid and an infant or toddler with a scooter (sold separately). These models also have brakes that are easy to use and an incredibly compact fold that can fit into the majority of trunks. Some are even light enough to transport up and down steps. And most require little assembly however the Joovy Caboose requires a few tools and took the longest to construct in our tests.
Safety
The most reliable double strollers come with a variety of safety features. They have adjustable handlebars, which provide the user with a comfortable grip and an extra wide base that will not tip over when children jump out of their seats. They also come with large canopy that protect both kids even the rain. They're also easy 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 clear place where straps can be put," she says.
The most compact strollers be pushed through doors effortlessly. This is an excellent advantage if you live in a small apartment or have a small car. The smallest models also weigh less than traditional double strollers. This makes them easier to carry from one location to the next.
Parents with children of similar ages may opt for a stroller with a side-by-side feature, such as our top pick one: the Joovy Kooper X2, that features two child seats that can be individually adjusted to recline and width. In our testing, we found the seats to be very comfortable and the reclining to be easy and simple by using a single lever on each seat. It also comes with a large storage basket and a one-step connected parking brake (to reduce hand fatigue while stopping), and some of the most comfortable harnesses in our tests.
If you have children that are from each other in age, a stroller that sits and stands, such as our top choice, the UPPAbaby Vista Double, may be a good choice. It can fit two car seats for infants and it comes with a pair of modified seats that double as bassinets.