Small Double Stroller Isn't As Difficult As You Think
Buying a Small Double Stroller
A double stroller is an important purchase, and it's one you'll use for years. It is important to choose carefully.
Our testers looked at strollers that offer great flexibility and smooth rides on any terrain. They also inspected whether the models were easy to fold and move.
Size
There are a variety of double strollers on the market, including side-by-side, tandem (single-file) and wagons. The style has evolved from the vintage 1980s designs that older millennials may be familiar with. These days, they're sleek and offer a variety of options to make traveling with children more enjoyable for everyone.
For parents of toddlers or infants, a double stroller that includes a car seat is a great option for getting them from one point to B. Some of the most sophisticated strollers have one frame that can accommodate two infant car seat or convertible toddler seats. This allows them to be used by children as young as until they reach the age of kindergarten. They're generally more expensive than a simple double stroller frame, however they also provide the convenience of an integrated car seat system and a large undercarriage basket which can hold both car seats.
Parents who don't have multiple children may prefer a simple, less-expensive single-to-double stroller. These strollers are generally lighter in weight, and a few mothers have told us they're still using their old stroller even after their children have outgrew it.
The compact fold is a great feature of some the smallest double strollers that we've test. They can be tucked away in places that larger strollers aren't able to and are generally easier to maneuver when folded.
Finally, most of the compact double strollers we've tested feature a nice-sized sunshade, though coverage varies from nothing to a cocoon-like covering. For budget-conscious families it's worth looking at second-hand strollers on websites like Facebook Marketplace to see if there's a model that meets your family's needs--just be sure to inspect any used stroller carefully for signs of wear and tear prior to committing to buying one.
Weight
When shopping for a small double stroller, parents must think about how much they would like to spend and if it is a good fit for their family's lifestyle. For instance, a lightweight stroller might not provide enough space to store bulky bags or extra gear. It also might not have a large canopy or other features that make the stroller easier to use on long trips.
The most comfortable double strollers are easy to maneuver and durable, so that children can remain in a comfortable position and not be confined to their seats. Strollers with padded seatbacks and adjustable leg rests get higher scores in our comfort tests than those that do not have. double jogging stroller come with reclined seats that allow kids to take a break during long rides.
Innovative designs and clever features have made strollers that can be used in many ways more popular than ever. The best models are able to accommodate multiple car seat configurations and provide an extended range of seating options from the beginning of childhood to preschool. Some are even lightweight enough for jogging or travel.
One of the most important factors to take into consideration when selecting a compact double stroller is whether it will fit through doorways and other tight spaces. The older models of tandem strollers and side-by-side strollers are typically too large to pass through the doors of many. The most effective double strollers are typically narrower than the traditional models, and are able to be carried through the majority of doors.
It is also important to consider whether you need a stroller that has additional features such as a cup holder and snack tray. These are useful for longer trips but can add weight and cost to a double stroller.
Folding
A compact double stroller can fold compactly, easily fitting into 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. The answer to these questions will help you decide the features that are most important. If you intend to run with your stroller, you'll need one that has a smooth suspension so it can easily glide across rough surfaces and pavement.
Be aware of the age and temperament of your children as well. If they are near in age, then a side-by-side stroller could be the best. However, if they are at different stages of development, then a tandem model may be better suited for your needs.
A double stroller is expensive but it will pay off in the long run. A high-quality model that meets your family's needs will simplify the process of traveling with kids. It also provides you and your children with years of comfort.
If you have limited storage space, consider a compact 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 has dual canopies, an attachable storage bin as well as a tray for children with cup holders. This lightweight, budget-friendly stroller folds up easily and can be carried with just one hand. It is important to know that you have to remove the second seat of most double modular strollers when folding.
Maneuverability
The best small double strollers are easy to maneuver and feature smooth and responsive wheels that can glide across all kinds of surfaces. These strollers also come with comfortable, reclining seats as well as plenty of storage space for your children's gear. Additionally some of these strollers can accommodate car seat carriers and infant toddler seats. These features make these strollers an ideal option for families who want a single, multi-purpose stroller.
Alli Cavasino is a certified child safety technician and travel gear expert who advises parents about strollers and travel gear. She suggests selecting a light, easy-to-push model. "Strollers that are too heavy could lead to frame fatigue and injuries," she says. "If your stroller feels heavy and difficult to push, consider adding a ride-along board or reduce the number of children in the seat."
A few of the smaller double strollers we tested can 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 transformed into three seats using the RumbleSeat add-on. It also comes with a fashionable inline design, with foam-filled tires that don't be flat and a telescoping handlebar with an adjustable height. Its seat buckles are one of the easiest to secure and remove, and its generous UPF 50+ sunshades feature window-like windows.
Other models offer seating configuration flexibility, which makes them suitable for twins, multiples, one older child and an infant or toddler with a riding scooter (sold separately). They also come with easy-to-use brakes and a surprisingly compact fold that fits into the majority of trunks. Some are so lightweight that they can be carried up and down the stairs. double jogging stroller require only a few pieces of assembly, though the Joovy Caboose requires a few tools and took the longest time to build in our tests.
Safety
The top double strollers are outfitted with multiple safety features. They come with adjustable handlebars that provide the user with a comfortable grip and an extra wide base that won't fall over when children leap out of their seats. The canopies are large enough to accommodate both kids during rainstorms. They're also simple to use, says Alli Cavasino who is a certified child passenger safety technician. "Look for a oneor two-step fold that can be easily carried and has a clear, obvious place to put the straps," she advises.
The tiniest of compact double strollers fit through doors with ease, which is a huge benefit for those with a small car or limited living space. The smallest models are significantly lighter than traditional double strollers, making them easy to move from one place to another--no need to strain your arms and back as you sling a heavy stroller over your shoulder.
Parents of children who are older than their age could consider a side-by-side stroller like our top option for the Joovy Kooper X2, which includes two child seats that can be adjusted to recline and width separately. In our testing, we found the seats to be extremely comfortable, and the recline to be quick and intuitive with just one lever on each seat. It also comes with a massive storage basket as well as a one-step linked parking brake (to reduce hand fatigue while stopping) as well as some of the best harnesses we have tested.
If you have kids far apart in age, then a stroller that sits and stands, such as our top pick, the UPPAbaby Vista Double, may be a good fit. It accepts two infant car seats and comes with two seats that have been modified that act as bassinets for older children. It can also be modified to accommodate a riding board to accommodate a sibling of a similar age.