Buying a Small Double Stroller
Double strollers are a big investment that will last for a long time. You must make the right choice.
Our testers examined strollers that have great mobility and a smooth ride on any terrain. They also examined whether the strollers were easy to fold and maneuver.
Size
There are many different styles of double strollers available on the 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 some elder millennials might remember--these days they're sleek and come with various customization options to make traveling with kids more enjoyable for everyone.
If you have a child or toddlers in tow, an extra stroller that has a car seat is a great option for taking them from A B. Some of the most sophisticated strollers available feature frames that can accommodate two infant car seats or convertible toddler seats, which allows them to be used from birth until children reach the age of kindergarten. These are usually more expensive than double stroller frames, but they come with an integrated car seat system, as well as a large undercarriage basket.
Parents with fewer children could opt for a single-to-double stroller that is more simple and less expensive. These frames are usually lighter and some moms use their original stroller even after their children have outgrown it.
The compact fold is another excellent feature of the smallest double strollers that we've test. They can fit in spaces where larger strollers won't and are often more maneuverable once folded.
Most of the double strollers that we tested have a decent-sized sunshade. However, the amount of shade coverage can vary from zero to a cocoon. If you're looking for a bargain then you may want to check out secondhand strollers for sale on sites like Facebook Marketplace. Just make sure to inspect the stroller for signs of wear prior to purchasing it.
Weight
When choosing a small double stroller, parents should think about how much they would like to spend and if it's a good fit for their family's lifestyle. A stroller that is light could, for instance, not have enough storage space to hold large bags or additional gear. It also might not have an expansive canopy or other features that make the stroller more convenient to use on long trips.
The best double strollers are easy to maneuver and sturdy, to ensure that children remain in a comfortable position and not move around in their seats. In our tests for comfort, we prefer strollers with adjustable seatbacks and leg rests that are cushioned. The best double strollers offer reclining seats that allow children to unwind on long rides.
Strollers that can be used for a variety of purposes are more popular than ever before, thanks to innovative designs and thoughtful features. Some of the best options are able to accommodate multiple car seat installation and offer a variety of seating options from the beginning of childhood to preschool. Some are so light that they can be used for jogging or traveling.
When choosing single and double stroller -stroller it is essential to consider whether the stroller can fit through narrow doorways and other spaces. The older models of tandem strollers and side-byside strollers are usually too large to pass through many doors. The best double strollers are typically narrower than the traditional models, and can be carried through the majority of doors that are standard.
Another thing to think about is whether you need an additional feature on your stroller such as a cup holder or snack tray. These are great for longer trips, but they can add to the overall weight and cost of a double stroller.
Folding
A compact double stroller can fold compactly, easily fitting into tight spaces and making it easy to put away. In addition, a light design guarantees that it will be easy to move and carry.
Before you pick a stroller that is small, think about where you'll use it and how often. These questions will help you determine what features are essential. For instance, if plan to use the stroller for running then you'll want to look for one with an easy suspension that can glide over pavement and rough terrain.
Also, consider the age and temperaments of your children. If they are of the same age and have similar temperaments, a tandem stroller may be the most suitable option. If they are at different stages of development, then the tandem stroller might be more suitable for you.
A double stroller is costly however, the investment will pay dividends over time. The purchase of a top-quality model that is suited to your family's needs will make traveling with children much easier, and it will also give years of comfort to you and your kids.
If you're short on storage space, a double stroller is an excellent option. It can hold toddlers and infant car seats. The Evenflo Pivot Xplore Wagon is an excellent choice for families with two young children and can accommodate twins. It comes with two canopy options, an attachable storage bin, and a child's tray with cup holders. This budget-friendly stroller also offers the ability to fold quickly and easily and can be pushed by one hand. It is important to note that the majority of double modular strollers require that you remove the second seat prior to folding them.
Maneuverability
The most effective small double strollers are easy to maneuver and come with smooth and responsive wheels that glide over all types of surfaces. These strollers also feature comfortable, reclining seats as well as plenty of storage space for your kids' gear. Many of these strollers are also compatible with toddler and infant seats and car seat carriers. These features make them a perfect option for families that want one stroller that can expand with their family.
Alli Cavasino is a certified child safety technician and a travel gear expert who counsels parents on strollers and other travel gear. She suggests choosing a lightweight, easy-to-push model. She warns that heavy strollers can cause frame fatigue and injuries. If your stroller is heavy and difficult to push, add a ride-along or reduce the number of children.
Some of the double strollers we tested are able to accommodate multiple infant car seats. The UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double, for instance, can accommodate two infant car seats or toddler seats simultaneously and converts to a three-seat layout with the help of the RumbleSeat. It also comes with a fashionable inline design with foam-filled tires which will not flatten, and an adjustable handbar that telescopically adjusts. Its seat belts are simple to secure and remove and its UPF 50+ sunshades come with windows that peek out.
Other models provide seating flexibility, which makes them suitable for multiples, twins, a single older kid and an infant or toddler with a riding scooter (sold separately). These models also have brakes that are easy to use and an incredibly compact fold that can fit into most trunks. Some are even light enough to be able to carry up and down stairs. Most require only a few pieces of assembly, though the Joovy Caboose requires some tools and took the longest time to build in our tests.
Safety
The best double strollers come with many safety features, including adjustable handlebars for a comfortable grip and a broad base that doesn't fall over when the children get out of their seats. The canopy is large enough to protect both children in the event of rain. They're also very easy to use, according to Alli Cavasino who is a certified child passenger safety technician. "Look for a oneor two-step fold that can be easily carried and provides a clear and easy location to put the straps," she advises.
The most double strollers can be pushed through doorways with ease--a major advantage if you have an incredibly small car or a tiny living space. The smallest models also weigh less than normal double strollers. This makes them easier to transport from one place to the next.
Parents with children of similar ages can choose an X-style stroller that is side by side, such as our top pick one: the Joovy Kooper X2, that features two child seats that can be individually adjusted for recline and size. In our testing the seats we found them to be extremely comfortable, and the reclining to be quick and intuitive by using a single lever on each seat. It also has an ample storage basket, a built-in parking brake that is one step (to reduce fatigue in hands when stopping) and a few of our top harnesses.
If your children are of different ages, a sit-and- stand stroller, like our top pick the UPPAbaby V2 double, may be an option. It is compatible with two infant car seats and comes with a pair of modified seats that function as bassinets for older children. It can also be modified to accommodate a riding board to accommodate a sibling of a similar age.