Buying a Small Double Stroller
Double strollers are a significant investment that will last for many years. It is important to choose carefully.
Our test participants were looking for strollers that had amazing flexibility and a smooth ride across all terrains. They also inspected whether the models were easy to fold and move.
Size
There are many styles of double strollers available such as tandem, side-by-side (single-file) and wagons. The category has come a long way from the behemoth vintage 1980s models that many older millennials might remember--these days they're sleek and offer a range of customizations to make traveling with kids more enjoyable for everyone involved.
For parents of toddlers or infants, a double stroller with car seat is a great option for getting them from point A to point B. Some of the most advanced strollers come with frames that can accommodate two infant car seats or convertible toddler seats. This lets them be used by children from birth until they reach kindergarten age. These are typically 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 large undercarriage basket which can hold both car seats.
Parents who don't have multiple children may prefer a simple one-to-double stroller that is less expensive. These strollers are typically lighter, and some moms still use their original stroller even after their children have outgrown it.
Another excellent feature of a number of the smallest double strollers we've tested is the compact fold. They can fit in spaces larger strollers can't and are generally more compact when folded.
The majority of double strollers we tested come with a decent-sized sunshade. However, the coverage can vary from a bare spot to the size of a cocoon. If you're on a budget it's a good idea to look into second-hand strollers that are available on sites like Facebook Marketplace. Just make sure to inspect the stroller for wear and tear prior to purchasing it.
Weight
When shopping for a small double stroller , parents should be aware of the amount they wish to spend and if it's a good fit for their family's lifestyle. For example, a lightweight stroller may not have enough space for large bags or other gear. It might not have a canopy that is large enough or other features that make it more convenient to use during long trips.
The best double strollers are durable and easy to maneuver and ensure that the children remain comfortable in their seats and don't shift around when they ride. In our comfort tests we prefer strollers with adjustable seatbacks and leg rests with padding. The top double strollers offer reclining seating positions that let kids relax on long walks.
Strollers that can be used for a variety of purposes are more popular than ever, because of their innovative designs and thoughtful features. The best models can accommodate multiple car seat installation and provide an extended range of seating configurations from birth to preschool years. Some are light enough to jog or travel.
When choosing a small double stroller, it is important to determine if the stroller can be pushed through narrow doors and other spaces. The older models of tandem strollers and side-by-side strollers are usually too large to pass through the majority of doors. The top tandem strollers are usually smaller than the standard models, and are able to be carried through the majority of doors that are standard.
It is also important to consider whether you require a stroller with additional features like an holder for your cup and a snack tray. These are useful for longer trips but can add weight and cost to the double stroller.
Folding
A small double stroller that folds compactly, easily fitting into tight spaces and making it easy to store. Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry and move.
Before you choose a compact double stroller take note of where you'll use it and how often. The answer to these questions will help you identify the features that are most important. If you intend to run in the stroller, you'll need one with an elongated suspension so that it can glide smoothly over rough surfaces and pavement.
Consider the age and temperament of your children, too. If they are of the same age and have similar temperaments, a tandem stroller may be the most suitable option. However, if they're in different stages of development then a tandem style may be more suitable for your needs.
A double stroller is expensive but it will pay off in the long run. Investing in a quality model that is suited to your family's needs will make traveling with kids easier and will provide years of convenience for both of you.
If you're limited in storage space, the double stroller is an ideal choice. It can hold toddlers and infant car seats. Evenflo Pivot Xplore Wagon can accommodate twins and is an excellent option for families with two children. It has two canopy options and a storage bin that can be attached, as well as an infant tray with cup holders. This budget-friendly stroller also offers an easy and quick fold, and it can be carried with just one hand. It is worth noting, 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 over any surface. These strollers come with seating that reclines and plenty of storage space for your kids' equipment. In addition they can accommodate car seat carriers and infant toddler seats. These features make them an ideal option for families looking for a single stroller that can grow with their family.
Alli Cavasino, a certified child passenger safety technician who provides parents with advice on strollers and travel gear She suggests choosing a light stroller that is easy for children to push. She warns that heavy strollers can cause frame fatigue and injuries. "If your stroller is weighing too much and difficult to push, think about adding a ride-along deck or reduce the number of children in the seat."
A few of the double strollers we tested can accommodate multiple infant car seats. The UPPAbaby Vista v2 double, for example can hold two infant seats or toddler seats at the same time and can be transformed into a 3-seat configuration using the RumbleSeat add-on. It also comes with a fashionable inline design, with foam-filled tires that don't be flat, and an adjustable telescoping handlebar. Its seat belts are easy to fasten and undo and its UPF 50+ sunshades come with windows that peek out.
Other models are available with a variety of seating options. They can be used for twins, triplets, an older child and an infant or the toddler who is riding a scooter (sold separately). They also come with easy-to-use brakes and a compact fold that fits into the majority of trunks. Some are even lightweight enough to be able to carry up and down the stairs. The majority of them require little assembly. The Joovy Caboose however, requires a few tools and was the most difficult build in our tests.
Safety
The best double strollers are equipped with multiple safety features. They have adjustable handlebars that give you the user with a comfortable grip and an extra wide base that won't tip over when the children get out of their seats. The canopy is large enough to cover both kids 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 that provides a clear and easy where to place the straps," she advises.
The tiniest strollers are able to pass through doors easily. This is a great advantage if you live in an apartment that is small or have a car that isn't as big. The smallest models also weigh less than normal double strollers. This makes them easier to transport from one location to the next.
Parents who have kids close in age may choose the side-by-side stroller, such as our top pick, the Joovy Kooper X2, which features two child seats that can be adjusted for the width and recline independently. In our testing, we found the seats to be very comfortable and the reclining to be quick and intuitive with just one lever on each seat. It also comes with a massive storage basket, a one-step linked parking brake (to reduce hand fatigue while stopping), and some of the best harnesses we've tested.
If you have kids far from each other in age, a stroller that sits and stands, such as our top pick, the UPPAbaby Vista Double, might be a good fit. It accepts two infant car seats and has two seats that have been modified that act as bassinets for older kids--and can be adapted to accommodate a riding platform to accommodate a sibling of a similar age.