Buying a Small Double Stroller
A double stroller is a significant purchase, and it's one you'll use for a long time. It is important to choose carefully.
Our test participants were looking for strollers with excellent flexibility and a smooth ride over any terrain. They also tested whether the strollers were easy to fold and move.
Size
There are many different styles of double strollers on the market, from side-by-side to tandem (single-file seating) and wagons. The type of stroller has changed from the classic 1980s models that older millennials may remember. Nowadays, they are sleek and offer a variety of options to make traveling with children more enjoyable for everyone.
If you have a child or toddlers to take along, a double stroller that includes a car seat can be extremely useful in getting them from A to B. Some of the most sophisticated strollers come with a single frame which can accommodate two infant car seat or convertible toddler seats. This lets them be utilized by children from birth until they reach kindergarten age. They're generally more expensive than a simple double stroller frame, however they also come with the convenience of a built-in car seat system, as well as an ample undercarriage basket that can accommodate both car seats.
Parents with fewer children could opt for a single-to-double stroller that is less complicated and more affordable. These types of frames are typically lighter in weight, and some mothers have told us they're still using their original stroller even after their children have outgrew it.
Another excellent feature of some of the smallest double strollers we've tried is their compact fold. They can fit in places that larger strollers can't and are often easier to maneuver once folded.
The majority of double strollers that we tested have a decent-sized sunshade. However, the coverage can vary from zero to the size of a cocoon. For budget-conscious families you should look into secondhand strollers on sites like Facebook Marketplace to see if there's a model that meets your family's requirements. Make sure to examine any used stroller carefully for signs of wear and tear before committing to buying one.
Weight
Parents should consider their budget and whether the stroller will fit into their family's lifestyle when purchasing a double stroller. A stroller that is lightweight, for example, may not have enough storage space to hold large bags or other equipment. It might also not have a large canopy or other features that would make the stroller easier to use for long trips.
The best double strollers are easy to maneuver and durable, so that the children can remain in a comfortable position and not get out of their seats. In our comfort tests, we award higher marks to strollers with adjustable seatbacks and leg rests that are cushioned. The best double strollers also offer reclining seating positions that allow kids to take a break during long rides.
Strollers that can be used for a variety of reasons are more popular than ever, thanks to innovative designs and thoughtful features. Some of the most popular strollers can accommodate multiple car seats and offer many seating options from birth to preschool. Some are light enough to jog or even travel with.
When selecting a compact double-stroller it is essential to determine if the stroller can fit through narrow doors and other spaces. Older models of tandem strollers as well as side-by-side walkers are often too large to pass through the doors of many. The most effective small double strollers tend to be smaller than the traditional models and can be pushed right into the majority of doors easily.
Another thing to consider is whether you 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 total weight and cost of a double stroller.
Folding
A compact double stroller can fold compactly to fit into small spaces. It is also easy to keep in storage. Additionally, tandem double stroller ensures that it will be easy to maneuver and carry.
Consider where and how often you will be using a double stroller. These questions will help you determine the most important features. For instance, if you are planning to run in the stroller then you'll want to choose one with a a smooth suspension that will glide across rough and paved terrain.
Also, think about the age and temperament of your children. If they are of the same age, a side by side stroller could be the best option. However, if they're in different stages of development, then a tandem style may be more suitable for your requirements.
A double stroller may be expensive, but it's an investment that will pay off in the long run. Making the investment in a high-quality model that fits your family's needs will make travel with children much easier, and it will also provide years of convenience for both of you.
If you're limited in storage space, the double stroller is a great option. It can hold both infant car seats as well as toddlers. The Evenflo Pivot Xplore Wagon is ideal for families with two small children and can hold twins. It comes with two canopies as well as an attached storage bin and a tray for the child with cup holders. This budget-friendly stroller also offers a quick and simple fold, and it can be carried with just one hand. It is worth pointing out, however, that most double modular strollers require you to remove the second seat prior to folding them.
Maneuverability
The best double strollers for small children are easy to maneuver and come with smooth and responsive wheels that glide over all kinds of surfaces. These strollers also feature comfortable, reclining seats and ample storage space for your children's gear. In addition they can accommodate car seat carriers as well as infant toddler seats. These features make them a great option for families looking for a single stroller that can expand with their family.
Alli Cavasino is a certified child safety technician and travel gear expert who counsels parents about strollers and travel gear. She recommends selecting a light, easy-to-push model. She warns that heavy strollers can cause frame fatigue and injuries. If your stroller is heavy and difficult to push, consider adding a ride-along feature or reduce the number of children.
Some double strollers that we tested can accommodate multiple infant car seats. The UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double, for instance, can accommodate two infant car seats or toddler seats at once and can convert to a three-seat configuration with the help of the RumbleSeat. It also features a chic inline design, with foam-filled tires that won't go flat and a telescoping handlebar with an adjustable height. Its seat belts are easy to secure and remove, and its UPF 50+ sunshades come with windows that can be seen through.
Other models come with different seating configurations. They can be used for twins or triplets, a larger child and an infant, or a toddler riding a scooter (sold separately). These models also feature easy-to use brakes and the compact fold that fits into the majority of trunks. Some are even light enough to transport up and down stairs. They also require minimal assembly however the Joovy Caboose requires a few tools and took the longest time to construct in our tests.
Safety
The most reliable double strollers come with a variety of safety features. side by side double stroller come with adjustable handlebars that provide an ergonomic grip, as well as an extra wide base that won't tip over when the children leap out of their seats. The canopies are large enough to accommodate both kids in rainstorms. They're also very easy to use, according to Alli Cavasino, a certified child passenger safety technician. "Look for a simple one- or two step fold that is easy to carry and has a clear place where straps can be put," she says.
The narrowest compact strollers can pass through doors easily. This is an excellent advantage if you live a small apartment or have a limited car. The smallest models are much lighter than traditional double strollers, which makes them easier to lug from one location to the next. No need to strain your arms and back while carrying an oversized stroller on your shoulder.
Parents of children who are close in age may choose the side-by-side stroller, such as our top pick for the Joovy Kooper X2, which has two child seats that can be adjusted for recline and width separately. In our tests the seats we found them to be extremely comfortable, and recline to be quick and intuitive with just one lever on each seat. It also comes with a large storage basket, a built-in parking brake that's one-step (to reduce fatigue in the hands while stopping) and some of our top harnesses.
If your children are of different ages, a sit-and stand stroller, such as our top choice, the UPPAbaby v2 double, is an option. It accepts two infant car seats and comes with two seats that have been modified which function as bassinets older children. It can also be modified to accommodate a riding platform for a sibling who is even older.