Buying a Small Double Stroller
A double stroller is a significant purchase, and it's one that you will use for a long time. That's why you need to pick wisely.
Our testers looked at strollers that offer incredible flexibility and a smooth ride on any terrain. They also checked whether the models were easy to fold and move.
Size
There are a variety of double strollers such as tandem, side-by-side (single-file) and wagons. The type of stroller has changed from the classic 1980s models some older millennials may be familiar with. Nowadays, they are sleek and come with a range of options to make traveling with children more enjoyable for everyone.
For parents with infants or toddlers, a double stroller and car seat is a great option for getting them from one point to B. Some of the most sophisticated strollers on the market have a single frame that can accommodate two infant car seats or convertible toddler seats allowing them to be used from birth up until kids reach kindergarten age. They are generally more expensive than a standard double stroller frame, however they also offer the convenience of a built-in car seat system and an ample undercarriage basket that can hold both car seats.
Parents with fewer children may prefer a simple, less-expensive single-to-double stroller. These types of frames are typically lighter in weight, and some moms have even told us they're still using their original stroller years after their children outgrew it.
Another advantage of a few of the tiniest double strollers we've tried is their compact fold. They can fit in places where larger strollers won't and are generally easier to maneuver once folded.
Most double strollers that we tested have a decent-sized sunshade. However, coverage can range from nothing to an entire cocoon. If you're on a tight budget it's a good idea to check out secondhand strollers that are available on sites like Facebook Marketplace. Just make sure you check the stroller for signs of wear before buying it.
Weight
When shopping for a small double stroller, parents should consider how much they want to spend and if it is a good fit for their family's lifestyle. A lightweight stroller could, for instance, not have enough storage to accommodate bulky bags or other equipment. It may not have a canopy that is large enough, or other features to make it more comfortable to use on long journeys.
The best double strollers are easy to maneuver and sturdy so that children can remain comfortable and not be confined to their seats. In our tests of comfort we give higher marks to strollers that have adjustable leg rests and padded seatbacks. The top double strollers come with reclined seats that allow children to take a break during long rides.
Strollers that can be used for a variety of reasons are more popular than ever, due to their innovative designs and thoughtful features. Some of the most effective options can accommodate multiple car seat configurations and offer a wide range of seating options from infant to preschool. Some are so light that they can be used for running or even for traveling.
One of the most important aspects to take into consideration when selecting a small double stroller is whether it will fit through doorways and other tight spaces. The older models of tandem strollers as well as side-by-side strollers are typically too wide to fit through many doors. The best small double strollers tend to be smaller than the traditional models and can be easily pushed into most standard doorways with ease.
You should also consider whether you require a stroller with additional features, such as an holder for your cup and a snack tray. These are great for longer trips, but they add to the weight and cost of a double stroller.
Folding
A small double stroller can fold compactly to fit in small spaces. It is also easy to keep in storage. Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry and maneuver.
Before double pram and pushchair decide on a compact double stroller, think about where you'll use it and how often. The answer to these questions will help you determine the essential features. If you plan to run in the stroller, you'll want one with an elongated suspension so that it can easily glide across rough surfaces and pavement.
Be aware of the age and temperament of your children too. If they are of similar age and have similar temperaments, a tandem stroller might be the best option. If they are at different stages of development, the tandem stroller might be better suited to your needs.
A double stroller is expensive, but the investment will pay off in the long run. Making the investment in a high-quality model that fits your family's needs will make traveling with kids easier and will provide years of convenience for you and your children.
If you're limited in storage space, a double stroller is an excellent option. It can accommodate both infant car seats as well as toddlers. Evenflo Pivot Xplore Wagon can accommodate twins and is a great option for families with two children. It comes with two canopy options and a storage bin that can be attached as well as a tray for children with cup holders. This budget-friendly stroller also offers the ability to fold quickly and easily, and it can be carried with just one hand. It is important to note that the majority of double modular strollers require you to take off the second seat before folding them.
Maneuverability
The most suitable double strollers for small spaces are easy to maneuver, and they have wheels that glide effortlessly over any surface. These strollers also come with comfortable, reclining seats and ample storage space for kids' toys. Many of these strollers are compatible with toddler and infant seats, as well as car seat carriers. These features make these strollers an ideal option for families looking for one stroller that can be used for multiple purposes.
Alli Cavasino is a certified child safety technician as well as a travel gear expert who advises parents about strollers and travel equipment. She suggests selecting a light, easy-to-push model. She advises that strollers that are heavy can cause frame fatigue and injuries. "If your stroller is heavy and difficult to push, you might consider including a ride-along board, or reduce the number of kids in the seat."
Some of the double strollers that 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 at once and can convert into a three-seater configuration with the addition of RumbleSeat. It also features a stylish inline design with foam-filled tires that will not flatten, and an adjustable telescoping handbar. The seat buckles are among the easiest to fasten and unfasten and its large UPF 50+ sunshades come with peekaboo windows.
Other models come with a variety of seating options. They can be used for twins or triplets, as well as 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 so light they can be carried up and down stairs. Most 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 best double strollers are equipped with multiple safety features. They have adjustable handlebars that provide an ergonomic grip, as well as a wide base so it won't fall over when children leap out of their seats. They also have large canopy that can be used to protect both children and even rainstorms. Alli Cavasino is a certified child safety technician. She says they're easy to use. "Look for simple one or two step fold that is easy to carry and has a space where the straps can be placed," she says.
The narrowest double strollers can be pushed through doorways with ease--a major benefit for those with a small car or limited living space. The smallest models weigh less than traditional double strollers. This makes them easier to transport from one location to the next.
Parents with children of the same age may prefer an X-style stroller that is side by side like our top choice one: the Joovy Kooper X2, that includes two child seats that can be individually adjusted for recline and width. In our testing the seats we found them to be extremely comfortable, and recline to be simple and easy with just one lever on each seat. It also has an enormous storage basket, a built-in parking brake that is one step (to reduce fatigue in the hands when stopping) and a few of our best harnesses.
If your children are of different ages, a sit-and- stand stroller, such as our top pick, the UPPAbaby v2 double, is an option. It can fit two car seats for infants and it has a pair modified seats that serve as bassinets.