Buying a Small Double Stroller
A double stroller is an important investment, and one you'll be using for many years. It is important to choose carefully.
Our test participants were looking for strollers with excellent flexibility and a smooth ride across all terrains. They also examined whether the strollers were easy to fold and move.
Size
There are a variety of styles of double strollers available on the market, from side-by-side to tandem (single-file seating) and wagons. The category has come a long way from the behemoth vintage 1980s models that some elder millennials might remember--these days they're sleek and offer various options for customization to make travel with children more enjoyable for everyone.
For parents of toddlers or infants, a double stroller and car seat is a great option for getting them from one point to B. Some of the most advanced strollers on the market feature a single frame that can hold two infant car seats or convertible toddler seats, allowing them to be used from birth until children reach the age of kindergarten. They're generally more expensive than a simple double stroller frame, however they also provide the convenience of a built-in car seat system, as well as a large undercarriage basket which can accommodate both car seats.
Parents who don't have multiple children may prefer a simple one-to-double stroller that is less expensive. These types of frames are typically lighter in weight, and a few moms have even told us they're still using their original stroller after their children outgrew it.
Another excellent feature of a few of the smaller double strollers we've tested is the compact fold. They can fit into spaces larger strollers can't and are usually easier to maneuver when folded.
In addition, all of the compact double strollers we've tested feature a nice-sized sunshade, though coverage can vary from almost nothing to a cocoon cover. For budget-conscious families, it's worth checking out second-hand strollers on websites like Facebook Marketplace to see if there's a model that meets your family's needs. Just be certain to check the stroller for signs of wear and tear prior to committing to buying one.
Weight
Parents should take into consideration their budget and whether the stroller will fit into their family's lifestyle when purchasing a double stroller. A lightweight stroller, for example, may not have enough storage to hold large bags or other gear. It might not have a large canopy, or other features to make it easier to use on long trips.
The best double strollers are simple to maneuver and durable, to ensure that children remain comfortable and not move around in their seats. Strollers with cushioned seatbacks and adjustable leg rests score higher marks in our comfort tests than strollers without. The top double strollers offer reclining seating positions which allow children to unwind on long walks.
Innovative designs and clever features make strollers that can be used in many ways more popular than ever. Some of the top strollers can accommodate multiple car seats and offer a wide range of seating options for babies through preschool. Some are so light they can be used for running or even for traveling.
When choosing a small double stroller, it is important to know if the stroller can fit through narrow doorways and other spaces. Often, older models of side-byside strollers and tandem strollers have an overall wideness that makes them unsuitable for many doors. The most effective small double strollers, however, tend to be narrower than standard models and can be easily pushed into the majority of doors with ease.
It is also important to consider whether you require a stroller that has additional features, such as a cup holder and snack tray. These are useful for longer trips, but they add weight and cost to the double stroller.
Folding
A small double stroller can be folded compactly to fit into tiny spaces. It is also easy to store. Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry and move.
Before you decide on a stroller that is small consider where you will be using it and how often. These questions will help you decide the most important features. For instance, if plan to run in the stroller, then you will want to look for one with a smooth suspension that will glide over pavement and rough terrain.
Also, consider the temperament and age of your children. If they are close in age, then a tandem stroller could be the best. If they are at different stages of development, then a tandem stroller may be better suited to your needs.
A double stroller can be costly but it will pay dividends over time. Making the investment in a high-quality model that meets your family's needs will make travelling with children much easier and will give years of comfort to both of you.
If you are limited in storage space, think about a small double stroller which can accommodate both infant car seats as well as toddlers. The Evenflo Pivot Xplore Wagon is a great choice for families with two young children, and it can even hold twins. It comes with two canopies as well as an attached storage bin as well as a tray for children with cup holders. double buggy from birth , affordable stroller folds easily and can be carried with only one hand. Be aware that you must remove the second seat on the majority of double modular strollers before folding.
Maneuverability
The best double strollers for small spaces are easy to maneuver, and they come with wheels that glide smoothly across any surface. These strollers also come with comfortable, reclining seats as well as ample storage space for children's gear. Additionally, many of these strollers can accommodate car seat carriers as well as infant toddler seats. These features make these strollers a great option for families who want one stroller that can be used for multiple purposes.
Alli Cavasino is a certified child safety technician and travel gear expert who offers advice to parents on strollers and other gear. She recommends choosing a lightweight, easy-to-push model. She says that heavy strollers can cause frame fatigue and injuries. "If your stroller is heavy and difficult to push, think about including a ride-along board, or reduce the number of children in the seat."
A few of the smaller double strollers we tested could accommodate multiple infant car seats. The UPPAbaby Vista v2 double, for instance, can hold two infant seats or toddler seats at the same time and can be converted to a 3-seat configuration using the RumbleSeat add-on. It also comes with a fashionable design with an inline design, foam-filled tires that can't be flat and a telescoping handlebar that can be adjusted. Its seat belts are simple to secure and remove, and its UPF 50+ sunshades have windows that can be seen through.
Other models are available with multiple seating configurations. They can be used for twins or triplets, a larger child and an infant or the toddler who is riding on a scooter (sold separately). These models also feature brakes that are easy to use and an incredibly compact fold that can fit into the majority of trunks. Some are so light they can be carried up and down the stairs. They also require minimal assembly, though the Joovy Caboose requires some tools and took the longest to build in our tests.
Safety
The top double strollers have multiple safety features, including adjustable handlebars to give you a good grip and a wide base that doesn't fall over when the kids get up from their seats. They also come with large canopy that can be used to protect both children and rain or storms. Alli Cavasino is a certified child safety technician. She says they're simple to use. "Look for a oneor two-step fold that can be easily carried, and that has a clear, easy location to put the straps," she advises.
The tiniest of compact double strollers fit through doors with ease, which is a huge advantage if you have an incredibly small car or a tiny living space. The smallest models are considerably 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 as you sling the heavy stroller over your shoulder.
Parents with children of similar ages may opt for a stroller with a side-by-side feature like our top choice one: the Joovy Kooper X2, that includes two child seats that can be individually adjusted to recline and width. We found that the seats were very comfortable and the recline was smooth and easy. Each seat is equipped with a single lever. It also has a large storage basket, an integrated parking brake that is one-step (to reduce fatigue in the hands when stopping) and some of our most popular harnesses.
If you have kids far apart in age, then a sit-and-stand stroller like our top pick UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double, might be a good choice. It can accommodate two infant car seats, and also has a pair of modified seats that function as bassinets for older children. It can also be modified to accommodate the use of a riding board for an even older sibling.