Buying a Small Double Stroller
Double strollers are a significant investment that will last for many years. You must make the right choice.
Our test participants looked at strollers that provide excellent flexibility and smooth rides on any terrain. They also checked whether the strollers were easy to fold and move.
Size
There are a variety of styles of double strollers on market, ranging from side-byside to tandem (single-file seating) and wagons. The category has advanced from the behemoth vintage 1980s models that some elder generations might have recalled. Nowadays they're sleek and come with various customization options to make travel with kids more enjoyable for all involved.
For parents with infants or toddlers, a double stroller with car seats is a great option for getting them from point A to B. Some of the most modern strollers feature frames that can accommodate two infant car seat or convertible toddler seats. They can be used by children from birth until they reach kindergarten age. They are generally more expensive than double stroller frames, but they come with an integrated car seat system, as well as a large undercarriage basket.
Parents who don't have multiple children might want a simple one-to-double stroller that is less expensive. These types of frames are typically lighter in weight, and a few moms have shared with us that they're still using their original stroller after their children outgrew it.
The compact fold is a fantastic feature of some of the tiniest double strollers we've tried. They can fit in spaces 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, the coverage can vary from zero to the size of a cocoon. For families on a budget it's worth looking at secondhand strollers on sites like Facebook Marketplace to see if there's a model that meets your family's needs. Just be sure to inspect the stroller for signs of wear and tear prior to committing to buying one.
Weight
Parents should think about their budget and if the stroller is suitable for the family's lifestyle before looking for a double-small stroller. A stroller that is lightweight, for example, may not have enough storage space to accommodate bulky bags or other gear. It might not have a large canopy, or other features to make it more comfortable to use on long trips.
The most reliable double strollers are durable and easy to move, which helps to ensure that the children remain comfortable in their seats and don't shift around when they ride. Strollers with cushioned seatbacks and adjustable leg rests score higher scores in our comfort tests than those that do not have. 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 purposes are becoming more popular than ever, thanks to innovative designs and thoughtful features. Some of the most popular strollers can fit multiple car seats and provide a wide range of seating options from birth through preschool. Some are so light that they can be used for jogging or traveling.
One of the most important things to take into consideration when selecting a compact double stroller is whether or not it will fit through doorways and other narrow spaces. The majority of older models of side-byside strollers and tandem strollers are wide in general which makes them incompatible with many doors. The top double strollers are generally shorter than the typical models, and can be easily pushed through standard doorways.
Another thing to consider is whether you require a stroller with additional features like a cup holder or snack tray. These can be handy for longer trips, but they can add to the overall weight and cost of a double stroller.
Folding
A compact double stroller folds compactly to fit into small spaces. It is also easy to store. In addition, a lightweight design guarantees that it will be easy to maneuver and transport.
Before you decide on a small double stroller consider the location you intend to use it and how often. The answer to these questions will help you identify the features that are the most important. If single to double buggy intend to run with the stroller, you'll need one with an elongated suspension so that it can glide smoothly over rough roads and uneven terrain.
Also, consider the age and temperament of your children. If they are of similar age and temperament, a side-by-side stroller may be the most suitable option. If they are in different stages of development then an incline stroller could be better suited to your needs.
A double stroller is costly, but it's an investment that pays off in the long term. Investing in a quality model that fits your family's needs will make travelling with children easier, and it will also give years of comfort to both of you.
If you're limited with storage space, consider a compact double stroller that can accommodate both infant car seats and toddlers. Evenflo Pivot Xplore Wagon can accommodate twins and is a great option for families with two children. It comes with two canopy options as well as a storage bin which is attached, and a tray for the child with cup holders. This stroller is budget-friendly and offers the ability to fold quickly and easily, and it can be carried by one hand. Be aware that you have to remove the second seat of most double modular strollers when folding.
Maneuverability
The best double strollers for small spaces are easy to maneuver, and they have wheels that glide smoothly over any surface. These strollers come with reclined seats that are comfortable and plenty of storage space for your kids' gear. A lot of these strollers are compatible with infant and toddler seats as well as car seat carriers. These features make these strollers a great choice for families that want a single, multi-purpose stroller.
Alli Cavasino is a certified child safety technician and a travel gear expert who advises parents on strollers and other equipment. She suggests selecting a lightweight, easy-to push model. She advises that strollers that are heavy can cause frame fatigue and injuries. If your stroller is too heavy and difficult for you to push, you can add a ride-along feature or reduce the number of children.
Some of the double strollers that we tested can accommodate multiple infant car seats. The UPPAbaby Vista v2 double, for instance, can hold two toddler or infant seats at a time, and can be transformed into a 3-seat configuration using the RumbleSeat add-on. It also comes with a fashionable, inline design, foam-filled tires that don't go flat, and an adjustable telescoping handlebar. Its seat buckles are among the easiest to secure and remove and its UPF 50+ sunshades have window-like windows.
Other models are available with a variety of seating options. They can be used for twins, triplets, an older child and an infant, or an infant riding on a scooter (sold separately). These models also come with brakes that are simple to use and an incredibly compact fold that can fit in most trunks. Some are even lightweight enough to transport up and down steps. They also require minimal assembly, though the Joovy Caboose requires some tools and took the longest to construct in our tests.
Safety
The best double strollers have multiple safety features, including adjustable handlebars for a comfortable grip, and a large base that won't tip when the kids jump out of their seats. The canopies are big enough to cover both kids during rainstorms. Alli Cavasino is a certified child safety technician. She claims they are 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 most compact double strollers fit through doorways with ease--a major benefit for those with a small car or limited living space. The smallest models also weigh less than traditional double strollers. This makes them easier to carry from one place to the next.
Parents of children of similar ages can prefer a side by side stroller like our top choice for the Joovy Kooper X2, that has two child seats which can be adjusted individually for recline and width. In our testing the seats we found them to be extremely comfortable and the reclining to be simple and easy with just a single lever on each seat. It also comes with a massive storage basket and a one-step connected parking brake (to reduce hand fatigue when stopping), and some of the best harnesses we have tested.
If your children are of different ages, a sit-and- stand stroller, like our top choice the UPPAbaby V2 double, is an ideal choice. It is compatible with two infant car seats and comes with two seats that act as bassinets for older children. It can also be modified to accommodate a riding platform for an even older sibling.