Buying a Small Double Stroller
Double strollers are a big investment that will be used for many years. That's why it's important to pick wisely.
Our test participants looked at strollers that provide excellent flexibility and a smooth ride on any terrain. They also tested whether they were easy to fold and move.
Size
There are a variety of double strollers on the market, ranging from side-byside to tandem (single-file seating) and wagons. The style has evolved from the vintage 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 all.
For parents of toddlers or infants, a double stroller and car seat is a great option for bringing them from point A to point B. Some of the most modern strollers have frames that can accommodate two infant car seat or convertible toddler seats. They can be used by children as young as until they reach the age of kindergarten. They are generally more expensive than double stroller frames, however they include a car seat system as well as an enormous undercarriage basket.
Parents with fewer children could opt for a single-to-double stroller that is simpler and less expensive. These 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.
The compact fold is another great feature of some the tiniest double strollers we've tested. They can fit into spaces that larger strollers cannot and are generally easier to maneuver when folded.
Additionally, the majority of small double strollers we've tested come with a decent-sized sunshade, though coverage can vary from almost nothing to a cocoon cover. If you're on a tight budget then you may want to look for second-hand strollers for sale on websites like Facebook Marketplace. Just make sure to inspect the stroller for signs of wear before purchasing it.
Weight
Parents should think about their budget and whether the stroller will fit into their family's lifestyle when looking for a double-small stroller. A stroller that is light could, for instance, not have enough storage space to accommodate bulky bags or additional gear. It may also not have a a large canopy or other features that would make it easier to take on long journeys.
The best double strollers are sturdy and easy to move, which helps to ensure that children are at ease in their seats and don't shift around when they ride. In our tests of comfort, we give higher marks to strollers with adjustable seatbacks and leg rests that are cushioned. The best double strollers offer reclining seats that allow children to take a break during long rides.
Innovative designs and thoughtful features are making strollers that can be used in a variety of ways more popular than ever. Some of the top strollers can be used with multiple car seats and provide a wide range of seating options from birth through preschool. Some are so light they can be used for running or even for traveling.
When choosing a small double-stroller it is essential to determine if the stroller can be pushed through narrow doors and other spaces. The majority of older models of side-by-side strollers as well as tandem strollers have a wide width that makes them unsuitable for numerous doors. The best small double strollers, however, are usually narrower than traditional models and can be pushed right into most standard doorways easily.
Another thing to think about is whether you'll need an additional feature on your stroller like a cup holder or snack tray. These are useful for longer trips but add weight and cost to a double stroller.
Folding
A small double stroller can fold compactly, easily fitting in tight spaces and making it easy to put away. Additionally, its lightweight design guarantees that it will be easy to move and carry.
Before you pick a compact double stroller take note of where you'll use it and how often. The answer to these questions will help you decide the features that are the most important. If you plan to run with your stroller, you'll want one that has an elongated suspension so that it can glide over rough surfaces and pavement.
Take into consideration the age and temperament of your children as well. If they are close in age, then a side-by-side stroller could be the best. However, if they're at different stages of development then a tandem model may be better suited to your needs.
A double stroller is expensive however, the investment will pay dividends over time. Making the investment in a high-quality model that fits your family's needs will make traveling with children much easier, and it will also offer years of convenience for both of you.
If single to double pushchair are limited in storage space, consider a small double stroller that can accommodate toddler car seats and infant car seats. Evenflo Pivot Xplore Wagon can accommodate twins and is a great option for families with two children. It features dual canopies, a storage bin that can be attached, as well as an infant tray with cup holders. This lightweight, affordable stroller is easy to fold and can be carried using just one hand. It is important to know that you must remove the second seat from most double modular strollers when folding.
Maneuverability
The best double strollers for small spaces are easy to maneuver and have wheels that glide smoothly over any surface. These strollers also come with comfortable, reclining seats and plenty of storage space for your kids' gear. Many of these strollers are compatible with infant and toddler seats as well as car seat carriers. These features make these strollers an ideal option for families who want one stroller that is multi-purpose.
Alli Cavasino is a certified child safety technician and travel gear expert who counsels parents on strollers and other 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 too heavy and difficult for you to push, you can add a ride-along feature or reduce the number of children.
Several of the small double strollers we tried can accommodate multiple infant car seats. The UPPAbaby Vista v2 double, for example can hold two toddler or infant seats at once and can be converted into a 3-seat configuration using the RumbleSeat add-on. It also features a chic design with an inline design, foam-filled tires that won't be flat and an adjustable telescoping handlebar. Its seat belts are easy to secure and remove, and its UPF 50+ sunshades feature peekaboo windows.
Other models are available with different seating configurations. They can be used with twins, triplets, an older child and an infant or the toddler who is riding on a scooter (sold separately). They also come with easy-to-use brakes and a surprisingly compact fold that fits in the majority of trunks. Some are even light enough to be able to carry up and down steps. Most require only a few pieces of assembly however the Joovy Caboose requires some tools and took the longest time to construct in our tests.
Safety
The top double strollers have numerous safety features, such as adjustable handlebars to give you a good grip, and a large base that won't tip when the kids get up from their seats. The canopy is large enough to protect both children in the event of rain. They're also easy to use, according to Alli Cavasino who is a certified child-passenger safety technician. "Look for simple one or two-step fold that is easy to carry and has a place where the straps can be placed," she says.
The narrowest double strollers that are compact can 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 standard double strollers, making them easier to lug from one place to another--no need to strain your arms and back when you carry an oversized stroller on your shoulder.
Parents with children older than their age could consider the side-by-side stroller, such as our top option for the Joovy Kooper X2, which includes two child seats which can be adjusted for recline and width separately. In our testing, we found the seats to be extremely comfortable, and recline to be simple and easy with just one lever on each seat. It also comes with an enormous storage basket, a parking brake that is one step (to reduce fatigue in the hands when stopping) and a few of our top harnesses.
If you have kids far from each other in terms of age, then a stroller that sits and stands, such as our top pick UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double, could be a good fit. It can accommodate two car seats for infants and it comes with a pair of modified seats that can be used as bassinets.