Buying a Small Double Stroller
A double stroller is a major investment, and it's one you'll be using for years. This is why you must pick wisely.
Our test participants were looking for strollers with amazing mobility and smooth rides across any terrain. They also tested whether the strollers were easy to fold and maneuver.
Size
There are a variety of double strollers available such as tandem, side-by-side (single-file) and wagons. The category has come a long way from the behemoth vintage 1980s models that a few older generation millennials may remember. Today they're sleek and offer various options for customization to make travel with kids more enjoyable for all involved.
For parents who have infants or toddlers, double strollers that include car seats can be incredibly useful for getting them from A to B. Some of the most modern strollers have a single frame which can accommodate two infant car seat or convertible toddler seats. This allows them to be used by children from birth until they reach the age of kindergarten. 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 with fewer children may opt for a single-to double-stroller, which is simpler and less expensive. These strollers are typically lighter, and some moms still use their original stroller even after their children have outgrown it.
Another excellent feature of a few of the tiniest double strollers we've tested is their compact fold. They can be tucked away in places that larger strollers aren't able to and are generally more compact when folded.
In addition, all of the small double strollers we've tested feature a nice-sized sunshade, though coverage can vary from almost nothing to a cocoon covering. For budget-conscious families, it's worth checking out second-hand strollers available on sites like Facebook Marketplace to see if there's a stroller that will meet your family's requirements. Make certain to check any used stroller carefully for signs of wear and tear prior to making a decision to purchase one.
Weight
When looking for a compact double stroller, parents need to be aware of the amount they wish to pay and if it's a good fit for their family's lifestyle. For example, a lightweight stroller might not have enough space for large bags or other equipment. It may also not have a the capacity to cover a large area or other features that would make the stroller easier to take on long journeys.
The best double strollers are simple to maneuver and durable, so that children can remain comfortable and not move around in their seats. In our comfort tests we prefer strollers that have adjustable seatbacks and leg rests with padding. The top double strollers come with reclining seats that allow children to unwind on long rides.
Strollers that can be used to serve a variety of functions are becoming more popular than ever before, thanks to innovative designs and clever features. Some of the top strollers can accommodate several car seats and offer an array of seating options for babies through preschool. Some are lightweight enough for jogging or travel.
One of the most important aspects to consider when choosing a small double stroller is whether it can be able to pass through doors and other tight spaces. Most older models of side-by-side strollers and tandem strollers have a wide width which makes them incompatible with the majority of doors. The most compact double strollers, however, tend to be narrower than standard models and can be pushed into doors of all sizes easily.
You should also think about whether you need a stroller with additional features, such as a cup holder and 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 is designed to fold compactly, fitting easily into tight spaces and making it easy to put away. In addition, a light design makes it possible for it to be easy to maneuver and carry.
Before you pick a small double stroller, think about where you'll use it and how often. These questions will help you decide which features are most important. For instance, if you plan to use the stroller for running, then you will want to look for one with an elongated suspension that can glide across rough and paved terrain.
Be aware of the age and temperament of your children as well. If they are of similar age and temperament, a side-by-side stroller may be the most suitable option. However, if they are at different stages of development then a tandem model may be better suited for your needs.
A double stroller is expensive, but the investment will pay off in the long run. Investing in a quality model that is suited to your family's needs will make travel with children much easier and will give years of comfort to you and your kids.
If you have limited storage space, you might want to consider a small double stroller which can fit 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 has dual canopies, an attachable storage bin as well as a tray for children with cup holders. This budget-friendly stroller comes with the ability to fold quickly and easily, and it can be pushed by one hand. It is important to note that the majority of double modular strollers require that you remove the second seat when folding them.
Maneuverability
The best double strollers for small children are easy to maneuver and have smooth and responsive wheels that glide across any surface. These strollers have reclined seats that are comfortable and have plenty of storage space for your children's gear. Many of these strollers are compatible with toddler and infant seats as well as car seat carriers. These features make these strollers a great option for families who want a single, multi-purpose stroller.
Alli Cavasino is a certified child safety technician as well as a travel gear expert who advises parents about strollers and travel equipment. She recommends selecting a lightweight, 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, add a ride-along feature or reduce the number of children.
A few of the smaller 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 transformed into three seats using the RumbleSeat add-on. It also comes with a fashionable, inline design, foam-filled tires that won't go flat, and a telescoping handlebar with an adjustable height. Its seat belts are simple to secure and remove and its UPF 50+ sunshades feature windows that can be seen through.
Other models provide seating versatility, making them suitable for twins, multiples, an older child who is a single person, an infant or toddler with a scooter (sold separately). These models also feature brakes that are easy to use and an incredibly compact fold that can fit in most trunks. Some are so lightweight that they can be transported up and down stairs. They also require minimal assembly however the Joovy Caboose requires some tools and took the longest to build in our tests.
Safety
The most reliable double strollers come with numerous safety features. They come with adjustable handlebars that provide the user with a comfortable grip and a wide base so it will not tip over when children leap out of their seats. They also have generous canopies that cover both kiddos in rain or storms. Alli Cavasino is a certified child safety technician. She claims they are easy to use. "Look for an easy one or two step fold that is easy to carry and has a place where the straps can be positioned," she says.
The tiniest strollers are able to fit through doors with ease. This is an excellent advantage if you live in smaller spaces or have a small car. The smallest models are also considerably lighter than standard double strollers, making 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 with children who are close to their age can consider an asymmetrical stroller such as our top choice for the Joovy Kooper X2, which features two child seats that can be adjusted for the width and recline independently. In our tests, we discovered that the seats were extremely comfortable, and the recline was smooth and simple. Each seat has one lever. It also has a huge storage basket and a one-step connected parking brake (to reduce hand fatigue when stopping) and some of the most comfortable harnesses in our tests.
If you have children who are from each other in age, a sit-and-stand stroller like our top pick, the UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double, may be a good choice. It accepts two infant car seats, and also has two seats that have been modified which function as bassinets older children. They can also be modified to accommodate a riding board to accommodate a sibling of a similar age.