Buying a Small Double Stroller
A double stroller is a significant investment, and it's one you'll be using for a long time. That's why you need to choose carefully.
Our test participants looked at strollers that provide excellent flexibility and smooth rides on any terrain. They also inspected whether the strollers were easy to fold and move.
Size
There are a variety of double strollers available, including side-by-side, tandem (single-file) and wagons. The category has changed from the old 1980s designs that older millennials might remember. Nowadays, they are modern and sleek, with a variety of features that make travelling with kids more enjoyable for everyone.
If you have a child or toddlers in tow, an extra stroller that has car seats can be extremely useful in transporting them from A to B. Some of the most modern strollers come with one frame that can accommodate two infant car seat or convertible toddler seats. This lets them be used by children as young as until they reach the age of kindergarten. These are usually more expensive than double stroller frames, but they come with an integrated car seat system and a large undercarriage basket.
Parents with less children can choose a single-to-double-stroller that is more simple and less expensive. These frames are typically lighter in weight, and a few mothers have told us they're still using their old stroller after their children outgrew it.
Another excellent feature of a few of the tiniest double strollers we've tested is the compact fold. They can be tucked away that larger strollers can't and are generally more maneuverable once folded.
Finally, most of the small double strollers we've tested come with a decent-sized sunshade, though it's possible to have nothing to a cocoon cover. If you're looking for a bargain then you may want to check out secondhand strollers on auction sites like Facebook Marketplace. Just make sure to inspect the stroller for wear and tear prior to purchasing it.
Weight
Parents should consider their budget and whether the stroller will fit into the family's lifestyle before shopping for a double small stroller. For instance, a light stroller might not have enough space to store bulky bags or extra gear. It might not have a large canopy or other features that make it more comfortable to use on long trips.
The best double strollers are sturdy and easy to move, which helps to ensure that the children stay comfortable in their seats and don't move 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 best double strollers also provide reclining seating options that allow kids to take a break on long walks.
Innovative designs and thoughtful features are making strollers that can be used in various ways more popular than ever. Some of the top strollers can accommodate multiple car seats and provide an array of seating options from birth through preschool. Some are lightweight enough to run or travel.
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a compact double stroller is whether it can fit through doorways and other narrow spaces. Older models of tandem strollers as well as side-by-side walkers are often too large to pass through the majority of doors. The most effective small double strollers tend to be narrower than standard models and can be pushed right into the majority of doors easily.
Another thing to think about is whether you require a stroller that has additional features such as a cup holder or snack tray. These are useful for longer trips but will add weight and expense to a double stroller.
Folding
A compact double stroller is designed to fold compactly, fitting easily into tight spaces and making it easy to store. In addition, a lightweight design ensures that it will be easy to maneuver and transport.
Before you decide on a compact double stroller take note of where you will be using it and how often. The answer to these questions will help you determine the features that are the most important. If you intend to run in the stroller, you'll want one with a smooth suspension so it can glide smoothly over rough surfaces and pavement.
Take into consideration the age and temperament of your children as well. If they are of similar age, then a side-byside stroller might be the best choice. However, if they are in different stages of development, then a tandem model may be more suitable for your requirements.
A double stroller is expensive, but it is an investment that will pay off in the long run. The purchase of a top-quality model that meets your family's needs will make travelling with children easier and will provide years of convenience for you and your kids.
If you're limited with storage space, you might want to consider a small double stroller which 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 comes with two canopy options and a storage bin that attaches, and a tray for the child with cup holders. This budget-friendly stroller comes with a quick and simple fold and can be pushed by one hand. It is worth noting, however, that most double modular strollers require you to remove the second seat when folding them.
Maneuverability
The best double strollers for small children are easy to maneuver and have smooth, responsive wheels that can glide across all types of surfaces. These strollers feature seating that reclines and plenty of storage space for your child's gear. A lot of these strollers are compatible with infant and toddler seats, as well as car seat carriers. These features make them a perfect choice for families who want one stroller that can grow with their family.
Alli Cavasino is a certified child safety technician and travel gear expert who counsels parents on strollers and other gear. She suggests selecting a lightweight, easy-to push model. She says that heavy strollers can cause frame fatigue and injuries. If your stroller is too heavy and difficult to push, you can add a ride-along feature or reduce the number of children.
A few of the double strollers we tested are able to accommodate multiple infant car seats. The UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double, for instance, can carry two infant car seats or toddler seats simultaneously and can convert to a three-seat layout by using the add-on RumbleSeat. It also has a stylish inline design, with foam-filled tires that don't go flat and a telescoping handlebar that can be adjusted. The seat belts are simple to fasten and undo and its UPF 50+ sunshades feature windows that peek out.
Other models come with different seating configurations. double pushchair can be used with twins or triplets, a larger child and an infant or the toddler who is riding a scooter (sold separately). These models also have easy-to use brakes and a compact fold that fits into most trunks. Some are even light enough to transport up and down steps. The majority of them require little assembly. The Joovy Caboose, however, requires some tools and was the most difficult to build during our tests.
Safety
The top double strollers are outfitted with multiple safety features. They have adjustable handlebars, which provide the user with a comfortable grip and a large base to ensure it will not tip over when children get out of their seats. The canopies are big enough to protect both children during rainstorms. They're also easy to use, says Alli Cavasino, a certified child passenger safety technician. "Look for simple one or two step fold that is easy to carry and has a space where the straps can be positioned," she says.
The narrowest compact strollers can pass through doors easily. This is an excellent benefit if you live in a small apartment or have a car that isn't as big. The smallest models weigh less than normal double strollers. This makes them easier to transport from one place to the next.
Parents of children who are who are close to their age can consider an asymmetrical stroller such as our top choice, the Joovy Kooper X2, which features two child seats that can be adjusted to recline and width separately. In our tests, we discovered that the seats were very comfortable and the recline was smooth and simple. Each seat is equipped with a single lever. It also has an ample storage basket, an integrated parking brake that's one-step (to reduce fatigue in hands when stopping) and some of our top harnesses.
If your children are of different ages, a sit-and- stand stroller, such as our top pick, the UPPAbaby v2 double, is a good option. It can fit two car seats for infants and it also has two modified seats that serve as bassinets.