Buying a Small Double Stroller
Double strollers are an investment that will be used for a long time. It is important to choose carefully.
Our testers examined strollers that have incredible mobility and a smooth ride on any terrain. They also tested 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 come a long way from the massive 1980s models that a few older generation millennials may remember. Today they're sleek and come with various options for customization to make travel with children more enjoyable for all involved.
For parents with infants or toddlers, a double stroller and car seats is a great option for getting them from point A to B. Some of the most advanced strollers available feature a single frame that can accommodate two infant car seats or convertible toddler seats, making them suitable for use from birth up until kids reach kindergarten age. These are typically more expensive than a standard double stroller frame, however they also come with the convenience of an integrated car seat system as well as a large undercarriage basket which can hold both car seats.
Parents with less children can opt for a single-to double-stroller, which is less complicated and more affordable. These frames are typically lighter in weight, and some moms have even told us they're still using their old stroller even after their children have outgrew it.
Another great feature of a number of the smaller double strollers we've tested is their compact fold. They can fit in places that larger strollers can't and are generally more maneuverable once folded.
In addition, all of the small double strollers we've tested feature a nice-sized sunshade, although the it's possible to have nothing to a cocoon covering. For families on a budget you should look into secondhand strollers on sites like Facebook Marketplace to see if there's a stroller that will meet your family's needs--just be sure to examine any used stroller for signs of wear and tear prior to purchasing one.
Weight
Parents should take into consideration their budget and if the stroller is suitable for their family's needs when shopping for a double small stroller. For instance, a lightweight stroller might not have enough storage space for bulky bags or other gear. It may also not have a an expansive canopy or other features that would make the stroller more convenient to use on long trips.
The best double strollers are simple to maneuver and durable, so that the children can remain comfortable and not be confined to their seats. Strollers with cushioned seatbacks and adjustable leg rests earn higher marks in our comfort tests than those that do not have. The best double strollers also offer reclining seating positions that allow kids to take a break during long trips.
Innovative designs and clever features have made strollers that can be used in many ways more popular than ever. The best models can accommodate multiple car seat configurations and offer a wide range of seating options from birth to preschool years. Some are even light enough to jog or travel.
One of the most important factors to take into consideration when selecting a small double stroller is whether it will fit through doorways and other narrow spaces. The older models of tandem strollers as well as side-by-side walkers are often too wide to fit through the doors of many. The best tandem strollers are usually shorter than the typical models, and can be carried through the majority of doors.
Another thing to consider is whether you require a stroller that has additional features like a cup holder, or a snack tray. These are useful for longer trips, but they can add to the overall weight and cost of a double stroller.
Folding
A small double stroller is designed to fold compactly, fitting easily into tight spaces and making it easy to put away. Additionally, its lightweight design ensures that it will be easy to maneuver and carry.
Before you choose a stroller that is small, think about where you'll use it and how often. These questions will help you decide the most important features. If you plan to run with the stroller, you'll want one with an elongated suspension so that it can glide smoothly over rough terrain and pavement.
Consider the age and temperament of your children too. If they are close in age, then a side-byside stroller might be the best choice. If they are in different stages of development, then an incline stroller could be better suited to your needs.
A double stroller is expensive, but it's an investment that will pay off in the long run. A good model that is suitable for your family's needs will help you travel with children more easily. It can also provide you and your children with years of comfort.
If you are limited in storage space, consider a compact double stroller that can accommodate infant car seats and toddlers. The Evenflo Pivot Xplore Wagon is a great choice for families with two small children and can accommodate twins. It has dual canopies as well as an attached storage bin, and a child's tray with cup holders. This lightweight, budget-friendly stroller is easy to fold and can be carried with just one hand. It is worth noting, however, that most double modular strollers require that you remove the second seat when folding them.
Maneuverability
The most suitable double strollers for small spaces are easy to maneuver, and have wheels that glide smoothly over any surface. These strollers also feature comfortable, reclining seats and ample storage space for kids' gear. Additionally, many of these strollers can accommodate car seat carriers as well as infant toddler seats. These features make these strollers an ideal option for families who want a single, multi-purpose stroller.
Alli Cavasino is a certified child safety technician and a travel gear expert who offers advice to parents on strollers and other equipment. She recommends choosing a lightweight, easy-to-push model. She says that heavy strollers can cause frame fatigue and injuries. "If your stroller feels heavy and difficult to push, you might consider including a ride-along board, or reduce the number of children in the seat."
Several of the small double strollers we tested can accommodate multiple infant car seat carriers. The UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double, for instance, can carry two infant car seats or toddler seats at once and can convert to a three-seat configuration with the addition of RumbleSeat. It also features a stylish inline design with foam-filled tires that won't flatten and an adjustable handbar that can be telescoping. Its seat buckles are one of the easiest to secure and remove and its large UPF 50+ sunshades have windows that peek out.
double pushchair have seating versatility, making them suitable for multiples, twins, a single older kid and an infant, or a toddler who has a riding scooter (sold separately). These models also come with brakes that are easy to use and a compact fold that fits into the majority of trunks. Some are so light they can be transported up and down stairs. And most require little assembly, though 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 a comfortable grip, and an extra wide base that will not tip over when children get out of their seats. The canopy is large enough to cover both kids in the event of rain. Alli Cavasino is a certified child safety technician. She claims they are simple to use. "Look for an easy oneor two-step fold that can be easily carried and has a clear, easy location to put the straps," she advises.
The tiniest strollers are able to be pushed through doors effortlessly. This is an excellent advantage if you live in smaller spaces or have a limited car. The smallest models weigh less than standard double strollers. This makes them easier to carry from one location to the next.
Parents of children who are close in age may choose the side-by-side stroller, such as our top pick for the Joovy Kooper X2, which features two child seats that can be adjusted to width and recline individually. In our testing we found that the seats were extremely comfortable, and the recline was smooth and simple. Each seat has only one lever. It also has a huge storage basket, a one-step linked parking brake (to reduce hand fatigue while stopping) as well as some of the best harnesses we have tested.
If you have children who are from each other in terms of age, then a stroller that sits and stands, such as our top choice, the UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double, could be a good fit. It is compatible with two infant car seats and has two seats that have been modified that function as bassinets for older children. They can also be modified to accommodate a riding board for an even older sibling.
