Buying a Small Double Stroller
A double stroller is a significant investment, and it's one you'll use for many years. This is why you must choose carefully.
Our testers looked at strollers that provide incredible flexibility and smooth rides on any terrain. They also tested whether they were easy to fold and maneuver.
Size
There are a variety of double strollers available, including side-by-side, tandem (single-file) and wagons. The category has evolved from the vintage 1980s models that older millennials may be familiar with. Today, they are sleek and come with a range of customizations that make traveling with children more enjoyable for all.
For parents with infants or toddlers in tow, an extra stroller that has a car seat is a great option for taking them from A B. Some of the most advanced strollers on the market have frames that can accommodate two infant car seats or convertible toddler seats, allowing them to be used from birth until the time children reach kindergarten age. They are generally more expensive than a standard double stroller frame, however they also provide the convenience of a built-in car seat system, as well as a large undercarriage basket which can accommodate both car seats.
Parents with fewer children may choose a single-to-double-stroller that is simpler and less expensive. These frames are usually lighter, and some moms still use their original stroller even after their children have outgrown it.
The compact fold is another excellent feature of the smallest double strollers that we've tested. They can fit into spaces larger strollers can't and are usually more maneuverable when folded.
The majority of double strollers we tested come with a decent-sized sunshade. However, the coverage can range from nothing to an entire cocoon. For families with a tight budget it's worth looking at second-hand strollers available on sites like Facebook Marketplace to see if there's an option that fits your family's needs. Just be certain to check any used stroller carefully for signs of wear and tear before purchasing one.
Weight
Parents should think about their budget and whether the stroller will fit into the family's lifestyle before purchasing a double stroller. For instance, a lightweight stroller may not have enough space to store bulky bags or other equipment. It also might not have a large canopy or other features that make it easier to use on long trips.
The best double strollers are strong and easy to maneuver and ensure that children are at ease in their seats and do not move around when they ride. Strollers with padded seatbacks and adjustable leg rests get higher scores in our comfort tests than those without. The best double strollers offer reclined seats that allow kids to unwind on long rides.
Strollers that can be used for a variety of purposes are more popular than ever because of their innovative designs and clever features. Some of the top strollers can accommodate multiple car seats and offer an array of seating options from birth through preschool. Some are so light they can be used for jogging or traveling.
When choosing a small double stroller it is essential to determine if the stroller can fit through narrow doorways and other spaces. The majority of older models of side-byside strollers and tandem strollers have a wide width which makes them incompatible with many doors. The most effective small double strollers tend to be smaller than the traditional models and can be pushed into the majority of doors easily.
You should also consider whether you need a stroller with additional features like a cup holder and snack tray. These can be handy for longer trips, but they can add to the total weight and cost of a double stroller.
Folding
A small double stroller can be folded compactly to fit into small spaces. It is also easy to store. In addition, a light design guarantees that it will be easy to maneuver and transport.
Before you pick a stroller that is small, think about where you'll use it and how often. These questions will help you decide what features are essential. If you're planning to run with the stroller, you'll want one that has an elongated suspension so that it can glide smoothly over rough surfaces and pavement.
Be aware of the age and temperament of your children, too. If they are of similar age and have similar temperaments, a tandem stroller might be the best option. If they are at different stages of development, a tandem stroller may be the best choice for you.
A double stroller can be costly however, the investment will pay off in the long run. A good model that is suitable for your family's needs will simplify the process of traveling with kids. It also provides you and your children with years of convenience.
If you're limited with storage space, you might want to consider a small double stroller that can accommodate both toddler car seats and infant car seats. The Evenflo Pivot Xplore Wagon is ideal for families with two young children and can hold twins. It has two canopy options and a storage bin that is attached, and an infant tray with cup holders. This stroller is budget-friendly and offers an easy and quick fold and can be pushed by one hand. It is important to note that the majority of double modular strollers require you to take off the second seat before folding them.
Maneuverability
The best double strollers for small children are easy to maneuver and have smooth, supple wheels that can glide across any surface. These strollers also feature comfortable, reclining seats and ample storage space for your kids' gear. In addition some of these strollers can accommodate car seat carriers as well as infant toddler seats. These features make these strollers a great choice for families that want one stroller that is multi-purpose.
Alli Cavasino, a certified child passenger safety technician who advises parents on strollers and travel gear, recommends choosing a lightweight stroller that is easy to push. "Strollers that are too heavy could cause frame fatigue and injury," she says. "If your stroller feels heavy and difficult to push, you might consider adding a ride-along deck or reducing the number of children in the seat."
Several of the small double strollers we tried can accommodate multiple infant car seats. The UPPAbaby Vista v2 double, for instance, can hold two toddler or infant seats at the same time and can be converted to three seats using the RumbleSeat add-on. It also features a chic inline design, with foam-filled tires that won't be flat, and a telescoping handlebar that can be adjusted. The seat belts are simple to secure and remove and its UPF 50+ sunshades feature windows that can be seen through.
Other models come with different seating configurations. They can be used with twins, triplets, an older child and an infant or a toddler riding a scooter (sold separately). These models also have easy-to use brakes and the compact fold that fits in most trunks. Some are light enough to be able to carry up and down the stairs. They require minimal assembly. The Joovy Caboose, however, requires some tools and was the most difficult to build during our tests.
Safety
The top double strollers have numerous safety features, such as adjustable handlebars to give you a good grip and a wide base that doesn't fall over when the children get out of their seats. The canopies are big enough to cover both kids in rainstorms. Alli Cavasino is a certified child safety technician. She says they're simple to use. "Look for a oneor two-step fold that is easily carried and provides a clear and easy place to put the straps," she advises.
The narrowest compact strollers can fit through doors with ease. This is an excellent benefit if you live in a small apartment or have a car that isn't as big. The smallest models are also considerably lighter than normal double strollers, making them easy to move from one location to another. No need to strain your arms and back as you sling the heavy stroller over your shoulder.
Parents with children close in age may choose a side-by-side stroller like our top option for the Joovy Kooper X2, which has two child seats which can be adjusted for recline and width separately. In our tests the seats we found them to be extremely comfortable and the recline to be quick and intuitive with just a single lever on each seat. It also comes with an ample storage basket, an integrated parking brake that is one step (to reduce fatigue in the hands while stopping) and some of our most popular harnesses.
If your children are different ages, a sitting-and- stand stroller, like our top pick the UPPAbaby V2 double, could be an ideal choice. It can fit two infant car seats, and it also has two modified seats that serve as bassinets.