Think You're The Perfect Candidate For Small Double Stroller? Try This Quiz
Buying a Small Double Stroller A double stroller is a major investment, and one that you will use for many years. You must make the right choice. Our testers examined strollers that offer incredible flexibility and smooth rides on any terrain. They also examined whether the models were easy-to-fold and move. Size There are a variety of styles of double strollers available on the market, ranging from side-byside to tandem (single-file seating) and wagons. The category has come a long way from the behemoth vintage 1980s models that many older millennials might remember—these days, they're sleek and support various customization options to make travel with children more enjoyable for all involved. If you have a child or toddlers to take along, an extra stroller that has car seats can be incredibly useful for transporting them from A to B. Some of the most sophisticated strollers on the market have frames that can hold two infant car seats or convertible toddler seats, allowing them to be used from birth up until kids reach kindergarten age. They're generally more expensive than double stroller frames, however they include a car seat system and a large undercarriage basket. Parents with fewer children might prefer a simpler one-to-double stroller that is less expensive. These strollers are generally lighter in weight, and some moms have even told us they're still using their original stroller even after their children have outgrew it. Another excellent feature of a number of the smaller double strollers we've tested is their compact fold. They can be tucked away where larger strollers won't and are generally easier to maneuver once folded. Most double strollers we tested had a decent sunshade. However, coverage can vary from zero to the size of a cocoon. If you're on a budget then you may want to check out secondhand strollers on auction websites like Facebook Marketplace. Just make sure to check the stroller for signs of wear prior to buying it. Weight Parents should consider their budget and whether the stroller is suitable for their family's lifestyle when purchasing a double stroller. A lightweight stroller is one example. It may not have enough storage space to hold large bags or additional gear. It might not have a large canopy or other features to make it more convenient to use during long journeys. The best double strollers are durable and easy to move that helps ensure that children are comfortable in their seats and don't shift around when they ride. Strollers with cushioned seatbacks and adjustable leg rests score higher scores in our comfort tests than those without. The top double strollers have reclined seats that allow kids to relax on long rides. Strollers that can be used to serve a variety of functions are more popular than ever before, because of their innovative designs and clever features. Some of the top strollers can accommodate multiple car seats and offer many seating options from birth to preschool. Some are so light they can be used for running or even for traveling. One of the most important aspects to consider when choosing a compact double stroller is whether it will be able to pass through doors and other narrow spaces. Older models of tandem strollers and side-byside strollers are typically too wide to fit through the majority of doors. The best small double strollers, however, tend to be smaller than the traditional models and can be pushed right into the majority of doors easily. You should also consider whether you need a stroller that has additional features like a cup holder and snack tray. These can be handy for longer trips, but they add to the overall weight and cost of a double stroller. Folding A small double stroller is designed to fold compactly, easily fitting into tight spaces and making it easy to store. A lightweight design makes it easy to carry and maneuver. Think about the places and times you will be using a double stroller. These questions will help you decide what features are essential. If you're planning to run with the stroller, you'll need one that has an easy suspension so that it can glide smoothly over rough surfaces and pavement. Also, take into consideration the temperament and age of your children. If they are near in age, then a side-byside stroller may be best. If they are at different stages of development, a tandem stroller may be the best choice for you. A double stroller can be expensive, but it's an investment that will pay dividends in the long term. A high-quality model that meets your family's needs will simplify the process of traveling with kids. It can also provide you and your children with years of convenience. If you have limited storage space, you might want to consider a compact double stroller that can fit both infant car seats and toddlers. Evenflo Pivot Xplore Wagon can accommodate twins and is a great option for families with two children. It has two canopy options and a storage bin that is attached, and an infant tray with cup holders. This budget-friendly, lightweight stroller folds easily and can be carried using only one hand. It is worth noting, however, that most double modular strollers require you to remove the second seat before folding them. Maneuverability The best double strollers designed for small spaces are easy to maneuver, and have wheels that glide smoothly across any surface. These strollers come with reclining seats that are comfortable and plenty of storage space for your child's gear. Many of these strollers are also compatible with infant and toddler seats and car seat carriers. These features make them a perfect option for families looking for one stroller that can expand with their family. Alli Cavasino, a certified child passenger safety technician who advises parents on travel gear and strollers She suggests choosing a light stroller that is easy to push. “Strollers that are too heavy can lead to frame fatigue and injury,” she says. If your stroller is heavy and difficult to push, add a ride-along feature or reduce the number of children. Some double strollers we tested can accommodate multiple infant car seats. The UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double, for instance, can accommodate two infant car seats or toddler seats simultaneously and can convert to a three-seat configuration by using the add-on RumbleSeat. It also has a chic inline design with foam-filled tires which won't flatten, as well as an adjustable handbar that telescopically adjusts. Its seat belts are simple to fasten and undo and its UPF 50+ sunshades feature windows that can be seen through. Other models come with multiple seating configurations. They can be used with twins or triplets, as well as 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 compact fold that fits in the majority of trunks. Some are light enough to be able to carry up and down steps. And most require little assembly however the Joovy Caboose requires a few tools and took the longest to build in our tests. Safety The top double strollers have many safety features, including adjustable handlebars to give you a good grip and a broad base that won't tip when the kids get up from their seats. They also have large canopy that cover both kiddos in rain or storms. They're also very easy to use, according to Alli Cavasino, a certified child passenger safety technician. “Look for an easy one- or two-step fold that's easy to carry and has a clear, easy where to place the straps,” she advises. The narrowest compact strollers can fit through doors with ease. This is a great advantage if you live in smaller spaces or have a limited car. The smallest models are also significantly lighter than normal double strollers, making them easy to move from one location to the next. No needing to strain your arms or back while carrying the heavy stroller over your shoulder. Parents who have kids older than their age could consider an asymmetrical stroller such as our top pick for the Joovy Kooper X2, which includes two child seats which can be adjusted for width and recline individually. In our tests, we found the seats to be extremely comfortable, and recline to be simple and easy with just a single lever on each seat. It also has a huge storage basket as well as a one-step linked parking brake (to reduce hand fatigue while stopping) and some of the best harnesses in our tests. If you have kids far from each other in age, a sit-and-stand stroller, like our top pick, the UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double, might be a good fit. It is compatible with two infant car seats and comes with two seats that act as bassinets for older children. It can also be modified to accommodate a riding platform to accommodate a sibling of a similar age.