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 they were easy to fold and maneuver.
Size
There are many styles of double strollers such as tandem, side-by-side (single-file) and wagons. The category has come a long way from the behemoth vintage 1980s models that some elder millennials might remember--these days they're sleek and offer various customization options to make the experience of traveling with kids more enjoyable for all involved.
For parents with infants or toddlers, a double stroller with car seat is an excellent option for bringing them from point A to B. Some of the most modern strollers feature one frame that can accommodate two infant car seats or convertible toddler seats. This lets them be used by children from birth until they reach kindergarten age. They are generally more expensive than a simple double stroller frame, but they also provide the convenience of an integrated car seat system and a spacious undercarriage basket that can accommodate both car seats.
Parents with less children can opt for a single-to-double umbrella stroller stroller that is simpler and less expensive. These types of frames are typically lighter in weight, and a few moms have shared with us that they're still using their original stroller after their children outgrew it.
Another great feature of some of the smallest double strollers we've tested is their compact fold. They can fit into spaces that larger strollers aren't able to and are usually easier to maneuver when folded.
Finally, most of the small double strollers we've tested come with a decent-sized sunshade, though coverage varies from nothing to a cocoon covering. For families on a budget you should look into second-hand strollers available on sites like Facebook Marketplace to see if there's a model that meets your family's requirements. Make sure to inspect any used stroller for signs of wear and tear before committing to buying one.
Weight
Parents should take into consideration their budget and whether the stroller will be a good fit for their family's needs when looking for a double-small stroller. For instance, a lightweight stroller may not have enough space to store bulky bags or extra gear. It might not have a canopy that is large enough or other features that make it easier to use on long trips.
The most comfortable double strollers are easy to maneuver and sturdy, so that children can remain in a comfortable position and not be confined to their seats. In our tests of comfort, we award higher marks to strollers with adjustable leg rests and padded seatbacks. The best double strollers offer reclining seating positions which allow children to relax during long trips.
Innovative designs and thoughtful features are making strollers that can be used in a variety of ways more popular than ever. Some of the best strollers can fit multiple car seats and provide an array of seating options from birth through preschool. Some are lightweight enough to run or even travel with.
When choosing a small double stroller it is essential to consider whether the stroller can be pushed through narrow doorways and other spaces. The majority of older models of side-byside strollers and tandem strollers have an overall wideness that makes them incompatible with numerous doors. The top double strollers are generally shorter than the typical models, and are able to be easily pushed through standard doorways.
You should also think about whether you need a stroller that has additional features such as a cup holder and snack tray. These are great for longer trips, but they add weight and cost to the double stroller.
Folding
A small double buggy travel system stroller can be folded compactly to fit into small spaces. It is also easy to store. A light design makes it easy to carry and maneuver.
Before you decide on a small double stroller consider where you will be using it and how often. The answer to these questions will help you decide the features that are most important. For example, if you are planning to run with the stroller you'll need 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 near in age, then a side-byside stroller may be best compact double stroller. If they are in different stages of development then an incline stroller could be the best choice for you.
A double stroller is costly, but the investment will pay dividends over time. A good model that is suitable for your family's needs can simplify the process of traveling with kids. It will also provide you and your children with a lifetime of comfort.
If you're limited with storage space, you might want to consider a small double stroller that can accommodate infant car seats as well as toddlers. Evenflo Pivot Xplore Wagon can accommodate twins and is an excellent option for families with two children. It comes with two canopy options and a storage bin that can be attached and a tray for the child with cup holders. This stroller is budget-friendly and offers the ability to fold quickly and easily, and it can be carried with just one hand. It is important to note, however, that most double modular strollers require you to remove the second seat prior to folding them.
Maneuverability
The best small double strollers are easy to maneuver and feature smooth and responsive wheels that can glide across all kinds of surfaces. These strollers come with reclining seats that are comfortable and ample storage space for your kids' equipment. In addition, many of these strollers can accommodate car seat carriers and infant toddler seats. These features make these strollers a great choice for families that want a single, multi-purpose stroller.
Alli Cavasino, a certified child passenger safety technician who provides parents with advice on travel gear and strollers she suggests selecting a lightweight stroller that is easy for children to push. "Strollers that are too heavy can cause frame fatigue and injuries," she says. "If your stroller is weighing too much and difficult to push, think about including a ride-along board, or reducing the number of children in the seat."
Many of the compact double strollers we tried can accommodate multiple infant car seats. The UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double, for instance, can accommodate two infant car seats or toddler seats simultaneously and converts to a three-seat layout with the help of the RumbleSeat. It also has a stylish, inline design, foam-filled tires that won't go flat and a telescoping handlebar that can be adjusted. The seat belts are simple to adjust and remove, and its UPF 50+ sunshades feature peekaboo windows.
Other models come with different seating configurations. They can be used for twins, triplets, an older child and an infant or the toddler who is riding on a scooter (sold separately). They also have easy-to-use brakes and a surprisingly compact fold that fits in most trunks. Some are so light that they can be carried up and down stairs. They also require minimal assembly although the Joovy Caboose requires a few tools and took the longest to build in our tests.
Safety
The top double buggy with carrycot strollers have many safety features, including adjustable handlebars to give you a good grip and a wide base that won't tip over when the kids get up from their seats. They also have large canopy that can be used to protect both children and even the rain. Alli Cavasino is a certified child safety technician. She claims they are simple to use. "Look for a oneor two-step fold that is easily carried, and that has a clear, obvious location to put the straps," she advises.
The tiniest strollers are able to be pushed through doors effortlessly. This is a huge advantage if you live smaller spaces or have a limited car. The smallest models are also much lighter than traditional double strollers, making them easier to lug from one place to another--no need to strain your arms and back while carrying the heavy stroller over your shoulder.
Parents with children of similar ages can prefer an X-style stroller that is side by side like our top pick: the Joovy Kooper X2, that has two child seats which can be individually adjusted for recline and width. In our tests the seats we found them to be extremely comfortable and the reclining to be simple and easy with just a single lever on each seat. It also has a huge storage basket and a one-step connected parking brake (to reduce hand fatigue while stopping), and some of the most comfortable harnesses we have tested.
If you have kids far from each other in terms of age, then a sit-and-stand stroller like our top pick, the UPPAbaby Vista Double, might be a good fit. It is compatible with two infant car seats, and also has two seats that have been modified which function as bassinets older kids--and can be adapted to accommodate the use of a riding board for a sibling who is even older.