The 10 Scariest Things About Small Double Stroller
Buying a Small Double Stroller
A double stroller is an important investment, and one you'll use for many years. You should choose wisely.
Our testers were looking for strollers that had amazing mobility and smooth rides across any terrain. They also checked if the strollers were easy to fold and move.
Size
There are a variety of double strollers available on the market, from side-by-side to tandem (single-file seating) and wagons. The category has evolved from the behemoth vintage 1980s models that a few older generation millennials may remember. Today, they're sleek and support various options for customization to make the experience of traveling with children more enjoyable for all involved.
For parents of toddlers or infants, a double stroller and car seats is a great option for getting them from point A to B. Some of the most advanced strollers on the market have a single frame that can hold two infant car seats or convertible toddler seats, which allows them to be used from birth until children reach the age of kindergarten. They're generally more expensive than a simple double stroller frame, however they also provide the convenience of an integrated car seat system as well as a spacious undercarriage basket that can hold both car seats.
Parents who don't have multiple children might want a simple one-to-double stroller that is less expensive. These frames tend to be lighter, and some moms still use their stroller after their children have outgrown it.
The compact fold is a fantastic feature of some of the tiniest double strollers we've test. They can fit in places where larger strollers won't, and they're often easier to maneuver once folded.
Additionally, the majority of small double strollers we've tested feature a nice-sized sunshade, but the it's possible to have nothing to a cocoon covering. For families on a budget it's worth looking at second-hand strollers on websites like Facebook Marketplace to see if there's a model that meets your family's requirements. Make sure to examine any used stroller carefully for signs of wear and tear prior to making a decision to purchase one.
Weight
Parents should think about their budget and if the stroller is suitable for their family's needs when shopping for a double small stroller. A lightweight stroller, for example, may not have enough storage space to accommodate large bags or other equipment. It may not have a canopy that is large enough, or other features to make it easier to use on long trips.
The best double strollers are simple to maneuver and sturdy, to ensure that children remain in a comfortable position and not get out of 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 reclined seats that allow kids to unwind on long rides.
Strollers that can be used to serve a variety of functions are more popular than ever before, thanks to innovative designs and thoughtful features. Some of the most popular strollers can fit multiple car seats and provide an array of seating options from birth to preschool. Some are even light enough to jog or even travel with.
When choosing a small double stroller it is essential to know if the stroller can fit through narrow doors and other spaces. Most older models of side-byside strollers and tandem strollers have an overall wideness that makes them incompatible with many doors. The most compact double strollers, however, tend to be smaller than the traditional models and can be easily pushed into the majority of doors with ease.
It is also important to consider whether you require a stroller with additional features such as an holder for your cup and 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 compact double stroller can fold compactly, easily fitting in tight spaces and making it easy to put away. In addition, a lightweight design makes it possible for it to be easy to move and carry.
Before you choose a small double stroller take note of the location you intend to use it and how often. The answer to these questions will help you decide the features that are the most important. If you plan to run in the stroller, you'll need one with an elongated suspension so that it can easily glide across rough roads and uneven terrain.
Be aware of the age and temperament of your children, too. If they are of the same age, a side by side stroller might be the best option. However, if they are at different stages of development, then a tandem style may be better suited for your requirements.
A double stroller can be costly, but the investment 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 also provides you and your children with a lifetime of comfort.
If you have limited storage space, you might want to consider a small double stroller that can accommodate infant car seats as well as toddlers. The Evenflo Pivot Xplore Wagon is a great choice for families with two children and can hold twins. It comes with two canopy options and a storage bin that is attached, and an infant tray with cup holders. This budget-friendly, lightweight stroller folds up easily and can be carried with just one hand. It is worth pointing out that the majority of double modular strollers require you to remove the second seat before folding them.
Maneuverability
The best small double strollers are easy to maneuver and feature smooth, responsive wheels that glide across any surface. These strollers come with reclined seats that are comfortable and ample storage space for your child's gear. In addition, many of these strollers can accommodate car seat carriers and infant toddler seats. These features make them a great option for families that want a single stroller that can expand with their family.
Alli Cavasino is a certified child safety technician and a travel gear expert who counsels parents on strollers and other equipment. She suggests selecting a lightweight, easy-to push model. "Strollers that are too heavy can lead to frame fatigue and injuries," she says. "If your stroller is weighing too much and difficult to push, you might consider including a ride-along board, or reduce the number of kids in the seat."
A few of the double pushchair with car seat strollers that 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 at once and can convert to a three-seat layout by using the add-on RumbleSeat. It also features a chic, inline design, foam-filled tires that won't be flat, and an adjustable telescoping handlebar. The seat belts are simple to fasten and undo and its UPF 50+ sunshades have peekaboo windows.
Other models provide seating that is flexible, making them suitable for multiples, twins, one older child and an infant or toddler who has a riding scooter (sold separately). These models also have brakes that are simple to use and an incredibly compact fold that can fit in most trunks. Some are so light they can be transported up and down stairs. They require minimal assembly. The Joovy Caboose, however, requires a few tools and was the most difficult to construct during our tests.
Safety
The top double strollers have many safety features, including adjustable handlebars that give you a comfortable grip and a wide base that won't tip over when the kids jump out of their seats. They also come with large canopy that can be used to protect both children and rain or storms. They're also easy to use, according to Alli Cavasino who is a certified child-passenger safety technician. "Look for an easy oneor two-step fold that is easy to carry and provides a clear and easy location to put the straps," she advises.
The most compact strollers fit through doors with ease. This is an excellent advantage if you live a small apartment or have a limited car. The smallest models are much lighter than standard double strollers, which makes them easy to move from one place to another--no need to strain your arms and back while carrying an oversized stroller on your shoulder.
Parents with children of similar ages can prefer a stroller with a side-by-side feature, such as our top choice: the Joovy Kooper X2, that includes two child seats that can be adjusted individually for recline and width. In our testing we found that the seats were very comfortable, and recline was easy and intuitive. Each seat has only one lever. It also comes with a large storage basket, a one-step linked parking brake (to reduce hand fatigue while stopping) and some of the most comfortable harnesses we have tested.
If you have children that are from each other in age, a sit-and-stand stroller, like our top choice, the UPPAbaby Vista Double, could be a good fit. It can be used with two car seats for infants, and it also has two modified seats that can be used as bassinets.