Buying a Small Double Stroller

A double stroller is a major purchase, and it's one that you will use for a long time. You should choose wisely.

Our testers looked at strollers that offer incredible flexibility and smooth rides on any terrain. They also inspected whether the models were easy to fold and maneuver.

Size

There are a variety of styles of double strollers on market, from side-by-side to tandem (single-file seating) and wagons. The category has evolved from the massive 1980s models that a few older millennials might remember--these days, they're sleek and support various options for customization to make the experience of traveling with kids more enjoyable for all involved.

For parents with infants or toddlers in tow, 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 feature frames that can accommodate two infant car seats or convertible toddler seats making them suitable for use from birth until the time children reach the age of kindergarten. They're generally more expensive than a standard double stroller frame, but they also provide the convenience of a built-in car seat system and an ample undercarriage basket that can hold both car seats.

Parents with fewer children could choose a single-to-double-stroller that is more simple and less expensive. These frames are usually lighter and some moms use their original stroller even after their children have outgrown it.

The compact fold is another great feature of some the smallest double strollers that we've tried. They can fit in places where larger strollers wouldn't, and they're often more maneuverable once folded.

Finally, most of the small double strollers we've tested come with a decent-sized sunshade, although the coverage varies from nothing to a cocoon-like covering. For families on a budget it's worth looking at second-hand strollers on websites like Facebook Marketplace to see if there's an option that fits your family's needs. Just be sure to inspect the stroller for signs of wear and tear before making a decision to purchase one.

Weight

When shopping for a small double stroller, parents must consider how much they want to pay and if it will fit their family's lifestyle. For example, a lightweight stroller might not have enough space to store bulky bags or other gear. It might not have a big canopy, or other features to make it more comfortable to use on long journeys.

The best double strollers are simple to maneuver and durable, so that the children can remain in a comfortable position and not move around in their seats. In our tests for comfort, we prefer strollers that have adjustable leg rests and padded seatbacks. The top double strollers offer reclining seating positions that allow kids to take a break during long trips.

Innovative designs and clever features are making strollers that can be used in various ways more popular than ever. Some of the most effective options are able to accommodate multiple car seat installation and offer a wide range of seating configurations from infant to preschool. Some are lightweight enough for jogging or even travel with.

When choosing a small double stroller, it is important to consider whether the stroller can fit through narrow doorways and other spaces. Older models of tandem strollers and side-by-side strollers are usually too large to pass through many doors. The top double strollers are generally shorter than the typical models, and are able to be pushed through most doors.

You should also consider whether you require a stroller that has additional features like cups holder and a snack tray. These are useful for longer trips but will add weight and expense to the double stroller.

Folding

A compact double stroller is designed to fold compactly, easily fitting in tight spaces and making it easy to put away. A light design makes it easy to carry and maneuver.

Before you choose a small double stroller, think about where you'll use it and how often. The answer to these questions will help you identify the features that are most important. For example, if you intend to run in the stroller then you'll want to choose one with a an elongated suspension that can glide over rough and uneven terrain.

Be aware of the age and temperament of your children as well. If they are of similar age, then a side-by-side stroller could be the best. However, if they are at different stages of development, then a tandem model may be better suited for your needs.

A double stroller can be expensive, but it's an investment that will pay off in the long run. Investing in a quality model that fits your family's needs will make travel with children much easier and will offer years of convenience for both of you.

If you are limited in storage space, consider a small double stroller that can accommodate toddler car seats and infant car seats. Evenflo Pivot Xplore Wagon can accommodate twins and is a great option for families with two children. It features dual canopies, a storage bin that attaches, and an infant tray with cup holders. This budget-friendly, lightweight double pushchair stroller folds easily and can be carried with just one hand. It is important to know that you have to remove the second seat of the majority of double modular strollers when folding.

Maneuverability

The best small double strollers are easy to maneuver and come with smooth and responsive wheels that glide over all kinds of surfaces. These strollers come with reclining seats that are comfortable and ample storage space for your child's gear. A lot of these strollers are compatible with infant and toddler seats as well as car seat carriers. These features make these strollers a great option for families looking for one stroller that is multi-purpose.

Alli Cavasino, a certified child passenger safety technician who advises parents on strollers and travel gear She suggests choosing a light stroller that is easy to push. She warns that heavy strollers can cause frame fatigue and injuries. If your stroller is too heavy and difficult for you to push, consider adding a ride-along or reduce the number of children.

Several of the small double strollers we tested can accommodate multiple infant car seat carriers. The UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double, for instance, can accommodate two infant car seats or toddler seats simultaneously and can be converted into a three-seater configuration by using the add-on RumbleSeat. It also comes with a fashionable inline design with foam-filled tires that won't flatten, as well as an adjustable handbar that telescopically adjusts. The seat buckles are one of the easiest to unfasten and fasten, and its generous UPF 50+ sunshades feature peekaboo windows.

Other models have seating flexibility, which makes them suitable for twins, multiples, a single older kid and an infant, or a toddler with a scooter (sold separately). They also have easy-to-use brakes and a compact fold that fits into the majority of trunks. Some are light enough to be able to carry up and down steps. The majority of them require little assembly. The Joovy Caboose, however, requires some tools and was among the most difficult to construct during our tests.

Safety

The best double strollers are equipped with a variety of safety features. They have adjustable handlebars that provide an ergonomic grip, as well as an extra wide base that won't tip over when the children get out of their seats. The canopies are large enough to accommodate both kids during rainstorms. Alli Cavasino is a certified child safety technician. She claims they are simple to use. "Look for an easy oneor two-step fold that is easily carried and has a clear, obvious 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 small car. The smallest models also weigh less than normal double strollers. This makes them easier to carry from one location to the next.

Parents of children who are close in age may choose a side-by-side stroller like our top option, the Joovy Kooper X2, which includes two child seats which can be adjusted for width and recline individually. In our testing the seats we found them to be extremely comfortable and the reclining to be simple and easy with just one lever on each seat. It also comes with an ample storage basket, an integrated parking brake that's one-step (to reduce fatigue in hands when stopping) and some of our best harnesses.

If your children are different ages, a sitting-and- stand stroller, such as our top choice UPPAbaby v2 double, could be a good option. It is compatible with two infant car seats and has a pair of modified seats that function as bassinets for older children. It can also be modified to accommodate a riding platform for an even older sibling.