Shopping For a Compact Double Stroller
Whether you're looking to buy a stroller for your own twins or pick one up as a cool-auntie gift it's an excellent option. It has a side by side design with reclined seats independently and a large UPF50and shade for the canopy.
You can also add a RumbleSeat, Vista PiggyBack or another ride-along board to accommodate a different child. It's also easy to fold and maneuver.
Features
When you are looking for a double stroller there are a variety of factors to consider, such as whether you need an infant or toddler seat, or a canopy. Apart from that the most crucial characteristics of a light double stroller is its mobility and ability to roll over different surfaces. The majority of the strollers we've tested can maneuver easily in tight spaces, but if you intend to take it off-road or over uneven terrain, you should look for one designed to take on those challenges.
Some of the compact double strollers that we've reviewed have frames that are narrow, making them easier to maneuver through tight spaces, like doors. They also tend to have smaller, foam-filled wheels than jogging strollers. This makes them lighter and easier to push over bumpy or sandy terrain. This also means that they can often be driven in snow or on cobblestones.
For parents who frequently travel, a compact and lightweight double stroller is a must. They typically fold flat and lock, making them easy to carry and pack. They can be folded using just one hand, and they can be upright when folded.
We've tested a variety of double strollers that fold into a compact size. However, we've also tested a few models that are even smaller and easily stored in your trunk or home. Some of these strollers come with a built-in carrying strap, making them easier to carry.
The most affordable models in this category are convertible double strollers which let you convert them into single strollers as your children develop. They typically come with a large storage basket that can accommodate both seats' worth of equipment and can be converted to an infant car seat carrier using a compatible adapter (not included). They are usually able to be converted to a toddler seat with the purchase of an additional conversion kit, which could be a huge savings.
Design
When you are looking for a new stroller, you should think about where and how it will be used. This will help narrow down the options. A more robust design is important when you intend to take it to the park or for long walks. This is especially true for those who want to utilize their stroller as a car seat travel system. In this instance it is important to determine whether the stroller is compatible with the car seat or bassinet that you are planning to use.
A good double stroller must be capable of rolling and moving over different surfaces. The majority of the models we tested can do this, but models with larger wheels are able to glide effortlessly over grass, carpeting, unpaved paths, sidewalks, curbs, and other surfaces.
We also looked for strollers that could take a beating, but still fold up compactly, and preferably with a simple one-hand mechanism. It is essential to have an item that can be folded with one hand, as most parents don't have two hands available to handle their child and stroller at the same time. We all know that accidents happen. A stroller that you can easily clean will help you save lots of time and frustration.
Some of the top-rated strollers have features that make them stand out from the crowd like self-standing, one-handed folding and a carry strap for easy schlepping. These strollers also come with large pop-out canopy with windows that peek out and SPF 50 as well as adjustable Calf supports with reclining seats, as well as comfortable padding. We also like models that allow you to add a second passenger.
Many of the top double strollers are available as bundles that include car seats as well as bassinets. This can be an ideal solution for parents who do not wish to buy separate products and worry about reassembling. These models are usually of lower quality than strollers that are standalone. twin pushchair are often heavier and harder to maneuver in tight spaces.
Comfort
The stroller must be light enough so that you can comfortably carry it without straining either your back or arms. The majority of compact double strollers are no heavier than 24 pounds and measure between 25-30 inches wide. This is much lighter than the standard double stroller. The top double strollers come with comfortable seats and padded leg rests and easy-to fasten buckles.
Some double strollers are compact and have an adjustable suspension that helps you navigate uneven or rough pavement without feeling shaken. Some models come with a swivel front wheel that lets you maneuver around tight areas, like parking lots or shopping aisles. The front wheels can be locked to prevent them from being able to rotate, which is ideal for driving on rough surfaces like cobblestones and sand.
The most double strollers that are compact, in addition to being lightweight and easy to move they are designed to make both parents and children as comfortable as is possible. They feature padded seats with leg rests, straps that are easy to fasten and UPF 50+ canopy which provide ample sun protection as well as peekaboo windows. These are also some of our most spacious strollers for storage. They are big enough to hold both dad and mom's things as well as the kids'.
Many of the best double strollers are versatile that allow you to switch between various configurations with different seat attachments or a ride-on board. For instance, you can use the infant car seat adapter and place a baby in the front seat, then remove it and attach the toddler seat for older siblings to ride. You can also convert the majority of models to a tandem stroller that lets one child be in the back and the other in front (the top seat can typically be turned to face the parent or rotate to create a forward-facing mode).
The most important feature of a compact double stroller is its ease of use. Ideally, you want to be able to fold it and carry it in one hand and then easily place it into your car seat or trunk when not in use. A well-designed, compact double stroller will fold in a matter of seconds and be no more than a few feet in length when fully open. It should also be able to stand up on its own, and not require special tools to disassemble or assemble.
Stores
If you're shopping for a double stroller, search for models with ample storage. You'll need plenty of space to store your necessities whether it's groceries toddler snacks or two bags of toys for children. The stroller should fold easily and compactly. A one-handed fold is a big plus for those days when you're already holding a child or juggling a purse diaper bag, and shopping bags.
Some models have a basket for shopping next to the handlebars, allowing easy access to smaller items. Some models have a spacious traditional undercarriage basket. And if you're looking for a specific type of stroller, look into features such as the ability to attach a kickboard or car seat for infants. Jogging strollers, for instance are designed with a smooth suspension that allows them to glide over pavement and cobblestones while maintaining their speed. Some models even come with a built-in child carrier to run with babies and dogs. However, these kinds of strollers are much more expensive than the basic all-terrain or reclining models, and they require a serious investment in the proper tires for outdoor use.
Specialized car seat strollers such as the UPPAbaby Vista V2 are a great option for parents who want to use their stroller since birth. The Vista can accommodate two infant car seats, bassinets or both (and in some cases, a third seat with the optional RumbleSeat v2) and features easy frame clips to attach or remove seats and other accessories. It also offers a wide selection of seating configurations and, unlike many side-by-side strollers it doesn't have the wide dimensions that make it difficult to maneuver through narrow doors.
The less costly Graco DuoGlider Lux is another great option for families that are planning to use their stroller from birth through toddlerhood. The DuoGlider comes with a large basket and two storage bags that are hung on the back of both seats. It can accommodate either an infant car seat or a car seat for toddlers. It also comes with a rain guard. It's heavier than Vista but it offers a lot of flexibility for the price.
When traveling with children, you need the right equipment, including a stroller that's easy to fold and carry. Most of our top picks are lightweight and fold flat for transport which means they can fit in most trunks and are gate-checked on airplanes. These are also perfect for use in everyday life, particularly if you spend a lot of time in public places.