How Easy Is It to Push and Fold a Double Stroller?

Whether you're taking your toddler on the streets or jogging with your twins, the perfect double stroller makes it easier for everyone to move around. But finding one that's easy to fold and push is essential.

Our Lab experts recommend side-by-side models that have equal reclining and plenty of storage space, including car seat adapters for infants.

Seating

When you are looking for a double stroller, seating options are crucial. Depending on your kids' stages of development You may want to consider a side-by-side option that lets both children sit together, or a tandem model that lets one child stand while the other one is seated.

The seating arrangement can affect your comfort when you walk through busy streets and sidewalks. Look for strollers with reclined seats, footrests that recline and ample canopy options that provide shade for both of the passengers. Avoid hanging bags from the handlebars, as they can alter the stroller's centre of gravity and cause it to tip.

Double strollers that are of good quality will also come with convenient storage compartments for your essentials. Look for storage compartments on the seat backs or beneath the seats to keep toys, snacks and other necessities handy. The organizer bags and consoles for parents attached to the handles are also helpful to keep essentials in reach during walks or outings.

A side-byside pram is the ideal choice for parents who have children of the same age. They are usually more stable and provide better visibility for both passengers than strollers that stack. Some models can accommodate two infants in a car seats, which allows you to move your sleeping children from the car to the pram and not wake them.

Parents with older children who don't mind sitting separately or who prefer a little some independence may like the sit-and-stand option that allows an older child to get on the front of the stroller and toddler stroller ride along. This type of double-stroller is not newborn-compatible, and it may require more maintenance over time. However, it could be an excellent option for active families that want the versatility of one stroller that transforms into a two-kid model.

The best double strollers will be durable and easy-to-maneuver, even in rough terrain or tight spaces. They're also lightweight and fold for compact stowing in your trunk or garage making them easy to transport and manage while traveling. Additionally, they have a sturdy construction to ensure the longevity and safety of your children. Furthermore, they are compliant with the American Academy of Pediatricians' (AAP) guidelines for safety.

Canopy

A canopy protects both passengers from direct sunlight and, in some models, a an apron that protects children's faces. The top scoring models for canopy options were the BOB Revolution Flex v3.0 Duallie, and the UPPAbaby Vista v2 Dual. Both come with huge shades. Both models have ample coverage and cover children from head to toe, while inline options often skimp on shade or only offer a single canopy which only covers one seat. This could be a problem for siblings that want different levels protection.

A good canopy should also be able to slide easily onto the stroller, and a number of our top-rated models can do that. Make sure to check the dimensions of the canopy prior to buying, as some models may need extra space to extend fully and avoid hitting the handles.

Some parents prefer double strollers with a bassinet or car seat adapters to give them more options in the future. For instance the UPPAbaby Vist v2 Double features an infant seat as well as an additional RumbleSeat, making it an ideal choice for families with twins or young children who might require transporting more than two kids at the same time. This stroller is a versatile model that offers an unique sit-and-stand arrangement for older children who prefer riding on their own.

Other accessories that can make your stroller more functional include parent consoles or bags for organizing, which can help keep essentials within reach. They're particularly useful for strollers that aren't used frequently or when you want to stash toys and snacks away from prying eyes. Some of these accessories can be secured with straps or snaps that makes it simple to remove them once you're ready to take the stroller again.

If you're planning on investing in a long-term plan opt for a double stroller that is compatible with infant car seats and will grow into a toddler stroller complete with an adjustable bench or glider board. Both the Graco Travel System RoomFor2 and UPPAbaby's Vista Duallie feature a bassinet that is compatible with car seats, a toddler's seat, and a RumbleSeat. Both strollers can be converted to triple pram strollers by the addition of a running board. This is a great option for families with active children. one child who is always be active.

Wheels

The type of wheels that are used on the stroller can make a big difference in how it is easy or difficult to push. In general, bigger wheels are easier to maneuver and are able to handle more terrain. The material of the wheels also determines how they are easy or difficult to push. Rubber wheels are more durable than plastic ones and can handle rougher surfaces.

Stroller wheels come in a variety styles sizes, shapes, and materials to meet various needs and environments. Swivel wheels, toddler stroller for instance, can make it easier to maneuver through tight spaces and tight corners. Fixed wheels provide more stability and are ideal for smooth surfaces. If you intend to take your stroller off the road or on rough terrain, you should consider purchasing air-filled tires instead rubber tires. These tires are similar to bicycle tires, which absorb shocks for an easier ride.

Double strollers that are side by side are larger than tandem models and may be more difficult to maneuver through narrow doors or crowded aisles. But they give your children the same amount of space and let them stretch their legs. They're also generally easier to steer and maneuver than tandem strollers.

If you intend to use your stroller for running or biking, look for a double jogger with special all-terrain or jogging tires. These tires are larger and thicker, and come with sealed ball bearings that provide a smoother ride on uneven surfaces. Some models, like the Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 Double Stroller are compatible with car seats, which let you jog with your children safely strapped in their car seats.

Other strollers that are all-terrain and jogging, such as the Valco Baby Tri Mode Duo X can accommodate two children in the front, but are too heavy to be classified as umbrella doubles. In our testing, we discovered that the buckles on this stroller were the most difficult to fasten. This could be a problem if you have to squeeze two children into the stroller at the same time. The stroller is costly with a price that is hundreds higher than our main top-rated single-to-tandem model, but it comes with top-quality materials and a good selling value.

Stores

A good double stroller will have enough storage space for the children and the parents. Lack of storage space can make it difficult for parents to complete errands and bring all the equipment they require on a family day out. In our Lab tests the UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double did excellently in this metric it has a large and easy-to-access basket that can accommodate up to 30 pounds.

Strollers that have pockets or compartments that are multiple can help families keep in mind small items like phones, keys and wallets. A parent console or organizer bag that is attached to the handlebars of the stroller could be a handy way for parents to store their personal belongings during outings with the children.

In addition to a spacious basket the UPPAbaby Vista comes with two infant car seats (though not both bassinets) and also has a telescoping handlebar and brakes that are simple to use. It also has the largest maximum weight capacity in our line-up and it folds to fit most standard door frames.

On the flip side our test subjects found that the wagon-style Joovy Caboose Ultralight Graphite has an excellent handlebar that can be adjusted, ideal for parents of various heights. The wagon features two folding UV screens to ensure complete sun protection, and its cup holders as well as snack tray can be used to hold various bottles for kids and snacks.

The biggest issue with any stroller is folding it and getting it back to its original shape after you've used it. This is especially true when you have a baby or toddler with you. It's essential to pick one that folds quickly and smoothly. Both the UPPAbaby Vista v2 stroller and Evenflo Pivot Xpand have a single-handed, simple-to-use mechanism that allows parents fold their stroller quickly and efficiently, regardless of the configuration they're in.

Double strollers may seem like an investment that's expensive, but parents who plan to use it for a number of years will be paying more than single strollers. It's also worth checking whether a stroller can be disassembled into smaller pieces to make it easier to transport and store this is a vital consideration if you have limited living or vehicle space.