Choosing a Double Umbrella Stroller
It is important to think about your family's needs and priorities when shopping for a double stroller. This will allow you to narrow your choices and concentrate on the most important features.
double pushchair from birth pushchairsandprams -Link 2 double umbrella stroller is a well-made, high-end product that folds up in a compact manner. It comes with large umbrellas, a large storage bin, and is easy to move around.
Lightweight
The best double umbrella strollers provide a lot of functionality in a small, light package. They aren't as heavy as a traditional stroller or jogger, and are typically smaller when folded, too. They don't have the bells or whistles that you'll find on larger strollers, however they often provide large canopies with ample storage space, and reclining seats.
A compact double umbrella stroller is a popular option for families that travel together. It folds easily, fits into most trunks and airplane carry-on bags, and is generally an excellent choice for getting around the narrow streets and narrow doors. It's cheaper than an extra-featured "travel stroller" that you could use for everyday walks.
Some of the best double strollers like the UPPAbaby G-Link 2 have features you won't find on lighter options. This double umbrella stroller includes hanging storage pockets and trays inside each seat for kids' snacks and toys, as well as two cup holders for parents. Its streamlined design makes it one of the most compact double umbrella strollers available on the market when folded and has an extra-wide canopy to safeguard both seats.
Other options that are lightweight, like the Joovy Kooper X2, have more bells and whistles you might expect from a double umbrella stroller, such as a more comfortable ride for both kids because of the padded seating and a more comfortable recline in each seat. It's important to keep in mind that the more features you choose, the more the stroller will weigh. Additionally, due to the way these strollers open and close it is important to be cautious not to let your little fingers catch on hinges or frames, especially when your child is seated in a seat or a chair.
Compact
When folded, the most compact double umbrella strollers are easy to maneuver and fit into tight spaces. They're an excellent option for parents who plan to use their stroller often on sidewalks, in shopping malls, or to visit tourist attractions like the zoo, aquarium or museums. These compact, lightweight strollers may also be ideal to commute in or as a backup to an extra heavy, features-packed stroller while traveling.
There are two types of umbrellas that are lightweight: those with very few features and those that offer numerous convenience and comfort features in addition to their small size and lightweight weight. Some of the better examples include large pop-out umbrellas with SPF 50 and peekaboo windows and padded seats, 5-point safety harnesses in both seating areas, reclining seats, and adjustable leg rests. Other key factors to consider are whether or not you need a tray for your child and car seat attachment capabilities and how much storage space each seat offers.
The Delta Children LX Double Umbrella is a light, low-cost umbrella that is affordable. This stroller weighs only 18 lbs and includes a convenient carrying strap to carry it around. It fits easily into the trunk of your car or in a front closet when not in use. Its front wheels are high-tech and can swivel to give you a smoother ride and easier steering. Another highly recommended option is the new Kinderwagon Hop, a super narrow tandem umbrella stroller that's ultralight and easy to navigate through doorways. The model was off the market for a while but is now returning to production and is worth checking out. It also has a three-panel canopy that offers better sun protection than smaller models.
Easy to Fold
The simplest umbrella strollers fold like umbrellas, and they weigh less than other models. They are easy to carry, lift, and stow for use when you don't want or don't have a large stroller due to some reason (traveling on an airplane, touring a foreign city, visiting grandma). They usually aren't as well-equipped as a fully-featured stroller, however they should offer the essential features you need for the sun canopy and storage.
The most recent version of the UPPAbaby G-Link 2 is lighter and narrower than its predecessor, with an improved front wheel structure that improves mobility and pushability. It's a great choice for a stroller to travel with that can fit two kids. It's also Disney approved!
A double tri-fold stroller, like the Joovy Kooper X2, offers all the features of an umbrella-style stroller but is similar in size to a regular full-size stroller. This type of stroller is replacing the standard double umbrella stroller. It may be your best option if you are seeking a light, versatile stroller.
The majority of double umbrella strollers we recommend are side by side models. The exception is the Kinderwagon Hop, a tandem umbrella stroller that's lightweight and easy to fold (though it's also a bit narrow). If you're looking for a low-cost simple, minimalist, no-frills umbrella stroller that you can throw in your back pack or trunk for quick trips, we highly recommend this model. It includes two storage bags that hang from the bag on the back of each seat, and cup holders for the parents. It's so bare bones, it might not help your children get through the airport without causing them to be cranky, but it will help to make the trip more comfortable.
Comfortable Seats
The majority of umbrella strollers don't come with a lot of bells and whistles because they are designed for one goal: to transport two children from one place to the other. That means they usually offer seats that are comfortable and spacious, but don't have reclining options or wheels that are all-terrain.
The UPPAbaby G-Link 2 is the only exception. It's a light and compact double umbrella stroller with two seats that weigh just 18 lbs each, making it a great option for travelers (it meets Disney size requirements). It has a large canopy with three panels that shields children from the sun. Both seats have ample storage however, not as much as our top choices. It also has the crucial 5-point safety harnesses in both seats and peek-a-boo windows in their canopies.
A downside of the G-Link is that it lacks the belly bar and snack tray that we love to see in our top picks, but they aren't the most important features to have on an umbrella stroller anyway. Like any umbrella stroller it should be handled with attention to avoid getting fingers caught in the hinges and mechanisms.
In the majority of double umbrella strollers with seats, they are side-byside. However there are models that have inline seating (one seat in front of the other). Inline models can be easier to maneuver in doorways than side-byside models, but they often have a disparity between the seating options that could make your kids argue over who gets the best seat. Our previous testers were pretty evenly divided on this matter and it's a personal decision.
Safety
The safety of your children must be the top consideration when choosing a stroller, and the design of a double umbrella stroller can determine this aspect of its performance. While it's hard to find a light double stroller that offers the same level of security as the full-sized strollers, a few models do come close. These strollers usually have 5-point harnesses with foot rests, calf and calf straps for the kids, and an extendable, UPF 50+ sun visor. They are usually also smaller and lighter than other double umbrella strollers making them easier to maneuver in tight spaces like airports or city streets.
Some models, like the Kinderwagon Hop, are side-by-sides and are easy to push through small spaces. This stroller is perfect for parents who are traveling with children and those who require a comfortable and quick way to get around. It's also small enough to fit comfortably into the trunk or in a storage space.
Another model worth considering is the UPPAbaby G-Link 2, which is one of the lightest double umbrella strollers we've have tested. It is a robust design for an umbrella and has an ample, easily accessible storage basket, reclining seats and a peek-a-boo window. The seat is also able to hold 35 pounds and is in line with Disney stroller dimensions.
Other models, such as the Jeep PowerGlide double stroller, are more basic in appearance and may not offer as many features. However these strollers are extremely light and can be used as a backup or for occasional travel purposes. They are also much cheaper than renting a stroller for the duration of a vacation or for a trip. They are also easy to carry, lift and fold.