If you have two infants that still rely on a stroller, but are fed up of the cumbersome double strollers that are difficult to store away and travel with, then an umbrella stroller may be the perfect solution.
After all, commuting and traveling with two kids is often stressful enough without having to worry about a large and heavy stroller. An umbrella stroller may not boast all of the features of a regular stroller, but the tradeoff is that they are extremely lightweight, portable and incredibly easy to fold up and store away.
Similar to other types of strollers, the double umbrella variety varies a lot in terms of design, features, weight, portability, safety, comfort and durability. With this in mind, in this post, we will explore some of the most popular brands and models and make some helpful comparisons to guide you on your way.
Quick Picks: Best Double Umbrella Strollers Compared
| Double Umbrella Stroller | Weight: | Handle Type: | Car Seat Compatible | Portable |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicco Echo Twin Stroller | 32 lbs | Two Handles | No | Yes |
| Joovy Scooter X2 Double Stroller | 26 lbs | Handlebar | No | Yes |
| HONEY JOY Double Stroller | 26 lbs | Two Handles | Yes | Yes |
| Britax B-Agile Double Stroller | 26 lbs | Handlebar | Yes (with adaptor) | Yes |
| JOOVY Ultralight Graphite Stroller | 23 lbs | Handlebar | Yes | Yes |
Top Picks
#1 Chicco Echo Twin Stroller
The side by side seats means that both children will be able to share views, which beats the back and front configuration that often results in arguments.
Each seat is well padded and lined with waterproof and easy to clean fabric. They also feature a 5 point safety harness to ensure your kids are safe and secure at all times.
The Chicco also has seats that can be placed in 4 different reclining positions, as well as an adjustable leg support, perfect for developing kids and if they want to take a nap.
The stroller is also able to fold down into a very compact configuration, making it ideal for travel and saving space at home. The wheels are also equipped with suspension, locks and there is ample storage in the form of a net basket underneath the seats. The canopy is also useful for guarding against the weather or when the kids are taking a nap.
#2 Joovy Scooter X2 Double Stroller
The Joovy also features an adjustable handlebar, which is quite rare for an umbrella stroller. This also means you will be able to push and steer the stroller with just one or both hands and adjust it according to your height, making it a great stroller for tall parents.
The seats are both fitted with a 5 point safety harness and can be inclined into a variety of different positions, ideal for daytime napping and sleeping.
The large canopy offers protection from the wind, rain, and sun and features a peek-a-boo window so you can easily keep an eye on your children as you push the stroller.
The storage in this stroller is much more abundant than other models. There is a very large storage basket beneath the seats, as well as a zipper pockets and bottle holders behind each seat.
The Joovy is small enough to fit through most doorways and there is a removable bumper bar to help guard your little ones against any bumps. The wheels are also very durable and feature a deep thread to ensure the stroller maintains a good grip and stability on a range of different terrains.
The handlebar design does make it easier to use than the typical two-handed designs, although this does mean the stroller does not fold down as compact s other models. However, it’s certainly compact enough to fit into most trunks.
#3 HONEY JOY Double Stroller
This two handled model by Honey Joy is a true umbrella stroller that folds up into an easy to a lightweight and easy to carry design. This is why it’s ideal for vacations that involve trips through the airport with tired and moody kids.
Since this stroller is primarily focused on being as lightweight and as portable as possible it does not have some of the other features seen in the other models listed. Still, it has a good amount of storage in the form of two large storage bags, a canopy to protect your infant from the elements and multi-position reclining.
#4 Britax B-Agile Double Stroller
The Britax double stroller features an ergonomic and adjustable handlebar to suit parents of varying heights and statures. Both of the kid’s seats are extremely comfortable and have a large foot and leg rest and 5 point safety harness to ensure they are safe and secure throughout their stay in the stroller.
Underneath each seat is a secure storage compartment where you can easily store all of the essentials including diapers, toys, and snacks. Each seat also comes with a removable tray with a drinks holder allowing your baby to keep snacks and drinks in arms reach.
The canopy is also very large, weatherproof and has a UV rating of 50+ so your little ones are well guarded come rain or shine. Like the other strollers listed, the Britax does fold up and although it isn’t as compact as a traditional umbrella stroller, it’s certainly small enough to fit in the trunk of a car.
#5 JOOVY Ultralight Graphite Stroller
The Joovy Ultralight isn’t technically an umbrella stroller, it’s a tandem, but certainly meets some of the major concerns those who look for an umbrella stroller have e.g. portability, weight, and storage.
The back and front seat both feature a 3 point harness to keep your infants secure at all times. Both seats also have a multi-reclining feature, allowing you to easily make adjustments, ideal for naps and sleep.
Like the other strollers listed, the Joovy boasts a good amount of storage in the form of an under seat basket, as well as storage trays, footrests, large canopies, and a convenient fold-up design. Although it’s not as compact as the typical umbrella stroller, the lightweight design certainly makes up for it.
Is an Umbrella Stroller Right For You?
As mentioned, umbrella strollers are ideal for moms, dads, and caregivers that want a lightweight and highly portable stroller. Since they fold up into an umbrella-like configuration, they are very easy to travel with and store away, making them ideal for traveling. Whether that be on some form of public transport or in the car.
With that said, umbrella strollers are not perfect and there are a number of sacrifices that are made in order for the stroller to be so lightweight and portable. For instance, they often lack the features of regular strollers including trays, large storage baskets, suspension systems, and car seat compatibility.
Perhaps one of the most noticeable disadvantages of umbrella strollers is the fact that almost all of them use two separate handles instead of a handlebar. This means that you can’t just use a single hand to steer and control them, which can be quite inconvenient.
Factors To Consider When Choosing A Double Umbrella Stroller
Before you choose a double umbrella stroller, it’s certainly useful to think about some of the features that can really make a difference. Not only can these help you secure a more durable and higher quality stroller, but also a safe stroller to ensure your infants are as secure and safe as possible as they ride in style.
Stroller Safety First
Safety is important when it comes to any type of children’s product and umbrella strollers are no different. In order to ensure the stroller is as safe as possible, you need to ensure it holds the necessary safety certification and features.
Check The Stroller Holds The Correct Safety Certification
You should always make sure the stroller you are interested is a recipient of the compulsory federal safety standard, 16 CFR Parts 1112 and 1227. The most up to date version of the ASTM stroller safety standard is named ASTM F833-15.
Additionally, look for strollers with a label that states the stroller takes part in a certification program overseen by the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA).
Strollers With A 5-Point Safety Harness
Infants can often get restless in their stroller and curious about their surroundings, but having them possibly leave the stroller when it’s moving certainly isn’t safe. Therefore, the best way to ensure your children are as safe as they can be is to choose a stroller equipped with a 5 point safety harness. This will secure them at the waist, shoulders, arms, and legs, ensuring they can’t easily escape during the stroller ride.
Final Words
Double umbrella strollers are a great option for parents and caregivers that are looking for maximum convenience and portability. They are lightweight, foldable and compact, making them easy to store away, save space and travel with.
However, they do not offer many of the features of regular strollers and so are probably not the best option for those who do not travel or commute on a regular basis. Still, for those that have the budget, an umbrella stroller can be extremely helpful for vacations, where a regular heavy, cumbersome stroller may cause considerable inconvenience.