Choosing a sit and stand stroller over a side-by-side option is one of my must-have products for baby. In fact, I think they’re best for moms of two or more if you plan on going just about anywhere with young kids.
I bought my own sit-and-stand stroller years ago, when I first found out I was expecting my second child. And even after seven years, my sit and stand stroller is still going strong. That one purchase I made is still getting daily use from my third and fourth child.
Needless to say, as a mom of four kids myself, I definitely recommend you consider picking up a new or used sit and stand stroller for your family. Read on to find out more about sit and stand strollers and Truly Mama’s top picks.
In this article:
- What is a sit-n-stand stroller?
- Who is this stroller good for?
- Features to look for in a sit-n-stand stroller
- Pros and cons of sit and stand strollers
- Best overall: Graco Ready2Grow LX Stroller
- Best lightweight sit-and-stand option: Joovy Caboose Ultralight Graphite Sit and Stand
- Best lightweight double stroller with sit-and-stand option: Joovy Caboose Too Ultralight Graphite Stroller
- Best budget option: Baby Trend Sit N Stand Ultra Stroller
- Best luxury ride: Chicco BravoFor2 Double Stroller in Iron
What is a Sit-n-Stand Stroller?
While many double strollers have two side-by-side seats, sit and stand strollers are inline strollers with one seat in front of the other.
Typically, these strollers have a front seat with a five point harness that can also hold an infant car seat. In the back, you’ll find an adaptable second seat–while the exact set up can vary between brands and models, this backseat is often able to function as a forward facing seat with a harness, a platform for an older child to sit, unbuckled and rear facing, or a dock for a preschooler to stand and steady themselves on attached handles.
Some sit and stand strollers also feature a double stroller and a third platform seat in the back, so you can fit a total of three children on the stroller.
"Families with more than one child age 3 or younger will get the most use out of a sit and stand stroller."
Who is a Sit-n-Stand Stroller Good For?
Families with more than one child age 3 or younger will get the most use out of a sit and stand stroller. After my husband and I had two children in under two years, we knew a sit and stand stroller was going to work well for our family because it would offer different seating arrangements for our kids as they grew.
For instance, when my oldest two were younger, we used the front and back five-point harness seats. Then, as they grew, quickly adapted the back seat to allow my oldest to hop off and on the stroller once she was older. These days, we’ve got an infant car seat on the front and a preschooler who loves to stand on the back to go for daily walks with his little brother and his dad.
What to Look for in a Sit-n-Stand Stroller
My family loves our sit and stand stroller, but I’d be lying if I said this was the perfect stroller option. There are definitely advantages to this stroller, but there are downsides too. You’ll want to consider what features make sense for your family, such as:
- Where you plan to use it. Before you buy a stroller, it is a good idea to think through what you will be using it for when you take it out for a spin. These strollers definitely aren’t jogging strollers, but work great for neighborhood walks, a trip to the zoo, or at the store.
- What configuration of seats you want. Sit and stand strollers come in a variety of configurations, so pay attention to this and think carefully about what works best for you. For example, our model only allows for an infant car seat on the front with the older child riding in the back. However, there are models that can accommodate two infant car seats or a seated toddler in the front with an infant car seat in the back. Others, like the Uppababy, can hold three children thanks to an optional standing platform on top of the double stroller function.
- If it will fit your car and child. Lastly, it is important to know that the weight limit is different from stroller to stroller, but most are meant for two children under 40 to 50 pounds. Before making a purchase, familiarize yourself with the age and weight limits.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Narrow frame makes for easier strolling through stores and other tight spaces
Tandem seats adapt for newborn, toddler, and preschool riders
Adjustable canopy for shielding front rider from the sun and wind
A back sit and stand seat makes it easy for a preschooler to hop on and off
Cons
Not meant for all-terrain use—smaller wheels that work well on smooth surfaces can’t handle bumpy trails
Back rider can feel crowded when used with infant car seat
Usually only hold 2 kids
There’s no real way to secure a child onto the standing platform, so you do run the risk of them hopping off when you don’t want them to
The Best Sit-n-Stand Strollers
Best Overall
Graco Ready2Grow LX Stroller
With 12 riding options, the Graco Ready2Grow LX Stroller is the very definition of adaptability. This sit and stand stroller works for brand new babies all the way up to preschoolers weighing as much as 50 pounds. Two canopies allow parents to shade both riders from sun and wind, even when they’re facing opposite directions. Plus, a 5-point harness keeps smaller children secure when seated in the stroller. Once your child is older, and ready for a little more independence, the stroller can be adapted to allow them to hop on and off the platform during a ride.
If you are looking for a stroller that will grow with your children, the Graco Ready2Grow LX is a great choice. While many sit and stand options don’t give a smooth ride, the Graco Ready2Grow LX features locking front wheels and front wheel suspension that make for a more comfortable stroll for your riders—and easier for you to guide the stroller through tight spaces.
When it comes to choosing between multiple baby gear options, it’s often the little things that make all the difference and the details on this stroller are on point. The back seat has rear facing capability for face-to-face time between caregiver and child and storage is a cinch with this easy-to-fold stroller.
Must-know details:
- Stroller height: 45”
- Stroller weight: 34 lbs.
- Front seat, bench seat, and standing platform are safe up to 50 pounds
- Back seat is safe up to 40 pounds
- One hand fold
- Parent organizer attaches to handle
- Removable child snack/cup holder tray
- Machine-washable seat cushions
Customer review:
“This stroller has made transporting our two little bundles of joy (2 years and 1 month old) a breeze. I don’t know how we would’ve survived if we hadn’t found this beautifully crafted piece of heaven. The stroller is worth its weight in gold, the fact that I only paid $220 for it is a testament to Graco’s compassion to us all. Buy this freaking stroller!!!” — Amazon review
Keep in mind:
Transporting two kids is no small task and this stroller is big enough to handle two, 50-pound kids. While it will fit into most trunks at 53 inches long when folded, you’ll need to remove the canopy and front tray to fit it into smaller sedans. It’s also worth mentioning that only the front seat will recline.
Best Lightweight Option
Joovy Caboose Ultralight Graphite Sit and Stand
Lightweight isn’t typically what comes to mind when we describe a tandem sit and stand stroller, but the Joovy Caboose Ultralight was designed to be easy to push and store. This inline stroller weighs just 23.5 pounds and measures 45.25 inches long when folded. Despite its minimalist nature, it can handle two 45-pound children all the way down to an infant with the use of the car seat attachment. The “caboose” of this stroller can be adapted for a child who wants to sit on a bench seat or stand on the platform. There is also an extra wide canopy, so both riders can duck under it for shelter from the sun.
This stroller might not have 12 different riding options, but it is the perfect stroller for families who need a compact option that can still handle two children.
Once you’re ready to move on beyond the infant car seat attachment, you can feel confident in your little one’s safety when you securely fasten them in the fully reclinable front seat with a five-point harness. You can also purchase a second 5-point harness reclining seat that inserts directly into the back area if you’d rather have the full seat. With 846 reviews and a 4.5 star rating on Amazon, experienced caregivers have spoken—the Joovy Caboose Ultralight Graphite is a hit.
Must-know details:
- Stroller dimensions: 37 x 21.5 x 41.5 inches
- Stroller weight: 22 lbs.
- Holds up to 90 lbs.
- 2-year warranty
- Parent organizer
- Universal car seat adapter included
- 4-wheel suspension
- Canopy covers rear seat for sun protection to back rider too
Customer review:
“Now this magical gift to humanity works great for two kids. I have a 3-year-old and a 1 year old. When you hit the two-kid mark, easy things like grocery store trips get a little tricky. If you have more than two kids under 5 years of age, I can only imagine the struggle. This stroller keeps my 1 year old comfortable and gives my two-year-old the opportunity to hop in and out quickly and easily. The rear seat that is meant for the older child and has a seat belt just in case you need to prevent escape in serious situations. The rear seat moves back and forth to allow access to the large cargo basket. This thing is like a rolling storage bin that holds children.” –Amazon review
Keep in mind:
The parent organizer is a stretchable fabric, not a plastic drink stray. While water bottles can be slipped in the pockets, this organizer isn’t great for larger cups, beverages with straws, or coffee cups with holes in the top. A little bump sends liquid flying!
Best Lightweight Double
Joovy Caboose Too Ultralight Graphite Stroller
The Joovy Caboose Too Ultralight Stroller has everything the Joovy Caboose Ultralight offers, with a little more. Just like their less expensive model, this stroller is lightweight, easy to fold, and easy to store. The front seat can be adapted for an infant car seat or a seated child up to 45 pounds, secured with a 5-point harness. The back seat of the Joovy Caboose Too is what sets it apart from the Joovy Caboose. This stroller includes an attachable second seat with a 5-point harness for a younger child who needs a secure place to sit. Once this seat is removed, your little rider can use the bench seat or stand on the platform. So, essentially, this is a stroller you’ll want if you need a double stroller for two kids close in age, but still want the option to use it as a sit-and-stand stroller later.
This newer model of Joovy’s popular sit and stand has a new feature—an extendable rear canopy provides full shade for a seated back rider. The soft, fabric seats are removable and machine washable and the rest of the stroller can be wiped with a wet rag.
We weren’t surprised to see a 4.5 star rating on Amazon for this tandem stroller. Parents love that it is lightweight, easy to fold and store, and adapts to each season of parenting young kids.
Must-know details:
- Stroller dimensions: 38 x 21.25 x 42 inches
- Stroller weight: 23 lbs.
- Can hold up to 90 lbs.
- Includes second, reclinable seat to allow for two seated + buckled riders
- All fabric pieces can be removed and run through the washing machine
- Removable back seat with multi-position recline
- Includes parent organizer and removable front snack tray
Customer review:
“I have to start off by saying I LOVE this stroller! I have tried other tandem strollers and this is BY FAR the best out of all of them. Assembly was really quick and easy-I had it together in less than 20 minutes and ready to head out the door. It glides perfectly and it’s so light whether I’m pushing or carrying it.
I was surprised by how spacious and large the two seats are, considering how light and compact the stroller is. My kids are 4.5 and almost 2, and they have plenty of wiggle room. The adjustable straps on each seat are easy to tighten or loosen depending on our needs, and I appreciate that the front footrest can be in an upright or lowered position.”–Amazon review
Keep in mind:
This stroller works for two young children, but it only has space from one infant carrier. According to reviewers, using the second soft seat is a great addition but it does restrict storage potential since that under-the-seat basket is hard to access with a second seat installed.
Best Budget Option
Baby Trend Sit N Stand Ultra Stroller
For budget-conscious parents, the Baby Trend Sit N Stand Ultra Stroller is an affordable option for strolling with two kids. This tandem stroller is built to accommodate little ones all the way up to 50 pounds. This includes the ability to dock two infant car seats at the same time or have both front and back riders secured in a five point harness. Similar to other sit and stand strollers, older kids are able to hop on and off the back when the stroller has been adapted to the bench seat and platform option. This stroller is JPMA certified and BPA free.
For a budget friendly stroller, the Baby Trend Sit N Stand Ultra Stroller really knocks it out of the park. We love the little extras, like the removable cup holders and the extra large storage basket underneath the seats. Your standing rider can steady themselves with handles on either side of the platform. When it is time to pack up to go, lock the rear, foot activated brake before loading up your riders and gear in the car, and then fold up this compact stroller for easy trunk storage.
Must-know details:
- Stroller dimensions: 49 x 21.5 x 43 inches
- Stroller weight: 27 lbs.
- Holds 50 lbs. in each seat
- Jump seat recommended for ages 2.5+
- For two infant seats, two stroller seats, or a sitting and a standing child
- One hand fold
- All-wheel suspension
- Compatible with Baby Trend, Graco, and Britax infant car seats
- For children under 50 pounds and 36 months or younger
Customer review:
“OMG! I am so happy I purchased this specific product. I am 5’9″ and it is a perfect height. I don’t have to slouch to push this stroller. I have a 3yr old, and 9mo old who fit on/in it, and I can strap down camping chairs/fishing equipment to go out to paved lakes and not have to make a dozen trips. It’s not too long/wide to be a hassle getting through doors, and I can’t say enough good things about all the cupholders. I use cupholders for drinks, toys, fries…kids and cupholders. It was easy to assemble. And it’s not too heavy. Great product. Great purchase.” –Amazon review
Keep in mind:
Not all infant car seats will work with this sit and stand stroller. Some parents have reported being unable to get a good fit and that their car seat wouldn’t click in place. Before buying this stroller, check the Baby Trend website to confirm it will work with your car seat.
Chicco BravoFor2 Double Stroller in Iron
The Chicco BravoFor2 has a lot of features a growing family can appreciate: not only does it function as a double stroller that can accommodate two car seats, but it also can be used as a sit and stand stroller too. The back platform features handles and a backrest, making it comfy for a rider who’s at least 2.5 years old. For a double stroller, this one is pretty lightweight and it comes with the trademark one-hand freestanding easy fold we love from Chicco.
Honestly, there’s a lot to love about this stroller. You can use it as a double stroller with two infant seats or two kids, plus there’s a bonus standing platform in the back. The second seat features a 3-point harness, while the front seat has a full 5-point harness.
If you want to use the standing platform without the seat, however, the seat folds easily up to allow extra room for your standing passenger. Plus, the platform has handles and a backrest to make it even more comfy. You’ll love the smooth ride this stroller offers, thanks to rubber wheels, an aluminum frame and all-wheel suspension.
Must-know details:
- Stroller weight: 29 lbs.
- Folded width: 23 inches
- Folded height: 35 inches
- Max weight: 40 lbs.
- Main seat: ages 6 months up to 40 lbs.
- Standing platform has easy-grip handles and backrest
- Rear rider age: 2.5
Customer review:
“If you have two or more kids at different ages, this is definitely the best stroller. It is true, a bigger kid would have a hard time falling asleep on the rear seat. But, you will not find a sturdier, lighter, or more compact double stroller at the price.”—BuyBuyBaby review
Keep in mind:
While overall, this stroller has a lot of positive reviews, many parents noted that the front seat of the stroller doesn’t have much of a recline. If you anticipate your little one needing a recline feature, that’s definitely something to consider.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between double strollers and sit and stand strollers?
Most double strollers allow two riders to sit side-by-side. A sit and stand stroller, however, is an inline stroller with one rider seated in front and one rider standing in the back.
Should I buy a double stroller or a sit and stand?
If you have a younger and an older child, you might get the most use out of a sit and stand stroller. This option allows for older riders to stand on a platform and independently hop on and off the stroller.
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