Maclaren Twin Techno
$345, Maclaren, Albee Baby
Overall score: 5. Maybe it's not the stroller you think you want, but it's the stroller you need.
Value: 4.5. It's a utilitarian stroller that gets the job done without a huge investment.
The basics: 27 pounds. Good from birth to 55 pounds per seat. 29.25 inches at the widest point when it's unfolded. Collapses 19 L by 17 W by 45 H inches.
The extras: Staying true to Maclaren's reputation for durable strollers, the Twin Techno features a sturdy aluminum frame, fully removable and washable seats, a water-resistant canopy, and a large rain shield.
Folding and storage: The Twin Techno has a compact umbrella fold, and while you can't do it with one hand, it's simple and requires minimal effort. Once folded, the stroller is easy to stash in a narrow closet and leaves plenty of room in the car trunk. Unfolding the stroller is simple and takes only a few seconds.
Pros: The Twin Techno falls somewhere between a real umbrella stroller and a full-size double. It offers enough storage and durability without being bulky or heavy. "It's the stroller you realize you want after you've tried the really big, fancy double and realize that it's just not practical," one tester said. Seats are comfortable and roomy, but the stroller frame is still narrow enough to fit through the average doorway. Maneuvering around a crowded sidewalk or in a narrow space is easy compared with other doubles. Parents also appreciated the large lower storage baskets, dual adult cup holders and deep pockets on the canopies, which are perfect for stashing keys or a cell phone. "You may not earn a ton of style points, but it's a trustworthy, utilitarian stroller for a good price," said a tester.
Cons: It's not an all-terrain stroller. Sleeping babies won't like the rough ride when the ground gets bumpy. The small wheels are better suited for smooth sidewalks than grass, cobblestones, or dirt. Its not the stroller for the outdoorsy family who likes to take off-the-trail walks in parks. "If you're looking for a stroller that can handle anything, look somewhere else," said a tester.
Who will love this stroller? Families looking for a good, durable stroller for day-to-day use, who may need a stroller for the park, but not an off-the-path adventure.
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