Baby Jogger City Select 2 Single-to-Double Modular Stroller Review: The Ultimate Family Stroller, Tested and Vetted

I remember the feeling vividly. Standing in the nursery, surrounded by baby gear, I felt confident we had everything for our first child. Our single stroller was perfect—lightweight, nimble, and exactly what we needed for city life. Then, two years later, the news of baby number two arrived, and that perfect single stroller suddenly felt like a relic from a much simpler time. The panic set in. How do you navigate a grocery store, a park, or even a simple walk down the street with a newborn and a curious toddler? The thought of juggling two separate strollers, or a cumbersome, side-by-side behemoth that couldn’t fit through a standard doorway, was daunting. This is the moment every growing family faces: the search for a single piece of gear that can adapt, evolve, and simplify the beautiful chaos of parenting more than one child. It’s not just about transportation; it’s about maintaining freedom and sanity.

What to Consider Before Buying a Modular Stroller

A modular stroller is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for long-term family planning. It’s an investment in a system designed to prevent you from buying a new stroller every time your family dynamic changes. The main benefit is its unparalleled versatility. It can be a single stroller for your firstborn, seamlessly convert to a double when a sibling arrives, and even accommodate a third child with a glider board. This adaptability saves money, storage space, and the headache of researching new products. It’s a commitment to a platform that promises to be your trusted companion from the newborn phase through the toddler years and beyond.

The ideal customer for this type of product is a forward-thinking parent. Whether you’re expecting your first child but planning for more, or you’re already in the thick of it with a baby and a toddler, a modular system is designed for you. It’s for the family that values efficiency and wants a single, high-quality solution that can handle various scenarios—from infant car seat compatibility to reversible toddler seats. However, it might not be the best fit for those who are certain they will only have one child, or for families who prioritize an ultra-lightweight, minimalist travel stroller above all else. For those parents, a dedicated single or compact stroller might be a more streamlined and cost-effective choice.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: Think about your daily life. Measure your car trunk and your primary doorways. A modular stroller, especially in its double configuration, is inherently larger than a single. The Baby Jogger City Select 2 Single-to-Double Modular Stroller boasts a more compact fold than many competitors, but you must still account for its footprint both when in use and when stored.
• Capacity/Performance: Look beyond the number of seats. What is the weight limit for each seat? How easy is it to push with two children of different weights? The genius of a tandem (front-to-back) stroller like this one is its standard width, making it much easier to navigate aisles and crowds compared to side-by-side models.
• Materials & Durability: A stroller that’s meant to last for years needs to be built to withstand the abuse. Look for high-quality fabrics that are easy to clean, a sturdy frame made of lightweight aluminum, and wheels that can handle various terrains. The investment should reflect the longevity you expect from the product.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: How intuitive is the folding mechanism? How simple is it to add the second seat or change seat configurations? Daily use can become a chore if these actions are complicated. We found that a one-step fold is a great feature, but the reality often involves removing a seat first, which is a key factor to consider for your daily routine.

Ultimately, choosing the right stroller is about matching its capabilities to your family’s unique lifestyle and future plans.

While the Baby Jogger City Select 2 Single-to-Double Modular Stroller is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Glance: Unboxing the Future-Proof Stroller

Pulling the Baby Jogger City Select 2 Single-to-Double Modular Stroller from its box, the first thing we noticed was the premium feel of the materials. The Flint Sage color is a beautiful, muted neutral that looks sophisticated and does a great job of hiding the inevitable scuffs and spills of daily life. Assembly was remarkably straightforward; the wheels clicked into the frame with satisfying ease, and the main seat attached in seconds. The instructions were clear, but the design is so intuitive that we barely needed them. Right away, it felt sturdy and well-engineered. Compared to the original City Select, this second iteration is noticeably lighter, a welcome improvement for anyone who has had to heave a stroller into a car trunk. The telescoping handlebar slides up and down to accommodate parents of different heights, and while one user noted it felt a bit stiff initially, we found it loosened up perfectly after just a few uses. Our initial impression was of a thoughtfully designed, high-quality system ready to tackle family life.

A Deep Dive into the Baby Jogger City Select 2’s Real-World Performance

A stroller’s spec sheet only tells half the story. To truly understand its value, you have to live with it. We put the Baby Jogger City Select 2 Single-to-Double Modular Stroller through its paces for several weeks, navigating everything from tight grocery store aisles and bumpy park paths to crowded weekend festivals. We used it as a single, as a double with two toddlers, and as a travel system with an infant car seat. This is where the stroller’s true character—its strengths and its compromises—came to light.

The Magic of Modularity: A Configuration for Every Scenario

The single greatest strength of the City Select 2 is its chameleon-like ability to adapt. With over 24 configurations, this isn’t just a stroller; it’s a complete family mobility platform. We tested numerous setups: infant car seat facing me with the toddler seat facing out, two toddler seats facing each other for snack-time chats, and both seats facing forward to take in the sights at the zoo. Switching between these modes is surprisingly fluid and tool-free. The seat adapters click in and out of the frame with a firm, reassuring sound. One user’s initial impression confirmed our findings perfectly, stating, “It is so smooth to change how you want the seats arranged.” This smoothness is not a minor detail; when you’re trying to appease two tired children, the ability to quickly reverse a seat to face you or give siblings some space is a game-changer.

We were particularly impressed with the generous spacing between the seats when in double mode. Baby Jogger claims it has more room than its main competitor, the UPPAbaby Vista V2, and we believe it. The child in the lower position doesn’t feel like they’re relegated to the “undercarriage.” They have a proper view and ample legroom, which significantly reduces the potential for squabbles. The system’s compatibility with various infant car seats, using separately sold adapters, is also a huge plus. We tested it with a Chicco car seat, and as another user happily reported, the integration was seamless and secure. This modularity is a feature that truly sets it apart, ensuring the stroller you buy for your first baby is still the perfect stroller for your second or even third.

The Fold and Portability: A Tale of Two Experiences

Here’s where the experience becomes more nuanced. Baby Jogger advertises a “one-step compact fold,” and technically, they are correct. The mechanism itself—pulling up on two straps on the sides of the frame—is simple and quick. The frame collapses on itself into a reasonably flat package. However, the reality of daily use, as highlighted by a critical user review, tells a more complete story. To achieve the most compact fold, you must remove the seat (or seats). For a parent juggling kids and gear, the process looks more like this: take child one out, remove the first seat, take child two out, remove the second seat, then fold the frame. It’s a multi-step process that can feel “bulky and time-consuming.”

Furthermore, the user’s point about trunk space is crucial. In our mid-size SUV, the frame and two seats fit fine with room to spare. But when we tested it in a compact sedan, it consumed nearly the entire trunk. This is a critical consideration for families with smaller vehicles. The frame also doesn’t self-stand when folded, meaning you have to lean it against something or lay it flat, which can be awkward in a parking lot. Is this a deal-breaker? For us, it wasn’t. The trade-off for the incredible modularity and performance was worth the slightly more involved folding process. But for a parent who prioritizes a lightning-fast, one-piece fold above all else, this is a significant factor to weigh before you check the latest price and configurations.

On the Pavement and Beyond: Maneuverability and Ride Quality

Once you’re on the move, any frustrations with the fold melt away. The Baby Jogger City Select 2 Single-to-Double Modular Stroller is an absolute dream to push. Its all-terrain wheels glide over cracked pavement, grass, and gravel with remarkable ease. We never felt like we were fighting the stroller, even when fully loaded with two kids and a basket full of groceries. The front-wheel suspension absorbs bumps effectively, providing a smooth ride that kept our little passengers comfortable and often asleep. The tandem design is a massive win for maneuverability in tight spaces. We navigated crowded cafes and narrow store aisles without a single issue, something that would be impossible with a side-by-side double.

The adjustable telescoping handlebar is another excellent feature, allowing both my taller partner and me to find a comfortable pushing position. The hand-operated parking brake is conveniently located and easy to engage. This stroller feels solid, stable, and secure, giving you the confidence to tackle any urban or light trail environment. It strikes an exceptional balance between being robust enough for varied terrain while remaining nimble enough for the challenges of city living.

Built to Last: Durability and Brand Support

An expensive stroller is an investment, and you want to know the company stands behind it. Our experience and user feedback suggest that Baby Jogger does. The frame is robust, the fabrics are tough, and the components feel like they are made for the long haul. However, no product is indestructible. We were particularly interested in one user’s experience where the footrest on their second seat cracked after an accidental topple. This could have been a disastrous ownership experience, but it turned into a testament to the brand’s support. The parent contacted the manufacturer, confirmed the product was under warranty, and received a replacement part within three days. The representative was described as “respectful and helpful.”

This is invaluable information. It demonstrates that when you invest in the Baby Jogger City Select 2 Single-to-Double Modular Stroller, you’re not just buying the product itself; you’re also getting the peace of mind that comes with responsive and effective customer service. Knowing that the company will efficiently resolve issues is a massive factor in our recommendation. This level of support reinforces the idea that this stroller is designed to be a reliable partner for your family for many years.

What Other Users Are Saying

Across the board, the feedback from other parents mirrors our own complex experience, highlighting the stroller’s incredible strengths alongside its practical trade-offs. The positive sentiment overwhelmingly centers on the stroller’s flexibility and smooth performance. One new parent was thrilled, saying, “I am quite pleased with how nicely my Chicco infant car seat works with the adapter,” underscoring its value as a travel system from day one. Another celebrated the excellent customer service after a part broke, noting that the manufacturer was “respectful, helpful and sent out a replacement…within 3 days,” turning a potential negative into a major positive.

However, the critical feedback is just as valid and consistent. One mom with two young children found the stroller “SO bulky and time consuming to take both seats off then fold down the frame.” She lamented that it “completely take over the trunk space” in her small car, a crucial real-world detail for many families. This feedback doesn’t contradict the positive reviews; it simply paints a fuller picture. The Baby Jogger City Select 2 Single-to-Double Modular Stroller is a phenomenal, versatile machine, but its size and multi-step fold are practical considerations that every potential buyer must weigh against their own lifestyle, vehicle size, and patience.

How Does the Baby Jogger City Select 2 Compare to the Alternatives?

No stroller exists in a vacuum. While the City Select 2 excels as a modular system, other strollers may be a better fit depending on your specific priorities, such as dedicated jogging performance or a more compact single-stroller design. Here’s how it stacks up against some notable alternatives.

1. Graco Modes Jogger 2.0 Stroller

The Graco Modes Jogger 2.0 is a different beast entirely, built for the active parent. As a true jogging stroller, it features a three-wheel design with a lockable front swivel wheel for stability at speed, along with air-filled rubber tires for superior suspension. While it offers multiple riding options (infant car seat, pramette, toddler seat), it does not convert to a double stroller. Parents who are avid runners and need a stroller that can keep up with their fitness routine would likely prefer the Graco. The City Select 2 is more of an “all-terrain” stroller for walks on various surfaces, not a dedicated high-speed jogger. If your primary need is a single, athletic stroller, the Graco is a strong contender.

2. Chicco TRE Jogging Stroller

Similar to the Graco, the Chicco TRE is a high-performance jogging stroller designed for fitness-focused parents. It often includes features tailored for running, such as a hand-operated deceleration brake for control on hills and adjustable suspension to fine-tune the ride. It’s a premium single stroller focused on one job: providing a safe and smooth ride during a workout. It lacks the core feature of the City Select 2—the ability to expand for a second child. Therefore, the choice is clear: for a family that is growing or planning to grow, the City Select 2’s modularity is indispensable. For a one-child family that prioritizes running, the Chicco TRE is a specialized and excellent tool for the job.

3. Baby Jogger City Select Belly Bar

This isn’t a stroller, but an essential accessory that highlights the ecosystem approach of the City Select 2. The belly bar provides a soft, padded place for your child to hold onto and can also be used to attach toys. Its inclusion here is important because it demonstrates that the value of the Baby Jogger City Select 2 Single-to-Double Modular Stroller extends beyond the base unit. The ability to customize it with accessories like belly bars, glider boards, parent consoles, and weather shields is what transforms it from a simple stroller into a complete system. While not an alternative stroller, it represents the additional investment required to unlock the full potential of the platform.

The Final Verdict: Is the Baby Jogger City Select 2 Right for Your Family?

After extensive testing, we can confidently say that the Baby Jogger City Select 2 Single-to-Double Modular Stroller is a phenomenal piece of engineering for the modern, growing family. Its unparalleled modularity, smooth all-terrain performance, and premium build quality make it a top-tier choice for parents planning for more than one child. It elegantly solves the “two-kid problem” without resorting to a wide, cumbersome side-by-side design. The ride is comfortable for the kids and a pleasure for the parents.

However, it’s not without its compromises. The multi-step fold and its considerable size when broken down are real-world factors that families with small cars or limited storage must seriously consider. It prioritizes versatility over the convenience of a quick, one-piece fold. We recommend this stroller wholeheartedly to parents who value long-term adaptability and superior performance, and who have the space to accommodate it. It is an investment that will pay dividends in convenience and durability as your family grows from one child to two, and even three. If you’re looking for a single stroller to rule them all, this is without a doubt one of the best you can buy. To see its full feature set and explore the color options, we encourage you to take a closer look.