The Day I Finally Upgraded Our Stroller to the Austlen Entourage 2.0 – And Why I Wish I Had Done It Sooner (It's The Best Sit-and-Stand Stroller!)
When our youngest granddaughter was born, I knew we’d be spending a lot of time outside together. Walks have always been my favorite way to get some fresh air and quiet time, and they’re even better with a baby to share them with.
At first, I tried to be practical. I needed a sit-and-stand stroller so big sister could hop on when she got tired. I found a secondhand one on Marketplace that seemed like it would do the job just fine. It wasn’t fancy, but it was affordable, and I figured a stroller is just a stroller, right?
Wrong.
From the very first walk, I knew I was in trouble. The stroller was heavy, clunky, and hard to steer. Every little bump on the sidewalk made it jolt like an old shopping cart with a bad wheel. I’d end each outing exhausted, frustrated, and wondering how on earth something as simple as pushing a stroller could be so difficult.
But what really pushed me over the edge was watching my granddaughter’s face. She just wasn’t happy. She’d fuss and squirm, and eventually, we’d both end up ready to turn around and go home. Walks, which were supposed to be peaceful and fun, became stressful.
One particularly rough morning, after a short walk that left us both cranky, I finally said to myself: That’s it. I’m done struggling. I had been eyeing the Austen Entourage 2.0 for months but kept hesitating because of the price. It felt indulgent to spend so much when we technically had a stroller that worked. But in that moment, I realized it wasn’t just about the stroller - it was about making these walks something we could all enjoy again.
So, I clicked “buy.”
When the Entourage 2.0 arrived, I put it together quickly and easily, and I was instantly impressed. It was sturdy and well-made, with fabrics and finishes that they clearly didn't skimp on. The first time I took it out, I honestly couldn’t believe how much smoother it felt. It glided effortlessly over cracks in the sidewalk. Steering was a breeze - I could push it with one hand if I needed to. And the best part? My granddaughters loved it.
The youngest sits up, faces forward, and takes in the world with big, curious eyes, and the eldest jumps on and off, and revels in her big-kid seat, which, unlike the other stroller, is padded and actually comfortable - I can even recline the front seat all the way when little sis wants to nap and it doesn't encroach on big sis at all! They're both all smiles now when we go for walks (and so am I)! No more fussing, no more turning around early. I can finally stroll at a relaxed pace, enjoying the sunshine and fresh air.
Looking back, I wish I had made the switch sooner. Yes, the Entourage 2.0 was an investment, but it’s hands-down the best double stroller I’ve ever used. It works beautifully as the best sit-and-stand stroller for our family, and I’d recommend it to anyone searching for the best stroller for kids with a bigger age gap.
Instead of dreading our walks, I look forward to them. They’ve become one of the best parts of my day again. And those happy baby smiles are priceless.
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