Qool Bench Seat vs Second Seat: Which Add-On Fits Your Family
By Joovy | Published: 2026-10-28
Category: Buying Guides
Deciding between the Qool Bench Seat and the Second Seat for your Joovy Qool stroller? We break down the key differences to help you choose the right add-on for your family's needs.
Quick answer
Choose the Qool Bench Seat if you need a rear riding platform for a big kid (typically 2.5+ years) who can stand or sit independently. Choose the Second Seat if you need a full reclining seat for a younger child or infant (with a car seat adapter).
Why the right add-on matters
The Joovy Qool stroller is designed to grow with your family, and its add-ons let you expand from a single to a double or even triple stroller. The Bench Seat and Second Seat serve different ages and abilities, so picking the wrong one can leave your child uncomfortable or unsafe.
The Bench Seat attaches to the rear of the stroller and gives an older child a place to sit or stand while facing backward. It does not recline and has no harness, so it's only suitable for kids who can hold themselves upright and follow safety instructions.
The Second Seat is a full stroller seat that can face forward or rearward, recline, and accommodate a car seat adapter for infants. It's the better choice for children under 2.5 years or anyone who needs a more secure, reclining ride.
Trade-offs to consider
The Bench Seat is lighter and easier to snap on, but it offers less support. If your child falls asleep on a walk, the Bench Seat doesn't recline, so they may slump uncomfortably. In contrast, the Second Seat provides a full recline and a harness for naps and security.
Space is another factor. The Bench Seat gives your big kid a perch without taking up the main seat, but it also adds length to the stroller. The Second Seat uses the rear stroller frame and keeps the overall footprint more compact.
Price also differs: the Bench Seat is typically more affordable than the Second Seat, but you're paying for a simpler product with fewer features.
Compatibility note
Both add-ons are designed specifically for the Joovy Qool stroller. The Bench Seat snaps onto the rear frame and can be used in single, double, or triple configurations. The Second Seat also attaches to the rear and is compatible with the Qool Car Seat Adapter for infants.
As of late 2025, the Bench Seat was temporarily out of stock, so check availability if you need it soon. The Second Seat is generally more widely available.
Decision rules: Bench Seat or Second Seat?
- Child's age and ability: If your child is at least 2.5 years old, can stand steadily, and follow instructions to hold on, choose the Bench Seat. For younger children or those who need a harness and recline, choose the Second Seat.
- Nap needs: If your child frequently falls asleep in the stroller, the Second Seat's recline is essential. The Bench Seat offers no recline, so it's better for short, awake trips.
- Car seat compatibility: If you need to carry an infant, you must use the Second Seat with the Qool Car Seat Adapter. The Bench Seat does not support car seats. Plan ahead: if you have an infant now but expect a toddler later, the Second Seat is more versatile long-term.
- Budget and space: The Bench Seat costs less and is lighter, but it adds length to the stroller. The Second Seat is more expensive but keeps the stroller more compact and offers more features.
Product facts
- Qool Bench Seat: Easy to snap into your Joovy Qool stroller, the Bench Seat gives big kids a space to sit on the rear of the stroller. This means you can quickly convert your Qool to a double or triple stroller without tools, but only for children who can sit or stand independently.
Qool Bench Seat - Qool Bench Seat: Most popularly used to make your Joovy Qool a double or triple stroller, but can be used in single configurations too. You have flexibility in how you configure your stroller, but the Bench Seat doesn't offer a harness or recline, so it's not a full seat replacement.
Qool Bench Seat
Which add-on fits your family?
Best for
- Families with a child 2.5+ years who can ride while standing or sitting on a simple platform
- Budget-conscious parents who want a lightweight, easy-to-install add-on for occasional use
Not for
- Families with infants or toddlers under 2.5 years who need a harness and recline
- Parents who plan to use a car seat adapter with the rear position
