What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The most effective double strollers are designed to grow with your family and include thoughtful features that keep your children content and comfortable. This includes adjustable foot rests and a smooth stroll on trails, gravel and old sidewalks.
Kerry was pleased that the stroller arrived in multiple boxes, however everything was clearly labeled and simple to open. She also appreciated the fact that the stroller can accommodate two infant car seats, and can be paired with a ride-board for older children.
Seating Options
Seating options are a major element in determining whether an entire family will invest in a double stroller. You'll need to take into consideration the age of your children, the sizes of them and the seating arrangements you like.
For instance, if you have children of similar age that will be seated side-by-side, you should consider a tandem model that comes with child seats linked to one another and does not require car seat adapters, according to Alli Cavasino an editor in the senior position at Consumer Reports. They are generally larger than other double stroller s, they won't fit into standard door frames in your home.
If you're facing an age gap between your children look into a double-seat stroller that can change to a stand-and ride model with an elevated or small bench seat in the back for children who likes to just ride along or watch their sibling. These strollers are equipped to accommodate infant car seats if necessary, and are good for children who will be 3-5 years apart.
You'll also want to look at the type of seat material, according to Billingsley. Some fabrics are more breathable than others, and easier to clean. You should also consider how easy it will be to fold your stroller to store it or for transport to and from your car. "Nothing is more frustrating than buying your dream stroller but then realizing it's too heavy to lift or too big for your trunk," she says.
If you're looking for a budget-friendly option that has different seating options take a look at this award winner from Summer Infant, which has two toddler seats, a bassinet attachment and can be made into a triple stroller, with an additional seat or riding board. The seats recline and the controls for the calf bar can be adjusted independently. This is great the time when one child is in need of to rest while another is looking to explore the surroundings. When folded, it's compact and fits into the majority of trunks.
Age ranges
Sit-and-stand strollers are the best option for families with children who are close in terms of age. They provide comfort and ease of use. They have a seat in the front for toddlers or infants, and a bench, platform or other surface at the rear that allows older children to stand up and walk on/off. These strollers are great for toddlers and older children however, they are not suitable for babies or children who do have the coordination and balance to stand up on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller can help you keep your eyes on both children at once and fit through tight spots like aisles of the grocery store that are crowded or family photos at the park. These models are smaller and more maneuverable than double strollers with side-by-side seating however they don't offer enough storage space under the carriage and can't accommodate the infant car seat.
If you plan on using a double stroller over a period of several years or even a decade, it's worth investing in one that will grow with your kids. Double strollers are generally more expensive than single strollers, however when you pick the right one the first time it could save you money over time.
Our testers tested each stroller in several maneuverability tests, as well as off-road excursions. They discovered that they were simple to maneuver over different terrains. If you plan to use it in urban areas or cities where the sidewalks and traffic can be bumpy, then you may need something more robust and durable that can withstand rough treatment.
Many double strollers are built to last a long time, but you might notice that the seats are more worn than you expected or your kids grow out of it before it's ready to retire. If you are on a tight budget, choose one with a rating of at minimum four years. It should last as long as it can.
Ease of Use
If you're planning to purchase a double stroller, it's important that it is easy to use for both children. This means a comfortable harness for seated kids, and easy-to-grasp handles for toddlers who stand. The stroller can also be easily rolled around and maneuvered through tight spaces. In fact, the top-rated strollers in our Lab tests--such as the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie and Thule Urban Glide 2 Double--are among the most easy to push.
A double stroller must be easy to fold up and store. double pram and pushchair fold down in one or two steps and are compact enough to fit in most trunks. It's a plus if you can add a second chair or a ride-along to the stroller. Some strollers can hold infant car seats so you don't need to wake your baby to transfer them to the stroller when it's time to go home.
A good double stroller is also durable, so it can be used on a variety of terrains. Some are able to be converted into a jogging scooter with a front wheel that is specially designed and others can be used as umbrella strollers. Some even have an accessory basket that can be affixed to the back of the stroller to carry shopping bags or groceries.
Another thing to consider is whether you'd prefer either a side-byside stroller or a tandem. Side-by-side strollers are typically bigger than tandem models and aren't easy to maneuver through tight spaces such as doorways and aisles of grocery stores that are crowded. However, they provide the convenience of allowing both children to enjoy the same view. They are also easier to navigate during bad weather because they offer more protection from the elements.
Many parents opt to purchase an adaptable stroller that can be used by a newborn, and then transformed into a double stroller when their children get older. After talking with parents, it became clear that it is better to buy what you need now instead of trying to anticipate what you will require in the near-term.
Storage
When you're looking for a double-stroller, you need to consider the amount of storage space available and the dimensions. Many models come with spacious accessible baskets that can hold lots of cargo. Many models also come with several cup holders for parents and reversible seat configurations to provide the most legroom for children. However, double buggy can add up in price and it's crucial to read reviews and descriptions carefully.
Most double strollers are classified as tandem or side-byside designs. Tandem strollers feature two seats that are positioned on the same frame and are typically more suitable for older children who are already comfortable with sitting without assistance. They tend to have more storage space than side-by-side models. However, some can be difficult to push with the front seat fully reclined.
Side-by-side strollers come with two separate seats that are positioned side-by-side and are typically for infants or toddlers who haven't mastered independent sitting. They are also easier to push and maneuver than tandem strollers. However, they usually have smaller storage baskets than tandem strollers, and can be more expensive.
There are double strollers designed specifically for biking or jogging. These are usually more expensive than all-terrain strollers and come with fixed front wheels, which limit their mobility. These strollers are worth considering if you intend to use them for these types of activities.
If you're looking for twins or a baby and an older toddler, or a child who's not yet ready to go out on their own, there's a perfect double stroller out there. Our top picks are easy to maneuver, flexible, stable and have seating that grows with your child. So whether you're in search of a tandem stroller or one that will accommodate your infant car seat, check out our top choices to find the right double stroller for your family.
