What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The best double strollers are made to adapt to the needs of your family and include clever features that keep your kids at ease and happy. This includes adjustable foot rests and a smooth stroll on trails, gravel and old sidewalks.
Kerry was pleased that the stroller came in multiple boxes, however everything was clearly labeled and easy to open. She also loved that the stroller accepts two infant car seats and can be used with a riding board for older children.
Seating Options
Seating arrangements are a key factor in determining whether or an entire family will invest in a double stroller. You'll need to consider the age of your children, their relative sizes and seating arrangements you prefer.
For instance, if have children of similar age that will be seated together, consider a tandem model that comes with child seats linked to each other and does not require car seat adapters, explains Alli Cavasino, a senior editor at Consumer Reports. These double strollers are typically wider than other double strollers. They might not fit through the standard doors of your home.
If you're facing an age gap between your kids, consider a dual-seat stroller that can convert to a stand-and-ride model that has a platform or small bench seat in the back for a kid who likes to just ride with or observe their sibling. These strollers are able to accommodate infant car seats when needed and are ideal for children who will be 3-5 years apart.
Billingsley advises that you must be aware of the material used for the seat. Some fabrics are more breathable than others, and easier to clean. It's also important to think about how easy it is to fold your stroller for stowing or transporting to and from your car. "There's nothing more frustrating than buying your dream stroller only discover that it's too heavy or large for your trunk," says the expert.
If you're looking for a budget-friendly option that offers various seating options look no further than this award winner from Summer Infant It comes with two toddler seats with a bassinet attachment. It can be made into triple stroller by adding an additional seat or riding board. The seats recline and have control mechanisms for the calf bar that allow them to adjust independently, which is great for when one child wants to rest while the other one wants to take in the surroundings. It's also compact when folded and fits easily in most trunks.
Age Variations
For families with children who are similar to their ages, a sit-and-stand stroller is the perfect combination of comfort for both children and convenience. These strollers usually have seats for infants or toddler in front and a bench or platform that allows an older child to stand or hop on and off in the back. They are great for big toddlers and preschoolers, but won't work well for younger babies or children who don't have the balance and coordination to stand on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller can help you keep your eyes on both children at once and fit through narrow spaces like the busy aisles in the grocery store or family photos in the park. These models are usually narrower than double strollers that are side-by-side and are generally easier to maneuver however they aren't able to accommodate infant car seats and typically don't have the same amount of storage under the carriage.
If you plan on using a double stroller for a period of several years or even over a decade, it's worth investing in a model that can grow along with your children. Double strollers tend to be more expensive than single strollers. However, when you pick the right one the first time it could help you save money over time.
Our testers put each stroller through several maneuverability tests, as well as off road adventures. They discovered that they were easy to maneuver on different terrains. However, if you're planning to be using it in urban zones where sidewalks and traffic can be bumpy and uneven, you may want something stronger and more durable that can handle the rough treatment.
Many double strollers are built to last for a long period of time, but you could notice that the seats are worn out faster than expected or your children outgrow it before it's ready to retire. If you're on a tight budget, choose a model with a rating of at least four years. It should last as long as is possible.
Easy of Use
It's crucial to ensure that the double stroller is simple to use by both children. This means comfortable harnesses for seated kids, and easy-to-grasp handles for toddlers who stand. This also means that the stroller can be moved effortlessly, and is able to be maneuvered in tight spaces and around obstacles. 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 easiest to push.
It's also essential that a double stroller be easy to fold and to store. The most effective models come with an easy one- or two-step process, and they're small enough to fit into the majority of trunks. It's also beneficial when the stroller is a versatile, with options to add a second seat or a ride-along board. Some strollers can hold infant car seats, so you don't need to wake your baby to move them into the stroller when it's time to go home.
A good double stroller is also strong and can be used on a variety of terrains. Some of them can be converted into a jogging scooter with a special front wheel and some can also be used as umbrella strollers. Some even come with cargo baskets that can be affixed to the rear of the stroller to carry groceries or shopping bags.
A tandem or side-by-side is an alternative to think about. Side-by-side models are usually wider than tandems, and can be difficult to navigate through narrow spaces like doorways or crowded aisles in grocery stores. They are convenient since they permit each child to enjoy the same view. They can also be more easy to navigate in rough weather, as they provide more coverage from the elements for both kids.
Many parents choose to purchase a stroller that can be converted from single to double, so they can use it for a newborn and later switch to a regular double once their children are older. However, after speaking with parents, we've learned that it's best to purchase what you require at the moment, rather than trying to anticipate what your family may need in the future.
Storage
If you're considering a double stroller, then you might want to consider the size and the amount of storage space. https://www.pushchairsandprams.uk/categories/double-pushchairs come with spacious easy-to-access baskets that are able to accommodate a lot of cargo. They often also have several cup holders for parents as well as seats that can be reversible to provide the best legroom available for children. Certain of these features could increase the cost, so be sure to read reviews and descriptions carefully.
The majority of double strollers can be classified as tandem or side by side designs. Tandem strollers are two seats in one frame and are suited to older babies who are able to sit without assistance. They usually have bigger storage baskets than side-by-side models. However, some may be difficult to push with the front seat fully reclined.
The side-by-side stroller has two separate seats that are placed side-by-side. They're usually best suited to infants or toddlers who aren't yet comfortable with sitting on their own. They are also easier to push and maneuver than tandem strollers. However, they tend to have smaller storage baskets than tandem strollers, and can be more expensive.
There are double strollers made specifically for biking or jogging. These are more expensive than basic strollers that are all-terrain, and they usually come with fixed front wheels that restrict their mobility. These strollers are only worth considering if you intend to use them for these types of activities.
If you're looking for twins, an infant and an older toddler, or a child who's not yet ready to go out on their own, there's an ideal double stroller available. Our top picks are easy to maneuver, flexible, stable and have seating that expands with your child's. Take a look at our top choices for the best double stroller to meet your family's needs, whether you are searching for a tandem or one that can accommodate your infant car seat.