What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The best double strollers develop with families and offer innovative features that keep kids comfortable and happy. The best double strollers come with adjustable footrests as well as smooth riding on old sidewalks, gravel and trails.
Kerry was pleased that the stroller came in multiple boxes, however everything was clearly labeled and simple for her to open. She also loved that the stroller can be used with 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 not a family will purchase a double stroller. You'll want to think about the age of your children, their relative sizes and the seating configurations that work best for you.
For instance, if have children of similar age and will be sitting side-by-side, you should consider a tandem stroller that has child seats attached to one another and does not require car seat adapters, says Alli Cavasino an editor in the senior position at Consumer Reports. They are generally larger than other double strollers, they might not fit into standard door frames in your home.
If your children are of a different age, you may be interested in a stroller with two seats that can be turned into a stand-and-ride model. This allows children to watch or ride with their sibling. These strollers are equipped to accommodate infant car seats if needed and are suitable for children aged 3 to 5 years apart.
Billingsley explains that you should take into consideration the fabric used to make the seat. Some fabrics are more air-conditioned than others, and they are also easier to clean. You should also consider how easy it will be to fold down the stroller for storage purposes or transporting it to and from your vehicle. "There's nothing more frustrating than purchasing your dream stroller only discover that it's too heavy or big for your trunk," says the expert.
If you're looking for a low-cost option that can accommodate different seating options, check out this award-winning model from Summer Infant, which has two toddler seats as well as a bassinet attachment. The stroller can be expanded to become triple stroller by adding an additional seat or riding board. The seats recline and come with the calf bar controls that can be adjusted independently, which is ideal for when one child wants to sleep while the other wants to take in the surroundings. When folded, the seat is compact and can fit easily into the majority of trunks.
Age Variations
Sit-and-stand strollers are the best option for families with children who are close in terms of age. They offer convenience and comfort. These strollers come with a seat in the front for toddlers or infants, and a platform, bench or another surface at the rear that lets older children stand up and walk on/off. These strollers are great for older toddlers and children, but not for babies or children who do not have the coordination and balance to stand up on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller can help you keep your eyes on both children simultaneously and can fit into difficult areas like aisles of the grocery store that are crowded or family photos at the park. These models are narrower and easier to maneuver than double strollers with side-by-side seating however they don't offer enough storage space under the carriage and can't accommodate infant car seats.
If you are planning to use a double stroller over many years or even for a decade, you should consider buying one that will grow along with your children. Double strollers are more expensive than single strollers, but if they're chosen wisely, you'll save money in the long run.
Our test participants took each stroller through several maneuverability tests, as well as off road adventures. They found them easy to navigate on various terrains. However, if you're planning to be using it in urban areas where sidewalks and traffic can be bumpy and uneven, you may want something more robust and durable that can handle the rough treatment.
Many double strollers are built to last for a long time, but you may notice that the seats are used up faster than you anticipated or your kids outgrow it before it's ready to retire. If you're on a budget, consider getting one that has been rated for at least four years and is designed to last as long as is possible.
Simple to use
If you're planning to purchase a double stroller, it's important that it is simple to use for both children. This means comfortable harnesses for children who sit and handles that are easy to grab for toddlers who stand. This also means that the stroller is able to roll effortlessly, and is able to be maneuvered through tight spaces and around obstacles. The top strollers we tested in our Lab tests, such as the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie or Thule Urban Glide 2 Double are among the easiest to maneuver.
A double stroller should also be able to fold and store. The best models have a one- or two-step process, and they're small enough to fit into most trunks. It's a plus when you can add a second seat or a ride-along to the stroller. Some strollers can also hold infant car seats, so you don't have to wake your baby to move them into the stroller when it's time to leave for home.
In addition, a good double stroller should be sturdy to be able to be used on a variety of terrain. Some are able to be transformed into a jogging stoller with a specific front wheel and others can be used as umbrella strollers. Some strollers have a cargo bag that can be attached to the back of the stroller to carry groceries and shopping bags.
Another consideration is whether you'd prefer either a side-byside stroller or a tandem. Side-by-side strollers tend to be wider than tandems and can be difficult to navigate narrow spaces like entrances or aisles that are crowded in grocery stores. They are convenient because they allow both children to see the same scenery. Push Chairs And Prams are also more convenient to navigate in bad weather since they provide more protection from the elements.
Many parents decide to purchase an adaptable single-to-double stroller, so they can use it with a baby and later switch to a regular double once their children are older. But after talking to parents we've learned that it's best to purchase what you require at the moment instead of trying to predict what your family will require in the future.
Storage
If you're shopping for a double stroller, you may need to think about the size and amount of storage space. A lot of models have large accessible baskets that can store a large amount of items. Many models also have numerous cup holders for parents, as well as seating configurations that can be reversed to provide the best legroom for children. Some of these features may increase the cost, so be sure to read reviews and descriptions carefully.
Most double strollers are categorized as tandem or side-by-side designs. Tandem strollers come with two seats on the same frame and they're typically better suited for older babies who are already comfortable with sitting without assistance. They also tend to have a larger storage basket than side-by-side models, though some are awkward or difficult to push when the front seat is fully reclined.
Side-by-side strollers have two individual seats positioned side by side and are generally for babies and toddlers who haven't yet learned independence sitting yet. They also have the added benefit of being generally easier to maneuver and push than tandem strollers. However, they tend to have smaller storage baskets than tandem strollers, and can be more expensive.
There are also specialized double strollers designed for jogging and biking. These are usually more expensive than all-terrain strollers and have fixed front wheels, which limit their flexibility. These strollers are worth considering if you intend to use them in these activities.
If you're looking for twins, an infant and a toddler, or a child who isn't quite ready to ride on their own, there's a great double stroller out there. The top choices that we tested are flexible and stable. They are also easy to use and have seating that grows as your kids do. So whether you're in search of a tandem stroller or one that can accommodate your infant car seat, look through our top choices to find the right double stroller for your family.