Buying Guide For Double Strollers
If you have two children that are in the same age group A double stroller can be a valuable investment. These compact tandem strollers or flexible side-by-side buggies let you keep your eyes on both kids at the same time while navigating the aisles of the supermarket or the parks, and whatever else life throws your way.
Comfort
Comfort is an important factor to think about when purchasing a double-stroller. This includes the seating arrangement and overall size, which has an impact on the ease of use and storage. "Parents should determine how much the stroller weighs as well as its dimensions when folded," says child development expert and mom Katie Billingsley of Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat. "They must also take into consideration the recline options for seats and the age ranges of their children to ensure it's a perfect fit."
A quality double stroller should be able to navigate a variety of surfaces with ease, from suburban sidewalks to parks, and from toddler booster seats to infant car seats. It should also offer versatile seating options for children of varying age groups and comfort features like peek-a-boo windows and adjustable canopies to protect children from sun or rain.
For a lot of families double strollers will be utilized from birth until the age of five, so it's crucial to think about seating options. "There are two main categories: in-line with one seat behind the other, and side-by-side with seats adjacent to each other," Billingsley explains. Some parents prefer the inline option due to its sleek style and its versatility. Others like the wagon style double stroller to maximize space for bulky or grocery items.
Although some models may have different recline options - with one seat being almost flat, while the other remains relatively upright, this kind of difference is more prevalent in in-line models. Billingsley recommends selecting a product that has a nearly flat recline and leg rest adjustment for both seats. This will ensure that both children can lay comfortably.
Then, she suggests choosing a stroller that includes storage compartments that enable parents to easily access snacks, toys and other personal belongings while on the go. She also recommends that it's helpful to choose a stroller that includes a parent console or organizer bag that is attached to the handlebars. This will aid parents in keeping their essentials in their reach.
Many of the top-rated double strollers can be extended giving parents the ability to customize the setup according to their family's requirements. The Mockingbird Expandable, for instance is a highly rated double stroller that can be used from birth with a single seat, then transformed into a tandem (with two seats and a bassinet) when the child gets older.
Safety
Double strollers should be able to handle the weight of two adults, as well as any additional cargo. Strollers should be able to move and push, especially when on rough terrain and in tight spaces. The best strollers feature ergonomic handlebars that can be adjusted in height to allow parents to maintain their good form when pushing them. Another feature that is great is a non-rethread seat belt harness, which allows for a more comfortable adjustment of the belts on the seat. Safety features include a robust brake system and wheels which can glide across any surface.
Some parents prefer a side by side design to ensure that both children be together when they go on family outings. This arrangement can help prevent siblings arguing over who gets to sit in which seat, but it isn't foolproof. If the seats are located at different heights, a child could kick or punch another during a walk when the seats are on different levels.
For parents with twins or siblings of similar age, a tandem stroller can be beneficial in being able to see both children at the same time. However, these can be wider than other double strollers, so they might not fit through all doorways in the interior. To maximize versatility, you should consider a single-to-double stroller that transitions from a single to a tandem in different ways, such as the renowned CYBEX Gazelle S. These models can be adapted to a wide range of configurations, and allow you to click in infant car seats or cot attachments according to your requirements.
Whether you choose a side-by-side or tandem-style stroller, be sure the product is JPMA-certified to meet stringent safety standards. Be aware of the weight limits that apply to each seat, since exceeding them can lead to frame fatigue or other issues.
While double pram and pushchair to focus on the many bells and whistles of the latest stroller, it is crucial to keep in mind that a stroller is essentially a baby carrier that will be used for extended periods of time. It must be comfortable for both passengers and easy to clean and maintain, and ideally it should have an easy-to-use, familiar design so that the person pushing it is able to easily maneuver it without having to think twice about how to move forward and turn left or right, or apply the brakes.
User-Friendliness
For families who are constantly on the move, a double stroller should be able to navigate a variety of terrains. Strollers with features like windows that can be opened and closed, adjustable canopy and sturdy brake systems are crucial to ensure the safety of your children. But there are other factors that make them easier to use. For instance, a stroller must be compact enough to fit in the trunk of your car while still offering ample storage space for groceries and other belongings. It is also important to consider thoughtful additions like a cup holder with a single parent as well as a console for parents and snacks for children--all things that will make life on the go with two kids significantly easier.
During our testing we evaluated each stroller based on its performance on different terrains and its ability to maneuver in tight spaces. We also assessed the ease with which it was possible to fold and unfold, and whether or not a specific feature added to the overall performance of the stroller. A stroller that does not have rethread straps is easy to adjust the seat belts. This is a major attraction for parents who are constantly moving around, since it does away with the need to rethread their harness.
The UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double scored high in this metric, as it offers a wide range of seating configurations as well as additional accessories to help accommodate growing families. The wagon-style double stroller can be expanded to allow for two seats as well as a bassinet, or a toddler riding board that is perfect for families with active children who plan long days on the go with multiple kids of varying ages. It glides easily over pavements, cobblestones, and ball fields. It can be folded flat to fit in a trunk or a closet. The design of this stroller is simple and intuitive which was well-loved by our tester Kerry. Its smart packaging, clearly labeled sections and an informative user guide made assembling this stroller a breeze.
Storage
Double strollers can carry twice more than one single stroller So, make sure to search for ample storage space. You want a stroller with enough storage space to accommodate the necessities of children and parents, such as bottles and snacks, toys, and diapers. Look for pockets and baskets under the seats. Also, consider a stroller with an expandable cargo space to accommodate bulky items like lunch bags and diaper bags.
A good double stroller will be able to adapt to the needs of your family. For instance certain models have a bassinet attachment that can accommodate newborns, while others come with child seats that can expand with your children until they're able to move to the back of the stroller, Billingsley says. Some double strollers even include a rider board to allow older siblings to be part of the fun.
There are many double strollers on the market. You can choose from models with high-performance features which are suitable for rough terrain, or more budget-friendly options that you can use daily. As you shop, read reviews and suggestions from families like yours to get a better sense of what to expect with the double stroller you select.
Double strollers are available in three different designs: side-by-side, tandem, and wagon-style. Side-by-side double strollers provide the most versatility and are ideal for twins or children who are close in age, Billingsley explains. Tandem double strollers, on contrary, have two seats that are placed adjacent to one another and facing in opposite directions. This is a great option for children of the same age, or for siblings who enjoy interacting with one another. Tandem strollers can be difficult to maneuver through tight spaces, and are less likely to pass through doors than their side-by-side counterparts.
If you prefer a wagon-style double stroller take a look at this top choice from Safety 1st. This model is affordable and was praised by testers for its many seating options. It can be used with two car seats for infants, or one child in a convertible toddler chair. Our experts also praised memory foam seats and canopy that has 50+ SPF, and foam-filled wheels that will never wear out. When it's time for folding this model needs only a few tugs on the straps under each seat (under the seats where kids sit) in order to fold.