What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The best double strollers are built to grow with families and provide clever features to keep children at ease and content. The top double strollers have adjustable footrests, as well as smooth rides over gravel, old sidewalks and trails.
Kerry was pleased the fact that the stroller was delivered in multiple boxes, however everything was labeled properly and easy to open. She also appreciated that the stroller can accommodate two infant car seats and can be paired up with a riding-board for older children.
Seating Options
Seating options are an important factor in determining whether or the family will buy a double stroller. You'll want to consider the ages of your children, their relative sizes, and the seating arrangements that will work best for you.
For example, if you have children who are close in age that will be seated together, consider a tandem model that has child seats linked to one another and doesn't require you to use car seat adapters, according to Alli Cavasino an editor in the senior position at Consumer Reports. Double strollers are generally wider than other double strollers. They might not fit through the standard doors of your home.
If your children are different age, you might think about a stroller that has two seats that can be converted into a stand-and-ride model. This allows a child to watch or ride along with their siblings. These in-line strollers are also able to accommodate infant car seats when needed and are ideal for children aged 3-5 years apart.
You should also take a look at the seat material, says Billingsley. Certain fabrics are more breathable than others and are easier to keep clean. double pram and pushchair 's also important to consider how easy it is to fold your stroller for transporting it to and from your car. "There's nothing more frustrating than purchasing your dream stroller only to find out that it is too heavy or large for your trunk," says the expert.
If you are seeking a low-cost alternative that can be configured in a variety of ways take a look at this award-winning stroller from Summer Infant. It features two toddler seats and the bassinet. It could be made into a triple stroller adding an additional seat or riding board. The seats recline, and the control of the calf bar can be adjusted independently. This is perfect for when one child needs a nap while another wants to explore their surroundings. When folded, it is compact and fits into most trunks.
Age Variations
For families with children who are similar in age, a sit and stand stroller is the ideal combination of comfort for children and adults and user-friendliness. They typically come with a seat for an infant or toddler in front and a platform or bench that lets an older child stand or take a ride in the back. They're great for big toddlers and preschoolers, but won't work well for younger babies or kids who do not yet have the balance or 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 crowded grocery store aisles or family photos in the park. These strollers are typically smaller than double strollers that are side-by-side and tend to maneuver easier but they don't have the capacity to fit infant car seats and generally don't offer the same amount of storage under the carriage.
If you're planning to use a double stroller for some time--or even for over a decade, it's worthwhile investing in an option that will continue to adapt to your children's needs. Double strollers tend to be more expensive than single strollers, however when you pick the right one the first time it could save you money over the course of time.
Our testers ran each of these strollers through a series maneuverability tests and off-road excursions and found them to be easy to navigate through various terrains. If you plan to use it in cities or areas where the sidewalks and traffic can be bumpy, then you might want something that is more durable and robust that can withstand rough treatment.
Many double strollers are built to last for a long time, but you might discover that the seats become more worn than you expected or your children outgrow it before it's ready for retirement. If you're looking for a bargain look into one that's been tested for at least 4 years and aims to last as long as is possible.
Ease of Use
If you're going to invest in a double stroller, you need to ensure that it's user-friendly for both children. This means comfortable harnesses for seated kids and handles that are easy to grab for toddlers who stand. The stroller can also be easily rolled and moved over obstacles and tight spaces. In fact the top-rated strollers from 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 and store. The best models use an easy one- or two-step process, and they're small enough to fit into most trunks. It's also beneficial that the stroller can be used in a variety of ways, with options to add another seat or a ride-along board. Some strollers can even accommodate infant car seats, meaning you don't need to wake up your baby to get them into their stroller when they're ready to head home.
A quality double stroller is also sturdy, so it can be used on a variety of kinds of terrains. For instance, some models can be converted to an jogging stroller that has a front wheel that is specially designed, and some are able to be used as an umbrella stroller. Some strollers come with a cargo bag that can be attached at the back to carry shopping bags and other items.
Another thing to consider is whether you want an oversized stroller that can be used side-by-side or as a tandem. Side-by-side strollers are generally bigger than tandem models and can be difficult 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 see the same scene. They are also easier to navigate during bad weather since they provide more protection from the elements.
Many parents opt to purchase an adaptable stroller that can be used with a baby, and then converted to double strollers when their children are older. However, after speaking with parents, we've learned that it's best to purchase what you need now, rather than trying to anticipate what your family may need in the future.
Storage
If you're looking for a double stroller, then you might want to consider the size and the amount of storage space. Many models come with large, easy-to-access baskets that hold a lot of cargo. They also typically have numerous cup holders for parents and seats that can be reversible to provide the best legroom available for children. However, certain features can increase in cost and it's crucial to read descriptions and reviews carefully.
The majority of double strollers are classified as tandem or side-by-side designs. Tandem strollers feature two seats that are positioned on the same frame, and they're typically better suited for older babies who are already comfortable with sitting without assistance. They usually have bigger storage baskets than side-byside models. However, some can be difficult to push with the front seat fully reclined.
The side-by-side stroller has two seats that are positioned side-by-side. They're typically best suited to infants or toddlers who aren't yet ready for independent sitting. They are also easier to push and maneuver than tandem strollers. However, they typically have smaller storage baskets than tandem strollers and may be more expensive.
There are double strollers designed specifically for jogging or biking. They're generally more expensive than all-terrain strollers and have fixed front wheels which limit their mobility. These strollers are only worth considering if you plan 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 ride on their own, there's an ideal double stroller available. The top choices in our tests are affluent and stable. They're also easy to navigate and have seating that grows as your children get older. So whether you're in search of a tandem stroller or one that can accommodate your infant car seat, look through our top picks to choose the right double stroller for your family.