What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The best double strollers develop with families and have innovative features that keep kids comfortable and happy. The best double strollers offer adjustable footrests as well as smooth rides on old sidewalks, gravel, and trails.
Kerry loved the fact that the stroller was delivered in multiple boxes, however everything was well-labeled and easy to open. She also appreciated that the stroller can accommodate two infant car seats, and it can be paired up with a riding-board for older children.
Seating Options
When it is double strollers, the seating options are what makes or breaks the purchase for many families. You'll need to consider the age of your children, the relative sizes of them, and the seating arrangements you like.
Alli Cavasino is a senior editor for Consumer Reports. She says that if you're looking to buy a tandem stroller, you should think about one with child seats that are attached. This model does not require car seat adapters. They're typically larger than other types of double strollers,, so they may not fit into standard door frames in your home.
If you're experiencing an age gap between your children you should consider a stroller with two seats that has the option to transform into a stand-and-ride model that has an elevated or small bench seat in the back for a child who likes to just ride with or observe their sibling. These types of strollers can also accommodate infant car seats should they be required, and are a good option for children who are 3 to 5 years apart, according Billingsley.
Billingsley suggests that you take into consideration the material used for the seat. Certain fabrics are more air-conditioned than others, and easier to clean. It's also important to think about how easy it is to fold your stroller to store it or transport 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're looking for an affordable option that has multiple configurations take a look at this award-winning stroller from Summer Infant. It comes with two toddler seats as well as the bassinet. It can be converted to a triple stroller by adding an additional seat or a riding board. The seats recline, and have calf bar controls to adjust independently, which is great for those times when one child needs to sleep while the other one wants to take in the surroundings. It's also compact when folded down and easily fits into most trunks.
Age ranges
For families with kids who are near in age, a sit and stand stroller is the ideal combination of comfort for children and adults and ease of use. They typically come with seats for infants or toddler in front and a platform or bench that allows an older child to stand or take a ride in the back. They are great for big toddlers and preschoolers, but don't be ideal for babies or kids who do not yet have the balance or coordination to stand on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller allows you to keep both children within sight at once, and can fit through tight spaces like aisles in the grocery store or for family photos in the parks. These models are narrower and easier to maneuver than double strollers with side-by-side seating, but they don't have as much storage space under the carriage and aren't able to accommodate an infant car seats.
If you plan on using a double stroller for a period of several years or even a decade, it's worth investing in an item that can expand along with your children. Double strollers are more expensive than single strollers, but if they're chosen properly, you'll save money in the long run.
Our testers took each stroller through an assortment of maneuverability tests as well as off-road excursions. They found them easy to maneuver on various 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 durable and sturdy that can withstand rough treatment.
Double strollers are built to last, however the seats may wear out sooner than you think or your kids may outgrow them before they're ready for retirement. If you're on a tight budget look into one that has been rated for at least four years and aims to last for as long as is possible.
Simple to use
It is essential to ensure that the double stroller is easy to use by both children. This means comfortable harnesses for seated kids and handles that are easy to grab for toddlers who stand. double pram and pushchair can also be easily rolled and moved around obstacles and in 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 among the most easy to push.
It's also crucial that a double stroller is easy to fold and store. The best models fold down in just a couple of steps and are small enough to fit in most trunks. It's also a benefit when you can include a second chair or a ride-along to the stroller. Some can even hold infant car seats, so you don't have to wake up your baby to put them into the stroller when they're ready to go home.
In addition, a good double stroller needs to be sturdy so that it can be used on different types of terrain. Some of them can be converted into a jogging stoller with a front wheel that is specially designed and some can also be used as umbrella strollers. Some strollers have a cargo bag that can be tacked at the back to carry shopping bags and other items.
Another consideration is whether you want either a side-byside stroller or a tandem. Side-by-side strollers are generally larger than tandem models, and they aren't easy to maneuver in tight spaces like doorways and aisles of grocery stores that are crowded. They do offer the convenience of allowing both children to see the same scene. They can also be more easy to navigate through in stormy weather as they provide greater coverage from the elements for both kids.
Many parents decide to purchase an adaptable stroller that can be used by a baby and later converted into double strollers when their children reach an older age. However, after speaking with parents we've learned it's best to buy what you need now instead of trying to predict what your family will require in the future.
Stores
When you're looking for a double-stroller, it's important to think about the amount of storage and the dimensions. A lot of models have large, easy-to access baskets that hold plenty of stuff. They often also have multiple parent cup holders and reversible seating configurations that offer the best legroom available for children. However, double pram and pushchair of these features can increase in price therefore it is important 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 are generally better suited for older children who have already mastered sitting on their own. 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 have two individual seats that are positioned side-by-side and are generally for infants or toddlers who haven't yet learned independence sitting yet. They are also easier to push and maneuver than tandem strollers. They can be more expensive and come with smaller baskets.
There are also double strollers made specifically for biking or jogging. These are more expensive than standard strollers that are all-terrain, and they typically have fixed front wheels that limit their flexibility. These strollers are only worth considering if you intend to use them in these types of activities.
If you're looking for twins or a baby and a toddler, or another child who's not yet ready to go out on their own, there's a perfect double stroller available. The best options in our tests are versatile and stable. They're also easy to use, with seating that grows as your children grow. Take a look at our top picks for the top double stroller that will meet your family's needs whether you're searching for a tandem or one that will fit your infant car seat.