What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The best double strollers grow with families and have clever features to keep children comfortable and happy. This includes adjustable foot rests as well as a smooth ride on trails, gravel and old sidewalks.
Kerry was pleased that the stroller was packaged in multiple boxes, however everything was clearly labeled and easy for her to open. She also appreciated the fact that the stroller is able to accommodate two infant car seats, and can be paired up with a riding-board for older children.
Seating Options
Seating options are an important aspect in determining whether or the family will buy a double stroller. You'll need to consider the age of your children, their relative sizes and seating configurations you prefer.
For instance, if have children of similar age who will sit together, consider a tandem model that has child seats that are attached to one another and does not require car seat adapters, explains Alli Cavasino, a senior editor at Consumer Reports. They're typically larger than other types of double strollers, however they might not fit through standard door frames in your home.
If your children are of a different age, you might be interested in a stroller that has two seats that can be transformed into a stand-and-ride model. This allows a child to watch or ride along with their sibling. These strollers are capable of accommodating infant car seats if necessary and are suitable for children who will be 3-5 years apart.
You should also take a look at the seat material, says Billingsley. double buggy are more breathable than others and are more easy to clean. It's also important to consider 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 discover that it's too heavy or bulky for your trunk," says the expert.
If you're looking for an affordable option that has various seating options take a look at this award winner from Summer Infant, which has two toddler seats with a bassinet attachment. It can be made into a triple stroller with an additional seat or riding board. The seats recline and have calf bar controls to adjust independently, which is perfect for when one child is looking to nap while the other one wants to look around. When folded, the seat is small and easily fits into the majority of trunks.
Age ranges
For families with kids who are similar in age, a sit-and-stand stroller is the perfect combination of comfort for both children and ease of use. These strollers usually have seats for infants or toddler in the front, and a platform or bench that lets an older child stand or jump on and off in the back. These strollers are great for older toddlers and children, but not for babies or children who do not yet have the coordination and balance to stand up on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller can help you keep an eye on both kids simultaneously and can fit into difficult areas like busy aisles in the grocery store or family photos at the park. These models are often narrower than side-by-side double strollers and are able to move more easily but they don't have the capacity to fit carseats for infants and generally don't offer the same amount of undercarry storage.
If you are planning to use a double stroller for many years, or even a decade or more--it's worth investing in an option that will expand with your children. Double strollers are generally more expensive than single strollers, but when you pick the right one first time around it can help you save money over time.
Our test subjects put these strollers through a series of maneuverability tests and off-road adventures and found them easy to navigate over a variety of terrain. If you intend to use it in urban areas or in cities where sidewalks and traffic can be bumpy, then you may need something that is more durable and robust capable of handling rough treatment.
Double strollers are designed to last, but the seats can be worn out earlier than you think or your children might outgrow them before they're ready to retire. If you're on a tight budget, choose an option with a warranty of at minimum four years. It should last as long as is possible.
Easy of Use
If you're going to invest in a double stroller, it's essential that it is simple to use for both children. This means that the harnesses should be comfortable for children who are seated, and the handles should be simple to grasp for toddlers. It also means that the stroller rolls easily and is able to be maneuvered around tight spaces and around obstacles. The top-rated strollers from our Lab tests, such as the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie or Thule Urban Glide 2 Double are among the most easy to move around.
A double stroller should also be easy to fold and take down and store. The best models fold down in one or two steps and are compact enough to fit in most trunks. It's also a plus that the stroller can be used in a variety of ways and has the option of adding an additional seat or ride-along board. Some even have the capacity to hold infant car seats, meaning you don't need to wake up your baby to transfer them into the stroller when they're ready for a trip home.
A quality double stroller is also strong and is able to be used in a variety of types of terrain. For instance, some models can be converted into an jogging stroller that has an adapted front wheel and some can be used as an umbrella stroller. Some strollers come with a cargo bag that can be put at the back to carry groceries and shopping bags.
A tandem or side-by-side stroller is another option worth considering. Side-by-side strollers tend to be larger than tandem models, and they aren't easy to maneuver through narrow spaces like doorways or crowded grocery store aisles. They are convenient because they allow both children to see the same scenery. They are also easier to navigate in rough weather because they offer more coverage from the elements for both kids.
Many parents opt to buy a stroller that can be converted from single to double, so that they can use it as a baby, and later switch to a regular double when their kiddos are older. But after speaking with parents we've learned that it's best to get what you need now, rather than trying to anticipate what your family might need in the near future.
Storage
When shopping for double-strollers, it's crucial to consider the amount of storage available and the size. Many models have spacious accessible baskets that can accommodate a lot of cargo. Many models also have several cup holders for parents and seating configurations that can be reversed to provide the best legroom possible for children. Certain of these features could add to the price therefore, make sure to go through the reviews and descriptions carefully.
Most double strollers can be classified into tandem or side by side designs. Tandem strollers have two seats on one frame, and are best for older children who are able to sit without assistance. They also have a larger storage basket than side-by-side models, though some can be difficult or awkward to push when the front seat is reclined fully.
The side-byside stroller features two separate seats that are placed side-by-side. They're usually more suitable for infants or toddlers, who haven't yet mastered sitting on their own. They are also more maneuverable and easy to push than tandem strollers. However, they usually have smaller storage baskets than tandem strollers and may be more expensive.
There are also special double strollers that are designed specifically for jogging and biking. They are generally more expensive than all-terrain strollers. They also have fixed front wheels, which restrict their mobility. These strollers are only worth considering if you intend to use them in these activities.
There's a double stroller that's suitable for every scenario whether you're looking to purchase one for twins, a child who's not quite ready to ride on their own or not yet old enough to be a proper rider. Our top choices are easy to maneuver, flexible and stable, as well as seating that can grow with your child. Take a look at our top choices for the best double stroller to fit your family, whether you are seeking a tandem stroller or one that will fit your infant car seat.