What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The best double strollers grow with families and offer thoughtful features to keep kids happy and comfortable. This includes adjustable foot rests and an easy ride on trails, gravel and old sidewalks.
Kerry was thrilled that the stroller came in multiple boxes, but everything was clearly labeled and simple for her to open. She also appreciated that the stroller can accept two infant car seats and it is able to be set with a riding board for older children.
Seating Options
When it is double strollers, the seating options are the main factor that determines the purchase for many families. You'll need to take into consideration the age of your children, the sizes of them, and the seating configurations you prefer.
For instance, if you have children who are close in age who will sit together, consider a tandem stroller that has child seats that are attached to each other and does not require car seat adapters, explains Alli Cavasino who is a senior editor at Consumer Reports. These double strollers are typically wider than other double strollers. They may not be able to fit through the standard doors of your home.
If your children are older age, you might want to consider a stroller with two seats that can be converted into a stand-and-ride model. This allows children to observe or ride along with their siblings. These types of strollers can also fit infant car seats, should they be required and are a great option for children who will be 3-5 years apart, says Billingsley.
Billingsley explains that you should be aware of the fabric used to make the seat. Some fabrics are more comfortable than others, and they are also easier to clean. double pushchair 's also important to think about how easy it is to fold your new stroller down for transporting it to and from your car. "Nothing is more frustrating than purchasing your dream stroller but you realize it's too heavy to lift or too large for your trunk," she says.
If you're looking for an affordable option that has different seating options, check out this award winner from Summer Infant that comes with two toddler seats as well as a bassinet attachment. The stroller could be expanded to make a triple stroller with an additional seat or riding board. The seats recline and come with the calf bar controls that can be adjusted independently, which is perfect for when one child is looking to rest while the other wants observe their surroundings. It's also compact when folded down and fits easily in the majority of trunks.
Age Ranges
Sit-and stand strollers are the ideal option for families with children who are close in age. They offer the comfort and convenience. These strollers have a seat in front for toddlers or infants, and a bench, platform or another surface at the rear that lets older children stand up or get off and on. They are great for big toddlers and preschoolers, but don't work well for younger babies or children who don't have the balance and coordination to stand on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller lets you to keep both children in sight at once, and can be pushed through tight spaces, such as aisles at the supermarket or for family photos at the parks. These models are usually narrower than side-by-side double strollers and are able to move more easily but they don't have the capacity to fit infant car seats and typically don't offer the same amount of undercarry storage.
If you are planning to utilize a double stroller for some time--or even for longer than a decade, it's worth purchasing a model that will continue to expand with your children. Double strollers are typically more expensive than single strollers, but If you choose the right one first time, it can save you money over the course of time.
Our test participants tested each stroller in an assortment of maneuverability tests as well as off road adventures. They found that they were simple to maneuver over a variety terrain. But if you're planning to use it in urban areas where sidewalks and traffic are prone to bumps You might need something stronger and more robust that can withstand the rough treatment.
A lot of double strollers are made to last for a long period of time, but you might discover that the seats become more worn than you expected or your children grow out of it before it's ready for retirement. If you are on an extremely tight budget, you should choose one with a rating of at least four years. It should last as long as is possible.
Simple to use
It is essential to ensure that the double stroller is comfortable to use by both children. This means a comfortable harness for seated kids, and easy-to-grasp handles for toddlers who stand. The stroller can also be easily rolled around and maneuvered through tight spaces. The top-rated strollers in our Lab tests, including the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie or Thule Urban Glide 2 Double are among the easiest to move around.
It's also essential that a double stroller is easy to fold and to store. The best models fold down in just a couple of steps and are compact enough to fit in the majority of trunks. It's also a plus if the stroller is versatile with 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 your baby to put them into the stroller when they're ready for a trip home.
A quality double stroller is also strong and can be used on a variety of types of terrain. For instance, some strollers can be converted into a jogging stroller with an adapted front wheel and some are able to be used as an umbrella stroller. Some strollers have a cargo bag that can be tacked to the back of the stroller 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 tend to be wider than tandems and can be difficult to navigate through narrow spaces like the aisles of doors or grocery stores. However, they offer the convenience of allowing every child to enjoy the same view. They are also much easier to navigate in bad weather as they offer more protection from the elements.
Many parents decide to purchase a stroller that is convertible from single to double so they can use it with a baby and then switch to a regular double when their kids are older. However, after talking to parents, we've learned that it's best to purchase what you require at the moment, rather than trying to predict what your family may need in the future.
Stores
If you're shopping for a double stroller, you might need to think about the size and amount of storage space. Many models come with large, easy-to access baskets that can hold a lot of cargo. Many models also feature multiple cup holders for parents and reversible seat configurations to provide the best legroom for children. Certain of these features could make the price more expensive therefore, make sure to go through the reviews and descriptions carefully.
Most double strollers are classified as tandem or side-by-side designs. Tandem strollers have two seats assembled on the same frame, and are generally better suited for older babies who are already comfortable with sitting on their own. They tend to have more storage space than side-byside models. However, some may be difficult to push with the front seat fully reclined.
The side-byside stroller features two separate seats that are placed side-by-side. They're usually more suitable for infants or toddlers, who aren't yet ready for independent sitting. They also have the benefit of being generally easier to maneuver and pushing than tandem strollers. They can be more expensive and have smaller baskets.
There are also double strollers that are designed specifically for biking or jogging. They are generally more expensive than all-terrain strollers, and have fixed front wheels which limit their flexibility. These strollers are only worth considering if you plan to use them in these activities.
Whether you're shopping for twins or an infant and a toddler, or a child who isn't quite ready to go out on their own, there's a perfect double stroller for you. Our top picks are simple to maneuver, adaptable and stable, as well as seating that can grow with your child. Take a look at our top picks for the top double stroller that will accommodate your family, whether you are looking for a tandem or one that can accommodate your infant car seat.