What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The best double strollers grow with families and have clever features to keep children happy and comfortable. The top double strollers have adjustable footrests as well as a smooth ride on old sidewalks, gravel and trails.
Kerry was pleased that the stroller was packaged in multiple boxes, however everything was clearly labeled and simple to open. She also liked the fact that it can accommodate two infant car seats and can be combined with a riding board for older children.
Seating Options
Seating options are a major element in determining whether the family will buy a double stroller. You'll need to consider the age of your children, their relative sizes of them and the seating arrangements you like.
For instance, if you have children who are close in age and will be sitting together, consider a tandem model that has child seats that are attached to each other and doesn't require you to use car seat adapters, says Alli Cavasino who is a senior editor at Consumer Reports. They are generally larger than other types of double strollers, however they might not pass through door frames that are standard in your home.
If twin pushchair are a older age, you might want to consider a stroller with two seats that can be converted into a stand-and ride model. This will allow a child to watch or ride with their siblings. These in-line strollers are also capable of accommodating infant car seats if needed, and are good for children who are 3-5 years apart.
Billingsley explains that you should also consider the type of material you choose for your seat. Certain fabrics are more air-conditioned than others, and are easier to clean. It is also important to consider how easy it will be to fold down the stroller for storage purposes or transporting it to and from your vehicle. "There's nothing more frustrating than buying your dream stroller only 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 different seating options, check out this award winner from Summer Infant It comes with two toddler seats as well as a bassinet attachment. The stroller can be made into triple stroller by adding an additional seat or riding board. The seats recline and the controls for the calf bar can be adjusted separately. This is great when one child needs a nap while another wants to explore their surroundings. When folded, it is compact and can fit easily into most trunks.
Age ranges
Sit-and-stand strollers are a great option for families with children who are close in terms of age. They offer the comfort and convenience. These strollers usually have seats for infants or toddler in front and a bench or platform that lets an older child stand or hop on and off in the back. These strollers are ideal for toddlers and older children, but not for babies or children who do have the balance and coordination to stand on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller can help keep your eyes on both children at the same time and get through difficult areas like crowded grocery store aisles or family photos at the park. These models are narrower and easier to maneuver than double strollers with side-by-side seating however they don't have as much storage under the carriage and can't accommodate the infant car seat.
If you're planning to use a double stroller over the course of a few years or even for a decade, you should consider purchasing a model that can grow with your children. Double strollers tend to be more expensive than single strollers, but when you pick the right one the first time around, it can save you money over time.
Our test participants took each stroller through a series maneuverability tests and off-road excursions. They discovered that they were simple to maneuver over different terrains. If you intend to use it in cities or areas where sidewalks and traffic can be bumpy, then you may want something more robust and durable that can withstand rough treatment.
A lot of double strollers are made to last for a long time, but you may discover that the seats become more worn than you expected or your kids grow out of it before it's ready to retire. If you're on an extremely tight budget, you should choose one with a rating of at least four years. It is best to use it for as long as it can.
Ease of Use
It is essential to ensure that the double stroller is simple to use by both children. That means comfortable harnesses for seated kids and handles that are easy to grab for toddlers who stand. The stroller can also be easily rolled around and maneuvered through tight spaces. The top strollers we tested in our Lab tests, including the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie or Thule Urban Glide 2 Double are among the most easy to move around.
It's also essential that a double stroller is easy to fold and store. The best models have a one- or two-step process, and they're small enough to fit in the majority of trunks. It's an advantage when you can add a second seat or a ride-along to the stroller. Some strollers can even accommodate infant car seats, so you don't have to wake up your baby to put them into their stroller when they're ready to go home.
A good double stroller is also strong, so it can be used in different kinds of terrains. Some can be converted into a jogging stoller with a front wheel that is specially designed and others can be used as umbrella strollers. Some even come with an accessory basket that can be attached to the rear of the stroller to carry groceries or shopping bags.
A tandem stroller or side-byside is an alternative to think about. Side-by-side strollers tend to be wider than tandems, and can be difficult to navigate tight spaces such as entrances or aisles that are crowded in grocery stores. They are practical because they allow each child to enjoy the same view. They are also easier to navigate during bad weather since they provide more protection from the elements.
Many parents choose to purchase a stroller that can be converted from single to double, so that they can use it for a newborn and then later switch to a regular double when their kiddos are older. After talking to parents, it became clear that it is better to purchase the items you require now rather than to try to anticipate what you will require in the near-term.
Storage
When you're looking for a double-stroller, it's important to take into consideration the amount of storage 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, as well as reversible seat configurations to provide the best legroom possible for children. Some of these features may increase the cost, so be sure to go through the reviews and descriptions carefully.
Most double strollers are categorized as either tandem or side-by-side designs. Tandem strollers come with two seats on the same frame and are typically more suitable for older children who have already learned unassisted sitting. They also have a much larger storage basket than side-by-side models, though some can be awkward or difficult to push when the front seat is fully reclined.
The side-byside stroller features two separate seats that are placed side-by-side. They're generally best suited to infants or toddlers, who aren't yet comfortable with sitting on their own. They are also more maneuverable and easy to push than tandem strollers. However, they typically have smaller storage baskets than tandem strollers, and can be more expensive.
There are also double strollers that are designed specifically for biking or jogging. These are more expensive than standard strollers that are all-terrain, and they often have fixed front wheels that limit their flexibility. These strollers are worth considering if you plan to use them in these types of activities.
Whether you're shopping for twins or a baby and a toddler, or a child who's not quite ready to walk on their own, there's an ideal double stroller out there. The best options in our tests are versatile, stable, and easy to navigate, with seating that grows as your children get older. So whether you're looking for a tandem stroller or one that will accommodate your infant car seat, take a look at our top choices to find the ideal double stroller for your family.