What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The best double strollers are built to grow with families and offer thoughtful features to keep kids at ease and content. The best double strollers come with adjustable footrests, as well as a smooth ride over gravel, old sidewalks and trails.
Kerry was pleased that the stroller arrived in multiple boxes but everything was well-labeled and easy to open. She also appreciated that the stroller can accept two infant car seats, and it can be paired with a riding board for older children.
Seating Options
When it comes to double strollers, the seating options are the main factor that determines the purchase of many families. You'll want to consider the age of your children, their respective sizes and the seating configurations that are most suitable for your needs.
For instance, if 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, explains Alli Cavasino who is a senior editor at Consumer Reports. These double strollers are typically larger than other double strollers. They might not fit through doors that are standard in your home.
If your children are a different age, you might want to consider a stroller with two seats that can be converted into a stand-and ride model. This will allow children to watch or ride along with their siblings. These kinds of in-line strollers can also accommodate infant car seats in the event that they are needed and are a great choice for children who'll be 3-5 years apart, says Billingsley.
Billingsley suggests that you also consider the type of material used for the seat. Some offer more breathable fabrics than others and are easier to keep clean. It's also important to take into consideration how easy it is to fold your new stroller down for stowing or transporting to and from your car. "There's nothing more frustrating than buying your dream stroller only find out that it is too heavy or big for your trunk," says the expert.
If you're looking for an affordable option that can accommodate various seating options look no further than this award-winning model from Summer Infant, which has two toddler seats, a bassinet attachment and could be expanded to make a triple stroller, with an additional seat or riding board. The seats recline, and have control mechanisms for the calf bar that allow them to adjust independently, which is perfect for when one child wants to nap while the other one wants to look around. It's also compact when folded and easily fits into the majority of trunks.
Age ranges
Sit-and-stand strollers are the best option for families with children who are similar in age. They offer comfort and ease of use. These strollers have a seat in the front for toddlers or infants and a platform, bench or another surface at the rear that allows older children to stand up or get off and on. These strollers are ideal for older toddlers and children, but not for babies or children who do not have the coordination and balance to stand on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller allows you to keep both children in sight all at once, and it can be pushed through tight spaces, such as aisles in the grocery store or for family photos in the parks. These strollers are typically smaller than double strollers that are side-by-side and tend to maneuver easier however they aren't able to accommodate carseats for infants and generally don't offer as much undercarriage storage.
If you plan on using a double stroller over a period of several years or even over a decade, it's worth buying a model that can grow along with your children. Double strollers are generally more expensive than single strollers, however if you choose the right one the first time around it could save you money over time.
Our test participants put each of these strollers through a series of maneuverability tests as well as off-road adventures, and they found them to be simple to maneuver over a variety of terrain. However, if you're going to use it in urban zones where sidewalks and traffic are prone to bumps, you might want something more sturdy and durable that can handle the rough treatment.
twin buggy from birth pushchairsandprams.uk are designed to last, but the seats could wear out sooner than you expect or your children may outgrow them before they're ready for retirement. If you're on a budget, consider getting a model that has been rated for at least four years and is designed to last for as long as possible.
Easy of Use
It's important to make sure that the double stroller is easy to use by both children. This means a comfortable harness for seated kids and handles that are easy to grasp for toddlers who stand. This also means that the stroller rolls easily and is able to be maneuvered in tight spaces and around obstacles. 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 easiest to push.
It's also important that a double stroller be easy to fold and put away. The most effective models come with the option of a two-step or one-step procedure, and are small enough to fit in the majority of trunks. It's a plus if you can include a second chair or a ride-along to the stroller. Some strollers can even accommodate infant car seats, meaning you don't have to wake your baby to put them into their stroller once they're ready for a trip home.
In addition, a good double stroller must be durable so that it can be used on different types of terrain. For instance, some strollers can be converted to a jogging stroller with a front wheel that is specially designed, and some can also be used as an umbrella stroller. Some strollers come with a bag that can be attached to the back of the stroller to carry shopping bags and other items.
A tandem stroller or side-byside is another option to consider. Side-by-side strollers are typically wider than tandem models, and can be difficult to maneuver through narrow spaces like doorways or crowded grocery store aisles. They do offer the convenience of allowing each 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 choose to purchase a stroller that is convertible from single to double so they can use it for a newborn and then later change to a regular double when their kiddos are older. After talking with parents, it became apparent that it is better to purchase what you need now instead of trying to predict what you'll need in the near future.
Stores
When looking for a double-stroller, you need to consider the amount of storage space available and the dimensions. Many models have spacious easy-to-access baskets that are able to store a large amount of items. Many models also have several cup holders for parents, as well as seats that can be reversible to give the most legroom for children. Some of these features may add to the price so make sure you read reviews and descriptions carefully.
The majority of double strollers are classified as tandem or side by side designs. Tandem strollers are two seats in one frame, and are best suited to older babies who can sit unassisted. They also tend to have a bigger storage basket than side-byside models, however they can be a bit difficult or awkward to push when the front seat is reclined fully.
The side-byside stroller features two seats that are set side-by-side. They're generally better suited for younger babies or toddlers who aren't yet comfortable with sitting on their own. They also have the advantage of usually being easier to maneuver and push than tandem strollers. However, they typically have smaller storage baskets than tandem models and can be more expensive.
There are also double strollers made specifically for jogging or biking. These are more expensive than standard all-terrain strollers and typically come with fixed front wheels that limit their flexibility. These strollers are worth considering if you plan to use them in these activities.
There's a double stroller that's suitable for every situation, whether you're buying one for twins or a child that's not yet ready to ride alone, or a child who's not quite old enough. The best options that we tested are flexible and stable. They're also easy to maneuver, with seating that grows as your kids do. Take a look at our top choices for the best double stroller to meet your family's needs regardless of whether you are seeking a tandem stroller or one that can accommodate your infant car seat.