Buying Guide For Double Strollers
A double stroller is a good investment when you have two kids of similar age. These narrow tandem strollers or versatile side-by-side buggies help you keep an eye on both children at the same time taking on the grocery store or the parks, and whatever else life throws at you.
Comfort
When you are looking for a double stroller, the comfort is an important factor to consider. This could include the seating arrangement as well as the overall size, which will have an impact on ease of use and storage. "Parents should check how much the stroller weighs as well as its dimensions when folded," says child development expert and mom Katie Billingsley of Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat. "They should also take a look at the options for recline and seat age ranges to ensure a perfect fit for their family."
A quality double stroller should be durable enough to travel on different surfaces smoothly--from parks trails to suburban sidewalks, and from infant car seats to toddler booster seats. It should also have flexible seating arrangements for children of different age groups and comfort features such as windows that peek out and adjustable canopy to shield children from rain or sun.
For a lot of families, a double stroller is likely to be used from birth until the age of five, so it's crucial to think about seating options. Billingsley explains that there are two major categories: in-line, with one seat in-front of the other and side-byside with seats adjacent to each other. "Some parents prefer an in-line option for its sleek appearance and versatility, while others like a wagon-style double stroller to maximize space for heavy items or groceries."
In-line models tend to have this kind of difference. Some models might offer different recline options, with one being almost flat, while the other one remaining fairly upright. Billingsley recommends choosing a product that offers both a nearly flat recline and leg rest adjustment for both seats to ensure both children can lie back comfortably.
Then, she suggests to look for strollers that have storage compartments that allow parents to easily access snacks, toys and other personal items while on the move. She suggests that it's useful to find the
compact twin stroller that has an organizer or parent console bag that can be attached to the handlebars, which will allow you to keep your essentials in reach.
A few of the top-rated
Double pram buggy strollers are expandable which allows parents to alter the layout to meet the requirements of their growing family. For example the Mockingbird Expandable is a highly-rated double stroller that can be used with a
single double stroller seat from birth and then transformed into tandem (with an additional seat and bassinet) as the child grows older.
Safety
Double strollers should be able to carry the weight of two people, plus any additional cargo. Strollers need to be simple to maneuver and push, especially when on rough terrain and in tight spaces. The best strollers feature ergonomic handlebars that can be adjusted in height to help parents maintain good form while pushing them. A harness that is not rethread which makes the adjustment of seat belts more quickly and easily to do, is a nice feature to look for. Safety features include a robust brake system and wheels that can glide across any surface.
Some parents opt for the side-by-side design to allow both children to see each other during family outings. This arrangement can stop siblings fighting over who is allowed to sit in which spot but it's not a guarantee. If the seats are at different levels, a child might punch or kick one another during a walk, when the seats are on different levels.
A tandem-style stroller is a great option for parents with twins or siblings who are close in age. It lets them see both children at once. However, these can be more spacious than other double strollers, so they may not be able to pass through all doors in your home. You could consider a single-to-double stroller that can be transformed from a single to a double in many ways. The most popular models are the CYBEX gazelle S.
If you're in the market for a tandem or side-byside stroller, ensure that the stroller has been JPMA certified to meet strict safety standards. Be sure to check the maximum weight limits for each seat, since exceeding them could result in frame fatigue or other issues.
While it's easy for us to focus on all the extra bells and whistles that come with a new stroller, it's crucial to be aware that a stroller essentially a baby carrier that is carried around for long durations of time. It should be easy to clean and maintain and comfortable for both of the passengers. It should also have a familiar, intuitive design that lets the person pushing it to maneuver it effortlessly.
Easy to Use
For families who are constantly on the move, a double stroller should be able to navigate a variety of terrains. Features like adjustable canopy, peek-aboo windows and reliable braking systems are critical to help ensure your children's safety, however, there are other elements that influence stroller comfort of use. For example the stroller must be small enough to fit in the trunk of your car, but still provide ample storage space for your groceries and other items. It is also important to consider thoughtful additions such as a cup holder for one parent, parent consoles and an eating tray for children -- all things that make life with two kids much easier.
In our tests, we assessed each stroller on the basis of its ability to perform on different terrains and its ability to maneuver in tight spaces. We also assessed the ease with which it was possible to fold and unfold, and whether or not a particular feature added to the overall functionality of the stroller. For instance, a stroller with no-rethread harnesses makes adjusting the seat belts easy and quick. This is a huge selling point for parents who are constantly in motion, as it removes the requirement to rethread the harness.
The UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double was a top performer in this measure, since it offered an impressive range of seating configurations and additional accessories to accommodate growing families. The wagon-style double stroller is able to provide two seats, a bassinet or even a toddler-friendly riding board, which is ideal for families who are active and planning long, tiring days with multiple kids of varying age. It also glides smoothly across cobblestones, balls and pavements. It it folds flat to make easy storage in a trunk or closet. The design of this stroller is easy and easy to use which was well-loved by our test participant Kerry. Its smart packaging, clearly labeled sections and helpful user guide made putting together this stroller an absolute breeze.
Storage
double push chair strollers can carry twice as much as a single one so be sure to look for plenty of storage space. It is important to find a stroller with enough storage space to hold the essentials for both children and parents, such as bottles, toys, snacks, and diapers. Find baskets and pockets under the seats. Also, think about a stroller with an expandable cargo area to accommodate bulky items like diaper bags and lunchbags.
A good double stroller will be able to adapt to the needs of your family. Billingsley says that some models have a bassinet attachment to accommodate newborns. Others have child seats that can be able to grow with your child until they are old enough to ride on the back. Some
double running buggy strollers permit older siblings to join in the fun with a rider board.
There are many different
double pram stroller strollers available. You can choose from models with high-performance features that are ideal for rough terrain, to affordable options that you can use daily. As you shop, read reviews from other users and the opinions of families like yours to gain an idea of what to expect from the double stroller you select.
Double strollers are available in three models: tandem, side by side and wagon-style. Billingsley states that side-byside strollers are the most adaptable and suitable for twins or children of similar age. Tandem double strollers, on the contrary, have two seats that are placed adjacent to one another and facing in opposite directions--a great option for children of the same age or for siblings who enjoy interacting with one another. Tandem strollers are more difficult to maneuver through tight spaces, and are less likely to fit in doors.
Take a look at this top choice by Safety 1st if you prefer a wagon style double stroller. This affordable model was praised by testers for its many seating options. It can be used with two infant car seats or one child sitting in a convertible toddler seat. Our reviewers also praised the soft memory foam seats, 50+ SPF canopy, and foam-filled tires that will never get flat. When it's time to fold this model needs only just a few nudges on the straps beneath each seat (under where kids sit) in order to fold.