What to Look For in a Double Stroller

The best double strollers are built to grow with families and provide innovative features that keep kids happy and comfortable. The best double strollers come with adjustable footrests as well as a smooth ride on old sidewalks, gravel and trails.

Kerry was pleased that the stroller arrived in multiple boxes, but everything was clearly labeled and simple to open. She also loved the fact that it can accommodate two infant car seats and can be combined with a riding board for older children.

Seating Options

When it is double strollers, the seating options are what determines the success or failure of the purchase for many families. You'll want to consider the age of your children, their relative sizes, and the seating arrangements that work best for you.

For instance, if you have children who are close in age that will be seated side-by-side, you should consider a tandem model that comes with child seats attached to one another and doesn't require you to use car seat adapters, explains Alli Cavasino, a senior editor at Consumer Reports. They are generally larger than other double strollers, they might not pass through door frames that are standard in your home.

If your children are of a different age, you might want to consider a stroller that has two seats that can be converted into a stand-and-ride model. This allows children to observe or ride with their sibling. These types of in-line strollers can also fit infant car seats in the event that they are needed and are a great option for children who are 3-5 years apart, says Billingsley.

Billingsley advises that you must also consider the type of material you choose for your seat. Some fabrics are more air-conditioned than others, and easier to clean. You should also think about how easy it will be to fold the stroller for storage purposes or transport to and from your vehicle. "Nothing is more frustrating than buying your dream stroller, but then realizing it's too heavy to lift or too big for your trunk," she says.

If you're seeking a low-cost option that offers multiple configurations, then check out this award-winning stroller from Summer Infant. It features two toddler seats and an infant bassinet. It could be made into a triple stroller adding a third seat or a riding board. The seats recline, and the control of 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, the seat is small double buggy and easily fits into the majority of trunks.

Age Ranges

For families with kids who are close to their ages, a sit-and-stand stroller is the ideal combination of comfort for children and adults and ease of use. These strollers have a seat in front for toddlers or infants, and a bench, platform or other surface at the rear that lets older children stand up or hop on/off. They're great for big toddlers and preschoolers, but won't be suitable for infants or kids who don't yet 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 narrow spaces like the aisles of the grocery store that are crowded or family photos in the park. These models are usually narrower than double strollers that are side-by-side and are generally easier to maneuver however they aren't able to accommodate infant car seats and typically don't offer as much undercarriage storage.

If you are planning to use a double stroller for several years--or even over a decade, it's worthwhile purchasing a model that can expand with your children. Double strollers are more expensive than single ones however, if you select them properly, you'll save money in the long run.

Our test participants took each stroller through a series maneuverability tests and off road double buggy-road excursions. They found them easy to navigate on various terrains. If you plan to use it in urban areas or in cities where sidewalks and traffic can be bumpy, then you may need something more robust and durable capable of handling rough treatment.

A lot of double strollers are made to last a long time, but you might find that the seats get worn out faster than expected or your children grow out of it before it's ready to retire. If you are on a tight budget, choose an option with a warranty 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 easy to use by both children. It means that the harnesses should be comfortable for children sitting and the handles must be a breeze to hold for toddlers. The stroller can also be easily rolled and moved around obstacles and in tight spaces. 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 most easy to push.

It's also essential that a double stroller be easy to fold and store. The best models use the option of a two-step or one-step process, and they're small enough to fit into the majority of trunks. It's an advantage if you can include a second chair or a ride-along stroller. Some strollers can hold infant car seats so you don't need to wake your baby up to transfer them to the stroller when it's time to leave for home.

A quality double stroller is also durable, so it is able to be used in a variety of terrains. Some can be converted into a jogging stoller with a special front wheel and others can be used as umbrella strollers. Some even have a cargo basket that can be affixed to the back of the stroller to carry shopping bags or groceries.

A tandem or side-by-side is an alternative to think about. Side-by-side strollers tend to be wider than tandems, and can be difficult to navigate narrow spaces like doorways or crowded aisles in grocery stores. However, they offer the convenience of allowing each child to view the same scenery. They can also be easier to navigate in a storm because they offer more coverage from the elements for both kids.

Many parents opt to buy an adaptable single-to-double stroller, so that they can use it for a newborn and then switch to a regular double when their children are older. After speaking with parents, it became clear that it is better to buy what you need today rather instead of trying to predict what you might require in the near future.

Stores

When looking for a double-stroller, you need to consider the amount of storage and the dimensions. Many models come with spacious, easy-to-access baskets that can store a large amount of items. They also often feature multiple parent cup holders and convertible seating arrangements that provide the most comfortable legroom for children. However, some of these features can increase in cost, so it's important to read reviews and descriptions carefully.

Most double strollers are categorized as tandem or side-byside designs. Tandem strollers feature two seats that are positioned on the same frame and are generally better suited for older children who have already learned sitting without assistance. They tend to have more storage space than side-byside models. However, some can be difficult to push when the front seat is fully reclined.

Side-byside strollers have two distinct seats that are placed side-by-side and are generally suited to younger babies or toddlers who haven't yet learned independence sitting. They are also easier to push and maneuver than tandem strollers. They may be more expensive, and they have smaller baskets.

There are also double strollers designed specifically for jogging or biking. They are more expensive than standard all terrain double stroller-terrain strollers, and they often come with fixed front wheels that restrict their mobility. These strollers are worth considering if you intend to use them for these types of activities.

Whether you're shopping for twins, an infant and a toddler, or a child who's not quite ready to go out on their own, there's a great double prams for Newborn stroller available. Our top picks are simple to maneuver, adaptable, stable and have seating that expands with your child's. So whether you're in search of a tandem stroller or one that can accommodate your infant car seat, look through our top picks to choose the right double stroller for your family.