What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The most effective double strollers are designed to adapt to the needs of your family and come with thoughtful features that keep children happy and comfortable. This includes adjustable foot rests and an easy stroll on trails, gravel and old sidewalks.
Kerry was pleased that the stroller arrived in multiple boxes, but everything was clearly labeled and simple for her to open. She also appreciated the fact that it can accommodate two infant car seats and can be used with a riding board for older kids.
Seating Options
When it is double strollers, seating options are what determines the success or failure of the purchase of many families. You'll want to consider the ages of your children, their relative sizes and the seating configurations that are most suitable for your needs.
Alli Cavasino is a senior editor at Consumer Reports. She says that if you're looking to purchase a tandem stroller, it is best to consider one with child seats attached together. This model does not require car seat adapters. These double strollers are typically wider than other double strollers. They might not fit through the standard doors of your home.
If you're facing an age gap between your kids look into a double-seat stroller with the option to transform into a stand-and-ride model with the option of a bench or a platform seat in the back for a kid who likes to just ride along or watch their younger sibling. These types of in-line strollers can also be adapted to fit infant car seats in the event that they are needed, and are a good option for children who will be 3-5 years apart, says Billingsley.
Billingsley advises that you must also consider the type of material you choose for your seat. Certain fabrics are more air-conditioned than others, and easier to clean. You should also think about how easy it is to fold your stroller for storage or transportation to and from your car. "There's nothing more frustrating than purchasing the perfect stroller only to find out that it is too heavy or bulky for your trunk," says the expert.
If you're looking for a low-cost option that can accommodate multiple seating configurations take a look at this award winner from Summer Infant It comes with two toddler seats as well as a bassinet attachment. The stroller can be expanded to become triple stroller by adding an additional seat or riding board. The seats recline, and have the calf bar controls that can be adjusted independently, which is great for when one child is looking to nap while the other one wants to take in the surroundings. It's also compact when folded down and easily fits into the majority of trunks.
Age Variations
Sit-and stand strollers are the ideal option for families with children who are close in terms of age. They offer convenience and comfort. They typically come with seats for infants or toddler in the front, and a bench or platform that allows an older child to stand or take a ride in the back. These strollers are ideal for toddlers and older children however, they are not suitable for babies or children who do have the coordination or balance to stand up on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller can help keep an eye on both kids simultaneously and can fit into tight spots like aisles of the grocery store that are crowded or family photos in the park. These models are smaller and more maneuverable than double strollers that are side-by-side however they don't offer as much storage space under the carriage, and they're not able to fit an infant car seats.
If you're planning to utilize a double stroller for several years--or even a decade or more--it's worth buying a stroller that can expand with your children. Get the facts are typically more expensive than single strollers. However, If you choose the right one the first time it could save you money over the course of time.
Our test participants put each of these strollers through a series maneuverability tests and off-road adventures, and they found them to be easy to maneuver over different terrains. If you plan to use it in urban areas or cities where sidewalks and traffic are prone to bumps, you may want something more robust and durable that can handle rough treatment.
Double strollers are made to last, however the seats could wear out sooner than you anticipate or your children might outgrow them before they're ready to retire. If you are on the tightest budget, go for a model with a rating of at least four years. It should last as long as possible.
Ease of Use
If you're going to purchase a double stroller, it's essential that it is simple to use for both children. It means that the harnesses must be comfortable for children sitting, and the handles should be easy to grasp for toddlers. It also means that the stroller can be moved effortlessly, and is able to be maneuvered around tight spaces and around obstacles. In fact the top strollers in our Lab tests, such as the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie and Thule Urban Glide 2 Double among the most comfortable to push.
A double stroller should be easy to fold and store. The best models have an easy one- or two-step process, and they're small enough to fit in the majority of trunks. It's also a benefit if you can add a second seat or a ride-along to the stroller. Some can even hold infant car seats, meaning you don't need to wake up your baby to transfer them into their stroller once they're ready to go home.
A quality double stroller is also durable and can be used on a variety of types of terrain. For example, some can be converted into a jogging stroller with a specialized front wheel, and some can be used as an umbrella stroller. Some strollers have a cargo bag that can be put at the back to carry shopping bags and groceries.
Another thing to consider is whether you want a side-by-side stroller or a tandem. Side-by-side strollers are typically larger than tandem models, and can be difficult to maneuver through tight spaces such as doorways and crowded grocery store aisles. However, they offer the convenience of allowing each child to view the same scenery. They are also much easier to navigate in bad weather as they offer more protection from the elements.
Many parents opt to purchase an adaptable stroller that can be used with a baby, and later converted into a double stroller when their children are older. But after talking to parents, we've learned that it's best to get what you require at the moment instead of trying to anticipate what your family might need in the future.
Stores
When you're looking for a double-stroller, you need to think about the amount of storage available and the size. Many models have large, easy-to-access baskets that can hold lots of items. They also often feature numerous cup holders for parents and reversible seating configurations that offer best-in-class legroom for children. However, certain features can add up in price and it's crucial to read reviews and descriptions carefully.
Most double strollers are classified as tandem or side by side designs. Tandem strollers include two seats in one frame and are suited to older babies who are able to sit without assistance. They tend to have more storage space than side-by-side models. However, some may be difficult to push when the front seat is fully reclined.
The side-by-side stroller has two seats that are positioned side-by-side. They're typically more suitable for infants or toddlers, who haven't yet mastered sitting on their own. They also have the benefit of being generally easier to maneuver and push than tandem strollers. However, they tend to have smaller storage baskets than tandem models and can be more expensive.
There are also specialized double strollers specifically designed for biking and jogging. These are more expensive than standard all-terrain strollers and typically come with fixed front wheels that restrict their mobility. They are worth considering only if you plan to use them for such activities.
If you're looking for twins or a baby and an older toddler, or a child who isn't quite ready to go out on their own, there's an ideal double stroller out there. The top options we've found in our tests are versatile and stable. They are also easy to maneuver and have seating that grows as your children grow. So whether you're in search of a tandem stroller or one that will accommodate your infant car seat, check out our top picks to choose the perfect double stroller for your family.