What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The best double strollers are designed to grow with your family and come with thoughtful features that keep your children happy and comfortable. This includes adjustable foot rests as well as an easy stroll on trails, gravel and old sidewalks.
Kerry appreciated the fact that the stroller was delivered in multiple boxes but everything was labeled properly and easy to open. She also appreciated 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 aspect in determining whether or an entire family will invest in a double stroller. You'll need to consider the ages of your children, their relative sizes and the seating configurations that will work best for you.
Alli Cavasino is a senior editor of Consumer Reports. She says that if you're planning to buy a tandem stroller, you should think about one with child seats attached together. This model is not required to have car seat adapters. Double strollers are generally wider than other double strollers. They may not be able to fit through standard doors in your home.
If you're facing an age gap between your kids, consider a dual-seat stroller that can convert to a stand-and-ride model that has the option of a bench or a platform seat in the back for children who would like to ride along or watch their younger sibling. These kinds of in-line strollers can also fit infant car seats, if needed, and are a good option for children who are 3-5 years apart, says Billingsley.
Billingsley explains that you should also consider the type of material used for the seat. Some are more breathable than others, and are easier to clean. It's also important to consider 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 to find out that it is too heavy or large for your trunk," says the expert.
If you're looking for an affordable option that offers multiple configurations, then check out this award-winning stroller from Summer Infant. It features two toddler seats and a bassinet, and can be converted into a triple stroller adding an additional seat or a riding board. The seats recline, and the calf bar controls can be adjusted independently. This is ideal the time when one child is in need of a nap while another is looking to explore the surroundings. It's also compact when folded down and easily fits in 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 the comfort and convenience. These strollers come with a seat in front for an infant or toddler and a bench, platform or other surface in the rear that lets older children stand up and walk on/off. These strollers are great for toddlers and older children but not suitable for infants or children who do have the coordination and balance to stand up on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller lets you to keep both children within sight at once, and can be pushed through tight spaces, such as aisles at the supermarket or for family photos in parks. These models are narrower and easier to maneuver than double strollers with side-by-side seating, but they don't have as much storage under the carriage, and they're not able to fit an infant car seat.
If you're planning to utilize a double stroller for many years, or even over a decade, it's worthwhile buying a stroller that can adapt to your children's needs. Double strollers are generally more expensive than single strollers, however if you choose the right one the first time around it can save you money over the course of time.
Our test participants tested each stroller in an assortment of maneuverability tests as well as off-road adventures. They found that they were easy to navigate on various terrains. However, if you're going to use it in cities or other urban zones where sidewalks and traffic are prone to bumps You might need something stronger and more durable to withstand the rough treatment.
Double strollers are built to last, but the seats can be worn out earlier than you expect or your kids may outgrow them before they're ready for retirement. If you're on a tight budget you should consider buying one that's been rated for at least four years and aims to last for as long as is possible.
Ease of Use
If you're planning to purchase a double stroller, it's important that it be user-friendly for both children. That means comfortable harnesses for kids who are seated and handles that are easy to grab for toddlers who stand. This also means that the stroller can be moved easily, and can be maneuvered through tight spaces and around obstacles. The top-rated strollers from our Lab tests, including the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie or Thule Urban Glide 2 Double are among the most easy to move around.
A double stroller should also be easy to fold and put away. double buggy fold down in two or three steps and are compact enough to fit into most trunks. It's also beneficial that the stroller can be used in a variety of ways and has the option of adding another seat or a ride-along board. Some strollers can accommodate infant car seats so you don't have to wake your baby up to move them into the stroller when it's time to go home.
A good double stroller is also strong and is able to be used in a variety of types of terrain. For example, some can be converted to an jogging stroller that has a front wheel that is specially designed, and some can be used as an umbrella stroller. Some even have an accessory basket that can be attached to the back of the stroller to carry shopping bags or groceries.
A tandem stroller or side-byside is an alternative to think about. Side-by-side models are usually wider than tandems, and can be difficult to navigate through tight spaces such as the aisles of doors or grocery stores. They are useful because they allow each child to enjoy the same view. They can also be more easy to navigate in a storm, as they provide more protection from the elements for both children.
Many parents opt to purchase an adaptable stroller that can be used by a newborn, and then transformed into a double stroller once their children reach an older age. After talking to parents, it became clear that it is better to purchase what you need today rather instead of trying to predict what you might require in the near future.
Storage
If you're looking for a double stroller, you might want to consider the size and quantity of storage space. Many models come with spacious, easy-to-access baskets that can accommodate a lot of cargo. Many models also come with multiple cup holders for parents, as well as seating configurations that can be reversed to provide the best legroom possible for children. However, a few of these features can increase in cost, so it's important to read the descriptions and reviews carefully.
Most double strollers are classified as tandem or side-byside designs. Tandem strollers have two seats in one frame and are suited to older babies who are able to sit without assistance. They usually have more storage space than side-byside models. However, some can be difficult to push with the front seat fully reclined.
Side-by-side strollers have two individual seats positioned side by side and are generally for infants or toddlers who haven't yet learned independence sitting. They are also easier to push and maneuver than tandem strollers. They are more expensive and have smaller baskets.
There are also double strollers that are designed specifically for biking or jogging. These are more expensive than the 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 for these activities.
There's a double stroller to suit every situation whether you're looking to purchase one for twins or a child who's not quite ready to ride alone or not yet old enough to be a proper rider. The best options in our tests are versatile, stable, and easy to maneuver, with seating that grows as your children grow. Check out our top picks for the best double stroller to fit your family whether you're seeking a tandem stroller or one that will fit your infant car seat.