What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The most effective double strollers are designed to grow with your family and come with thoughtful features that keep your children happy and comfortable. The best double strollers offer adjustable footrests and smooth riding on old sidewalks, gravel, and trails.
pushchair twin loved the fact that the stroller was delivered in multiple boxes, but everything was labeled well and was easy to open. She also liked that the stroller is able to accommodate two infant car seats, and it is able to be set with a ride-board for older children.
Seating Options
Seating options are an important factor in determining whether or the family will buy a double stroller. You'll want to think about the age of your children, their relative sizes and the seating configurations that work best for you.
Alli Cavasino is a senior editor of Consumer Reports. She says that if you're looking to purchase a tandem stroller, it is best to think about one with child seats that are attached. This model is not required to have car seat adapters. They're typically larger than other types of double strollers, they won't pass through door frames that are standard within your home.
If your children are of a older age, you might think about a stroller with two seats that can be converted into a stand-and ride model. This allows children to watch or ride with their siblings. These in-line strollers are also able to accommodate infant car seats if necessary, and are good for children who will be 3-5 years apart.
You'll also want to take a look at the seat material, says Billingsley. Certain fabrics are more air-conditioned than others, and they are also easier to clean. You should also consider how easy it is to fold the stroller for storage purposes or transportation to and from your vehicle. "There's nothing more frustrating than purchasing your dream stroller only to find out that it is too heavy or big for your trunk," says the expert.
If you are looking for an affordable option that has multiple configurations take a look at this award-winning stroller from Summer Infant. It has two toddler seats and a bassinet, and could be made to a triple stroller by adding a seat or riding board. The seats recline, and the controls for the calf bar can be adjusted separately. This is perfect for when one child wants to rest while another is looking to explore the surroundings. It's also compact when folded down and easily fits into most trunks.
Age Variations
Sit-and-stand strollers are the best option for families with children who are close in terms of age. They provide the comfort and convenience. These strollers come with 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 and walk on/off. They're ideal for big toddlers and preschoolers, but they won't work well for younger babies or kids who don't yet have the balance or coordination to stand on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller can help you keep an eye on both kids at once and fit through narrow spaces like the crowded grocery store aisles or family photos at the park. These models are often narrower than side-by-side double strollers and are generally easier to maneuver, but they won't accommodate carseats for infants and generally don't have as much undercarriage storage.
If you plan to utilize a double stroller for some time--or even for over a decade, it's worthwhile investing in an option that will grow with your kids. Double strollers tend to be more expensive than single strollers, but when you pick the right one first time, it can help you save money over time.
Our test participants put each stroller through several maneuverability tests, as well as off-road adventures. They found them simple to maneuver over different terrains. If you plan to use it in urban areas or cities where the sidewalks and traffic are prone to bumps, you may want something that is more durable and robust that can handle rough treatment.
Double strollers are built to last, however the seats can be worn out earlier than you expect or your kids may outgrow them before they're ready for retirement. If you are on the tightest budget, go for an option with a warranty of at minimum four years. It is best to use it for as long as it can.
Simple to Use
It's crucial to ensure that the double stroller is comfortable to use by both children. This means that the harnesses need to be comfortable for children sitting, and the handles should be easy to grasp for toddlers. The stroller can also be easily rolled around and maneuvered around obstacles and in tight spaces. The top strollers we tested in 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 must be able to fold and store. The best models fold in one or two steps and are compact enough to fit in the majority of trunks. It's also beneficial when the stroller is a versatile with the option of adding another seat or a ride-along board. Some strollers can hold infant car seats so you don't have to wake your baby up to transfer them to the stroller when it's time to leave for home.
A good double stroller is also durable, so it can be used in different terrains. Some are able to be transformed into a jogging stoller with a front wheel that is specially designed and some can also be used as umbrella strollers. Some strollers come with a cargo bag that can be put at the back to carry shopping bags and groceries.
A tandem or side-by-side stroller is another option worth considering. Side-by-side strollers tend to be wider than tandems, and may be difficult to maneuver through tight spaces such as the aisles of doors or grocery stores. They are practical since they permit each child to enjoy the same view. They are also easier to navigate in rough weather, as they provide more coverage from the elements for both children.
Many parents choose to buy an adaptable stroller that can be used by a baby and then transformed into a double stroller once their children reach an older age. After speaking with parents we've learned it's best to get what you require at the moment instead of trying to predict what your family may need in the future.
Storage
When looking for a double-stroller, you need to take into consideration the amount of storage available and the dimensions. Many models come with large, easy-to access baskets that can hold a lot of cargo. Many models also come with several cup holders for parents as well as reversible seat configurations to provide the most legroom for children. Certain of these features could increase the cost therefore, make sure to go through the reviews and descriptions carefully.
Most double strollers can be classified into tandem or side by side designs. Tandem strollers include two seats on one frame and are best suited to older babies who can sit unassisted. They tend to have bigger storage baskets than side-by-side models. However, some models can be difficult to push with the front seat fully reclined.
Side-by-side strollers come with two separate seats positioned side by side and are typically suited to younger babies or toddlers who aren't yet able to master independent sitting yet. They also have the benefit of being more easy 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 designed for biking and jogging. These are more expensive than standard strollers that are all-terrain, and they usually come with fixed front wheels that limit their flexibility. They are worth considering only if you intend to use them for these activities.
If you're looking for twins, an infant and a toddler, or another child who's not yet ready to go out on their own, there's a perfect double stroller out there. The top options we've found in our tests are affluent, stable, and easy to use, with seating that grows as your children grow. Check out our top picks for the best double stroller to meet your family's needs whether you're searching for a tandem or one that accommodates your infant car seat.