What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The best double strollers develop with families and offer innovative features that keep kids happy and comfortable. This includes adjustable foot rests as well as an easy ride on trails, gravel and old sidewalks.
Kerry was thrilled that the stroller was packaged in multiple boxes, but everything was clearly labeled and simple for her to open. She also liked that the stroller can accept two infant car seats, and can be paired with a ride-board for older children.
Seating Options
When it is double strollers, seating options are what determines the success or failure of the purchase of many families. You'll need to take into consideration the age of your children, their relative sizes of them, and the seating configurations you prefer.
For instance, if you have children who are close in age that will be seated together, consider a tandem stroller that has child seats linked to one another and does not require car seat adapters, according to Alli Cavasino, a senior editor at Consumer Reports. These double strollers are usually larger than other double strollers. They may not be able to fit through standard doors in your home.
If you're experiencing an age gap between your children you should consider a stroller with two seats that has the option to change to a stand-and ride model with a platform or small bench seat in the back for a child who likes to just ride along with their sibling. These in-line strollers are also equipped to accommodate infant car seats if necessary, and are good for children aged 3 to 5 years apart.
Billingsley advises that you must also consider the type of fabric used to make the seat. Certain fabrics are more breathable than others and are more easy to clean. It's also important to take into consideration how easy it is to fold your new stroller down for transporting it 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 lightweight double buggy seeking a low-cost option that has multiple configurations, then check out this award-winning stroller from Summer Infant. It comes with two toddler seats as well as a bassinet, and can be converted into a triple stroller adding a seat or a riding board. The seats recline, and have control mechanisms for the calf bar that allow them to adjust independently, which is perfect for when one child is looking to nap while the other wants observe their surroundings. It's also compact when folded and easily fits in the majority of trunks.
Age Ranges
Sit-and stand strollers are the ideal option for families with children who are close in terms of age. They provide convenience and comfort. These strollers usually have a seat for an infant or toddler in front and a platform or bench that lets an older child stand or jump on and off in the back. second hand double buggy are great for older children and toddlers however, they are not suitable for babies or children who do not have the coordination and balance to stand on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller can help you keep your eyes on both children at once and fit through narrow spaces like the busy aisles in the grocery store or family photos at the park. These strollers are a bit narrower and easier to maneuver than double strollers with side-by-side seating however they don't have as much storage space under the carriage and aren't able to accommodate an infant car seat.
If you're planning to use a double stroller over many years, or even for a decade, you should consider investing in a model that can grow with your children. Double strollers are more expensive than single strollers, but if they're chosen correctly, you can save money in the end.
Our test participants put each of these strollers through a series maneuverability tests and off-road excursions, and they found them easy to navigate through a variety of terrain. However, if you're going to use it in cities or other urban areas where sidewalks and traffic are prone to bumps and uneven, you may want something more sturdy and robust that can withstand the rough treatment.
Double strollers are designed to last, but the seats could get worn out faster than you expect or your children may outgrow them before they're ready for retirement. If you're on the tightest budget, go for one with a rating of at minimum four years. It should last as long as it can.
Easy of Use
If you're planning to invest in a double stroller, it's important that it's easy to use for both children. This means that the harnesses need to be comfortable for children who are seated, and the handles should be simple to grasp for toddlers. The stroller can also be easily rolled and maneuvered through tight spaces. 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 easy to push.
A double stroller should also be easy to fold up and store. The best models fold in one or two steps and are small enough to fit into the majority of trunks. It's a plus if you can add a second seat or a ride-along to the stroller. Some even have the capacity to hold infant car seats, so you don't need to wake up your baby to put them into their stroller when they're ready to head home.
A good double stroller is also durable, so it is able to be used in a variety of terrains. Some of them can be converted into a jogging stoller with a specific front wheel and some can also be used as umbrella strollers. Some even have a cargo basket which can be attached to the back of the stroller to carry groceries or shopping bags.
A tandem or side-by-side stroller is another option worth considering. Side-by-side strollers are generally larger than tandem models, and they aren't easy to maneuver in tight spaces like doorways and aisles of grocery stores that are crowded. They do offer the convenience of allowing every child to view the same scenery. They are also easier to navigate in a storm as they provide greater protection from the elements for both kids.
Many parents decide to purchase an adaptable stroller that can be used by a newborn, and later converted into double strollers when their children are older. But after talking to parents, we've learned that it's best to buy what you need now instead of trying to predict what your family may need in the near future.
Stores
If you're shopping for a double stroller, then you might need to think about the size and the amount of storage space. Many models have spacious easy-to-access baskets that are able to accommodate a lot of cargo. Many models also feature numerous cup holders for parents and seats that can be reversible to give the most legroom for children. Some of these features can add to the price therefore, make sure to review the reviews and descriptions thoroughly.
Most double strollers are classified as tandem or side by side designs. Tandem strollers come with two seats on the same frame, and are typically more suitable for older babies who have already learned sitting on their own. They typically have larger storage baskets than side-by-side models. However, some can be difficult to push with the front seat fully reclined.
The side-by-side stroller has two seats that are set side-by-side. They're typically best suited to infants or toddlers who haven't yet mastered sitting independently. They are also more maneuverable and easy to push than tandem strollers. However, they usually have smaller storage baskets than tandem strollers and may be more expensive.
There are double strollers that are designed specifically for biking or jogging. They're generally more expensive than all-terrain strollers. They also have fixed front wheels which limit their mobility. These strollers are only worth considering if you plan to use them for these activities.
If you're looking for twins or an infant and an older toddler, or a child who isn't quite ready to go out on their own, there's a perfect double stroller out there. Our top picks are easy to maneuver, versatile and stable, as well as seating that can grow with your child. Take a look at our top choices for the best double stroller to fit your family whether you're searching for a tandem or one that can accommodate your infant car seat.