Buying Guide For Double Strollers
If you have two kids who are similar in age, a double stroller could be a valuable investment. These compact tandem buggies or flexible side by side buggies will keep both children in the same place when you are navigating the aisles of your grocery store and parks, as well as whatever else life throws at you.
Comfort
The comfort factor is one of the most important factors to consider when shopping for a double-stroller. This includes both the seating arrangement as well as the overall size of the stroller which can impact the convenience and storage. "Parents should check how much the stroller weighs and its folded dimensions," says child development expert and mom Katie Billingsley of Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat. "They should also take a look at the options for recline and seat age ranges to ensure a good fit for their family."
A reputable double stroller must be able to navigate a variety of surfaces with ease from suburban sidewalks to park paths, and from toddler booster seats to infant car seats. It should also have flexible seating options for children of different ages and comfort features such as peek-a-boo windows and adjustable canopies to protect children from sun or rain.
For many families, a double stroller will be used from birth until the age of five, so it's crucial to consider the seating options. "There are two main categories - in-line with one seat ahead of the other, and side by side with seats that are next to each other," Billingsley explains. Some parents prefer the in-line option due to its sleek style and its versatility. Others prefer the wagon style double stroller to maximize space for bulky or grocery items.
In-line models are more likely to show this kind of discordance. Certain models may provide different recline options, with one seat being nearly flat, and the other remaining relatively upright. Billingsley suggests choosing a model that has a nearly flat recline and leg rest adjustments for both seats to ensure both children can lie back comfortably.
She also suggests parents look for strollers that have storage compartments to allow them to easily access their snacks, personal items, and toys while in motion. She adds that it's also helpful to look for a stroller that has an organizer or parent console bag that is attached to the handlebars, which will allow you to keep your essentials within reach.
A few of the most highly-rated double strollers are expandable, allowing parents to customize the set-up based on the needs of their expanding family. The Mockingbird Expandable, for example, is a highly rated double stroller that can be used from birth with just one seat, and later converted into a tandem (with two seats and a bassinet) as the child grows older.
Safety
Double strollers need to be able to handle the weight of both passengers and any additional cargo. Strollers should also be easy to push and maneuver, especially in tight areas and on terrain that is difficult to navigate. The best strollers feature ergonomic handlebars with adjustable heights which allow parents to maintain a good posture when pushing them. Another great feature is a no-rethread belt harness that makes it easier to adjust the seat belts. Also, a strong brake system and wheels that can glide over any surface are essential safety features.
Some parents choose the side-by-side design so that both children can meet up on family outings. This arrangement can stop sibling fights over which child is allowed to sit in which spot but it's not a guarantee. If the seats are placed at different heights, one child could be able to kick or punch the other during walks.
For strollers double strollers of twins or siblings close in age, a tandem-style stroller can be beneficial in being able see both children at the same time. These double strollers can be more spacious, and may not fit through certain interior doors. To maximize versatility, you should consider a single-to-double stroller that transitions from a single stroller to a tandem in different ways, like the well-known CYBEX Gazelle S. These models are able to accommodate a broad range of configurations, and let you click in infant car seats or cot attachments, according to your requirements.
If you are looking for a tandem or side-byside stroller, make sure that the product is JPMA certified to meet stringent safety standards. Be aware of the maximum weight limit for each seat. If you exceed these limits, it could cause frame fatigue and other issues.
While it's easy to focus on all the extra bells and whistles that come with the latest stroller, it's important to keep in mind that a stroller is an infant carrier that will be used for extended durations of time. It should be comfortable for both passengers, easy to clean and maintain, and in the ideal case it should have an intuitive, familiar design that the person pushing it can effortlessly maneuver it without having to think twice about how to move forward or turn left or right, or apply the brakes.
Ease of Use
A double stroller must be simple to maneuver over various terrains for families who are constantly moving. Strollers that have features like windows that peek-a-boo, adjustable canopies and reliable brake systems are crucial to ensure the safety of your children. But there are also other features that make them simpler to use. For example, a stroller must be compact enough to fit into the trunk of your car, while still offering ample storage space for groceries and other belongings. It is also essential to include thoughtful touches, such as a cup holder for one parent or consoles for parents, as well as snacks on trays. These are able to make traveling with two children significantly easier.
During our testing We evaluated the strollers on how it did on a variety of terrains and how easily it maneuvered in tight spaces. We also examined how simple it was to fold and unfold, and whether or not a specific feature enhanced the overall performance of the stroller. A stroller that does not have rethread straps makes it easy to adjust the seat belts. This is a major benefit for parents who are on the move because it cuts down on time and eliminates the need to re-thread the harness.
The UPPAbaby V2 Double scored well in this test because it offered a wide range of seating configurations, and other accessories that could accommodate expanding families. The wagon-style double stroller is able to accommodate an additional seat, a bassinet or even a toddler-friendly riding board, which is ideal for active families planning long trips with multiple kids of various ages. It glides easily over pavements, cobblestones, and ballfields. It can also be folded flat to store in a trunk or a closet. Our tester Kerry was impressed by the simple, intuitive nature of this stroller's design. The smart packaging, clearly marked sections and user's manual made it easy to assemble this stroller.
Storage
Double strollers can hold twice as much as one single stroller so be sure to look for plenty of storage space. You want a stroller with enough storage space to accommodate the essentials for both children and parents, such as bottles as well as snacks, toys and diapers. Look for under-seat baskets and other pockets, and think about a stroller that has an expandable cargo area that can hold bulky items like lunch bags and diaper bags.
A quality double stroller will be able to expand with your family. For instance, some models include an attachment for a bassinet that can be used for newborns, and others feature child seats that can grow with your children until they're able to ride on the back of the stroller, Billingsley says. Some double strollers allow older children to join in the fun by riding on riding boards.
There's a wide selection of double strollers on the market, from sleek, high-performance models that can handle rough terrain to budget-friendly models more for everyday use. When you're shopping, read reviews from other users and the opinions of families like yours to get an idea of what to expect from the double stroller you select.
Double strollers come in three different styles including tandem, side-by-side and wagon-style. Side-by-side double strollers offer the most versatility and are suitable for twins or children who are who are close in age, Billingsley explains. Tandem double strollers come with two seats arranged in a tandem arrangement, facing opposite directions. This is a great option for children who are similar age, or siblings who prefer to play with one another. Tandem strollers are more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces, and are less likely to fit into doorways.
Check out this top pick by Safety 1st if you prefer a wagon-style double stroller. The testers loved that this budget model has multiple seating options and the option to click in two infant car seats or a single child in the convertible toddler seat. Our experts also appreciated the comfortable memory foam seats and the 50+ SPF canopy, and foam-filled tires that never get flat. When it's time for folding this model requires only just a few pulls on the straps beneath each seat (under the seat where children sit) in order to fold.