What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The best double strollers are built to grow with families and offer thoughtful features to keep kids comfortable and happy. This includes adjustable foot rests and a smooth ride on trails, gravel and old sidewalks.
Kerry was delighted 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
Seating options are a major factor in determining whether or the family will buy a double stroller. You'll need to consider the age of your children, their respective sizes, and the seating arrangements that will work best for you.
Alli Cavasino is a senior editor of Consumer Reports. She says that if you are looking to purchase a tandem stroller, you should think about one with child seats attached together. This model does not require car seat adapters. These are typically wider than other types of double strollers, however they might not fit through standard door frames within your home.
If you're experiencing an age gap between your children, consider a dual-seat stroller that can transform into a stand-and-ride model that has a platform or small bench seat in the back for a child who would like to ride with or observe their younger sibling. These strollers are capable of accommodating infant car seats if necessary and are ideal for children aged three years apart.
Billingsley explains that you should be aware of the material used for the seat. Certain fabrics are more air-conditioned than others, and are easier to clean. It's also important to think about how easy it is to fold your stroller for transporting it to and from your car. "Nothing is more frustrating than buying the perfect stroller, only you realize it's too heavy to carry or too large for your trunk," she says.
If you're looking for a budget-friendly alternative that can be configured in a variety of ways look no further than this award-winning stroller from Summer Infant. It features two toddler seats as well as an infant bassinet. It could be made into a triple stroller by adding an additional seat or riding board. The seats recline and the controls for the calf bar can be adjusted in a separate manner. This is ideal when one child wants to rest while another wants to explore their surroundings. It's also compact when folded and fits easily in the majority of trunks.
Age Variations
Sit-and-stand strollers are a great option for families with children who are close in age. They provide the comfort and convenience. These strollers have a seat in front for toddlers or infants, and a platform, bench or another surface in the rear that allows older children to stand up or get off and on. These strollers are great for toddlers and older children, but not for babies or children who do have the coordination or balance to stand on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller lets you to keep both children in view at once, and can be pushed through tight spaces, such as grocery store aisles or for family photos at the parks. These models are smaller and easier to maneuver than double strollers with side-by-side seating however they don't offer enough storage space under the carriage and aren't able to accommodate an infant car seat.
If you are planning to use a double stroller for some time--or even for over a decade, it's worthwhile purchasing a model that can expand with your children. Double strollers are more expensive than single strollers, but if they're chosen wisely, you'll save money over the long haul.
Our testers took each stroller through a series maneuverability tests and off road adventures. They found them easy to maneuver on different terrains. However, if you're planning to use it in urban areas where traffic and sidewalks can be bumpy and uneven, you may want something more sturdy and durable to withstand the rough treatment.
Many double strollers are built to last for a long time, but you may notice that the seats are more worn than you expected or your children outgrow it before it's time to retire. If you are on the tightest budget, go for a model with a rating of at minimum four years. It should last as long as possible.
User-Friendliness
It's important to make sure that the double stroller is comfortable to use by both children. This means comfortable harnesses for children who sit, and easy-to-grasp handles for toddlers who stand. It also means that the stroller is able to roll easily, and can be maneuvered around tight spaces and around obstacles. Push Chairs And Prams -rated strollers in our Lab tests, such as the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie or Thule Urban Glide 2 Double, are among the easiest to move around.
A double stroller should also be easy to fold and take down and store. The most efficient models fold in two or three steps and are small enough to fit in most trunks. It's also a plus that the stroller can be used in a variety of ways with the option of adding a second seat or a ride-along board. Some strollers can accommodate infant car seats, so you don't need to wake your baby up to transfer them to the stroller when it's time to leave for home.
Furthermore, a quality double stroller must be durable to be able to be used on a variety of terrain. For instance, some models can be converted into a jogging stroller with a front wheel that is specially designed, and some are able to be used as an umbrella stroller. Some strollers come with 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 tend to be larger than tandem models, and can be difficult to maneuver in tight spaces like 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 since they provide more protection from the elements.
Many parents opt to buy an adaptable single-to-double stroller, to use it for a newborn and later switch to a regular double when their children are older. After talking to parents, it became apparent that it is better to purchase what you need now instead of trying to anticipate what you will require in the near future.
Storage
When shopping for double-strollers, it's crucial to think about the amount of storage space available and the dimensions. A lot of models have large accessible baskets that can store a large amount of items. Many models also have several cup holders for parents, as well as seats that can be reversible to give the most legroom for children. However, a few of these features can add up in price, so it's important to read reviews and descriptions carefully.
The majority of double strollers are classified as either tandem or side-by-side designs. Tandem strollers have two seats assembled on the same frame, and are generally better suited for older babies who have already mastered sitting without assistance. They also have a bigger storage basket than side-byside models, however some are awkward or difficult to push when the front seat is fully reclined.
The side-by-side stroller has two separate seats that are set side-by-side. They're usually better suited for younger babies or toddlers who haven't yet mastered sitting independently. They are also more maneuverable and easy to push than tandem strollers. They can be more expensive and have smaller baskets.
There are double strollers that are designed specifically for biking or jogging. These are more expensive than basic all-terrain strollers, and they usually come with fixed front wheels that limit their flexibility. They are worth considering only if you plan to use them for such activities.
There's a double stroller to suit any situation whether you're looking to purchase one for twins, a child who's not yet ready to ride alone or not yet old enough. Our top picks are easy to maneuver, versatile and stable, as well as seating that expands with your child's. So whether you're in search of a tandem stroller or one that will accommodate your infant car seat, look through our top picks to choose the ideal double stroller for your family.