Buying Guide For Double Strollers
If you have two children who are close in age, a double stroller can be an invaluable investment. These narrow tandem buggies as well as versatile side by side buggies will keep both children in sight while navigating the grocery aisle or in parks, or whatever else life throws at you.
Comfort
Comfort is a major factor to consider when shopping for a double-stroller. This could include the seating arrangement and overall size, which will have an impact on ease of use and storage. "Parents should determine 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 think about the recline options for seats, as well as the age ranges of their children to ensure that it is a perfect fit."
A well-constructed double stroller will be sturdy enough to traverse different surfaces smoothly--from suburban sidewalks to park trails, and from infant car seats to toddler booster seats. It should also provide flexible seating options for children of varying age groups and comfort features such as peek-a-boo windows and adjustable canopies to shield children from sun or rain.
The seating options are important to many families that will use double strollers from birth to the age of. Billingsley says there are two main categories that are in-line which has one seat in front of the other, and side-by-side, with seats next to one another. Some parents prefer the in-line model due to its sleek style and flexibility. Others like a wagon-style double stroller for maximum space for grocery or bulky items.
In-line models tend to have this kind of difference. Some models might offer different recline options, with one being nearly flat, and the other being more upright. Billingsley recommends choosing a product that offers both an almost flat recline as well as leg rests that can be adjusted for both seats to ensure each child can sleep comfortably.
Then, she suggests choosing a stroller that includes storage compartments that will allow parents to quickly access snacks, toys and personal items while out and about. She adds that it's also useful to find a stroller with an organizer or parent console bag that can be attached to the handlebars, which will allow you to keep your essentials within reach.
Some of the best-rated double strollers can be extended giving parents the ability to alter the configuration according to their family's requirements. For example the Mockingbird Expandable is a highly-rated double stroller that can be used with just a single seat from birth and then converted to a tandem (with a second seat and bassinet) as the child grows older.
Safety
Double strollers should be able to support the weight of two passengers and any additional cargo. Strollers should also be easy to push and maneuver, especially in tight spots and on difficult terrain. The best strollers have ergonomic handlebars that can be adjusted in height to ensure that parents maintain a good posture while pushing them. Another great feature is a no-rethread belt harness that allows for a more comfortable adjustment of the belts for your child. Safety features include a sturdy brake system, as well as wheels that glide over any surface.
Some parents opt for an arrangement that allows both children to be able to see each other during family outings. This arrangement can stop sibling rivalries over who gets to sit where, but it's not foolproof. If the seats are placed at different levels, one child might be able to kick or punch the other during a walk.
A tandem-style stroller is great option for parents with twins or siblings that are similar in age. It lets parents see both children at once. However, these can be more spacious than other double strollers, and they might not be able to pass through all doors in your home. To maximize versatility, you should consider a stroller that can change from a single stroller to a tandem in various ways, like the renowned CYBEX Gazelle S. These models can accommodate a wide range of configurations and allow you to click in infant car seats or cot attachments, depending on your needs.
If you're in the market for a tandem or side-by-side stroller, be sure the product is JPMA certified to meet stringent safety standards. Be aware of the weight limit that applies to each seat. Exceeding these limits could cause frame fatigue and other issues.
While it's easy to concentrate on the many bells and whistles on a new stroller, it is crucial to keep in mind that a stroller is basically a baby carrier that is transported for long periods of time. It should be comfortable for both the passengers and easy to clean and maintain, and in the ideal case it should feature an intuitive, familiar design that the person pushing it can effortlessly move it around without having to think about how to move forward and turn left or right, or apply the brakes.
Easy of Use
A double stroller must be easy to maneuver on different types of terrains for families constantly on the move. Strollers with features like windows that can be opened and closed, adjustable canopy and reliable brake systems are vital to ensure the safety of your children. However, there are other factors that make them simpler to use. A stroller must be compact enough to fit into the trunk of your vehicle yet have plenty of storage space for food or other things. It's also essential to add thoughtful details, such as the cup holder for one parent or consoles for parents, as well as a snack tray. These will help make traveling with two children significantly easier.
During our testing We evaluated each stroller on how well it performed on a variety surfaces and how well it maneuvered in tight spaces. We also assessed how simple it was to fold and unfold, and whether or not a specific feature added to the overall function 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 2 Double scored well in this measure because it had a wide variety of seating configurations and additional accessories to accommodate growing families. The wagon-style double stroller expands to allow for an additional seat as well as a bassinet or a toddler riding board--perfect for families with active children who plan long trips with multiple children of different ages. It also glides smoothly across cobblestones, balls and pavements. double running buggy can be folded flat for easy storage in a trunk or closet. The design of this stroller is simple and easy to use which was well-loved by our test subject Kerry. Its clever packaging, clearly labeled sections and helpful user guides made assembling this stroller an absolute breeze.
Storage
A double stroller is able to hold twice as much stuff as a single stroller so look for ample storage space. It is ideal to have a stroller that is able to hold the basic necessities for both kids: nappies, bottles, snacks and toys, along with parents' belongings like wallets, phones, and keys. Look for baskets and pockets under the seats. Also, consider a stroller that has an expandable cargo area to accommodate bulky items such as lunch bags and diaper bags.
A good double stroller should be able to change as your family grows. For instance, some models include an attachment for a bassinet that can accommodate newborns, while others come with child seats that can expand with your kids until they're ready to ride on the back of the stroller, Billingsley says. Some double strollers also include a rider board to let older siblings be part of the fun.
There's a wide selection of double strollers in the market, from sleek, high-performance models that excel on rough terrain to budget-friendly models more for everyday use. As you shop, read reviews from other users and the opinions of families like yours to gain an idea of what to expect from the double stroller you choose.
Double strollers are available in three different styles: tandem, side-by-side and wagon style. Billingsley states that side-byside strollers are the most flexible and ideal for twins or children of similar ages. Tandem double strollers on the other hand, have two seats set adjacent to one another and facing opposite directions. It's a good option for kids of the same age, or for siblings who enjoy interacting with one another. Tandem strollers are more difficult to maneuver through narrow spaces, and less likely to fit into doors.
If you're looking for a wagon-style double stroller take a look at this top choice from Safety 1st. Testers loved how this affordable model comes with a variety of seating options and the option to snap in two infant car seats or a single child riding in the convertible toddler seat. Our reviewers also praised the comfy memory foam seats with a 50+ SPF canopy, and foam-filled tires that will never stop running flat. When it's time to fold, this model requires only a few tugs on the straps on each seat (under the seat where kids sit) to fold it in half.