What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The best double strollers are made to adapt to the needs of your family and include thoughtful features that keep your children at ease and happy. This includes adjustable foot rests as well as an easy stroll on trails, gravel and old sidewalks.
Kerry was delighted that the stroller was packaged in multiple boxes, however everything was clearly labeled and simple to open. She also appreciated 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 a major factor in determining whether or the family will buy a double stroller. You'll have to think about the age of your children, the relative sizes and seating arrangements you prefer.
Alli Cavasino is a senior editor for Consumer Reports. She says that if you're planning to buy a tandem stroller, it is best to look at one that has children's seats that are connected. This model is not required to have car seat adapters. These double strollers are typically wider than other double strollers. They may not fit through the standard doors of your home.
If your children are different age, you might think about a stroller that has two seats that can be turned into a stand-and-ride model. This allows children to watch or ride along with their sibling. These strollers are able to accommodate infant car seats when needed, and are good for children aged three years apart.
Billingsley suggests that you also consider the type of material you choose for your seat. Certain fabrics are more comfortable than others, and are easier to clean. You should also consider how easy it will be to fold your stroller for storage or transport between your vehicle and home. "There's nothing more frustrating than purchasing your dream stroller only to find out that it is too heavy or large for your trunk," says the expert.
If you're looking for an affordable option that has different seating options, check out this award winner from Summer Infant that comes with two toddler seats as well as a bassinet attachment. The stroller can be expanded to become a triple stroller with an additional seat or riding board. The seats recline, and the control of the calf bar can be adjusted separately. This is perfect for when one child wants a nap while another is looking to explore the surroundings. When folded, it is compact and fits into most trunks.
Age Ranges
For families with kids who are near in age, a sit-and-stand stroller can provide the best combination of comfort for both children and ease of use. They typically come with a seat for an infant or toddler in front and a bench or platform that allows an older child to stand or jump on and off in the back. These strollers are ideal for toddlers and older children however, they are not suitable for babies or children who do have the balance and coordination to stand on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller can help keep your eyes on both children at once and fit through tight spots like aisles of the grocery store that are crowded or family photos at the park. These models are narrower and more maneuverable than double strollers that are side-by-side however they don't have as much storage under the carriage and can't accommodate infant car seat.
If you are planning to use a double stroller over the course of a few years or even for a decade, you should consider buying one that will grow along with your children. Double strollers tend to be more expensive than single strollers, however if you choose the right one the first time around it can save you money over time.
Our test participants tested each stroller in an assortment of maneuverability tests as well as off-road excursions. They found that they were easy to navigate on different terrains. If you intend to use it in cities or areas where the traffic and sidewalks are prone to bumps, you might want something more durable and sturdy capable of handling rough treatment.
Many double strollers are designed to last for a long time, but you might find that the seats get used up faster than you anticipated or your children grow out of it before it's ready for retirement. If you're on a tight budget, choose one with a rating of at least four years. It should last as long as is possible.
Ease of Use
It's important to make sure that the double stroller is comfortable to use by both children. This means that the harnesses should be comfortable for children who sit, and the handles should be simple to grasp for toddlers. This also means that the stroller is able to roll effortlessly, and is able to be maneuvered through tight spaces and around obstacles. In twin strollers for newborns in our Lab tests -- such as the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie and Thule Urban Glide 2 Double among the easiest to push.
A double stroller must be able to fold and take down and store. The most efficient models fold in just a couple of steps and are compact enough to fit into most trunks. It's also an advantage that the stroller can be used in a variety of ways, with options to add a second seat or a ride-along board. Some strollers can even accommodate infant car seats, so you don't need to wake up your baby to get them into their stroller when they're ready to head home.
Furthermore, a quality double stroller needs to be sturdy to be able to be used on various types of terrain. For example, some can be converted to an jogging stroller by using an adapted front wheel and some are able to be used as an umbrella stroller. Some even come with an accessory basket that can be attached to the rear of the stroller to carry shopping bags or groceries.
A tandem or side-by-side stroller is another option to consider. Side-by-side strollers are generally larger than tandems, and may be difficult to maneuver through tight spaces such as entrances or aisles that are crowded in grocery stores. check here are convenient because they allow each child to enjoy the same view. They can also be more easy to navigate in rough weather as they provide greater coverage from the elements for both children.
Many parents decide to purchase an adaptable stroller that can be used by a baby and later converted into a double stroller when their children reach an older age. After talking to parents, it became clear that it is better to buy what you need today rather than to try to anticipate what you will require in the near future.
Storage
If you're shopping for a double stroller, then you might be interested in the size and amount of storage space. Many models have large, easy-to access baskets that hold lots of items. Many models also have numerous cup holders for parents as well as seats that can be reversible to give the most legroom for children. Certain of these features could add to the price therefore, make sure to go through the reviews and descriptions carefully.
Most double strollers are classified as tandem or side-by-side designs. Tandem strollers come with two seats on the same frame and they're typically better suited for older children who are already comfortable with unassisted sitting. They tend to have more storage space than side-byside models. However, some can be difficult to push when the front seat is fully reclined.
The side-byside stroller features two seats that are placed side-by-side. They're generally better suited for younger babies or toddlers, who haven't yet mastered sitting on their own. They are also easier to push and maneuver than tandem strollers. They may be more expensive and come with smaller baskets.
There are double strollers made specifically for biking or jogging. These are more expensive than the standard strollers that are all-terrain, and they typically come with fixed front wheels that limit their flexibility. These strollers are worth considering if you intend to use them in these types of activities.
There's a double stroller that's suitable for any situation whether you're looking to purchase one for twins, a child who's not yet ready to ride on their own, or a child who's not quite old enough. Our top picks are easy to maneuver, flexible 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.