Buying Guide For Double Strollers
If you have two children who are similar in age, a double stroller could be an invaluable investment. These compact tandem buggies or flexible side by side buggies let you keep both children in the same place while navigating the grocery aisle and parks, as well as whatever else life throws at you.
Comfort
When you are looking for a double stroller, comfort is a key consideration. This can include the seating arrangement and the overall size, which can have an impact on the ease of use and storage. Katie Billingsley, a child expert in child development from Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat, advises parents to check the stroller's weight and folded dimensions. "They should also consider the options for recline of the seat as well as the age ranges of their children to ensure that it's the perfect fit."
A quality double stroller should be able to handle different surfaces easily, 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 like windows that peek out and adjustable canopy to protect children from sun or rain.
For a lot of families double strollers will be used from birth until childhood, so it's important to think about seating options. "There are two main categories - in-line with one seat ahead of the other, and side-byside with seats adjacent to each other," Billingsley explains. "Some parents prefer an in-line option for its sleek look and versatility, while others like a wagon-style double stroller to maximize space for heavy items or groceries."
In-line models are more likely to have this kind of difference. Some models might offer different recline options, with one being nearly flat, and the other one remaining fairly upright. Billingsley suggests selecting a model with both a near flat recline and leg rest adjustments for both seats. This will ensure that both children can lay comfortably.
She also suggests that parents look for strollers that have storage compartments so that they can easily access their snacks, personal items and toys when moving about. She also suggests that it is helpful to choose a stroller that comes with a parent console or organizer bag that is attached to the handlebars. This will help parents keep their essentials to hand.
A few of the top-rated double strollers can be expanded that allows parents to modify the configuration to meet the requirements of their growing family. The Mockingbird Expandable, for instance is a highly-rated double stroller that can be used from birth with a single seat, and then converted into a tandem (with two seats and a bassinet) when the child gets older.
Safety
Double strollers must be able to carry the weight of both the passengers as well as any additional cargo. Strollers need to be easy to maneuver and push, especially when on rough terrain and in tight spaces. The best strollers feature ergonomic handlebars with adjustable heights to help parents maintain good posture when pushing them. Another great feature is a no-rethread belt harness that makes it easier to adjust the belts for your child. Safety features include a sturdy brake system and wheels that glide over any surface.
Some parents opt for the side-by-side design to allow both children to be together on family outings. This arrangement can help prevent sibling rivalries about who gets to sit in which place, but it isn't foolproof. If the seats are located at different heights, a child could punch or kick another while walking if the seats are at different levels.
If you have twins or siblings who are close in age, a tandem-style stroller offers the benefit of being able to see both kids at once. Double strollers can be wider, and may not fit through certain doors inside. For maximum versatility, consider a single-to-double stroller which can switch from a single to a tandem in various ways, like the renowned CYBEX Gazelle S. These models can accommodate a wide range of configurations, and permit you to insert infant car seats or cot attachments according to your requirements.
If you decide to purchase a side-by-side or tandem-style stroller, be sure that the stroller is JPMA-certified to meet the strictest safety standards. Be aware of the maximum weight limit for each seat. Overstepping these limits can cause frame fatigue or other problems.
It's easy to be swept in the jingles and whistles, however it's important to keep in mind that strollers are essentially baby carriers that are used for extended times. It must be comfortable for both parents and children as well as easy to clean and maintain, and ideally it should have an easy-to-use, familiar design so that the person pushing it can easily maneuver it without having to think about how to move forward, turn left or right, or use the brakes.
Easy of Use
A double stroller must be easily maneuverable on a variety terrains for families who are constantly moving. Features like adjustable canopy systems with windows that peek out and reliable braking systems are critical to help ensure the safety of your children, however, there are other elements that influence stroller comfort of use. A stroller should be compact enough to fit into the trunk of your car, but still have plenty of storage space for food or other things. It's also essential to add thoughtful touches, such as a cup holder for one parent, consoles for parents and a snack tray. These will make traveling with two kids much easier.
In our tests, we assessed each stroller on the basis of its performance on various terrains, as well as its ability to maneuver in tight spaces. We also examined the ease with which it was possible to fold and unfold and whether or not a particular feature enhanced the overall functionality of the stroller. A stroller without rethread straps makes it easy to adjust the seat belts. This is a huge selling point for parents who are always on the move, as it eliminates the requirement to rethread the harness.
The UPPAbaby V2 Double scored highly in this measure because it had a wide variety of seating configurations and other accessories that could accommodate expanding families. The wagon-style double stroller is able to provide an additional seat as well as a bassinet or a toddler-friendly riding board, which is ideal for families who are active and planning long, tiring days with multiple children of different age groups. It also glides smoothly across cobblestones, ball fields and pavements. It also folds flat for simple storage in a trunk or closet. Our tester Kerry was impressed by the simple and intuitive nature of this stroller's design. Its clever packaging, clearly labeled sections and an informative user guide made assembling this stroller an absolute breeze.
Stores
A double stroller can be able to hold twice as much stuff as a single stroller therefore, you should look for plenty of storage space. You want a stroller with enough storage space to hold the essentials for both parents and children including bottles as well as snacks, toys and diapers. Look for baskets and pockets under the seats. Also, consider a stroller with an expandable cargo area to accommodate bulky items like diaper bags and lunchbags.
A good double stroller will be able to adapt to the needs of your family. Billingsley says that some models have the option of a bassinet attachment that can accommodate infants. Others have child seats that can grow with the child until they are able to ride on the back. Some double strollers allow older siblings to join in on the fun by riding on a rider board.
You'll find a wide variety of double strollers available on the market, ranging from sleek, high-performance models that excel on rough terrain to budget-friendly models that are more for everyday use. When you're shopping, read reviews and suggestions from families just like yours to get an understanding of what to expect with the double stroller you pick.
Double strollers are available in three styles: tandem, side-by-side and wagon-style. Billingsley says that side-by-side strollers are the most flexible and ideal for twins as well as children of similar age. Tandem double strollers on the contrary, have two seats set close to each other and facing in opposite directions--a great option for children of the same age or for siblings who enjoy interacting with one another. Tandem strollers are more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces, and less likely to fit in doors.
If you prefer a wagon-style double stroller check out this top model from Safety 1st. This affordable model was highly praised by our testers for its multiple seating configurations. It can be used with two car seats for infants or one child sitting in a convertible toddler chair. Our experts also praised memory foam seats and canopy that has 50+ SPF, and foam-filled wheels that never go flat. When double tandem pushchair to fold, this model only requires just a few pulls on the straps under each seat (under the seats where kids sit) for folding.