The 10 Scariest Things About Double Stroller
What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The best double strollers develop with families and provide thoughtful features to keep kids at ease and content. This includes adjustable foot rests and an easy ride on trails, gravel and old sidewalks.
Kerry was thrilled that the stroller was packaged in multiple boxes, but everything was clearly labeled and easy for her to open. She also liked that the stroller is able to accommodate two infant car seats and can be paired with a ride-board for older children.
Seating Options
When it comes to double strollers, the seating options are what makes or breaks the purchase for many families. You'll need to take into consideration the age of your children, their relative sizes of them, and the seating arrangements you prefer.
For instance, if have children who are close in age who will sit together, consider a tandem model that comes with child seats linked to each other and doesn't require you to use car seat adapters, says Alli Cavasino who is a senior editor at Consumer Reports. These double strollers are usually larger than other double running buggy strollers. They may not fit through the standard doors of your home.
If you have an age gap between your kids you should consider a stroller with two seats with the option to change to a stand-and ride model with an elevated or small bench seat in the back for a child who wants to casually ride with or observe their younger sibling. These in-line strollers are also equipped to accommodate infant car seats when needed, and are good for children aged 3-5 years apart.
You'll also want to look at the type of seat material, explains Billingsley. Some fabrics are more air-conditioned than others, and are easier to clean. It is also important to consider how easy it will be to fold the stroller for storage purposes or transport to and from your car. "There's nothing more frustrating than purchasing your dream stroller only find out that it is too heavy or large for your trunk," says the expert.
If you're looking for a budget-friendly option that can accommodate different seating options look no further than this award winner from Summer Infant, which has 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 ideal the time when one child is in need of to take a nap while the other wants to explore their surroundings. It's also compact when folded down and easily fits in the majority of trunks.
Age ranges
For families with children who are near to their ages, a sit-and-stand stroller can provide the best combination of comfort for both children and ease of use. These strollers usually have seats for infants or toddler in the front, and a bench or platform that allows an older child to stand or hop on and off in the back. These strollers are ideal for older children and toddlers however, they are not suitable for babies or children who do have the coordination and balance to stand up on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller lets you to keep both children in view at the same time, and also be squeezed into tight spaces such as aisles in the grocery store or for family photos in the parks. These models are often narrower than side-by-side Double buggy travel system strollers and tend to maneuver easier, but they won't accommodate carseats for infants and generally don't have the same amount of storage under the carriage.
If you're planning to use a double stroller for a period of several years, or even a decade, it's worth buying a model that can grow with your kids. Double strollers are typically more expensive than single to double stroller strollers. However, if you choose the right one the first time it can save you money over the course of time.
Our test subjects put these strollers through a series maneuverability tests and off-road excursions and found them easy to navigate over different terrains. If you intend to use it in cities or areas where the sidewalks and traffic can be bumpy, you may want something more robust and durable capable of handling rough treatment.
Many double strollers are built to last for a long period of time, but you could find that the seats get more worn than you expected or your children grow out of it before it's ready for retirement. If you're on a budget, consider getting one that's been evaluated for at least four years and aims to last for as long as possible.
Easy of Use
If you're planning to purchase a double stroller, it's important that it's user-friendly for both children. This means a comfortable harness for kids who are seated, and easy-to-grasp handles for toddlers who stand. The stroller can also be easily rolled and maneuvered around obstacles and in tight spaces. The top-rated strollers in our Lab tests, including the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie or Thule Urban Glide 2 Double are among the most easy to move around.
It's also essential that a double stroller is easy to fold and to store. The best models fold down in just a couple of steps and are small enough to fit into the majority of trunks. It's an advantage if you can add a second seat or a ride-along stroller. Some even have the capacity to hold infant car seats, so you don't have to wake your baby to put them into their stroller when they're ready to head home.
A good double stroller is also durable and can be used in different kinds of terrains. For instance, some models can be converted into a jogging stroller with a front wheel that is specially designed, and some can also be used as an umbrella stroller. Some come with an accessory basket which can be attached to the rear of the stroller to carry shopping bags or groceries.
Another consideration is whether you'd like a side-by-side stroller or a tandem. Side-by-side strollers are generally larger than tandems, and may be difficult to navigate through tight spaces such as entrances or aisles that are crowded in grocery stores. However, they provide the convenience of allowing both children to view the same scenery. They can also be easier to navigate in a storm, as they provide more protection twin buggy from birth the elements for both children.
Many parents choose to buy an adaptable stroller that can be used by a newborn, and later converted into a double stroller once their children are older. After speaking with parents, it became apparent that it is better to purchase what you need today rather than to try to predict what you'll need in the near future.
Stores
If you're considering a double stroller, you might need to think about the size and amount of storage space. Many models have spacious easy-to-access baskets that are able to store a large amount of items. Many models also come with several cup holders for parents and seats that can be reversible to give the best legroom for children. Some of these features may add to the price, so be sure to read reviews and descriptions carefully.
The majority of double strollers are classified as tandem or side-byside designs. Tandem strollers have two seats assembled on the same frame and are typically more suitable for older children who have already learned sitting on their own. They tend to have larger storage baskets than side-byside models. However, some can be difficult to push when the front seat is fully reclined.
Side-by-side strollers have two individual seats that are positioned side-by-side and are typically for babies and toddlers who haven't yet learned independence sitting. They also have the benefit of being generally easier to push and maneuver than tandem strollers. They may be more expensive and come with smaller baskets.
There are also specialized double strollers that are designed specifically for jogging and biking. These are more expensive than the standard strollers that are all-terrain, and they typically come with fixed front wheels that limit their flexibility. It is worth looking into them only if you intend to use them for those activities.
Whether you're shopping for twins, an infant and a toddler, or another child who's not yet ready to ride on their own, there's a great double stroller available. Our top picks are easy to maneuver, flexible and stable, as well as seating that grows with your child. So whether you're in search of a tandem stroller or one that will accommodate your infant car seat, check out our top picks to choose the perfect double stroller for your family.