The Most Pervasive Issues With Double Stroller
What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The best double strollers are built to grow with families and have innovative features that keep kids happy and comfortable. This includes adjustable foot rests and an easy stroll on trails, gravel and old sidewalks.
Kerry was thrilled that the stroller came in multiple boxes, but everything was clearly labeled and easy to open. She also loved that the stroller accepts two infant car seats and can be paired with a riding board for older kids.
Seating Options
When it comes to double strollers, the seating options are the main factor that determines the purchase of many families. You'll need to take into consideration the age of your children, the relative sizes and seating configurations you prefer.
Alli Cavasino is a senior editor for Consumer Reports. She says that if you're looking to buy a tandem stroller, you should consider one with child seats attached together. This model is not required to have car seat adapters. They are generally larger than other types of lightweight double pushchair strollers, however they won't pass through door frames that are standard in your home.
If your children are older age, you might be interested in a stroller that has two seats that can be converted into a stand-and ride model. This will allow a child to watch or ride along with their sibling. These types of in-line strollers can also be adapted to fit infant car seats if needed, and are a good choice for children who'll be three to five years apart, according to Billingsley.
You'll also want to look at the type of seat material, says Billingsley. Certain fabrics are more breathable than others and are more easy to clean. It's also important to consider how easy it is to fold your new stroller down to store it or transport it to and from your car. "Nothing is more frustrating than purchasing your dream stroller but then realizing it's too heavy for you to lift or too large for your trunk," she says.
If you're looking for a budget-friendly option that offers different seating options look no further than this award winner from Summer Infant It comes with two toddler seats, a bassinet attachment and can be made into triple stroller by adding an additional seat or riding board. The seats recline and have control mechanisms for the calf bar that allow them to adjust independently, which is perfect for when one child is looking to nap while the other wants observe their surroundings. When folded, it's compact and can fit easily into the majority of trunks.
Age ranges
For families with kids who are close to their ages, a sit-and-stand stroller is the perfect combination of comfort for both children and convenience. These strollers have a seat in the front for toddlers or infants and a bench, platform or other surface in the rear which allows older children to stand up or hop on/off. These strollers are great for toddlers and older children, but not for babies or children who do not have the coordination and balance to stand up on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller lets you to keep both children within sight at the same time, and also be pushed through tight spaces, such as grocery store aisles or for family photos in the parks. These strollers are typically smaller than double strollers with side-by-side designs and tend to maneuver easier however they aren't able to accommodate infant car seats and typically don't offer the same amount of undercarry storage.
If you plan to use a double stroller over some time--or even for a decade or more--it's worth buying a stroller that will grow with your kids. Double strollers tend to be more expensive than single strollers, however if you choose the right one first time it could save you money over time.
Our test participants put each of these strollers through a series maneuverability tests and off-road excursions, and they found them to be easy to navigate over a variety of terrain. If you intend to use it in urban areas or in cities where the traffic and sidewalks can be bumpy, then you may need something that is more durable and robust capable of handling rough treatment.
Double strollers are designed to last, however the seats could get worn out faster than you expect or your kids may outgrow them before they're ready for retirement. If you're on an extremely tight budget, you should choose an option with a warranty of at least four years. It should last as long as possible.
Easy of Use
It's crucial to ensure that the double stroller is easy to use by both children. This means a comfortable harness for seated kids and handles that are easy to grab for toddlers who stand. The stroller can also be easily rolled around and maneuvered over obstacles and tight spaces. The top-rated strollers from our Lab tests, such as the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie or Thule Urban Glide 2 pushchairs double are among the most easy to navigate.
A double tandem pushchair stroller must be able to fold and put away. The best models use a one- or two-step procedure, and are small enough to fit into most trunks. It's an advantage when you can add a second seat or a ride-along to the stroller. Some can even hold infant car seats, meaning you don't need to wake up your baby to get them into their stroller once they're ready to head home.
A good Double Buggy With Car Seat stroller is also strong and can be used in different terrains. For instance, some strollers can be converted into a jogging stroller with an adapted front wheel and some can be used as an umbrella stroller. Some even come with a cargo basket that can be affixed to the rear of the stroller to carry groceries or shopping bags.
Another factor to consider is whether you'd prefer an oversized stroller that can be used side-by-side or as a tandem. Side-by-side strollers are generally larger than tandems and can be difficult to navigate narrow spaces like doorways or crowded aisles in grocery stores. They are convenient because they allow both children to view the same scene. They are also easier to navigate during bad weather since they provide more protection from the elements.
Many parents decide to purchase a stroller that is convertible from single to double so they can use it as a baby, and then later change to a regular double when their children are older. After talking to parents, we've learned that it's best to buy what you require at the moment, rather than trying to predict what your family may need in the near future.
Stores
If you're considering a double stroller, you might be interested in the size and the amount of storage space. A lot of models have large accessible baskets that can hold lots of cargo. They also often feature several cup holders for parents as well as seats that can be reversible to provide the best legroom available for children. However, some of these features can add up in price and it's crucial to read the descriptions and reviews carefully.
Most double strollers are classified as tandem or side by side models. Tandem strollers have two seats assembled on the same frame and they're typically better suited for older children who are already comfortable with sitting without assistance. They usually have bigger storage baskets than side-by-side models. However, some models can be difficult to push when the front seat is fully reclined.
The side-byside stroller features two separate seats that are set side-by-side. They're typically more suitable for infants or toddlers who haven't yet mastered sitting independently. They are also easier to push and maneuver than tandem strollers. They are more expensive and have smaller baskets.
There are also double strollers that are designed specifically for jogging or biking. These are usually more expensive than all-terrain strollers. They also have fixed front wheels, which limit their mobility. These strollers are only worth considering if you intend to use them in these kinds of activities.
If you're looking for twins or an infant and a toddler, or another child who's not quite ready to walk on their own, there's a great lightweight double pushchair stroller out there. Our top choices are easy to maneuver, versatile and stable, as well as seating that expands with your child's. So whether you're looking for a tandem stroller or one that will accommodate your infant car seat, take a look at our top picks to find the perfect double stroller for your family.