5 Double Strollers Lessons From The Professionals
Buying Guide For Double Strollers
If you have two kids who are similar in age, a double stroller could be a valuable investment. These narrow tandem buggies or versatile 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 can throw at you.
Comfort
Comfort is a major factor to consider when shopping for a double jogging stroller-stroller. This could include the seating arrangement as well as the overall size, which will have an impact on ease of use and storage. "Parents must determine what the stroller weighs and its dimensions when folded," says child development expert and mom Katie Billingsley of Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat. "They should also take a look at the options for recline and seat age ranges to ensure the best twin buggy fit for their family."
A quality double stroller should be able to navigate a variety of surfaces easily, from suburban sidewalks to parks, and from toddler booster seats to infant car seats. It should also provide flexible seating options for children of various age and comfort features such as windows that can be opened and closed to keep kids shielded from rain or sun.
For a lot of families, a double stroller will be utilized from birth until the teen years, so it's essential to think about seating options. Billingsley states that there are two main categories: in-line which has one seat in front of the other, and side-by-side seating with seats next to each other. "Some parents prefer an in-line option for its sleek appearance 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 show this kind of discordance. Some products may offer different recline options, with one seat being nearly flat, and the other remaining relatively upright. Billingsley suggests choosing a model that has a nearly flat recline as well as leg rest adjustments for both seats. This will ensure that both children lie down comfortably.
She also suggests that parents look for strollers with storage compartments to allow them to quickly access snacks, personal items and toys when on the move. She also says that it is helpful to choose a stroller that comes with a parent console or organizer bag that is attached to the handlebars. This can aid parents in keeping their essentials to hand.
Many of the top-rated double strollers can be extended to allow parents to alter the configuration depending on the needs of their family. For example, the Mockingbird Expandable is a highly rated double stroller that can be used with a single seat from birth, and then converted to tandem (with an additional seat and bassinet) as the child grows 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 able to move and push, especially when on rough terrain and in tight spaces. The best strollers come with ergonomic handlebars that can be adjusted in height to ensure that parents maintain a good form while pushing them. A no-rethread harness that makes the adjustment of seat belts more quickly and easily is another great feature to look out for. A sturdy brake system and wheels that can glide over any surface are crucial safety features.
Some parents choose side-by-side designs that allow both children to view each other during family outings. This arrangement can stop siblings fighting over who is allowed to sit in which spot however it's not foolproof. If the seats are located at different heights, a child may kick or punch another during a walk if the seats are at different levels.
For parents with twins or siblings close in age, a tandem-style stroller is a great option for being able to view both children at the same time. Double strollers can be larger, and might not fit through some doors inside. For maximum flexibility, think about a single-to-double stroller that transitions from a single to double pushchair stroller to a tandem in various ways, like the popular CYBEX Gazelle S. These models can be adapted to a wide range of configurations and let you click in infant car seats or cot attachments depending on your requirements.
If you are looking for a tandem or side-byside stroller, be sure the product has been JPMA certified to meet the strictest safety standards. Pay attention to the maximum weight limit for each seat. Overstepping these limits can cause frame fatigue or other issues.
It's easy to get caught in the jingles and whistles, however it's important to remember that strollers are essentially baby carriers that will be used for a long period of time. It must be easy to clean and maintain, and comfortable for both passengers. It should also feature a an intuitive, familiar design that lets the person pushing the stroller to easily maneuver it.
User-Friendliness
A Nipper double Buggy stroller must be easy to maneuver on different types of terrains for families constantly moving. Strollers with features such as windows that can be opened and closed, adjustable canopy and reliable brake systems are essential to ensure the safety of your children. However, there are other features that make them easier to use. For example the stroller should be compact enough to fit in the trunk of your car yet provide ample storage space for groceries and other belongings. It is also essential to include thoughtful features, like cups holder for one parent, consoles for parents and a snack tray. These can make traveling with two children much more enjoyable.
In our tests, we evaluated each stroller based on how it did on a variety of terrains, and how easily it maneuvered in tight spaces. We also considered how easy it was to fold the stroller in half and then unfold it, and if a particular feature enhanced the overall functionality. For example a stroller with a no-rethread harness makes adjusting the seat belts easy and quick. This can be a huge benefit for parents on the go because it cuts down on time and removes the need to re-thread the harness.
The UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double scored highly in this metric, as it offered an impressive range of seating configurations and additional accessories to accommodate families that are growing. The wagon-style double stroller expands to accommodate two seats as well as a bassinet, or a toddler riding board that is perfect for families who are active and planning long trips with multiple children of different age groups. It easily glides over cobblestones and pavements and ball fields. It can be folded flat to store in a trunk or a closet. The design of this stroller is easy and easy to use and was a big hit with our test participant Kerry. The clever packaging clear sections, well-marked sections and user's manual made it easy to put together this stroller.
Storage
A double stroller has the potential to hold twice as much stuff as a single stroller so make sure you have plenty of storage space. It is ideal to have an item that can hold the essentials for both kids--nappies, bottles, snacks and toys, as well as parents' belongings such as wallets, phones keys and wallets. Look for baskets and pockets under the seats. Also, think about a stroller with an expandable cargo space to accommodate bulky items like lunch bags and diaper bags.
A quality double stroller will be able to adapt to the needs of your family. Billingsley states that certain models come with an attachment for a bassinet to accommodate infants. Some models have child seats that can be able to grow with your child until they are able to ride on the back. Some double strollers also permit a rider's board to let older siblings be part of the fun.
There's a wide selection of double strollers available on the market, ranging from elegant, high-performance models that are able to handle rough terrain to budget-friendly models that are more for everyday use. While shopping, read reviews and recommendations of families like yours to get an idea of what you can expect from the double stroller that you select.
Double strollers are available in three models: tandem, side by side and wagon-style. Side-by-side double strollers offer most versatility and are ideal for twins or children who are close to their age, Billingsley explains. Tandem double buggy that converts to single strollers, on other hand, have two seats set next to each other and facing in opposite directions. This is a good option for kids of the same age, or for siblings who love to interact with one another. Tandem strollers are more difficult to maneuver through narrow spaces, and less likely to be able to fit through doorways.
Take a look at this top choice by Safety 1st if you prefer a wagon-style double stroller. This affordable model was highly praised by our testers for its many seating options. It can be used with two car seats for infants or one child in a convertible toddler seat. Our testers also loved the comfortable memory foam seats and the 50+ SPF canopy, and foam-filled tires that will never get flat. And when it's time for you to fold, this model requires only a couple of pulls on the straps on each seat (under the seat where kids sit) to fold in half.