What Is Double Strollers And Why Is Everyone Dissing It
Buying Guide For Double Strollers
If you have two kids who are similar in age A double stroller can be a great investment. These narrow tandem strollers or versatile side-by-side By side double pushchairs buggies help you keep an eye on both children at the same time taking on the grocery store, parks and anything else life throws at you.
Comfort
When looking for a double stroller, the comfort is a key consideration. This includes both the seating arrangements and the overall size of the stroller, which affects the accessibility and storage. Katie Billingsley, a child expert in child development from Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat, suggests parents examine the stroller's weight as well as folded dimensions. "They should also consider the seat recline options, as well as the age ranges of their children to ensure it's the perfect fit."
A good 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 have a variety of seating options for children of different stages of development, as well as comfort features like peek-a-boo windows and adjustable canopy options that shield kids from the sun or rain.
For a majority of families, a double stroller will be used from birth and into the age of five, so it's crucial to think about the seating options. Billingsley explains that there are two primary categories that are in-line which has one seat in front of the other, and side-by-side, with seats next to each other. Some parents prefer the inline option because of its sleek appearance and versatility. Others like the wagon style double stroller for maximum space for groceries or bulky items.
Some products may offer different recline options--with one seat being almost flat, while the other one remains upright, this type of distinction is more prevalent in the in-line models. Billingsley recommends choosing a product with a nearly flat recline and leg rest adjustment for both seats to ensure each child can sleep comfortably.
Then, she suggests to look for strollers with storage compartments that enable parents to quickly access snacks, toys, and personal items while on the move. She suggests that it's beneficial to choose a stroller that has an organizer console for parents or a parent bag attached to the handlebars. This can help keep essentials within reach.
Some of the best-rated double pram buggy strollers can be extended giving parents the ability to alter the configuration based on their family's needs. The Mockingbird Expandable, for instance, is a highly rated double pushchair sale stroller that can be used from birth using a single seat, and later converted into a tandem (with two seats and a bassinet) when the child gets older.
Safety
Double strollers have to be able to handle the weight of two passengers--plus any additional cargo. Strollers should be able to move and push, particularly on difficult terrain and in tight spaces. The best strollers come with ergonomic handlebars with adjustable heights to help parents maintain good posture while pushing them. Another feature that is great is a no-rethread belt harness that allows for a more comfortable adjustment of the seat belts. Safety features include a sturdy brake system and wheels which glide over any surface.
Some parents prefer an arrangement that allows both children to be able to see each other on family outings. This arrangement can prevent siblings fighting over who is allowed to sit in which spot but it's not a guarantee. If the seats are at different heights, a child may kick or punch another while walking when the seats are on different levels.
For parents of twins or siblings who are close in age, a tandem-style stroller offers the benefit of being able see both kids at once. Double strollers can be wider, and may not fit through certain doors inside. To maximize versatility, you should consider a single-to-double stroller that transitions from a single stroller to a tandem in various ways, like the well-known CYBEX Gazelle S. These models can accommodate a wide range of configurations, and let you click in infant car seats or cot attachments, depending on your needs.
Whether you choose a side-by-side or tandem-style stroller, be sure the product is JPMA-certified to meet strict safety standards. Be sure to check the weight limits that apply to each seat, since over-weighting could lead to frame fatigue or other issues.
It's easy to get caught in the jingles and whistles, but it's important to remember that strollers are essentially baby carriers that are used for a long period of times. It must be comfortable for both passengers and easy to clean and maintain, and ideally it should have an intuitive, familiar design so that the person pushing it can effortlessly move it around without having to think about how to move forward or turn left or right, or use the brakes.
Easy of Use
A double stroller must be easy to maneuver on a variety terrains for families who are constantly on the move. Features like adjustable canopy systems windows, peek-aboo windows, and dependable brake systems are essential to ensure the safety of your children, however, there are other elements that influence stroller comfort of use. A stroller should be small enough to fit in the trunk of your car, but still have plenty of storage space for groceries and other items. It is also important to consider thoughtful additions like a cup holder with a single parent, parent consoles and an eating tray for children -- all things that make life with two children significantly more manageable.
In our tests, we assessed each stroller based on its ability to perform on different surfaces and its ability to maneuver in tight spaces. We also assessed 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. For example a stroller that has a no-rethread harness makes adjusting the seat belts simple and easy. This is a huge attraction for parents who are constantly in motion, as it removes the requirement to rethread the harness.
The UPPAbaby v2 Double was a top performer in this measure because it had a wide variety of seating configurations and other accessories that could accommodate families that are growing. The wagon-style double stroller expands to allow for a second seat as well as a bassinet, or a toddler riding board that is perfect for families who are active and planning long, tiring days with multiple children of different age groups. It glides easily over cobblestones, pavements, and ball fields. It can fold flat to be stored in a trunk or closet. Our tester Kerry appreciated the straightforward and intuitive nature of this stroller's design. Its smart packaging with clearly labeled sections as well as a an informative user guide made assembling this stroller a breeze.
Storage
A double stroller has the potential to hold twice as much than a single stroller, so make sure you have plenty of storage space. Ideally, you'll want a stroller that is able to hold the essentials for both kids--nappies, bottles, snacks and toys, as well as parents' belongings like wallets, phones keys and wallets. Look for baskets and pockets under the seats. Also, think about a stroller that has an expandable cargo space to accommodate bulky items such as diaper bags and lunchbags.
A quality double stroller should be able to change as your family grows. Billingsley says that some models have the option of a bassinet attachment that can accommodate newborns. Some models have child seats which can grow with the child until they are ready to ride on the back. Some double strollers permit older siblings to join in the fun with the rider board.
There's a wide selection of double strollers in the market, from elegant, high-performance models that are able to handle rough terrain to budget-friendly models more suitable for use in the everyday. As you shop, read user reviews and recommendations from families like yours to get an idea of what to expect with the double stroller you choose.
Double strollers come in three different styles including tandem double buggy, side-by-side and wagon-style. Billingsley states that side-by-side strollers are the most versatile and ideal for twins as well as children of a similar age. Tandem double infant stroller strollers on the other hand, feature two seats that are arranged next to each other and facing opposite directions. It's a ideal choice for children who are the same age or for siblings who like to interact with each other. Tandem strollers may be harder to maneuver in tight spaces and are less likely to pass through doorways than their side-by-side counterparts.
Check out this top selection by Safety 1st if you prefer a wagon style double stroller. The testers loved that this budget model comes with a variety of seating options as well as the ability to connect two infant car seats or a single child riding in a convertible toddler seat. Our reviewers also praised the comfy memory foam seats with a 50+ SPF canopy and foam-filled tires that will never go flat. When it's time to fold this model needs only just a few pulls on the straps beneath each seat (under the seat where children sit) for folding.