10 Double Strollers Tricks All Experts Recommend
Buying Guide For Double Strollers
A double stroller is an excellent investment when you have two kids of similar ages. These narrow tandem strollers or flexible side-by-side buggies let you keep an eye on both kids at the same time navigating the aisles of the supermarket as well as the parks and other obstacles life throws your way.
Comfort
Comfort is an important factor to take into consideration when buying a double-stroller. This includes both the seating arrangements and the overall dimensions of the stroller which can impact the convenience and storage. Katie Billingsley, a child expert in development from the Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat, says parents should check the stroller's weight and folded dimensions. "They should also consider the seat recline options and age ranges to ensure a perfect fit for their family."
A well-constructed double stroller will be robust enough to navigate various surfaces with ease, from parks trails to suburban sidewalks and from infant car seats to toddler booster seats. It should come with a variety of seating options for children of different stages of development, as well as comfort features like peek-a-boo window and adjustable canopies that shield kids from the sun or rain.
For a lot of families, a Double prams for infant and toddler stroller is likely to be utilized from birth until the age of five, so it's crucial to think about seating options. Billingsley explains that there are two main categories that are in-line, with one seat in-front of the other, and side-by-side seating with seats next to one another. Some parents prefer the inline option because of its sleek appearance and its versatility. Others like a wagon style double stroller for maximum space for grocery or bulky items.
While some products may have different recline options, with one seat almost flat while the other one remains upright--this type of disparity is more prevalent in the in-line models. Billingsley suggests selecting a model that has a nearly flat recline and leg rest adjustment for both seats. This will ensure that both children can lay comfortably.
In the end, she suggests to look for strollers that have storage compartments that will allow parents to easily access snacks, toys and personal items while out and about. She suggests that it's beneficial to choose the stroller that has an organizer or parent console bag attached to the handlebars, which can help keep essentials in reach.
Some of the top-rated best lightweight double stroller strollers are expandable that allows parents to modify the configuration to meet the needs of their growing family. For example, the Mockingbird Expandable is a highly-rated double stroller that can be used with a single seat from birth and later converted to a tandem (with the addition of a second seat and bassinet) as the child gets older.
Safety
Double strollers should be able to support the weight of two passengers--plus any additional cargo. Strollers should be easy to maneuver and push, especially when on rough terrain and in tight spaces. The best double stroller strollers feature ergonomic handlebars that can be adjusted in height to ensure that parents maintain a good form when pushing them. Another nice feature is a non-rethread seat belt harness, which makes it easier to adjust the seat belts. Finally, a sturdy brake system and wheels that glide across any surface are important safety features.
Some parents prefer a side-by-side design that allows both children to see each other during family outings. This arrangement can prevent sibling fights over which child is allowed to sit in which spot, but it's not foolproof. If the seats are different heights, a child may kick or punch one another during a walk, if the seats are at different levels.
A tandem stroller is a great option for parents with twins or siblings that are similar in age. It lets parents see both children at once. However, these can be more spacious than other double strollers, meaning they may not be able to pass through all doors in your home. To maximize versatility, you should consider a single-to-double pushchair from birth stroller that transitions from a single stroller to a tandem in a variety of ways, such as the well-known 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, according to your requirements.
If you decide to purchase a side-by-side or tandem stroller, make sure that the stroller is JPMA-certified to meet strict safety standards. Also pay attention to the maximum weight limits for each seat, since exceeding them could result in frame fatigue or other issues.
While it's easy to focus on the additional bells and whistles of a new stroller, it's crucial to remember that a stroller is essentially a baby carrier that will be carried around for long durations of time. It should be easy to clean and maintain as well as comfortable for both of the passengers. It should also have an intuitive, familiar design that allows the person pushing the stroller to easily maneuver it.
Easy of Use
A double stroller should be easy to maneuver on various of terrains for families that are always on the move. Features like adjustable canopies, peek-aboo windows and dependable braking systems are critical to help ensure the safety of your children but there are many other aspects that contribute to stroller ease of use. For example, a stroller must be compact enough to fit into the trunk of your car yet provide ample storage space for food items and other things. It is also essential to include thoughtful features, like a cup holder for one parent, consoles for parents and a snack tray. These can help make traveling with two children much more enjoyable.
During our testing we evaluated each stroller according to its performance on different terrains and its ability to maneuver in tight spaces. We also assessed how simple it was to fold and unfold, and whether or not a particular feature improved 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 major selling point for parents who are always in motion, as it eliminates the requirement to rethread the harness.
The UPPAbaby v2 Double scored well in this measure because it had a wide variety of seating configurations, and other accessories that could accommodate growing families. The wagon-style double stroller expands to provide two seats as well as a bassinet or a toddler riding board--perfect for families who are active and planning long days on the go with multiple kids of various age groups. It also glides effortlessly over pavement, cobblestones and ballfields--and it folds flat to make simple storage in a closet or trunk. Our tester Kerry was impressed by the simple, 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
Double strollers can hold twice more than a single one so be sure to search for ample storage space. It is ideal to have a stroller that is able to hold the essentials for both kids--nappies bottles, snacks, and toys, along with parents' belongings like phones, wallets, and keys. Find baskets under the seat and other pockets, and consider a stroller that has an expandable cargo area that can carry heavy items such as lunch bags and diaper bags.
A good double stroller should be able to expand with your family. For instance certain models have a bassinet attachment that can accommodate infants, while others have child seats that can be adapted to your children until they're able to switch to riding on the back of the stroller, Billingsley says. Some double strollers allow older siblings to join in the fun with a rider board.
There are many different double strollers on the market. You can choose from high-performance models that are great for rough terrain, or more budget-friendly options that you can use on a daily basis. When you're shopping, read reviews from other users and the opinions of families like yours to get an understanding of what to expect with the double stroller you select.
Double strollers come in three different designs including tandem, side-by-side and wagon-style. Billingsley says that side-by-side strollers are the most flexible and suitable for twins or children of similar ages. Tandem double strollers, on other hand, feature two seats set close to each other and facing in opposite directions--a ideal choice for children of the same age or for siblings who like to interact with each other. Tandem strollers are more difficult to maneuver through tight spaces, and are less likely to be able to fit through doors.
Check out this top selection by Safety 1st if you prefer a wagon style double stroller. This budget-friendly model was praised by 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 testers also loved the comfortable memory foam seats, 50+ SPF canopy, and foam-filled tires that will never go flat. And when it's time to fold, this model requires just a couple of tugs on straps on each seat (under the seat where kids sit) to fold it in half.