Double Stroller: It s Not As Difficult As You Think
How Easy Is It to Push and Fold a Double Stroller?
When you're taking your toddler on an outing or running with your twins, having the right double stroller makes it easier for everyone to move around. Choosing a double stroller that is easy to fold and push is essential.
Our Lab experts recommend side by side models that feature equal recline, plenty of storage and Pushchair With Car Seat car seat adapters that can fit infants.
Seating
When looking for a double stroller, the seating options are important. You may want to think about a tandem stroller that lets one child stand while the other sits or a side-by- side option that allows your children to sit together.
The seating configuration also impacts your comfort as you navigate through busy streets and sidewalks. Look for a stroller with reclined seats, reclined footrests and ample canopy options that provide shade for both of the passengers. Also, don't hang pram bags on the handlebars since they could alter the stroller's weight and increase tipping.
A high-quality double stroller will include useful storage for your necessities and other essentials. Make sure you have compartments in the seat backs or beneath the seats to keep toys, snacks and other items in a convenient place. You can also make use of organizer bags and consoles for parents that attach to the handles of the car to keep essentials in your hand on walks or outings.
If you have children who are getting older A stroller with a side-byside design could be the best travel pram choice. They are generally more stable than the stacking type and offer better visibility for both passengers. Some models also accommodate two car seats for infants that allow you to transfer your sleepy children from the car to the stroller without disturbing them.
Parents with older children who aren't afraid to sit separately or who enjoy a degree of independence might appreciate a model that lets an older child to get on the front and ride along. This type of double-stroller isn't compatible with newborns and could require more maintenance over time. However, it could be a great option for active families who are looking for the flexibility of a single stroller that can be converted into an adult-only model.
The most effective double strollers are sturdy and easy to maneuver even on rugged terrain or in tight spaces. They are also lightweight and foldable to make it easy to store them in your trunk or garage. This makes them easy to carry when you travel. They also have robust construction to ensure the longevity and safety of your children. Additionally, they are compliant with the American Academy of Pediatricians' (AAP) guidelines for safety.
Canopy
A canopy helps protect both the passengers and the sun, and some models come with the option of a visor that can further protect kids' faces. Models with huge shades like the BOB Revolution Flex 3.0 Duallie and the UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double have earned us top scores for their canopy options. Both models have plenty of coverage and Double Pram And Pushchair protect children from head to toe, while inline options often lack shade or offer a single canopy which only covers one seat. This could be a problem for siblings that want different levels protection.
The majority of our top-rated canopys can be fitted onto strollers with ease. But be sure to check the dimensions of the model prior to making a buy, as some canopies may require extra space in the basket for full extension, and to prevent hitting the handles when folded.
Some parents prefer a double stroller with a bassinet and car seat adapters as well as other add-ons to provide them with more options in the future. The UPPAbaby Vist v2 Double, for instance, comes with a toddler seat and an added RumbleSeat. This makes it a great option for families with twins or small children and need to transport them at the same time. This stroller is also able to offer an unique sit-and-stand option for older children who prefer to ride on their own.
Parent consoles and organizer bags can also help your stroller be more efficient. They keep essentials close at hand. These bags are particularly useful when you want to store toys and snacks away from the view of. Some of these accessories can be secured with a strap or snap making it easy to remove them when you're ready to take the stroller again.
If you're planning on a long-term investment opt for a double stroller compatible with infant car seats and will grow into a toddler stroller complete with an adjustable bench or glider board. The Graco RoomFor2 Travel System and UPPAbaby Vista v2 Duallie both come with an auto seat-compatible bassinet with a toddler seat as well as RumbleSeat. Both can be converted into a triple stroller with the addition of a running board, which is perfect for families with an active child who likes to be on the move.
Wheels
The type of wheels a stroller is equipped with can make a difference in how it is easy to push. In general, larger wheels are more maneuverable and are able to handle more terrain. The material used to make the wheels also affects how they are easy or difficult to push. Rubber wheels are more durable than plastic ones and are able to handle rougher surfaces.
Stroller wheels are available in a variety styles sizes, shapes and materials that can meet the needs of a variety of people and conditions. Wheels that swivel, for instance can make it easier to navigate tight corners and spaces. Fixed wheels are more stable and ideal for smooth surfaces. If you are planning to take your stroller off the road or on rough terrain, think about getting air-filled tires instead of standard rubber tires. These tires are similar to bicycle tires and absorb shocks, making for a more comfortable ride.
Double strollers that are side-byside are larger than tandem models and may be more difficult to maneuver through narrow doors or crowded aisles. However, they offer your children equal seating and let them stretch their legs. They're generally also more maneuverable and easy to steer than tandem strollers.
If you want to use your stroller for biking or running consider double joggers with all-terrain or jogging tires. These are thicker, larger and have sealed ball bearings that provide an easier ride on uneven surfaces. Certain models, like the Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 Double stroller newborn are compatible with car seat which allows you to jog while your children are secured in their car seats.
Other all-terrain/jogging doubles, like the Valco Baby Tri Mode Duo X can accommodate the addition of a second seat but are generally too bulky to be considered umbrella doubles. And in our testing the restraint buckles on this model were among the hardest to secure, which could be a challenge when trying to get two kids in the stroller at the same time. This stroller is pricey with a price that is hundreds higher than our top single-to tandem model, but it comes with high-quality materials and good resale value.
Stores
A quality double stroller will have enough storage space for the children as well as the parents. A lack of storage could make it difficult for parents to complete around and carry everything they need to enjoy a day out with the family. In our Lab tests we found that the UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double did well in this metric with a spacious and easy-to-access basket that can hold up to 30 pounds.
Strollers with pockets or compartments can aid families in keeping the track of small things, such as phones, keys, and wallets. Additionally, a parent console or organizer bag attached to the handlebars may be a handy space for dads and moms to store their own personal belongings during outings with their kids.
In addition to a spacious basket the UPPAbaby Vista comes with two infant car seats (though not both bassinets) and also has a telescoping handlebar and brakes that are easy to use. It also has one of the largest max allowable weight ratings for seats in our collection, and it folds easily through most standard door frames.
Our test participants also discovered that the Joovy Caboose Ultralight Graphite wagon features a remarkably adjustable bar that is ideal for parents with different heights. The wagon also features two folding UV screens that offer full sun coverage, and its snack tray and cup holders can hold plenty of kid snacks and bottles.
The most difficult thing about any stroller is folding it it back in shape after you've used it. This is especially the case for those who have a toddler or infant with you. It's the reason it's essential to choose a stroller that has a smooth and easy fold. The UPPAbaby Vista v2 and Evenflo Pivot Xpand both feature an easy-to-use, single-handed mechanism that allows parents to quickly and efficiently fold their strollers regardless of the configuration they are in.
Double strollers might seem like an expensive investment but parents who plan to use it for a number of years will be paying more than single strollers. You should also check if the stroller can be disassembled for storage and transportation. This is important when you have a limited space in your car or at home.