5 Double Strollers Lessons Learned From The Professionals

Buying Guide For Double Strollers

A double stroller is a great investment when you have two kids with similar ages. These compact tandem strollers or flexible side-by-side buggies allow you to 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 think about when purchasing a double-stroller. This includes both the seating arrangements and the overall size of the stroller which impacts ease of use and storage. "Parents should check how much the stroller weighs and its dimensions folded," says child development expert and mom Katie Billingsley of Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat. "They should also consider the recline options for seats and age ranges to ensure the best fit for their family."

A good double stroller should be able to handle different surfaces easily including suburban sidewalks, park paths and from toddler booster seats to infant car seats. It should offer a range of seating options for children of different ages, as well as comfort features like peek-a-boo window and adjustable canopy that protect children from rain or sun.

For many families, a double stroller is likely to be utilized from birth until the teen years, so it's essential to consider the seating options. Billingsley states that there are two major categories that are in-line, with one seat in-front of the other, and side-by-side with seats adjacent to one another. Some parents prefer the in-line option because of its sleek appearance and flexibility. Others like a wagon style double stroller to maximize space for bulky or grocery items.

Although some models may have different recline options - with one seat almost flat while the other one remains upright, this type of distinction is more common in the in-line models. Billingsley recommends selecting a product that has a nearly flat recline and leg rest adjustment for both seats. This will ensure that both children lie down comfortably.

She also suggests parents look for strollers with storage compartments to allow them to easily access snacks, personal items, and toys while in motion. She also says that it's helpful to find a stroller which has a parent console, or organizer bag, that can be attached to the handlebars. This will aid parents in keeping their essentials in their reach.

Some of the best-rated double travel buggy strollers can be enlarged to allow parents to modify the layout according to their family's requirements. The Mockingbird Expandable, for example is a highly rated double stroller which can be used from birth with just one 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 carry the weight of two passengers--plus any additional cargo. Strollers must also be easy to maneuver and push, especially in tight areas and on difficult terrain. The best strollers feature ergonomic handlebars that can be adjusted in height to help parents maintain good posture while pushing them. A no-rethread harness that makes the adjustment of seat belts quicker and easier, is another nice feature to look for. Safety features include a durable brake system, as well as wheels that can glide across any surface.

Some parents choose the side-by-side design to allow both children to meet up when they go on family outings. This arrangement can help prevent sibling rivalries over who sits in which place, but it isn't foolproof. If the seats are placed at different heights, one child could be able to kick or punch the other on a walk.

If you have twins or siblings close in age, a tandem stroller is a great option for being able to see both kids at once. These double strollers can be larger, and might not fit through some doors inside. Consider a single-to double stroller that can be converted from a single and double stroller to double pushchair; made my day, to a double in a variety ways. The most popular models are the CYBEX gazelle S.

If you're in the market for a tandem or side-by-side stroller, be sure the product has been JPMA certified to meet strict safety standards. Be sure to check the weight limits that apply to each seat, as over-weighting could lead to frame fatigue or other issues.

It's easy to get caught up in the bells and whistles, however it's important to remember that strollers are essentially baby carriers that will be used for a long period of durations. It must be easy to clean and maintain as well as comfortable for both the passengers. It should also have a an easy-to-use, familiar design that allows the person pushing the stroller to maneuver it effortlessly.

Ease of Use

For families who are constantly on the move, a double stroller should be able to maneuver easily over different terrains. Strollers with features such as windows that peek-a-boo, adjustable canopies and reliable brake systems are vital to ensure the safety of your children. But there are also other factors that make them easier to use. For instance the stroller must be small enough to fit into the trunk of your car, yet provide ample storage space for food items and other things. It's also essential to add thoughtful touches, such as cups holder for one parent, consoles for parents and a snack tray. These are able to help make traveling with two children significantly easier.

In our tests, we assessed each stroller on the basis of its ability to perform on different terrains and its ability to maneuver in tight spaces. We also examined how simple it was to fold and unfold, and whether or not a specific feature added to the overall function of the stroller. For instance a stroller that has a harness that does not rethread makes the adjustment of the seat belts easy and quick. This can be a major benefit for parents who are on the move, as it saves time and reduces the need to rethread the harness.

The UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double scored high in this metric, as it came with a variety of seating configurations and additional accessories to help accommodate growing families. The wagon-style double-stroller can be expanded to accommodate an additional seat, a bassinet or even a toddler's riding board. This is perfect for families who plan to spend long hours traveling with several children of various age groups. It also glides effortlessly over cobblestones, balls and pavements. It it folds flat to make simple storage in a trunk or closet. The design of this stroller is simple and intuitive and was a big hit with our test participant Kerry. Its stylish packaging, clearly labeled sections and helpful user guide made putting together this stroller an absolute breeze.

Storage

A double stroller can be able to hold twice as much as a single twin umbrella stroller so make sure you have plenty of storage space. It is ideal to have an item that can hold the basic necessities for both kids: nappies bottles, snacks, and toys, as well as parents' belongings like wallets, phones, and keys. Look for pockets and baskets under the seats. Also, think about a stroller that has an expandable cargo space that can accommodate bulky items such as diaper bags and lunchbags.

A good double stroller will be able to adapt to the needs of your family. For example, some models include a bassinet attachment that can accommodate infants, while others feature child seats that can expand with your kids until they're ready to move to the back of the stroller, Billingsley says. Some double stroller with car seat strollers even include a rider board that allows older children to be part of the fun.

There are a variety of double strollers available. You can pick from models with high-performance features that are great for rough terrain, to more budget-friendly options that you can use daily. While shopping, read reviews and suggestions from families just like yours to get an idea of what to expect from the double stroller that you select.

Double strollers are available in three different styles such as tandem, side-byside, and wagon-style. Side-by-side double strollers provide the most versatility and are suitable for twins or kids similar to their age, Billingsley explains. Tandem double strollers on the other hand, feature two seats set adjacent to one another and facing in opposite directions--a ideal choice for children of the same age or for siblings who like to interact with one another. Tandem strollers may be harder to maneuver through tight spaces and are less likely to pass through doorways than their side-byside counterparts.

Take a look at this top choice by Safety 1st if you prefer a wagon-style double stroller. This budget-friendly model was praised by testers for its various seating configurations. It can be used with two car seats for infants, or one child in a convertible toddler seat. Our experts also praised memory foam seats, canopy with 50+ SPF, and nipper Double buggy foam-filled wheels that never flatten. When it's time to fold, this model only requires just a few nudges on the straps beneath each seat (under the seats where kids sit) for folding.