What Double Strollers Experts Want You To Know
Buying Guide For Double Strollers
If you have two kids who are close in age, a double stroller can be an invaluable investment. These narrow tandem buggies as well as versatile side-by-side buggies let you keep both children within sight while navigating the grocery aisle and parks, as well as whatever else life throws at you.
Comfort
When looking for a double stroller, comfort is a major factor to consider. This includes both the seating arrangement and the overall size of the stroller which can impact the convenience and storage. "Parents should check how much the stroller weighs as well as its dimensions folded," says child development expert and mom Katie Billingsley of Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat. "They should also look at the options for recline and seat age ranges to ensure the best fit for their family."
A reputable double stroller must be able to handle a variety of surfaces with ease from suburban sidewalks to parks, and from toddler booster seats to infant car seats. It should come with a variety of seating options for children at different age groups, and comfort features such as a peek-a-boo windows and adjustable canopy options that protect children from rain or sun.
For a majority of families, a double stroller will be utilized from birth until the age of five, so it's crucial to think about the seating options. Billingsley states that there are two main categories of in-line seating, with one seat in-front of the other, and side-by-side with seats adjacent to one another. Some parents prefer the in-line model due to its sleek design and versatility. Others like a wagon-style double stroller for maximum space for groceries or bulky items.
In-line models are more likely to show this kind of difference. Some models might offer different recline options, with one being almost flat, while the other remaining relatively upright. Billingsley suggests selecting a model that has a nearly flat recline as well as leg rest adjustments for both seats. This will ensure that both children lay down comfortably.
Finally, she advises to look for strollers that have storage compartments that will allow parents to easily access snacks, toys and other personal belongings while on the go. She also says that it is beneficial to choose a stroller that has a parent console, or organizer bag, that can be attached to the handlebars. This will help parents keep essentials close to hand.
Many of the top-rated double strollers can be extended giving parents the ability to modify the layout according to their family's requirements. For instance, the Mockingbird Expandable is a highly-rated double buggy that converts to single twin stroller side by side that can be used with a single seat as early as birth, and then converted to tandem (with an additional seat and bassinet) as 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 push and maneuver, especially in tight spots and on terrain that is difficult to navigate. The best strollers feature ergonomic handlebars with adjustable heights, making it easier for parents to maintain their form when pushing them. A harness that does not need to be rethread which makes the adjustment of seat belts faster and easier is another great feature to look out for. Safety features include a robust brake system and wheels that glide over any surface.
Some parents prefer an arrangement that allows both children to see each other on family outings. This arrangement can prevent sibling fights over which child is allowed to sit in which spot but it's not a guarantee. If the seats are placed at different levels, one child might be capable of punching or kicking the other during walks.
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. However, they can be wider than other double strollers, meaning they might not be able to pass through all doors in your home. Consider a single-to double stroller that can be converted from a single to a double stroller with bassinet in many ways. The most popular models are the CYBEX gazelle S.
If you are looking for a tandem or a side-by-side stroller, make sure that the product is JPMA certified to meet the strictest safety standards. Also pay attention to the weight limits that apply to each seat, since over-weighting could lead to frame fatigue or other issues.
While it's easy for us to focus on the additional bells and whistles of the latest stroller, it's important to keep in mind that a stroller is essentially a baby carrier that will be used for extended periods of time. It should be comfortable for both parents and children, easy to clean and maintain, and ideally it should have an intuitive, familiar design so that the person pushing it is able to easily maneuver it without having to think about how to move forward and turn left or right, or even apply the brakes.
User-Friendliness
For families that are on the move, a double stroller should be able to maneuver easily over a variety of terrains. Strollers that have features like windows that peek-a-boo, adjustable canopies and sturdy brake systems are vital to ensure the safety of your children. But there are other features that make them simpler to use. A stroller should be compact enough to fit into the trunk of your car yet have plenty of storage space for groceries or other items. It's also essential to add thoughtful features, like cups holder for one parent as well as consoles for parents and snacks on trays. These will help make traveling with two children much more enjoyable.
In our tests, we assessed each stroller on the basis of its performance on different terrains and its ability to maneuver in tight spaces. We also examined the ease with which it was possible to fold and unfold, and whether or not a particular feature added to the overall functionality of the stroller. A stroller without rethread straps is easy to adjust the seat belts. This can be a major selling point for parents who are on the move because it cuts down on time and reduces the need to rethread the harness.
The UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double was a top performer in this metric, as it came with a variety of seating configurations as well as additional accessories to help accommodate growing families. The wagon-style double-stroller can be expanded to accommodate a second seat, bassinet, or even a toddler-riding board. This is ideal for families that plan to spend a lot of time on the road with multiple children of different ages. It also glides effortlessly over pavement, cobblestones and ballfields--and can be folded flat for easy storage in a trunk or closet. The design of this Twin umbrella stroller is simple and easy to use which was well-loved by our test subject Kerry. The clever packaging clear sections, well-marked sections and the user's guide made it simple to assemble this stroller.
Storage
A double stroller can be able to hold twice as much stuff as a single to double buggy stroller so look for ample storage space. Ideally, you want an item that can hold the necessities for both kids, including nappies, bottles, snacks and toys, as well as parents' belongings like phones, wallets keys and wallets. Look for baskets that fit under the seat and other pockets, and think about a stroller with an expandable cargo area that can carry bulky items like diaper bags and lunch bags.
A good double stroller will be able to expand with your family. For example certain models have a bassinet attachment that can accommodate newborns, while others feature child seats that can grow with your children until they're able to ride on the back of the stroller, Billingsley says. Some double strollers allow older children to share in the fun with the rider board.
There are many double strollers on the market. You can choose from high-performance models which are suitable for rough terrain, as well as affordable options that you can use every day. As you shop, read user reviews and recommendations from families like yours to gain an understanding of what to expect from the double stroller you pick.
Double strollers are available in three different designs: tandem, side-by-side and wagon style. Billingsley states that side-by-side strollers are the most adaptable and ideal for twins or children of similar age. Tandem double stroller sale strollers have two seats set up in a tandem arrangement, facing opposite directions. This is a good option for children of similar age or siblings who prefer to interact with each other. Tandem strollers may be harder to maneuver in tight spaces and are less likely to fit through doorways than their side-byside counterparts.
If you prefer a wagon-style double stroller, take a look at this top choice from Safety 1st. Our testers were impressed by the fact that this low-cost model comes with a variety of seating options, including the ability to connect two infant car seats or a single child in an convertible toddler seat. Our testers also loved the comfortable memory foam seats, 50+ SPF canopy and foam-filled tires that never get flat. When it's time to fold this model needs only just a few nudges on the straps beneath each seat (under the seat where children sit) in order to fold.