10 Unexpected Double Strollers Tips
Buying Guide For Double Strollers
A double stroller is an excellent investment if you have two children with similar age. These compact double stroller tandem strollers or versatile side-by-side buggies help you keep your eyes on both kids at the same time braving the grocery aisle as well as the parks and other obstacles life throws at you.
Comfort
Comfort is a major factor to take into consideration when buying a double push chair-stroller. This includes the seating arrangement and the overall size, which has an impact on the ease of use 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 good fit for their family."
A quality double stroller should be durable enough to travel on different surfaces smoothly--from suburban sidewalks to park trails, and from infant car seats to toddler booster seats. It should also provide flexible seating options for children of different ages and comfort features like windows that peek out and adjustable canopy to protect children from rain or sun.
For a majority of families double strollers will be used from birth and into the teen years, so it's essential to think about seating options. Billingsley says there are two major 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 an in-line stroller due to its sleek look and versatility, while others prefer a wagon-style double stroller that can be used to store bulky items or grocery bags."
Some products may offer different recline options - with one seat almost flat while the other one remains upright--this type of disparity is more common in models that are in-line. Billingsley recommends selecting a product that has a nearly flat recline and leg rest adjustment for both seats. This will ensure that both children can lay 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 recommends that it is helpful to choose a stroller that includes a parent console or organizer bag that is attached to the handlebars. This can help parents keep essentials close to hand.
A few of the most highly-rated double strollers are expandable that allows parents to modify the configuration to meet the needs of their growing family. The Mockingbird Expandable, for example, is a highly rated double stroller which can be used from birth using a single seat, then transformed into a tandem (with two seats and a bassinet) when the child is older.
Safety
Double strollers must be able to support the weight of two people, plus any additional cargo. Strollers must be simple to maneuver and push, especially on difficult terrain and in tight spaces. The best strollers have ergonomic handlebars and adjustable heights which make it easier for parents to maintain a good posture when pushing them. A harness that does not need to be rethread which makes the adjustment of seat belts quicker and easier is another great feature to look for. Finally, a sturdy brake system and wheels that can glide over any surface are important safety features.
Some parents opt for an arrangement that allows both children to see one another during family outings. This arrangement can help prevent sibling rivalries about who gets to sit in which spot however it's not foolproof. If the seats are at different heights, a child may punch or kick another while walking when the seats are on different levels.
For parents of twins or siblings close in age, a tandem stroller offers the benefit of being able to view both kids at once. However, they are wider than other double strollers, so they may not be able to pass through all terrain Double stroller doors in your home. Think about a stroller that is single-to-double that can be converted from a single to double in various ways. Popular models include the CYBEX gazelle S.
If you decide to purchase a side-by-side or tandem-style stroller, make sure that the stroller double is JPMA-certified to meet stringent safety standards. Also pay attention to the maximum weight limits for 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 keep in mind that strollers are essentially baby carriers that will be used for extended durations. It should be comfortable for both parents and children and easy to clean and maintain, and in the ideal case it should have an intuitive, familiar design so that the person pushing it is able to effortlessly move it around without having to think about how to move forward, turn left or right, or use the brakes.
Easy of Use
For families who are constantly on the move, a double stroller should be able to navigate different terrains. Features like adjustable canopy systems with windows that peek out and dependable braking systems are essential to ensure the safety of your children, but there are many other aspects that affect stroller ease of use. A stroller should be small enough to fit into the trunk of your vehicle and still provide plenty of storage space for groceries and other items. It's also essential to add thoughtful touches, such as the cup holder for one parent as well as consoles for parents and snacks on trays. These can make traveling with two children much more enjoyable.
During our testing, we evaluated each stroller based on how it performed on a variety of terrains and how easily it maneuvered in tight spaces. We also examined how simple it was 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 is a major benefit for parents on the go since it reduces time and removes the need to re-thread the harness.
The UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double was a top performer in this measure, since it offered an impressive range of seating options and accessories to help accommodate growing families. The wagon-style double stroller expands to allow for two seats as well as a bassinet or a toddler-friendly riding board, which is ideal for families with active children who plan long trips with multiple kids of varying age groups. It also glides smoothly over pavement, cobblestones and ballfields--and folds flat for easy storage in a trunk or closet. Our tester Kerry was impressed by the simple and intuitive nature of this stroller's design. Its smart packaging, clearly labeled sections and helpful user guides made putting together this stroller a breeze.
Stores
A double buggy travel system stroller can be able to hold twice as much as a single stroller, so look for ample storage space. You'll want a stroller that has enough storage space to hold the necessities of parents and children, such as bottles as well as snacks, toys and diapers. Find baskets under the seat and other pockets, and consider a stroller with an expandable cargo area that can carry heavy items such as diaper bags and lunch bags.
A quality double stroller will be able to expand with your family. Billingsley says that some models have an attachment for a bassinet to accommodate infants. Other models come with child seats that be able to grow with your child until they are old enough to ride on the back. Some double strollers permit older siblings to join in the fun by riding on the rider board.
There are many different double strollers available. You can pick from high-performance models that are ideal for rough terrain, as well as more budget-friendly options that can use every day. While shopping, read reviews and suggestions from families similar to yours to get a better idea of what you can expect from the double stroller you pick.
Double strollers come in three different design formats: side-by-side, tandem, and wagon-style. Billingsley states that side-by-side strollers are the most compact double stroller versatile and ideal for twins as well as children of similar ages. Tandem double strollers, on other hand, have two seats set next to each other and facing in opposite directions. This is a ideal choice for children of the same age or for siblings who enjoy interacting with one another. Tandem strollers can be difficult to maneuver through tight spaces and are less likely to pass through doorways than their side-by-side counterparts.
If you prefer a wagon-style double stroller check out this top model from Safety 1st. This model is affordable and was praised by testers for its many seating options. It can be used with two car seats for infants or one child in a convertible toddler seat. Our experts also praised the memory foam seats and canopy that has 50+ SPF and foam-filled wheels that never flatten. And when it's time for you to fold, this model needs only a couple of pulls on straps on each seat (under the seats where kids are) to fold in half.