What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The best double strollers are built to grow with families and provide clever features to keep children happy and comfortable. The best double strollers offer adjustable footrests and a smooth ride over old sidewalks, gravel, and trails.
Kerry was pleased that the stroller was packaged in multiple boxes, however everything was clearly labeled and simple for her to open. She also liked that the stroller accepts two infant car seats and can be used with a riding board for older children.
Seating Options
When it comes to double strollers, the seating options are what makes or breaks the purchase for many families. You'll need to consider the age of your children, their relative sizes and the seating configurations that will work best for you.
For instance, if have children close in age that will be seated together, consider a tandem model that has child seats linked to each other and does not require car seat adapters, according to Alli Cavasino, a senior editor at Consumer Reports. Double strollers are generally wider than other double strollers. They may not fit through doors that are standard in your home.
If all terrain double buggy experiencing an age gap between your kids look into a double-seat stroller with the option to change to a stand-and ride model with a platform or small bench seat in the back for a child who wants to casually ride with or observe their sibling. These types of in-line strollers can also accommodate infant car seats if needed and are a great option for children who will be three to five years apart, according to Billingsley.
You'll also want to consider the type of seat material, says Billingsley. Some fabrics are more comfortable than others, and they are also easier to clean. It's also important to take into consideration how easy it is to fold your new stroller down to store it or transport it to and from your car. "There's nothing more frustrating than purchasing your dream stroller only find out that it is too heavy or bulky for your trunk," says the expert.
If you're looking for an affordable option that offers different seating options take a look at this award winner from Summer Infant that comes with two toddler seats with a bassinet attachment. It can be made into a triple stroller, with an additional seat or riding board. The seats recline and the controls for the calf bar can be adjusted separately. This is perfect for when one child wants a nap while another is looking to explore the surroundings. It's also compact when folded and fits easily in the majority of trunks.
Age Ranges
Sit-and stand strollers are the ideal option for families with children who are close in age. They offer the comfort and convenience. These strollers come with a seat in the front for an infant or toddler and a bench, platform or another surface in the rear that lets older children stand up or hop on/off. They are great for big toddlers and preschoolers, but won't work well for younger babies or kids who do not yet have the balance or coordination to stand on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller can help you keep your eyes on both children at once and fit through tight spots like aisles of the grocery store that are crowded or family photos at the park. These models are usually narrower than double strollers that are side-by-side and are able to move more easily, but they won't accommodate infant car seats and typically don't have the same amount of storage under the carriage.
If you are planning to use a double stroller for many years or even over a decade, it's worth investing in a model that can grow along with your children. Double strollers are more expensive than single strollers however, if you choose them correctly, you can save money over the long haul.
Our test participants tested each stroller in a series maneuverability tests and off road adventures. They discovered that they were simple to maneuver over various terrains. However, if you're going to use it in cities or other urban areas where sidewalks and traffic can be bumpy, you might want something more sturdy and durable that can handle the rough treatment.
Many double strollers are built to last for a long period of time, but you may notice that the seats are more worn than you expected or your children grow out of it before it's ready to retire. If you're looking for a bargain, consider getting a model that has been evaluated for at least four years and aims to last for as long as is possible.
Easy of Use
If you're going to invest in a double stroller, you need to ensure that it be user-friendly for both children. This means that the harnesses should be comfortable for children who sit, and the handles should be a breeze to hold for toddlers. The stroller can also be easily rolled around and maneuvered around obstacles and in tight spaces. In fact, the top-rated strollers in our Lab tests, such as the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie and Thule Urban Glide 2 Double among the most comfortable to push.
A double stroller must be easy to fold up and take down and store. The best models fold in two or three steps and are small enough to fit in most trunks. It's an advantage when you can add a second chair or a ride-along stroller. Some strollers can hold infant car seats, meaning you don't have to wake your baby to move them into the stroller when it's time to go home.
A good double stroller is also durable, so it can be used in different kinds of terrains. Some of them can be transformed into a jogging stoller with a special front wheel and some can also be used as umbrella strollers. tandem double stroller come with cargo baskets which can be attached to the back of the stroller to carry shopping bags or groceries.
A tandem or side-by-side is another option to consider. Side-by-side strollers are generally larger than tandems, and may be difficult to navigate narrow spaces like doorways or crowded aisles in grocery stores. They are useful since they permit each child to enjoy the same view. They can also be easier to navigate through in stormy weather, as they provide more protection from the elements for both kids.
Many parents opt to buy a stroller that can be converted from single to double, so that they can use it with a baby and later switch to a regular double once their kiddos are older. After speaking with parents, it became apparent that it is better to purchase the items you require now rather than to try to predict what you might require in the near-term.
Stores
When shopping for a double-stroller, it's important to take into consideration the amount of storage available and the size. A lot of models have large, easy-to access baskets that can hold plenty of stuff. Many models also have multiple cup holders for parents as well as seating configurations that can be reversed to provide the most legroom for children. Some of these features may increase the cost so make sure you review the reviews and descriptions thoroughly.
Most double strollers are classified as either tandem or side-by-side designs. Tandem strollers have two seats on one frame, and are best for older children who can sit unassisted. They tend to have more storage space than side-by-side models. However, some may be difficult to push with the front seat fully reclined.
The side-by-side stroller comes with two seats that are positioned side-by-side. They're usually better suited for younger babies or toddlers who aren't yet ready for independent sitting. They are also easier to push and maneuver than tandem strollers. However, they usually have smaller storage baskets than tandem strollers and may be more expensive.
There are double strollers made specifically for biking or jogging. These are usually more expensive than all-terrain strollers, and have fixed front wheels which restrict their mobility. These strollers are worth considering if you plan to use them in these activities.
If you're looking for twins or an infant and a toddler, or another child who's not quite ready to ride on their own, there's an ideal double stroller available. Our top picks are simple to maneuver, adaptable, stable and have seating that grows with your child. Take a look at our top picks for the top double stroller that will fit your family regardless of whether you are looking for a tandem or one that will fit your infant car seat.