What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The most effective double strollers are designed to adapt to the needs of your family and include thoughtful features that keep your children content and comfortable. The best double strollers offer adjustable footrests as well as smooth riding on old sidewalks, gravel, and trails.
Kerry loved the fact that the stroller was delivered in multiple boxes, however everything was well-labeled and easy to open. She also appreciated that the stroller is able to accommodate two infant car seats, and it can be paired with a ride-board for older children.
Seating Options
Seating options are an important aspect in determining whether or not a family will purchase a double stroller. You'll need to consider the ages of your children, their relative sizes, and the seating arrangements that are most suitable for your needs.
For instance, if have children of similar age and will be sitting together, consider a tandem model that comes with child seats attached to one another and does not require car seat adapters, explains Alli Cavasino, a senior editor at Consumer Reports. They are generally larger than other types of double strollers, however they won't pass through door frames that are standard in your home.
If you're facing an age gap between your children, consider a dual-seat stroller with the option to change to a stand-and ride model with an elevated or small bench seat in the back for children who likes to just ride along or watch their younger sibling. These strollers are capable of accommodating infant car seats when needed, and are good for children who will be 3-5 years apart.
You'll also want to consider the type of seat material, explains Billingsley. Some are more breathable than others, and are easier to clean. It's also important to take into consideration how easy it is to fold your stroller for stowing or transporting to and from your car. "There's nothing more frustrating than purchasing your dream stroller only to find out that it is too heavy or large for your trunk," says the expert.
If you are seeking a low-cost option that has multiple configurations look no further than this award-winning stroller from Summer Infant. It has two toddler seats and an infant bassinet. It can be expanded into a triple stroller adding a seat or riding board. The seats recline and the controls for the calf bar can be adjusted in a separate manner. double umbrella stroller is great when one child needs to take a nap while the other is looking to explore the surroundings. It's also compact when folded down and easily fits in the majority of trunks.
Age Ranges
For families with children who are close in age, a sit and stand stroller can provide the best combination of comfort for both children and ease of use. They have an area in front that seats an infant or toddler and a bench, platform or another surface in the rear that lets older children stand up or get off and on. These strollers are ideal for older toddlers and children, but not for babies or children who do not have the balance and coordination to stand up on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller allows you to keep both children in sight at the same time, and also be pushed through tight spaces, such as grocery store aisles or for family photos at the parks. These strollers are a bit narrower and easier to maneuver than double strollers with side-by-side seating, but they don't have as much storage space under the carriage and can't accommodate infant car seats.
If you plan to use a double stroller over many years, or even over a decade, it's worthwhile investing in an option that will continue to expand with your children. Double strollers are generally more expensive than single strollers. However, If you choose the right one the first time around it could save you money over time.
Our test subjects put these strollers through a series maneuverability tests and off-road adventures and found them to be simple to navigate through various terrains. If you plan to use it in cities or areas where the traffic and sidewalks are prone to bumps, you may need something more durable and sturdy that can withstand rough treatment.
Many double strollers are designed to last a long time, but you might discover that the seats become more worn than you expected or your kids outgrow it before it's time to retire. If you are on the tightest budget, go for a model with a rating of at least four years. It is best to use it for as long as is possible.
Easy of Use
If you're planning to purchase a double stroller, it's essential that it be simple to use for both children. This means that the harnesses should be comfortable for children who sit, and the handles should be simple to grasp for toddlers. The stroller can also be easily rolled and moved through tight spaces. The top-rated strollers from our Lab tests, such as the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie or Thule Urban Glide 2 Double are among the most easy to move around.
A double stroller should also be easy to fold and store. The best models have the option of a two-step or one-step process, and they're compact enough to fit into most trunks. It's also a benefit when you can add a second chair or a ride-along to the stroller. Some strollers can also hold infant car seats so you don't need to wake your baby to transfer them to the stroller when it's time to leave for home.
A good double stroller is also durable and can be used in different types of terrain. Some can be transformed into a jogging stoller with a specific front wheel and others can be used as umbrella strollers. Some strollers have a cargo bag that can be put to the back of the vehicle to carry groceries and shopping bags.
Another consideration is whether you'd prefer an oversized stroller that can be used side-by-side or as a tandem. Side-by-side strollers are generally larger than tandems, and can be difficult to navigate through tight spaces such as doorways or crowded aisles in grocery stores. They are useful because they allow each child to enjoy the same view. They can also be more easy to navigate through in stormy weather, as they provide more protection from the elements for both kids.
Many parents choose to purchase a stroller that can be converted from single to double, so they can use it with a baby and then later change to a regular double once their kiddos are older. After talking to parents, it became apparent that it is better to purchase what you need today rather than to try to predict what you'll require in the near-term.
Stores
When looking for double-strollers, it's crucial to take into consideration the amount of storage space available and the size. Many models come with large, easy-to-access baskets that can store lots of items. They also often feature numerous cup holders for parents and convertible seating arrangements that provide the most comfortable legroom for children. However, some of these features can be costly in price and it's crucial to read the descriptions and reviews carefully.
The majority of double strollers are classified as either tandem or side-by-side designs. Tandem strollers have two seats in one frame and are best suited to older babies who can sit unassisted. They also typically have a bigger storage basket than side-by-side strollers, but some are difficult or awkward to push when the front seat is reclined fully.
The side-by-side stroller comes with two seats that are set side-by-side. They're typically more suitable for infants or toddlers who haven't yet mastered independent sitting. They are also easier to push and maneuver than tandem strollers. They can be more expensive and have smaller baskets.
There are also specially designed double strollers designed for jogging and biking. They are more expensive than the standard all-terrain strollers and typically come with fixed front wheels that limit their flexibility. It is worth looking into them only if you intend to use them for these activities.
Whether you're shopping for twins or an infant and a toddler, or a child who's not quite ready to walk on their own, there's a great double stroller available. Our top choices are easy to maneuver, versatile and stable, as well as seating that expands with your child's. So whether you're in search of a tandem stroller or one that will accommodate your infant car seat, take a look at our top picks to find the perfect double stroller for your family.