What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The best double strollers are made to adapt to the needs of your family and come with thoughtful features that keep children at ease and happy. This includes adjustable foot rests and an easy ride on trails, gravel and old sidewalks.
Kerry appreciated the fact that the stroller was delivered in multiple boxes, however everything was well-labeled and easy to open. She also appreciated the fact that the stroller can accommodate two infant car seats and it is able to be set with a ride-board for older children.
Seating Options
When it is double strollers, 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 of them, and the seating arrangements you prefer.
For instance, if have children of similar age that will be seated side-by-side, consider a tandem model that has child seats that are attached to one another and doesn't require you to use car seat adapters, according to Alli Cavasino who is a senior editor at Consumer Reports. They are generally larger than other double strollers, they might not pass through door frames that are standard within your home.
If your children are a different age, you may want to consider a stroller that has two seats that can be turned into a stand-and-ride model. This allows a child to watch or ride along with their siblings. These in-line strollers are also equipped to accommodate infant car seats when needed and are ideal for children who will be three years apart.
You'll also need to look at the type of seat material, according to Billingsley. Some are more breathable than others, and are easier to clean. It is also important to consider how easy it will be to fold your stroller to store it or for transport to and from your vehicle. "Nothing is more frustrating than purchasing your dream stroller but then realizing it's too heavy to lift or too big for your trunk," she says.
If you're looking for an affordable option that offers multiple configurations take a look at this award-winning stroller from Summer Infant. It comes with two toddler seats and the bassinet. It can be converted into a triple stroller adding an additional seat or a riding board. The seats recline and the control of the calf bar can be adjusted in a separate manner. This is ideal when one child wants to rest while another is looking to explore the surroundings. When folded, the seat is compact and can fit easily into most trunks.
Age ranges
For families with children who are similar to their ages, a sit-and-stand stroller is the ideal combination of comfort for both children and convenience. These strollers have a seat in front for toddlers or infants and a platform, bench or other surface at the rear that allows older children to stand up and walk on/off. They are great for big toddlers and preschoolers, but they won't work well for younger babies or children who don't have the balance and coordination to stand on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller lets you to keep both children within sight all at once, and it can fit through tight spaces like aisles in the grocery store or for family photos in the parks. These models are smaller and more maneuverable than double strollers that are side-by-side, but they don't have as much storage under the carriage, and they're not able to fit an infant car seat.
If you're planning to use a double stroller over many years, or even a decade or more--it's worth buying a stroller that will expand with your children. Double strollers are typically more expensive than single strollers, but If you choose the right one first time it could save you money over the course of time.
Our test participants put each of these strollers through a series of maneuverability tests as well as off-road adventures, and they found them to be easy to navigate through different terrains. If you plan to use it in urban areas or cities where the sidewalks and traffic can be bumpy, then you may need something more durable and sturdy that can handle rough treatment.
A lot of double strollers are made to last for a long time, but you might find that the seats get worn out faster than expected or your children grow out of it before it's ready to retire. If you're on a tight budget, consider getting one that's been tested for at least 4 years and is designed to last for as long as possible.
Ease of Use
It is essential to ensure that the double stroller is comfortable to use by both children. That means comfortable harnesses for children who sit and handles that are easy to grab for toddlers who stand. This also means that the stroller rolls easily, and can be maneuvered in tight spaces and around obstacles. The top-rated strollers in our Lab tests, including the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie or Thule Urban Glide 2 Double, are among the easiest to maneuver.
It's also important that a double stroller is easy to fold and put away. The best models use the option of a two-step or one-step process, and they're compact enough to fit in most trunks. It's an advantage when you can add a second chair or a ride-along to the stroller. Some strollers can even accommodate infant car seats, meaning you don't need to wake your baby to get them into their stroller once they're ready to go home.
A quality double stroller is also sturdy, so it is able to be used in a variety of terrains. Some are able to be converted into a jogging scooter with a special front wheel and others can be used as umbrella strollers. Some come with an accessory basket which can be attached to the back of the stroller to carry shopping bags or groceries.
A tandem stroller or side-byside is another option to consider. Side-by-side models are usually wider than tandems, and can be difficult to maneuver through narrow spaces like doorways or crowded aisles in grocery stores. They are useful since they permit each child to see the same scenery. They are also more convenient to navigate in bad weather because they offer more protection from the elements.
Many parents opt to purchase an adaptable stroller that can be used with a baby, and then converted to double strollers when their children get older. However, after talking to parents, we've learned that it's best to purchase what you need now instead of trying to predict what your family will require in the near future.
Storage
When you're looking for a double-stroller, it's important to think about the amount of storage space available and the size. A lot of models have large, easy-to-access baskets that can store a large amount of items. Many models also come with several cup holders for parents as well as reversible seat configurations to provide the best legroom for children. However, a few of these features can increase in price and it's crucial to read reviews and descriptions carefully.
Most double strollers are categorized as either tandem or side-by-side designs. Tandem strollers include two seats in one frame and are suited to older babies who are able to sit without assistance. They tend to have more storage space than side-by-side models. However, some can be difficult to push when the front seat is fully reclined.
The side-by-side stroller has two separate seats that are placed side-by-side. They're usually more suitable for infants or toddlers who haven't yet mastered sitting on their own. They also have the benefit of being generally easier to push and maneuver than tandem strollers. However, they tend to have smaller storage baskets than tandem strollers and may be more expensive.
There are double strollers designed specifically for jogging or biking. compact twin stroller than all-terrain strollers. They also have fixed front wheels which restrict their mobility. They're worth considering only if you intend to use them for these activities.
Whether you're shopping for twins or an infant and an older toddler, or a child who's not yet ready to ride on their own, there's an ideal double stroller available. The top choices that we tested are flexible and stable. They are also easy to maneuver and have seating that grows as your children get older. Take a look at our top choices for the best double stroller to fit your family, whether you are looking for a tandem or one that will fit your infant car seat.