What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The best double strollers develop with families and provide thoughtful features to keep kids happy and comfortable. The best double strollers come with adjustable footrests, as well as a smooth ride over gravel, old sidewalks and trails.
Kerry loved the fact that the stroller was delivered in multiple boxes, but everything was labeled properly and easy to open. She also appreciated that the stroller can accept two infant car seats and it is able to be set up with a riding-board for older children.
Seating Options
Seating arrangements are a key factor in determining whether or not a family will purchase a double stroller. You'll want to think about the ages of your children, their relative sizes, and the seating arrangements that will work best for you.
For instance, if you have children who are close in age and will be sitting side-by-side, consider a tandem stroller that has child seats attached to one another and does not require car seat adapters, says Alli Cavasino, a senior editor at Consumer Reports. These double strollers are usually wider than other double strollers. They may not fit through the standard doors of your home.
If you're experiencing an age gap between your children you should consider a stroller with two seats that has the option to transform into 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 kinds of in-line strollers can also be adapted to fit infant car seats, should they be required and are a great option for children who will be 3-5 years apart, says Billingsley.
Billingsley explains that you should take into consideration the material you choose for your seat. Some are more breathable than others, and are easier to keep clean. You should also think about how easy it is to fold your stroller to store it or for transport to and from your car. "Nothing is more frustrating than acquiring the perfect stroller, only you realize it's too heavy to carry or too big for your trunk," she says.
If you're seeking a low-cost option that offers multiple configurations take a look at this award-winning stroller from Summer Infant. It comes with two toddler seats and an infant bassinet. It can be converted to a triple stroller by adding a seat or a riding board. The seats recline, and have calf bar controls to adjust independently, which is ideal for when one child is looking to sleep while the other wants to observe their surroundings. When folded, it's compact and can fit easily into most trunks.
Age Variations
Sit-and-stand strollers are the best option for families with children who are close in terms of age. They provide convenience and comfort. These strollers come with a seat in front for an infant or toddler and a bench, platform or other surface in the rear that allows older children to stand up or get off and on. These strollers are ideal for older children and toddlers but not suitable for infants or children who do not have the coordination or balance to stand on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller can help keep an eye on both kids at the same time and get through tight spots like aisles of the grocery store that are crowded or family photos at the park. These models are narrower and easier to maneuver than side-byside double strollers, but they don't have enough storage space under the carriage and can't accommodate the infant car seat.
If you're planning to use a double stroller for a period of several years, or even a decade, it's worth buying one that will grow with your children. Double strollers are typically more expensive than single strollers, however If you choose the right one first time around it can help you save money over time.
Our test participants put each of these strollers through a series maneuverability tests and off-road adventures, and they found them to be simple to maneuver over various terrains. However, if you're going to be using it in urban zones where sidewalks and traffic are prone to bumps and uneven, you may want something more sturdy and durable that can handle the rough treatment.
Double strollers are made to last, however the seats can wear out sooner than you expect or your children may outgrow them before they're ready for retirement. If you're on a tight budget, choose one with a rating of at minimum four years. It should last as long as possible.
Ease of Use
It is essential to ensure that the double stroller is simple to use by both children. This means that the harnesses must be comfortable for children who are seated, and the handles should be simple to grasp for toddlers. The stroller can also be easily rolled and maneuvered over obstacles and 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--are among the most easy to push.
It's also important that a double stroller be easy to fold and put away. The best models use a one- or two-step procedure, and are small enough to fit into the majority of trunks. It's also a benefit when you can include a second chair or a ride-along stroller. Click At this website can accommodate infant car seats, so you don't have 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, so it can be used on a variety of kinds of terrains. For instance, some models can be converted to a jogging stroller with a front wheel that is specially designed, and some can be used as an umbrella stroller. Some even have an accessory basket that can be attached to the rear of the stroller to carry groceries or shopping bags.
A tandem stroller or side-byside is another option to consider. Side-by-side strollers tend to be wider than tandems, and can be difficult to navigate through tight spaces such as the aisles of doors or grocery stores. However, they offer the convenience of allowing each child to view the same scenery. They are also easier to navigate during bad weather because they offer more protection from the elements.
Many parents choose to purchase a stroller that is convertible from single to double so that they can use it with a baby and later switch to a regular double when their children are older. However, after talking to parents we've learned that it's best to purchase what you need now instead of trying to anticipate what your family will require in the future.
Storage
When you're looking for a double-stroller, it's important to consider 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 feature numerous cup holders for parents and seating configurations that can be reversed to provide the most legroom for children. Some of these features may increase the cost therefore, make sure to read reviews and descriptions carefully.
The majority of double strollers are classified as tandem or side by side models. Tandem strollers are two seats in one frame and are suited to older babies who can stand unaided. They also typically have a larger storage basket than side-byside models, however they can be a bit awkward or difficult to push when the front seat is reclined fully.
The side-byside stroller features two seats that are set side-by-side. They're usually best suited to infants or toddlers who aren't yet comfortable with independent sitting. They also have the benefit of being generally easier to push and maneuver than tandem strollers. They can be more expensive and come with smaller baskets.
There are also double strollers that are designed specifically for jogging or biking. These are more expensive than the standard all-terrain strollers, and they usually come with fixed front wheels that limit their flexibility. These strollers are only worth considering if you plan to use them for these types of 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 a great double stroller out there. Our top picks are simple to maneuver, adaptable and stable, as well as seating that can grow with your child. Take a look at our top picks for the best double stroller to meet your family's needs regardless of whether you are looking for a tandem or one that will fit your infant car seat.