What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The best double strollers are built to grow with families and offer clever features to keep children at ease and content. The best double strollers offer adjustable footrests and smooth rides on old sidewalks, gravel, and trails.
Kerry was pleased that the stroller arrived in multiple boxes but everything was labeled well and was easy to open. She also loved that the stroller accepts two infant car seats and can be used with a riding board for older children.
Seating Options
Seating options are a major element in determining whether an entire family will invest in a double stroller. You'll need to consider the age of your children, their relative sizes, and the seating arrangements that will work best for you.
For example, if you have children of similar age who will sit side-by-side, consider a tandem model that comes with child seats linked to each other and doesn't require you to use car seat adapters, explains Alli Cavasino, a senior editor at Consumer Reports. These double strollers are usually wider than other double strollers. They might not fit through doors that are standard in your home.
If you're facing an age gap between your children you should consider a stroller with two seats that can convert to a stand-and-ride model that has a platform or small bench seat in the back for a child who wants to casually ride with or observe their sibling. These in-line strollers are also equipped to accommodate infant car seats if necessary and are ideal for children who are 3-5 years apart.
Billingsley advises that you must take into consideration the material used for the seat. Some are more breathable than others and are easier to clean. It's also important to think about how easy it is to fold your new stroller down for transporting 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 has different seating options, check out this award-winning model from Summer Infant that comes with two toddler seats with a bassinet attachment. It can be expanded to become 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 great when one child needs to rest while another is looking to explore the surroundings. When folded, it is small and easily fits 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 user-friendliness. They have a seat in the front for toddlers or infants and a platform, bench or other surface at the rear which allows older children to stand up or hop on/off. They're great for big toddlers and preschoolers, but don't be suitable for infants or kids who don't yet have the balance and coordination to stand on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller can help you keep an eye on both kids simultaneously and can fit into difficult areas like aisles of the grocery store that are crowded or family photos at the park. These models are smaller and more maneuverable than double strollers that are side-by-side, but they don't have as much storage space under the carriage and can't accommodate infant car seats.
If you plan on using a double stroller over a period of several years, or even for a decade, you should consider buying a model that can grow with your children. Double strollers are generally more expensive than single strollers, but when you pick the right one the first time around, it can save you money over the course of time.
Our test participants took each stroller through an assortment of maneuverability tests as well as off-road adventures. They discovered that they were easy to maneuver on a variety terrain. If you intend to use it in urban areas or in cities where sidewalks and traffic can be bumpy, then you might want something that is more durable and robust that can handle rough treatment.
Many double strollers are designed to last for a long period of time, but you may discover that the seats become more worn than you expected or your children outgrow it before it's ready for retirement. If you're on a budget you should consider buying one that's been rated for at least four years and is designed to last for as long as you can.
Simple to use
It's important to make sure that the double stroller is easy to use by both children. This means comfortable harnesses for children who sit and handles that are easy to grab for toddlers who stand. The stroller can also be easily rolled and maneuvered around obstacles and in tight spaces. In fact the top strollers in our Lab tests -- such as the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie and Thule Urban Glide 2 Double among the most easy to push.
It's also important that a double stroller is easy to fold and put away. The most efficient models fold in two or three steps and are small enough to fit in the majority of trunks. It's also beneficial when the stroller is a versatile and has the option of adding a second seat or a ride-along board. Some strollers can hold infant car seats so you don't have to wake your baby to transfer them to the stroller when it's time to go home.
A good double stroller is also sturdy and can be used in different terrains. For extra resources , some can be converted to an jogging stroller by using a front wheel that is specially designed, and some can also be used as an umbrella stroller. Some strollers come with a bag that can be put to the back of the stroller to carry shopping bags and groceries.
Another consideration is whether you'd prefer either a side-byside stroller or a tandem. Side-by-side strollers are generally larger than tandems and can be difficult to navigate narrow spaces like the aisles of doors or grocery stores. They are practical because they allow each child to see the same scenery. They can also be more easy to navigate through in stormy weather as they provide greater protection from the elements for both children.
Many parents opt to buy a stroller that can be converted from single to double, to use it as a baby, and then change to a regular double when their kids are older. After talking to parents we've learned it's best to buy what you need now, rather than trying to predict what your family may need in the future.
Stores
If you're shopping for a double stroller, you may want to consider the size and amount of storage space. Many models come with spacious easy-to-access baskets that are able to store a large amount of items. Many models also come with several cup holders for parents and reversible seat configurations to provide the most legroom for children. However, some of these features can add up in cost and it's crucial to read the descriptions and reviews carefully.
The majority of double strollers can be classified as tandem or side by side designs. Tandem strollers come with two seats on the same frame, and they're typically better suited for older children who are already comfortable with sitting without assistance. They tend to have bigger storage baskets than side-byside models. However, some models can be difficult to push when the front seat is fully reclined.
Side-by-side strollers have two individual seats that are positioned side-by-side and are typically for infants or toddlers who aren't yet able to master independent sitting. They are also easier to push and maneuver than tandem strollers. However, they typically have smaller storage baskets than tandem models and can be more expensive.
There are double strollers made specifically for jogging or biking. They're generally more expensive than all-terrain strollers and have fixed front wheels which limit their mobility. These strollers are only worth considering if you plan to use them in these types of activities.
Whether you're shopping for twins or a baby and a toddler, or another child who isn't quite ready to go out on their own, there's a great double stroller for you. Our top choices are simple to maneuver, adaptable and stable, as well as seating that grows with your child. So whether you're looking for a tandem stroller or one that will accommodate your infant car seat, take a look at our top picks to choose the ideal double stroller for your family.