Buying Guide For Double Strollers
If you have two children who are similar in age, a double stroller can be a great investment. These strollers are narrow and narrow, as well as flexible side-by-side buggies let you keep an eye on both kids at the same time navigating the aisles of the supermarket or the parks, and whatever else life throws your way.
Comfort
When looking for a double stroller for your child, comfort is a major consideration. This could include the seating arrangement and the overall size, which has an impact on ease of use and storage. Katie Billingsley, a child development expert from Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat, advises parents to examine the stroller's weight as well as folded dimensions. "They should also take a look at the seat recline options and age ranges to ensure a good fit for their family."
A quality double buggy sale stroller should be robust enough to navigate different surfaces smoothly--from parks trails to suburban sidewalks, and from infant car seats to toddler booster seats. It should also provide flexible seating arrangements for children of different age and comfort features like windows that peek out and adjustable canopy to shield children from sun or rain.
For a majority of families, a double stroller will be used from birth until childhood, so it's important to think about the seating options. "There are two main categories--in-line with one seat in front of the other, and side-by-side with seats next to each other," Billingsley explains. Some parents prefer the inline option due to its sleek design and its versatility. Others like a wagon-style double stroller for maximum space for bulky or grocery items.
In-line models are more likely to have this type of discrepancy. Some models might offer different recline options, with one seat being nearly flat, and the other remaining relatively upright. Billingsley suggests selecting a model with both a near flat recline and leg rest adjustments for both seats. This will ensure that both children can lay comfortably.
She also suggests that parents search for strollers with storage compartments so that they can easily access their snacks, personal items, and toys while in motion. She adds that it's also useful to find a stroller with an organizer or parent console bag that can be attached to the handlebars. This will help keep things within reach.
Many of the top-rated Double Stroller Lightweight strollers can be expanded giving parents the ability to modify the layout according to their family's requirements. The Mockingbird Expandable, for instance is a highly-rated double stroller that can be used from birth using a single seat, and then converted into a tandem (with two seats and a bassinet) as the child grows older.
Safety
Double strollers need to be able to carry the weight of both the passengers as well as any additional cargo. Strollers must also be easy to maneuver and push, especially in tight spaces and over challenging terrain. The best strollers feature ergonomic handlebars that can be adjusted in height to help parents maintain good posture when pushing them. Another nice feature is a non-rethread seat belt harness, which makes it easier to adjust the belts on the seat. Safety features include a robust brake system and wheels that slide over any surface.
Some parents prefer side-by-side designs that allow both children to view each other on family outings. This arrangement can stop sibling fights over which child gets to sit where but it's not a guarantee. If the seats are positioned at different heights, one child may be in a position to punch or kick the other during the course of a walk.
A tandem stroller is a excellent option for parents with twins or siblings that are similar in age. It allows them to be able to see both children simultaneously. These double strollers can be larger, and might not be able to fit through some doors inside. Consider a single-to double stroller that can be converted from a single to a double in many ways. The most popular models are the CYBEX gazelle S.
If you opt for a side-byside or tandem-style stroller, make sure that the stroller is JPMA-certified to meet the strictest safety standards. Be aware of the weight limit that applies to each seat. Exceeding these limits could cause frame fatigue and other issues.
It's easy to be swept up in the bells and whistles, however it's important to remember that strollers are basically baby carriers that will be used for extended durations. It must be easy to clean and maintain as well as comfortable for both the passengers. It should also have a a familiar, intuitive design that allows the person pushing the stroller to easily maneuver it.
User-Friendliness
For families that are on the move, a double stroller needs to be able to navigate a variety of terrains. Strollers with features such as windows that can be opened and closed, adjustable canopy and reliable brake systems are crucial to ensure the safety of your children. But there are also other features that make them more convenient to use. For instance the stroller must be compact double buggy enough to fit in the trunk of your car but still provide ample storage space for groceries and other belongings. It's also essential to add thoughtful features, like the cup holder for one parent as well as consoles for parents and snacks on trays. These are able to make traveling with two children much easier.
During our testing We evaluated the strollers on how it did on a variety of surfaces and how well it maneuvered in tight spaces. We also considered how easy it was to fold the stroller in half and then unfold it in a timely manner, and if a specific feature improved the overall functionality. A stroller with no-rethread straps makes it easy to adjust the seat belts. This can be a big attraction for parents who are always moving around, since it does away with the need to rethread the harness.
The UPPAbaby v2 Double was a top performer in this measure because it offered a wide range of seating options, as well as other accessories that could accommodate expanding families. The double-stroller that looks like a wagon can be expanded to accommodate two seats, a bassinet, or even a toddler-riding board. This is perfect for families who plan to spend long hours traveling with several children of various age groups. It also glides effortlessly over cobblestones, balls and pavements. It folds flat for simple storage in a trunk or closet. Our tester Kerry loved the simple, intuitive nature of this stroller's design. The sleek packaging, clearly marked sections and user guide made it easy to put together this stroller.
Storage
Double strollers can carry twice more than a single one so be sure to ensure you have plenty of storage space. You want a stroller with enough storage space to accommodate the essentials for both parents and children including bottles and snacks, toys, and diapers. Look for pockets and baskets under the seats. Also, consider a stroller that has an expandable cargo space that can accommodate bulky items like lunch bags and diaper bags.
A good double stroller will be able to grow with your family. For example, some models include an attachment for a bassinet that can accommodate newborns, while others feature child seats that can be adapted to your children until they're able to ride on the back of the stroller, Billingsley says. Some double stroller with bassinet strollers permit a rider's board that allows older children to take part in the fun.
You'll find a wide variety of double strollers on the market, ranging from sleek, high-performance models that excel on rough terrain to budget-friendly models that are more suitable for use in the everyday. While shopping, read reviews and opinions of families like yours to get an idea of what you can expect from the double stroller that you choose.
Double strollers are available in three different designs: tandem, side-by-side and wagon-style. Side-by-side double strollers provide the most flexibility and are perfect for twins or children close in age, Billingsley explains. Tandem double strollers, on the other hand, have two seats that are placed adjacent to one another and facing opposite directions. It's a great option for children who are the same age or for siblings who enjoy interacting with each other. Tandem strollers are more difficult to maneuver through tight spaces, and less likely to fit in doorways.
Take a look at this top choice by Safety 1st if you prefer a wagon style double stroller. Our testers were impressed by the fact that this low-cost model has multiple seating options as well as the ability to connect two infant car seats or a single child riding in the convertible toddler seat. Our experts also praised memory foam seats, canopy with 50+ SPF and foam-filled wheels that never go flat. When it's time to fold, this model requires only a couple of pulls on the straps on each seat (under the seat where kids sit) to fold in half.