Which Double Tandem Pushchair is Best For Your Family?
When you're preparing for twins or another child, there are a variety of products available to help make life with kids moving around more comfortable. The double tandem pushchair is a prime example of them.
From Phil & Teds, to Baby Jogger, most brands offer a double stroller as part of their product range. They are available as inline or side-by-side convertible models.
Stability
A double tandem pushchair is ideal for families with twins or children of similar age. It makes the journey of two children more comfortable and easier. But, with so many styles and configurations available it is difficult to determine which one is best for your family. Some are better suited for jogging than others, or fit a third seat when you add on a buggy board. Which ones are the most stable however?
The CYBEX Gazelle is a great option for transporting children the same age. However they can be a challenge to maneuver around narrow entrances and shopping aisles. In this case, you may be better off with a stadium model like the Bugaboo Donkey, or Mountain Buggy Duet. These models let your children face either you or eachother depending on their setup.
Tandem models that place one behind the other are easier to manage than side-byside pushchairs, however they are still not as stable as single strollers and car seats. They can also be difficult to navigate around curbs and could have less storage than a side-by-side pushchair.
It is recommended to test the double buggy newborn with both seats in place because that's the way you'll use it the most. You should test how easy it is to navigate and steer, particularly in tight corners or with the swivel front wheels. It is also important to test the brakes, as they may be difficult to use when both child seats are installed.
The Phil & Teds Sports Double is a great double stroller for those who want a durable stroller that is affordable and able to be used for all. This sleek compact pushchair can convert from a single model to tandem in a few simple steps. The seat and carrycot recline and can be used with the parent facing or facing one another and the tyres with air-filled tires and all-wheel suspension make it ideal for tackling a range of terrains. It has a handy underseat storage basket, but access to it is blocked when the second seat is in place.
Comfort
If you have twins or a baby and toddler there is a sit n stand double stroller buggy that converts to single (www.longisland.com) pushchair to accommodate your family. Generally, they can transport two children side-by-side but some convert into single pushchairs (although this is usually involving taking off one seat). They are generally larger than a single stroller, however, they are a great value and versatility.
In our latest double review of pushchairs, we asked testers to rate each model on a range of factors including ride comfort, ease of use and how it folded. They also rated the ease of it to get the car seat in and out, and whether it could be used with a baby carrier.
The Stroller & Co City Tour 2 Double stroller is a great example for a lightweight and comfortable double stroller. Our reviewers were impressed by the large UPF 50+ canopy which provides real shade and includes an opening window for peekaboos, and both seats recline into a variety of positions with just the press of the button. One seat can be made to lay flat so that a newborn can rest in the carrycot on top of it.
Other excellent features on this pushchair twin are the padded handlebar, cup holder and pouch as well as the simple braking system and the reversible seat liner made of bamboo that is naturally anti-bacterial on one side and soft jersey on the other. Our test participants also appreciated the fact that you can fold it in one hand, which is a big advantage when you have two small double stroller children to watch.
They are more expensive, but can offer greater flexibility due to their ability to be able to pass through narrow aisles and doors. They aren't easy to navigate up kerbs and heavy to push, but they do have an front-loaded load that can help to distribute the weight.
Flexibility
A double tandem pushchair is an ideal addition to any family, regardless of whether you have twins or a baby. This can keep your children happy by keeping them from arguing or waking each other up. This kind of buggy is also ideal when you plan to take it on public transport, as it can be easier to fit it in the space available.
Some models provide the ultimate flexibility, and can be converted back to single mode when your youngest is ready for strollers without having to purchase a completely new one. The UPPAbaby V2 Double is able to fit two infant car seats in the back and a ridingboard, making it perfect for three kids. It can be used alongside a stroller and a rolling case for parents. This allows you to travel light, while still having everything you need for your family.
The Joovy Caboose Ultralight Graphite double stroller is a different design than the other strollers, but has many of the same features that we have outlined in our top choices. We love that it can be folded with the use of a hand and can easily slide through doors, and that the basket underneath is higher to make it easier to drop shopping in. The back seat is protected to keep your kid warm during winter.
A tandem is narrower than a side-byside, making it difficult to navigate narrow aisles in shops or on busy paths. It is also more maneuverable on rocky terrain compared to a standard double pushchair. Some of these pushchairs can be difficult to steer in tight turns, particularly if your heavier child is in the front seat.
A double-inline pushchair is a better choice for families with multiple children. It can usually be used as a tandem pram when your children are younger, but can also convert into a tandem once they're older. Certain models, such as the iCandy Peach 3+ can accept two iSize car seats. This gives you maximum flexibility and value.
Stores
The biggest disadvantage of a double buggy may be that it takes up more room on public transport and is more difficult to maneuver through narrow doors or lifts. They are also more expensive especially side-by-side models with a second passenger up in front.
Some models, like the Joolz Geo or the Uppababy Vista V2 are able to be converted to tandem pushchairs. This is a cost-effective option if you are planning to have another baby in the future. It also extends the life span of your buggy. It's not easy to convert it back into only one seat after your older child has grown out of it.
Stadium Duo is the perfect dual stroller for urban adventures. It's compact and lightweight. It features a one-click, fold-in-one-hand and an automatic storage lock, plus it's compatible with 2 SnugEssentials or SnugRide i-Size infant car seats* to ensure smooth transitions. The stadium-style seating allows both children to take in the view. It is possible to connect your infant car seats to the rear or front of the stroller with just one click. You can also pack all the necessities to enjoy your day in the large shopping basket and the tray for parents. The suspension and swivel wheels provide smooth rides and better manoeuvrability. The 5-point safety belts that are fitted to both seats will increase the safety of your child.