Buying Guide For Double Strollers
If you have two kids who are close in age A lightest double stroller stroller can be a valuable investment. These narrow tandem Double stroller buggies as well as versatile side-by-side buggies let you keep both children in sight while you shop, parks, and whatever else life throws at you.
Comfort
Comfort is an important factor to consider when shopping for a double-stroller. This includes the seating arrangement and the overall size, which will have an impact on ease of use and storage. "Parents should determine how much the stroller weighs as well as its dimensions folded," says child development expert and mom Katie Billingsley of Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat. "They should also look at the recline options for seats and age ranges to ensure the best twin buggy fit for their family."
A reputable double stroller must be able to handle a variety of surfaces with ease including suburban sidewalks, park paths and from toddler booster seats to infant car seats. It should also have flexible seating options for children of various age and comfort features such as windows that peek out and adjustable canopy to keep kids shielded from rain or sun.
For many families, a double stroller will be used from birth and into the age of five, so it's crucial to think about the seating options. "There are two main categories: in-line with one seat behind the other, and side-byside with seats that are next to each other," Billingsley explains. Some parents prefer the in-line option because of its sleek appearance 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. Certain models may provide different recline options, with one seat being almost flat and the other being more upright. Billingsley recommends selecting a product that has a nearly flat recline and leg rest adjustment for both seats. This will ensure that both children can lay down comfortably.
She also suggests parents look for strollers with storage compartments to allow them to quickly access personal items, snacks and toys when moving about. She also recommends that it's helpful to find a stroller that includes a parent console or organizer bag attached on the handlebars. This will help parents keep their essentials at hand.
A few of the top-rated double strollers are expandable that allows parents to modify the set-up based on the needs of their growing family. For example the Mockingbird Expandable is a highly-rated double stroller that can be used with a single seat from birth and then converted to tandem (with an additional seat and bassinet) as the child grows older.
Safety
Double strollers have to be able to handle the weight of two passengers--plus any additional cargo. strollers double must also be easy to push and maneuver, especially in tight spots and over challenging terrain. The best strollers come with ergonomic handlebars that can be adjusted in height to allow parents to maintain their good form while pushing them. A harness that does not need to be rethread that makes the adjustment of seat belts faster and easier is another great feature to look out for. Safety features include a durable brake system and wheels that can glide across any surface.
Some parents prefer an arrangement that is side by side to ensure that both children meet up on family outings. This arrangement can prevent sibling fights over which child is allowed to sit in which spot however it's not foolproof. If the seats are at different heights, a child may kick or punch another during a walk when the seats are on different levels.
For parents with twins or siblings of similar age, a tandem-style stroller can be beneficial in being able to view both children at the same time. Double strollers can be larger, and might not fit through certain doors inside. Consider a single-to double stroller that can be converted from a single and double stroller to double in various ways. Popular models include the CYBEX gazelle S.
If you decide to purchase a side-by-side or tandem-style stroller, be sure the product is certified by JPMA to meet strict safety standards. Be aware of the maximum weight limits for each seat, since exceeding them can lead to frame fatigue or other issues.
While it's easy to concentrate on the additional bells and whistles on the latest stroller, it is crucial to keep in mind that a stroller is an infant carrier that will be used for extended periods of time. It must be easy to clean and maintain as well as comfortable for both passengers. It should also have a a familiar, intuitive design that allows the person pushing it to maneuver it effortlessly.
Ease of Use
For families that are on the move, a double stroller should be able to navigate various terrains. Strollers that have features like peek-a-boo windows, adjustable canopies and sturdy brake systems are essential to ensure the safety of your children. But there are other features that make them more convenient to use. A stroller should be small enough to fit into the trunk of your vehicle and still provide plenty of storage space for groceries or other things. It's also essential to add thoughtful features, like a cup holder for one parent as well as consoles for parents and snacks on trays. These will make traveling with two kids much more enjoyable.
During our testing, we evaluated each stroller based on its ability to perform on different terrains, as well as its ability to maneuver in tight spaces. We also examined how simple it was to fold and unfold, and whether or not a specific feature added to the overall functionality of the stroller. A stroller with no-rethread straps makes it simple to adjust the seat belts. This can be a big benefit for parents who are always on the move, as it eliminates the requirement to rethread the harness.
The UPPAbaby v2 Double scored well in this measure because it came with a variety of seating configurations and additional accessories to accommodate growing families. The wagon-style double stroller expands to allow for a second seat as well as a bassinet, or a toddler-friendly riding board, which is ideal for active families planning long trips with multiple kids of various age groups. It also glides smoothly over pavement, cobblestones and ballfields--and folds flat for simple storage in a closet or trunk. The design of this stroller is simple and intuitive and was a big hit with our test participant Kerry. The sleek packaging clear sections, well-marked sections and user's manual made it easy to put this stroller together.
Storage
Double strollers can carry twice more than a single one so be sure to search for ample storage space. You want a stroller with enough storage space to hold the necessities of children and parents like bottles, toys, snacks, and diapers. Look for baskets and pockets under the seats. Also, consider a stroller that has an expandable cargo area to accommodate bulky items like lunch bags and diaper bags.
A good double stroller should be able to adapt to the needs of your family. For instance certain models have a bassinet attachment that can accommodate infants, while others come with child seats that can expand with your children until they're able to ride on the back of the stroller, Billingsley says. Some double strollers allow older siblings to join in the fun by riding on the rider board.
There are a variety of double strollers on the market, from sleek, high-performance options that excel on rough terrain to budget-friendly models that are more suitable for use in the everyday. As you shop, read reviews and suggestions from families like yours to gain a better sense of what to expect with the double stroller you choose.
Double strollers are available in three different design formats such as tandem, side-byside, and wagon-style. Side-by-side double strollers offer most versatility and are ideal for twins or children who are who are close in age, Billingsley explains. Tandem double strollers on the contrary, have two seats that are arranged adjacent to one another and facing in opposite directions--a great option for children of the same age, or for siblings who enjoy interacting with one another. Tandem strollers may be harder to maneuver through tight spaces, and are less likely to fit through doorways than their side-byside counterparts.
If you prefer a wagon-style double stroller take a look at this top choice from Safety 1st. The testers loved that this budget model comes with a variety of seating options and the option to click in two infant car seats or a single child in an convertible toddler seat. Our experts also appreciated the comfy memory foam seats, 50+ SPF canopy and foam-filled tires that will never get flat. When it's time to fold, this model requires only a couple of pulls on straps on each seat (under where the kids sit) to fold in half.