Buying Guide For Double Strollers
A double stroller is a great investment if you have two children of similar age. These strollers are narrow and narrow, as well as versatile side-by-side buggies help you keep your eyes on both kids at the same time while taking on the grocery store, parks and anything else life throws your way.
Comfort
When looking for a double stroller, the comfort is a major consideration. This can include both the seating arrangements and the overall size of the stroller, which affects the convenience and storage. Katie Billingsley, a child development expert from Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat, says parents should examine the stroller's weight as well as folded dimensions. "They should also think about the seat recline options and the age ranges of their children to ensure it is a perfect fit."
A reputable double stroller must be able to handle different surfaces with ease, from suburban sidewalks to park paths, and from toddler booster seats to infant car seats. It should also provide flexible seating arrangements for children of varying age groups and comfort features like windows that can be opened and closed to keep kids shielded from rain or sun.
Seating options are crucial for many families who utilize a double stroller from the time of birth until childhood. Billingsley explains that there are two main categories of in-line seating with one seat in front of the other, and side-by-side with seats adjacent to one another. Some parents prefer the inline option due to its sleek style and versatility. Others like the wagon style double stroller to maximize space for bulky or grocery items.
In-line models are more likely to have this kind of discordance. Certain models may provide different recline options, with one being nearly flat, and the other being more upright. Billingsley suggests selecting a model with a near-flat recline as well as leg rest adjustments for both seats. This will ensure that both children can lay comfortably.
Then, she suggests to look for strollers with storage compartments that allow parents to easily access snacks, toys and other personal belongings while on the go. She also recommends that it's helpful to find a stroller that includes a parent console or organizer bag, that can be attached to the handlebars. This will help parents keep essentials close in their reach.
A few of the top-rated double strollers can be extended, allowing parents the flexibility to alter the configuration based on their family's needs. For instance, the Mockingbird Expandable is a highly-rated double stroller that can be used with a single To double pushchair seat from birth, and then converted to tandem (with the addition of a second seat and bassinet) as the child grows older.
Safety
Double strollers must be able to support the weight of two passengers--plus any additional cargo. Strollers must also be simple to move and push, particularly in tight areas and on terrain that is difficult to navigate. The best compact double stroller strollers have ergonomic handlebars that can be adjusted in height which allow parents to maintain good form when pushing them. Another nice feature is a non-rethread seat belt harness, which makes it easier to adjust the belts for your child. Safety features include a sturdy brake system and wheels which can glide across any surface.
Some parents opt for side-by-side designs that allow both children to see one another during family outings. This arrangement can prevent siblings fighting over who is allowed to sit n stand double stroller in which spot but it's not a guarantee. If the seats are at different heights, a child may punch or kick one another during a walk, if the seats are at different levels.
A tandem-style stroller is a ideal option for parents with twins or siblings who are similar in age. It lets parents observe both children at the same time. However, they can be wider than other double strollers, so they may not fit through all interior doorways. Think about a stroller that is single-to-double that can be converted from a single to a double buggy sale in a variety ways. The most popular models are the CYBEX gazelle S.
If you're looking for a tandem or a side-by-side stroller, be sure the product is JPMA certified to meet strict safety standards. Be aware of the maximum weight limits for each seat, since over-weighting could lead to frame fatigue or other issues.
It's easy to get caught in the jingles and whistles, but it's important to keep in mind that strollers are in essence baby carriers that will be used for extended durations. It must be easy to clean and maintain and comfortable for both the passengers. It should also have an intuitive, familiar design that lets the person pushing the stroller to move it easily.
Easy of Use
For families who are constantly on the move, a double stroller must be easy to maneuver over a variety of terrains. Features like adjustable canopy systems windows, peek-aboo windows, and dependable brake systems are essential to ensure your children's safety, but there are many other aspects that contribute to stroller ease of use. For instance the stroller should be compact enough to fit in the trunk of your car, yet provide ample storage space for food items and other things. Also important are thoughtful touches such as a cup holder for one parent, parent consoles and snacks for children--all things that can make life on the go with two kids much easier.
During our testing, we evaluated each stroller based on its performance on different surfaces and its ability to maneuver through tight spaces. We also looked at how easy it was to fold the stroller and unfold it as well as if a particular feature made a difference to the overall performance. For instance, a stroller with no-rethread harnesses makes adjusting the seat belts quick and simple. This is a major benefit for parents on the go, as it saves time and eliminates the need to re-thread the harness.
The UPPAbaby v2 Double was a top performer in this test because it had a wide variety of seating options, as well as additional accessories that accommodated families that are growing. The wagon-style double stroller can be expanded to allow for two seats, a bassinet or even a toddler-friendly riding board, which is ideal for families who are active and planning long, tiring days with multiple kids of various ages. It also glides smoothly across pavement, cobblestones and ballfields--and can be folded flat for easy storage in a closet or trunk. The design of this stroller is simple and intuitive which was well-loved by our test participant Kerry. The clever packaging clear sections, well-marked sections and user guide made it easy to put this stroller together.
Storage
Double strollers can hold twice more than one single stroller, so make sure you search for ample storage space. You want a stroller with enough storage space to accommodate the necessities of children and parents, such as bottles as well as snacks, toys and diapers. Look for pockets and baskets under the seats. Also, consider a stroller that has an expandable cargo space to take in bulky items like diaper bags and lunchbags.
A good double stroller should be able to expand with your family. For example certain models come with the bassinet attachment, which can accommodate newborns, while others feature child seats that can grow with your kids until they're ready to switch to riding on the back of the stroller, Billingsley says. Some double strollers allow older children to share in the fun with riding boards.
There are many different double strollers available. You can choose from models with high-performance features that are ideal for rough terrain, as well as more budget-friendly options that can use on a daily basis. While shopping, take a look at reviews and suggestions from families just like yours to get an idea of what to expect from the double stroller you choose.
Double strollers are available in three different styles including tandem, side-by-side and wagon-style. Billingsley states that side-byside strollers are the most adaptable and ideal for twins or children of similar ages. Tandem double strollers come with two seats that are set in a tandem arrangement, facing opposite directions. This is a good option for children who are the same age or siblings who want to be social with one another. Tandem strollers are more difficult to maneuver through tight spaces, and less likely to be able to fit through doorways.
Check out this top selection by Safety 1st if you prefer a wagon style double stroller. This budget-friendly model was praised by test participants for its many seating options. It can be used with two car seats for infants, or one child in a convertible toddler chair. Our testers also loved the soft memory foam seats, 50+ SPF canopy and foam-filled tires that never go flat. When it's time for folding this model needs only just a few nudges on the straps beneath each seat (under the seats where kids sit) for folding.