Buying Guide For Double Strollers
A double stroller is a good investment when you have two kids of similar age. These compact tandem buggies or flexible side by side buggies allow you to keep both children in the same place when you are navigating the aisles of your grocery store, parks, and whatever else life throws at you.
Comfort
When looking for a double stroller, comfort is a key consideration. This could include both seating arrangement as well as the overall dimensions of the stroller which impacts accessibility and storage. "Parents must determine what the stroller weighs and its dimensions when folded," says child development expert and mom Katie Billingsley of Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat. "They should also look at the options for recline and seat age ranges to ensure a perfect fit for their family."
A well-constructed double stroller will be durable enough to travel on all terrain double stroller surfaces without difficulty, from urban sidewalks to parks trails, and from infant car seats to toddler booster seats. It should come with a variety of seating options for children at different stages of development, as well as comfort features such as a peek-a-boo windows and adjustable canopy options that shield kids from rain or sun.
For a lot of families, a double stroller will be used from birth and into the age of five, so it's crucial to consider the seating options. Billingsley says there are two primary categories: in-line with one seat in front of the other and side-byside seating with seats next to each other. "Some parents prefer an in-line model due to its sleek appearance and versatility, whereas others prefer a wagon-style stroller to make the most space for bulky items or groceries."
In-line models tend to have this type of discrepancy. Certain models may provide different recline options, with one seat being nearly flat, and the other remaining relatively upright. Billingsley suggests selecting a model that has a nearly flat recline and leg rest adjustments for both seats. This will ensure that both children lay down comfortably.
Finally, she advises to look for strollers that have storage compartments that will allow parents to quickly access snacks, toys and personal items while out and about. She also suggests that it's useful to find a stroller that has an organizer or parent console bag that is attached to the handlebars, which can help keep essentials within reach.
A few of the top-rated double strollers are expandable that allows parents to modify the layout to meet the requirements of their growing family. The Mockingbird Expandable, for example, is a highly rated double stroller which can be used from birth using a single and double stroller seat, then transformed into a tandem (with two seats and a bassinet) when the child is older.
Safety
Double strollers must be able to handle the weight of two passengers and any additional cargo. Strollers must also be easy to move and push, particularly in tight areas and over challenging terrain. The best strollers feature ergonomic handlebars that can be adjusted in height to allow parents to maintain their good posture while pushing them. Another great feature is a non-rethread seat belt harness that makes it easier to adjust the seat belts. A sturdy brake system and wheels that can glide over any surface are essential safety features.
Some parents choose side-by-side designs that allow both children to view one another during family outings. This arrangement can stop siblings fighting over who is allowed to sit in which spot but it's not a guarantee. If the seats are placed at different levels, one child might be in a position to punch or kick the other during walks.
A tandem-style stroller is great option for parents with twins or siblings that are similar in age. It lets them observe both children at the same time. Double strollers are typically larger, and might not fit through some doors inside. To maximize versatility, you should consider a stroller that can change from a single stroller to a tandem in various ways, like the renowned CYBEX Gazelle S. These models can accommodate a wide range of configurations and permit you to insert infant car seats or cot attachments, depending on your requirements.
Whether you choose a side-by-side or tandem-style stroller, make sure the product is JPMA-certified to meet stringent safety standards. Be sure to check the weight limits that apply to each seat, since over-weighting could lead to frame fatigue or other issues.
While it's easy for us to focus on all the extra bells and whistles of a new stroller, it's crucial to keep in mind that a stroller is essentially a baby carrier that will be transported for long periods of time. It should be comfortable for both the passengers as well as easy to clean and maintain, and most importantly it should have an intuitive, familiar design that the person pushing it is able to effortlessly maneuver it without having to think twice about how to move forward, turn left or right, or even apply the brakes.
User-Friendliness
A double stroller should be easy to maneuver on various terrains for families who are always on the move. Strollers that have features like windows that can be opened and closed, adjustable canopy and sturdy brake systems are vital to ensure the safety of your children. But there are other features that make them easier to use. A stroller should be compact enough to fit into the trunk of your vehicle yet have plenty of storage space for food or other things. It's also important to include thoughtful features, like cups holder for one parent or consoles for parents, as well as a snack tray. These are able to help make traveling with two children significantly easier.
In our tests, we assessed each stroller on the basis of its ability to perform on different terrains, as well as its ability to maneuver in tight spaces. We also looked at how simple it was to fold and unfold, and whether or not a specific feature added to the overall function of the stroller. For instance, a stroller with no-rethread harnesses makes adjusting the seat belts simple and easy. This can be a big benefit for parents who are constantly on the move, as it eliminates the need to rethread the harness.
The UPPAbaby V2 Double scored highly in this test because it offered a wide range of seating options, as well as additional accessories to accommodate expanding families. The double-stroller in the wagon style expands to accommodate a second seat, bassinet, or even a toddler-riding board. This is ideal for families that plan to spend long days on the road with multiple children of various ages. It easily glides over pavements, cobblestones, and ball fields. It can also be folded flat to store in a trunk or closet. The design of this stroller is simple and intuitive which was well-loved by our test subject Kerry. The smart packaging with clearly marked sections as well as a user's manual made it easy to put this stroller together.
Storage
Double strollers can carry twice as much as one single to double buggy twin stroller side by side So, make sure to look for plenty of storage space. You want a stroller with enough storage space to accommodate the essentials for both children and parents like bottles, toys, snacks, and diapers. Look for under-seat baskets as well as other pockets, and think about a stroller that has an expandable cargo space that can carry heavy items such as lunch bags and diaper bags.
A quality double stroller should be able to adjust as your family grows. Billingsley states that certain models come with a bassinet attachment to accommodate infants. Some models have child seats that be able to grow with your child until they are old enough to ride on the back. Some double strollers even allow for a rider board that allows older children to take part in the fun.
There are many double strollers available. You can pick from models with high-performance features which are suitable for rough terrain, or more budget-friendly options that can use every day. While shopping, take a look at reviews and suggestions from families like yours to gain an idea of what to expect from the double stroller you choose.
Double strollers are available in three different styles: tandem, side-by-side and wagon-style. Side-by-side double strollers offer most versatility and are suitable for twins or children similar to their age, Billingsley explains. Tandem double strollers, on contrary, have two seats that are arranged close to each other and facing in opposite directions--a ideal choice for children who are the same age or for siblings who enjoy interacting with each other. Tandem strollers are more difficult to maneuver through narrow spaces, and are less likely to fit into doorways.
Check out this top selection by Safety 1st if you prefer a wagon-style double buggy that converts to single stroller. This budget-friendly model was praised by testers for its various seating configurations. It can be used with two car seats for infants or one child in a convertible toddler seat. Our testers also loved the soft memory foam seats and the 50+ SPF canopy, and foam-filled tires that never stop running flat. And when it's time to fold, this model requires only a few tugs on the straps of each seat (under where the kids sit) to fold in half.