What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The best double strollers grow with families and have innovative features that keep kids happy and comfortable. This includes adjustable foot rests as well as an easy ride on trails, gravel and old sidewalks.
Kerry loved the fact that the stroller was delivered in multiple boxes but everything was well-labeled and easy to open. She also appreciated the fact that the stroller can accommodate two infant car seats, and can be paired with a riding board for older children.
Seating Options
Seating options are a major aspect in determining whether or not a family will purchase a double stroller. You'll have to think about the age of your children, the sizes of them, and the seating configurations you prefer.
For instance, if have children who are close in age who will sit side-by-side, you should consider a tandem stroller that has child seats linked to one another and does not require car seat adapters, says Alli Cavasino, a senior editor at Consumer Reports. They're typically larger than other types of double strollers, however they won't fit into standard door frames in your home.
If your children are of a older age, you might think about a stroller with two seats that can be turned into a stand-and-ride model. This allows children to watch or ride along with their siblings. These in-line strollers are also equipped to accommodate infant car seats when needed, and are good for children who are 3 to 5 years apart.
You'll also want to look at the type of seat material, says Billingsley. Some fabrics are more comfortable than others, and are easier to clean. You should also consider how easy it will be to fold your stroller to store it or for transport between your vehicle and home. "Nothing is more frustrating than purchasing your dream stroller, but finding it's too heavy for you to lift or too big for your trunk," she says.
If you are looking for a budget-friendly alternative that can be configured in a variety of ways look no further than this award-winning stroller from Summer Infant. It comes with two toddler seats as well as an infant bassinet. It could be made to a triple stroller by adding a seat or riding board. The seats recline and the control of the calf bar can be adjusted independently. This is great the time when one child is in need of a nap while another wants to explore their surroundings. It's also compact when folded down and easily fits into the majority of trunks.
Age ranges
For families with children who are similar in age, a sit and stand stroller can provide the best combination of comfort for children and adults and user-friendliness. These strollers typically have a seat for an infant or toddler in front and a bench or platform that allows an older child to stand or take a ride in the back. These strollers are ideal for older children and toddlers, but not for babies or children who do not yet have the coordination and balance to stand up on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller can help you keep an eye on both kids simultaneously and can fit into tight spots like aisles of the grocery store that are crowded or family photos at the park. cheap double stroller are usually narrower than double strollers that are side-by-side and are generally easier to maneuver but they don't have the capacity to fit carseats for infants and generally do not offer the same amount of undercarry storage.
If you're planning to use a double stroller over many years, or even over a decade, it's worthwhile purchasing a model that will grow with your kids. Double strollers tend to be more expensive than single strollers, but If you choose the right one the first time, it can save you money over the course of time.
Our test participants put each stroller through several maneuverability tests, as well as off road adventures. They found that they were easy to navigate on a variety terrain. However, if you're planning to use it in cities or other urban areas where sidewalks and traffic are prone to bumps, you might want something more sturdy and durable that can handle the rough treatment.
Many double strollers are designed to last a long time, but you could find that the seats get worn out faster than expected or your children grow out of it before it's ready to retire. If you're on a tight budget look into one that has been evaluated for at least four years and aims to last for as long as is possible.
Simple to use
It's crucial to ensure that the double stroller is simple to use by both children. That means comfortable harnesses for children who sit and handles that are easy to grasp for toddlers who stand. It also means that the stroller rolls easily and is able to be maneuvered around tight spaces and around obstacles. In fact, the top-rated strollers in our Lab tests, such as the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie and Thule Urban Glide 2 Double--are among the easiest to push.
twin umbrella stroller should also be able to fold and put away. The best models fold in just a couple of steps and are small enough to fit in the majority of trunks. It's also beneficial that the stroller can be used in a variety of ways, with options to add a second seat or a ride-along board. Some strollers can also hold infant car seats so you don't need to wake your baby to move them into the stroller when it's time to go home.
In addition, a good double stroller should be sturdy to be able to be used on different types of terrain. Some can be transformed into a jogging stoller with a special front wheel and some can also be used as umbrella strollers. Some even have a cargo basket that can be affixed to the rear of the stroller to carry shopping bags or groceries.
Another factor to consider is whether you'd like an oversized stroller that can be used side-by-side or as a tandem. Side-by-side strollers tend to be larger than tandem models, and can be difficult to maneuver through tight spaces such as doorways and crowded grocery store aisles. However, they offer the convenience of allowing every child to see the same scene. They can also be easier to navigate through in stormy weather as they provide greater coverage from the elements for both kids.
Many parents choose to purchase a stroller that can be converted from single to double, so that they can use it as a baby, and then later change to a regular double once their children are older. However, after talking to parents we've learned it's best to purchase what you need at the time, rather than trying to anticipate what your family may need in the future.
Stores
If you're shopping for a double stroller, you might need to think about the size and amount of storage space. A lot of models have large easy-to-access baskets that are able to accommodate a lot of cargo. Many models also come with multiple cup holders for parents as well as seating configurations that can be reversed to provide the best legroom possible for children. However, some of these features can increase in cost therefore it is important to read reviews and descriptions carefully.
The majority of double strollers are classified as tandem or side by side designs. Tandem strollers feature two seats that are positioned on the same frame, and are generally better suited for older babies who have already learned sitting without assistance. They also have a larger storage basket than side-byside models, however some can be difficult or awkward to push when the front seat is fully reclined.
The side-by-side stroller has two seats that are positioned side-by-side. They're generally better suited for younger babies or toddlers, who aren't yet comfortable with independent sitting. They are also easier to push and maneuver than tandem strollers. However, they usually have smaller storage baskets than tandem strollers, and can be more expensive.
There are also specialized double strollers designed for biking and jogging. These are more expensive than basic strollers that are all-terrain, and they typically have fixed front wheels that limit their flexibility. They're worth considering only if you intend to use them for those activities.
There's a double stroller for any situation, whether you're buying one for twins, a child who's not quite ready to take a ride by themselves, or a child who's not quite old enough. Our top choices are simple to maneuver, adaptable, stable and have seating that grows with your child's. Take a look at our top picks for the best double stroller to accommodate your family whether you're seeking a tandem stroller or one that accommodates your infant car seat.