Buying Guide For Double Strollers

A double stroller is a good investment if you have two children of similar ages. These narrow tandem strollers or flexible side-by-side buggies allow you to keep an eye on both children at the same time taking on the grocery store or the parks, and whatever else life throws your way.

Comfort

When shopping for a double stroller, the comfort is a key factor to consider. This can include the seating arrangement and the overall size, which will have an impact on ease of use and storage. "Parents should check how much the stroller weighs and its dimensions folded," says child development expert and mom Katie Billingsley of Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat. "They should also consider the options for recline and seat age ranges to ensure a perfect fit for their family."

A quality double stroller should be robust enough to navigate various surfaces with ease, from urban sidewalks to parks trails and from infant car seats to toddler booster seats. It should also offer versatile seating arrangements for children of different ages and comfort features such as windows that peek out and adjustable canopy to shield children from rain or sun.

The seating options are important to many families that will use a double stroller from birth to the age of. "There are two main categories--in-line with one seat behind the other, and side-byside with seats next to each other," Billingsley explains. "Some parents prefer an in-line stroller due to its sleek design and versatility, whereas others prefer a wagon-style double stroller to maximize space for bulky items or groceries."

In-line models tend to have this type of discrepancy. Some models might offer different recline options, with one being almost flat, while the other one remaining fairly upright. Billingsley suggests choosing a model with both a near flat recline and leg rest adjustment for both seats. This will ensure that both children lie down comfortably.

She also suggests that parents look for strollers with storage compartments to allow them to quickly access their snacks, personal items, and toys while in motion. She also suggests that it's helpful to look for a stroller that has an organizer console for parents or a parent bag that is attached to the handlebars. This will allow you to keep your essentials close at hand.

A few of the top-rated double strollers can be expanded that allows parents to modify the set-up based on the needs of their growing family. For instance the Mockingbird Expandable is a highly rated double stroller that can be used with just a single seat from birth, and later converted to a tandem (with a second seat and bassinet) as the child grows older.

Safety

Double strollers should be able to support the weight of two adults, as well as any additional cargo. Strollers must also be simple to push and maneuver, especially in tight areas and over challenging terrain. The best strollers come with ergonomic handlebars and adjustable heights, making it easier for parents to maintain good form when pushing them. A harness that is not rethread that makes the adjustment of seat belts quicker and easier, is another nice feature to look out for. Finally, a sturdy brake system and wheels that glide across any surface are important safety features.

Some parents choose an arrangement that allows both children to view each other on family outings. This arrangement can help prevent sibling rivalries over who gets to sit where however it's not foolproof. If the seats are positioned at different heights, one child could be in a position to punch or kick the other during the course of a walk.

For parents of twins or siblings who are close in age, a tandem-style stroller offers the benefit of being able to view both children at the same time. However, these can be more spacious than other double strollers, so they may not fit through all interior doorways. You could consider a single-to-off road double buggy stroller that can be converted from a single to a double in many ways. The most popular models are the CYBEX gazelle S.

If you're looking for a tandem or a side-by-side stroller, ensure that the product is JPMA certified to meet strict safety standards. Be sure to check the maximum weight limits for each seat, since exceeding them could result in frame fatigue or other issues.

It's easy to get caught up in the bells and whistles, however it's important to remember that strollers are essentially baby carriers that will be used for a long period of time. It should be comfortable for both parents and children as well as easy to clean and maintain, and in the ideal case, it should offer an easy-to-use, familiar design so that the person pushing it can easily maneuver it without having to think twice about how to move forward, turn left or right, or use the brakes.

Easy to Use

A double stroller should be easy to maneuver on different types of terrains for families always on the move. Features like adjustable canopies with windows that peek out and dependable brake systems are critical to help ensure your children's safety, however, there are other elements that influence stroller comfort of use. For instance, a stroller must be compact enough to fit in the trunk of your car while still offering ample storage space for your groceries and other items. It is also important to consider thoughtful additions like a cup holder with a single parent as well as a console for parents and snacks for children--all things that will make life with two kids significantly easier.

In our tests, we assessed each stroller based on its ability to perform on different terrains, as well as its ability to maneuver through tight spaces. We also looked at how simple it was to fold and unfold, and whether or not a specific feature enhanced the overall function of the stroller. For example, a stroller with a harness that does not rethread makes the adjustment of the seat belts easy and quick. This is a huge selling point for parents who are constantly on the move, as it removes the requirement to rethread the harness.

The UPPAbaby v2 Double scored well in this measure because it had a wide variety of seating options, as well as other accessories that could accommodate expanding families. The wagon-style double stroller with bassinet stroller is able to allow for an additional seat, a bassinet or even a toddler riding board--perfect for families with active children who plan long, tiring days with multiple children of different ages. It easily glides over cobblestones, pavements, and ball fields. It can fold flat to fit in a trunk or closet. Our tester Kerry loved the simple, intuitive nature of this stroller's design. Its stylish packaging with clearly labeled sections as well as a helpful user guides made assembling this stroller an absolute breeze.

Stores

A Double Buggy For Twins stroller is able to hold twice as much as a single stroller therefore, you should look for plenty of storage space. Ideally, you'll want a stroller that can accommodate the essentials for both kids--nappies bottles, snacks, and toys, in addition to parents' items such as phones, wallets, and keys. Find baskets and pockets under the seats. Also, consider a stroller with an expandable cargo space that can accommodate bulky items like lunch bags and diaper bags.

A good double stroller with car seat stroller should be able to change as your family expands. For instance, some models include a bassinet attachment that can accommodate newborns, while others have child seats that can be adapted to 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 on the fun by riding on riding boards.

There are a variety of double strollers available. You can choose from high-performance models which are suitable for rough terrain, or affordable options that you can use every day. 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 designs: tandem, side-by-side and wagon-style. Billingsley says that side-by-side strollers are the most flexible and ideal for twins or children of a similar age. Tandem double strollers come with two seats set up in a tandem configuration facing in opposite directions. This is a great option for children of the same age, or siblings who want to interact with each other. Tandem strollers are more difficult to maneuver through narrow 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. The testers loved that this budget model has multiple seating options and the option to snap in two infant car seats or a single child riding in a convertible toddler seat. Our reviewers also praised the memory foam seats, canopy with 50+ SPF, and foam-filled wheels that never go flat. When it's time to fold this model requires only a few tugs on the straps under each seat (under where kids sit) for folding.