Buying Guide For Double Strollers

A double stroller is an excellent investment for families with two children of similar age. These compact tandem strollers or versatile side-by-side buggies help you keep your eyes on both kids at the same time while braving the grocery aisle, parks and anything else life throws at you.

Comfort

The comfort factor is one of the most important factors to take into consideration when buying a double-twin umbrella stroller. This can include the seating arrangement as well as the overall size, which will have an impact on the 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 must also take into consideration the seat recline options and the age ranges of their children to ensure that it is a perfect fit."

A quality double stroller should be durable enough to travel on all surfaces without difficulty, from parks trails to suburban sidewalks, and from infant car seats to toddler booster seats. It should also provide flexible seating arrangements for children of different age and comfort features like windows that peek out and adjustable canopy to shield children from sun or rain.

For a lot of families double strollers will be used from birth until the age of five, so it's crucial to think about seating options. "There are two main categories--in-line with one seat behind the other, and side by side with seats next to each other," Billingsley explains. Some parents prefer the in-line model due to its sleek style and flexibility. Others prefer a wagon style double stroller for maximum space for grocery or bulky items.

While some products may have different recline options - with one seat nearly flat while the other is upright, this type of distinction is more common in in-line models. Billingsley suggests selecting a product that offers both a nearly flat recline and leg rest adjustment for both seats to ensure the children can both lie back comfortably.

Then, she suggests choosing strollers with storage compartments that enable parents to easily access snacks, toys and other personal items while on the move. She also recommends that it is beneficial to find a stroller that comes with a parent console or organizer bag, that can be attached to the handlebars. This can aid parents in keeping their essentials at hand.

Some of the most highly-rated double strollers can be expanded that allows parents to modify the configuration to meet the needs of their growing family. The Mockingbird Expandable, for instance, is a highly rated double stroller which can be used from birth with a single seat, then transformed into a tandem (with two seats and a bassinet) when the child gets older.

Safety

Double strollers should be able to carry the weight of two passengers--plus any additional cargo. Strollers must also be simple to maneuver and push, especially in tight areas and on difficult terrain. The best strollers feature ergonomic handlebars that can be adjusted in height which make it easier for parents to maintain their form when pushing them. Another great feature is a non-rethread seat belt harness, which allows for a more comfortable adjustment of the belts for your child. A sturdy brake system and wheels that glide over any surface are essential safety features.

Some parents prefer side-by-side designs that allow both children to view each other during family outings. This arrangement can stop siblings fighting over who is allowed to sit where, but it's not foolproof. If the seats are set at different heights, one child could be in a position to punch or kick the other on the course of a walk.

For parents with twins or siblings close in age, a tandem-style stroller offers the benefit of being able to see both kids at once. However, they can be more spacious than other double strollers, and they might not fit through all doorways in the interior. For maximum versatility, consider a single-to-double stroller that transitions from a single stroller to a tandem in a variety of ways, such as the popular CYBEX Gazelle S. These models can accommodate a wide range of configurations, and allow you to click in infant car seats or cot attachments depending on your requirements.

If you decide to purchase a side-by-side or tandem-style stroller, make sure the product is JPMA-certified to meet stringent safety standards. Be aware of the weight limit that applies to each seat. Exceeding these limits could cause frame fatigue or other issues.

While it's easy for us to focus on the many bells and whistles that come with the latest stroller, it's crucial to be aware that a stroller basically a baby carrier that will be used for extended durations of time. It must be easy to clean and maintain as well as comfortable for both of the passengers. It should also have a familiar, intuitive design that lets the person pushing the stroller to maneuver it effortlessly.

Ease of Use

A double stroller must be easily maneuverable on different types of terrains for families constantly moving. Strollers that have features like windows that can be opened and closed, adjustable canopy and sturdy brake systems are crucial to ensure the safety of your children. However, there are other features that make them easier to use. A stroller should be compact enough to fit in the trunk of your car yet have plenty of storage space for groceries and other items. 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 significantly simpler.

In our tests, we assessed each stroller based on its performance on various terrains, as well as its ability to maneuver through tight spaces. We also looked at how easy it was to fold the stroller and then unfold it in a timely manner, and if a specific feature improved the overall functionality. A stroller that does not have rethread straps makes it simple to adjust the seat belts. This is a major selling point for parents on the go since it reduces time and eliminates the need to re-thread the harness.

The UPPAbaby 2 Double scored highly in this test because it came with a variety of seating options, as well as additional accessories to accommodate growing families. The wagon-style double stroller is able to provide two seats as well as a bassinet, or a toddler riding board--perfect for families with active children who plan long, tiring days with multiple children of different age groups. It easily glides over cobblestones, pavements, and ballfields. It can be folded flat to fit in a trunk or a closet. Our test subject Kerry appreciated the straightforward, intuitive nature of this stroller's design. Its smart packaging clear sections, well-labeled sections and an informative user guide made assembling this stroller a breeze.

Stores

A double stroller has the potential to hold twice as much as a single stroller, so look for ample storage space. You'll want a stroller that has enough storage space to store the necessities of parents and children, such as bottles and snacks, toys, and diapers. Look for baskets and pockets under the seats. Also, consider a stroller that has an expandable cargo area to take in bulky items like lunch bags and diaper bags.

A good double stroller should be able to adapt to the needs of your family. Billingsley states that certain models come with an attachment for a bassinet to accommodate newborns. Some models have child seats that can expand with the child until they are old enough to ride on the back. Some double strollers even allow for a rider board to allow older siblings to take part in the fun.

There's a wide selection of double strollers on the market, from sleek, high-performance options that excel on rough terrain to budget-friendly models more suitable for use in the everyday. As you shop, read user reviews and recommendations from families like yours to gain a better sense of what to expect from the double stroller you choose.

Double strollers are available in three models: tandem, pushchairsandprams side by side and wagon style. Billingsley states that side-by-side strollers are the most versatile and suitable for twins or children of a similar age. Tandem double strollers, on the other hand, feature two seats set adjacent to one another and facing in opposite directions--a good option for kids of the same age, or for siblings who enjoy interacting with one another. Tandem strollers are more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces, and less likely to fit in doorways.

If you prefer a wagon-style double stroller, check out this top pick from Safety 1st. This model is affordable and was highly praised by our testers for its multiple seating configurations. It can be used with two infant car seats or one child in a convertible toddler seat. Our testers also loved the comfortable memory foam seats, 50+ SPF canopy, and foam-filled tires that never go flat. When it's time to fold this model needs only just a few pulls on the straps under each seat (under the seat where children sit) in order to fold.