What to Look For in a Double Stroller

The best double strollers are built to grow with families and offer thoughtful features to keep kids comfortable and happy. This includes adjustable foot rests and an easy stroll on trails, gravel and old sidewalks.

Kerry was pleased the fact that the stroller was delivered in multiple boxes, however everything was labeled well and was easy to open. She also appreciated that the stroller can be used with two infant car seats and can be combined with a riding board for older kids.

Seating Options

When it is double strollers, seating options are what makes or breaks the purchase of many families. You'll need to take into consideration the age of your children, the relative sizes and seating configurations you prefer.

Alli Cavasino is a senior editor of Consumer Reports. She says that if you're looking to purchase a tandem stroller, it is best to consider one with child seats that are attached. This model doesn't require car seat adapters. They're typically larger than other types of double strollers, they won't fit through standard door frames in your home.

If you're experiencing an age gap between your kids, consider a dual-seat stroller with the option to transform into a stand-and-ride model with the option of a bench or a platform seat in the back for a child who likes to just ride along or watch their younger sibling. These types of strollers can also be adapted to fit infant car seats, if needed and are a great option for children who will be 3 to 5 years apart, according Billingsley.

You'll also need to consider the type of seat material, according to Billingsley. Some offer more breathable fabrics than others, and are easier to keep clean. It's also important to think about how easy it is to fold your stroller for stowing or transporting to and from your car. "There's nothing more frustrating than buying the perfect stroller only to discover that it's too heavy or bulky for your trunk," says the expert.

If you're looking for an affordable option that offers multiple seating configurations, check out this award-winning model from Summer Infant It comes with two toddler seats with a bassinet attachment. It can be expanded to become triple stroller by adding an additional seat or riding board. The seats recline and have calf bar controls to adjust independently, which is ideal for those times when one child needs to rest while the other wants look around. When folded, the seat is compact and fits into the majority of trunks.

Age ranges

For families with kids who are near in age, a Sit N Stand Double Stroller-and-stand stroller can provide the best combination of comfort for children and adults and ease of use. They typically come with seats for infants or toddler in front and a bench or platform that allows an older child to stand or hop on and off in the back. They're great for big toddlers and preschoolers, but won't work well for younger babies or children who don't have the balance and coordination to stand on their own.

A narrow tandem stroller can help you keep your eyes on both children simultaneously and can fit into narrow spaces like the busy aisles in the grocery store or family photos at the park. These strollers are typically smaller than side-by-side double strollers and tend to maneuver easier however they aren't able to accommodate carseats for infants and generally do not offer the same amount of undercarry storage.

If you plan on using a double stroller over the course of a few years, or even a decade, it's worth purchasing an item that can expand with your children. Double strollers are typically more expensive than single strollers, but if you choose the right one first time around it can save you money over the course of time.

Our testers ran each of these strollers through a series maneuverability tests and off-road excursions, and they found them to be easy to navigate through different terrains. If you plan to use it in cities or areas where sidewalks and traffic are prone to bumps, you might want something more durable and sturdy that can handle rough treatment.

Double strollers are made to last, however the seats can be worn out earlier than you think or your children might outgrow them before they're ready for retirement. If you're looking for a bargain, consider getting one that has been tested for at least 4 years and is designed to last as long as possible.

Easy of Use

It's crucial to ensure that the double stroller is simple to use by both children. That means comfortable harnesses for seated kids and handles that are easy to grasp for toddlers who stand. The stroller can also be easily rolled and maneuvered around obstacles and in tight spaces. The top-rated strollers in our Lab tests, including the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie or thule double stroller Urban Glide 2 lightweight double pushchair, are among the easiest to maneuver.

It's also crucial that a double stroller be easy to fold and to store. The best models have a one- or two-step procedure, and are small enough to fit into most trunks. It's also a plus when the stroller is a versatile, with options to add a second seat or a ride-along board. Some strollers can accommodate infant car seats so you don't have to wake your baby up to transfer them to the stroller when it's time to go home.

A quality double stroller is also strong, so it can be used on a variety of types of terrain. For instance, some strollers can be converted to a jogging stroller with a specialized front wheel, and some can be used as an umbrella stroller. Some strollers come with a bag that can be attached at the back to carry shopping bags and groceries.

Another factor to consider is whether you'd prefer an oversized stroller that can be used side-by-side or as a tandem. Side-by-side strollers are generally larger than tandems, and can be difficult to navigate through narrow spaces like doorways or crowded aisles in grocery stores. However, they provide the convenience of allowing every child to enjoy the same view. They are also easier to navigate in rough weather because they offer more 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 switch to a regular double once their kiddos are older. After talking to parents, it became apparent that it is better to purchase what you need now than to try to predict what you might require in the near future.

Storage

When looking for a double-stroller, you need to think about the amount of storage space available and the dimensions. Many models come with spacious easy-to-access baskets that are able to accommodate a lot of cargo. Many models also come with several cup holders for parents as well as seating configurations that can be reversed to provide the best legroom for children. However, some of these features can be costly in price, so it's important to read descriptions and reviews carefully.

Most double strollers are categorized as tandem or side-by-side designs. Tandem strollers include two seats in one frame, and are best suited to older babies who can stand unaided. They also typically have a much larger storage basket than side-by-side models, though they can be a bit awkward or difficult to push when the front seat is reclined fully.

The side-by-side stroller comes with two seats that are placed side-by-side. They're generally better suited for younger babies or toddlers who haven't yet mastered sitting independently. They are also easier to push and maneuver than tandem strollers. However, they tend to have smaller storage baskets than tandem strollers, and can be more expensive.

There are also specialized double buggy strollers specifically designed for biking and jogging. These are more expensive than the standard all-terrain strollers, and they typically have fixed front wheels that restrict their mobility. They are worth considering only if you plan to use them for such activities.

If you're looking for twins or an infant and an older toddler, or a child who's not yet ready to ride on their own, there's a great double stroller out there. The top options we've found in our tests are affluent, stable, and easy to maneuver and have seating that grows as your children grow. Take a look at our top picks for the best double stroller to accommodate your family, whether you are looking for a tandem or one that accommodates your infant car seat.