What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The best double strollers are made to grow with your family and come with thoughtful features that keep your children content and comfortable. The top double strollers have adjustable footrests and a smooth ride over gravel, old sidewalks, and trails.
Kerry was delighted that the stroller was packaged in multiple boxes, but everything was clearly labeled and easy for her to open. She also appreciated that the stroller can accept two infant car seats and can be paired with a ride-board for older children.
Seating Options
When it is about double strollers, the seating options are what determines the success or failure of the purchase of many families. You'll have to think about the age of your children, the sizes of them and the seating configurations you prefer.
For instance, if you have children who are close in age and will be sitting side-by-side, you should consider a tandem model that has child seats linked to one another and doesn't require you to use car seat adapters, according to Alli Cavasino an editor in the senior position at Consumer Reports. These double strollers are typically larger than other double strollers. They may not fit through doors that are standard in your home.
If you have an age gap between your children look into a double-seat stroller that has the option to transform into a stand-and-ride model with an elevated or small bench seat in the back for children who would like to ride with or observe their sibling. These types of in-line strollers can also be adapted to fit infant car seats, if needed, and are a good option for children who will be 3-5 years apart, says Billingsley.
You'll also need to consider the type of seat material, says Billingsley. Certain fabrics are more breathable than others, and are easier to clean. It's also important to think about how easy it is to fold your stroller for transporting it to and from your car. "There's nothing more frustrating than buying your dream stroller only find out that it is too heavy or large for your trunk," says the expert.
If you are looking for an affordable option that offers multiple configurations look no further than this award-winning stroller from Summer Infant. It comes with two toddler seats and a bassinet, and can be expanded into a triple stroller adding an additional seat or a riding board. The seats recline and have the calf bar controls that can be adjusted independently, which is great for when one child is looking to rest while the other wants take in the surroundings. It's also compact when folded and easily fits into most trunks.
Age Variations
For families with kids who are near to their ages, a sit-and-stand stroller can provide the best combination of comfort for children and adults and user-friendliness. These strollers have a seat in front for toddlers or infants, and a bench, platform or another type of surface in the rear that allows older children to stand up or get off and on. They are great for big toddlers and preschoolers, but don't be suitable for infants or kids who do not yet have the balance and coordination to stand on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller can help keep an eye on both kids at once and fit through difficult areas like crowded grocery store aisles or family photos at the park. These models are narrower and more maneuverable than double strollers with side-by-side seating, but they don't have enough storage space under the carriage and aren't able to accommodate an the infant car seat.
If you are planning to use a double stroller for some time--or even for a decade or more--it's worth purchasing a model that will continue to adapt to your children's needs. Double strollers are more expensive than single strollers, but if they're chosen wisely, you'll save money in the long run.
Our test subjects put these strollers through a series of maneuverability tests as well as off-road adventures, and they found them to be simple to navigate over various terrains. If you plan to use it in cities or areas where the sidewalks and traffic can be bumpy, then you might want something that is more durable and robust that can withstand rough treatment.
Many double strollers are built to last for a long time, but you could find that the seats get more worn than you expected or your children outgrow it before it's time to retire. If you're looking for a bargain you should consider buying a model that has been tested for at least 4 years and aims to last for as long as is possible.
Simple to Use
It is essential to ensure that the double stroller is simple to use by both children. This means comfortable harnesses for seated kids, and easy-to-grasp handles for toddlers who stand. It also means that the stroller can be moved easily, and can be maneuvered through tight spaces and around obstacles. In fact the top strollers in our Lab tests, such as the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie and Thule Urban Glide 2 Double among the most easy to push.
A double stroller should also be easy to fold up and put away. The most effective models come with a one- or two-step process, and they're compact enough to fit in the majority of trunks. It's also beneficial when the stroller is a versatile and has the option of adding a second seat or a ride-along board. Some can even hold infant car seats, meaning you don't have to wake up your baby to transfer them into their stroller when they're ready to go home.
A quality double stroller is also durable and is able to be used in a variety of kinds of terrains. Some of them can be converted into a jogging scooter with a specific front wheel and others can be used as umbrella strollers. Some strollers have a cargo bag that can be put to the back of the vehicle to carry shopping bags and groceries.
Another factor to consider is whether you want a side-by-side stroller or a tandem. Side-by-side strollers tend to be wider than tandems and can be difficult to navigate narrow spaces like doorways or crowded aisles in grocery stores. They are useful because they allow both children to enjoy the same view. They can also be easier to navigate in rough weather, as they provide more coverage from the elements for both children.
Many parents choose to purchase a stroller that is convertible from single to double so they can use it with a baby and then later change to a regular double once their kids are older. But after speaking with parents we've learned that it's best to purchase what you need now, rather than trying to predict what your family will require in the future.
Stores
When shopping for double-strollers, it's crucial to take into consideration the amount of storage space available and the size. Many models come with spacious accessible baskets that can accommodate a lot of cargo. Many models also feature numerous cup holders for parents and reversible seat configurations to provide the best legroom for children. lightweight double stroller of these features can make the price more expensive therefore, make sure to go through the reviews and descriptions carefully.
The majority of double strollers can be classified into tandem or side by side designs. Tandem strollers come with two seats on the same frame and they're typically better suited for older children who are already comfortable with sitting on their own. They also have a larger storage basket than side-byside models, however some are awkward or difficult to push when the front seat is reclined fully.
The side-by-side stroller comes with two separate seats that are placed side-by-side. They're generally better suited for younger babies or toddlers who aren't yet comfortable with sitting on their own. They also have the advantage of usually being easier to push and maneuver than tandem strollers. They may be more expensive, and they have smaller baskets.
There are also specialized double strollers specifically designed for biking and jogging. lightest double stroller are more expensive than standard strollers that are all-terrain, and they typically have fixed front wheels that limit their flexibility. It is worth looking into them only if you plan to use them for those activities.
There's a double stroller that's suitable for every scenario whether you're looking to purchase one for twins or a child who's not quite ready to ride alone, or a child who's not yet old enough to be a proper rider. Our top picks are simple to maneuver, adaptable and stable, with seating that expands with your child's. So whether you're in search of a tandem stroller or one that will accommodate your infant car seat, take a look at our top choices to find the ideal double stroller for your family.