What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The best double strollers are designed to adapt to the needs of your family and include thoughtful features that keep children happy and comfortable. The best double strollers offer adjustable footrests and smooth riding over gravel, old sidewalks, and trails.
Kerry was delighted that the stroller came in multiple boxes, but everything was clearly labeled and easy for her to open. She also liked that the stroller is able to accommodate two infant car seats, and can be paired up with a riding-board for older children.
Seating Options
When it comes to double strollers, the seating options are what determines the success or failure of the purchase for many families. You'll need to consider the age of your children, their relative sizes of them, and the seating configurations you prefer.
Alli Cavasino is a senior editor at Consumer Reports. She says that if you're planning to buy a tandem stroller, you should consider one with child seats that are attached. This model doesn't require car seat adapters. double buggy side by side are generally larger than other types of double strollers,, so they may not fit into standard door frames within your home.
If you're experiencing an age gap between your children, consider a dual-seat stroller that can transform into a stand-and-ride model that has a platform or small bench seat in the back for a child who likes to just ride with or observe their younger sibling. These in-line strollers are also equipped to accommodate infant car seats when needed and are ideal for children aged three years apart.
You'll also want to take a look at the seat material, explains Billingsley. Some fabrics are more air-conditioned than others, and easier to clean. You should also consider how easy it will be to fold your stroller for storage or transporting it between your vehicle and home. "Nothing is more frustrating than purchasing your dream stroller but then realizing it's too heavy to lift or too big for your trunk," she says.
If twin strollers for newborns looking for a low-cost option that can accommodate various seating options look no further than this award-winning model from Summer Infant, which has two toddler seats, a bassinet attachment and can be expanded to become a triple stroller with an additional seat or riding board. The seats recline and the calf bar controls can be adjusted independently. This is great when one child needs to take a nap while the other wants to explore their surroundings. When folded, the seat is compact and fits into most trunks.
Age Ranges
For families with children who are similar in age, a sit-and-stand stroller is the ideal combination of comfort for children and adults and ease of use. These strollers usually have a seat for an infant or toddler in front and a bench or platform that allows an older child to stand or jump on and off in the back. These strollers are ideal for older children and toddlers but not suitable for infants or children who do have the balance and coordination to stand up on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller can help you keep your eyes on both children at once and fit through tight spots like aisles of the grocery store that are crowded or family photos in the park. These strollers are a bit narrower and more maneuverable than double strollers with side-by-side seating however they don't have as much storage under the carriage and aren't able to accommodate an infant car seats.
If you plan to use a double stroller for some time--or even for longer than a decade, it's worth investing in an option that will grow with your kids. Double strollers are more expensive than single ones however, if you select them properly, you'll save money over the long haul.
Our test participants put each stroller through an assortment of maneuverability tests as well as off-road adventures. They found that they were easy to maneuver on different terrains. But if you're planning to use it in cities or other urban zones where sidewalks and traffic are prone to bumps You might need something more sturdy and robust that can withstand the rough treatment.
Double strollers are made to last, but the seats can wear out sooner than you expect or your children might outgrow them before they're ready for retirement. 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 you can.
Easy of Use
If you're going to purchase a double stroller, you need to ensure that it is easy to use for both children. This means a comfortable harness for children who sit and handles that are easy to grasp for toddlers who stand. It also means that the stroller can be moved easily and is able to be maneuvered in tight spaces and around obstacles. The top-rated strollers in our Lab tests, such as the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie or Thule Urban Glide 2 Double are among the most easy to move around.
A double stroller should be easy to fold up and take down and store. The best models fold down in just a couple of steps and are small enough to fit in most trunks. It's a plus to include a second chair or a ride-along to the stroller. Some strollers can even accommodate infant car seats, meaning you don't have to wake your baby to transfer them into their stroller once they're ready for a trip home.
In addition, a good double stroller needs to be sturdy to be able to be used on different types of terrain. For example, some can be converted into an jogging stroller that has a front wheel that is specially designed, and some can also be used as an umbrella stroller. Some even have cargo baskets which can be attached to the back of the stroller to carry groceries or shopping bags.
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 are generally wider than tandem models, and they aren't easy to maneuver through tight spaces like doorways and aisles of grocery stores that are crowded. However, they provide the convenience of allowing every child to view the same scenery. They are also easier to navigate during bad weather because they offer more protection from the elements.
Many parents choose to purchase a stroller that can be converted from single to double, to use it with a baby and later switch to a regular double once their kiddos are older. After talking with parents, it became apparent that it is better to buy what you need now instead of trying to predict what you'll require in the near future.
Stores
When looking for double-strollers, it's crucial to consider the amount of storage and the dimensions. Many models have large, easy-to-access baskets that can store plenty of stuff. They also often feature numerous cup holders for parents and seats that can be reversible to provide the best legroom available for children. Some of these features can add to the price therefore, make sure to read reviews and descriptions carefully.
The majority of double strollers can be classified into tandem or side by side models. Tandem strollers feature two seats that are positioned on the same frame and they're typically better suited for older children who have already learned sitting without assistance. They usually have larger storage baskets than side-by-side models. However, some may be difficult to push with the front seat fully reclined.
The side-by-side stroller has two seats that are set side-by-side. They're usually better suited for younger babies or toddlers, who haven't yet mastered sitting independently. They also have the benefit of being generally easier to maneuver and push than tandem strollers. However, they typically have smaller storage baskets than tandem strollers and may be more expensive.
There are also double strollers that are designed specifically for biking or jogging. These are more expensive than standard all-terrain strollers and usually come with fixed front wheels that limit their flexibility. These strollers are worth considering if you intend to use them for these kinds of activities.
There's a double stroller that's suitable for any situation, whether you're buying one for twins or a child that's not yet ready to ride on their own or not yet old enough. Our top picks are simple to maneuver, adaptable, stable and have seating that grows with your child's. So whether you're in search of a tandem stroller or one that can accommodate your infant car seat, look through our top choices to find the ideal double stroller for your family.