What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The best
lightest double stroller strollers develop with families and offer clever features to keep children happy and comfortable. The best
double buggy Converts to single strollers offer adjustable footrests and smooth riding on old sidewalks, gravel and trails.
Kerry was pleased that the stroller arrived in multiple boxes, however everything was well-labeled and easy to open. She also appreciated the fact that the stroller can accommodate two infant car seats, and it can be paired with a ride-board for older children.
Seating Options
When it is about double strollers, seating options are the main factor that determines the purchase of many families. You'll need to consider the age of your children, the sizes of them, and the seating arrangements you like.
For instance, if have children who are close in age that will be seated side-by-side, consider a tandem model that has child seats linked to each other and does not require car seat adapters, according to Alli Cavasino who is a senior editor at Consumer Reports. They are generally larger than other double strollers, they won't fit into standard door frames in your home.
If you have an age gap between your kids, consider a dual-seat stroller that can convert to a stand-and-ride model with the option of a bench or a platform seat in the back for a kid who likes to just ride along with their younger sibling. These types of strollers can also accommodate infant car seats, should they be required, and are a good option for children who are 3 to 5 years apart, according Billingsley.
Billingsley suggests that you be aware of the material you choose for your seat. Some are more breathable than others, and are easier to clean. It's also important to think about how easy it is to fold your new stroller down for transporting it to and from your car. "Nothing is more frustrating than purchasing your dream stroller but you realize it's too heavy to carry or too big for your trunk," she says.
If you are looking for a budget-friendly option that has multiple configurations, then check out this award-winning stroller from Summer Infant. It comes with two toddler seats as well as an infant bassinet. It could be made into a triple stroller adding a seat or riding board. The seats recline and come with control mechanisms for the calf bar that allow them to adjust independently, which is ideal for when one child is looking to nap while the other wants to observe their surroundings. When folded, it is small and easily fits into most trunks.
Age ranges
For families with children who are similar to their ages, a sit-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 the front, and a platform or bench that lets an older child stand or take a ride in the back. They are great for big toddlers and preschoolers, but won't work well for younger babies or kids who don't yet have the balance or coordination to stand on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller allows you to keep both children in sight all at once, and it can be squeezed into tight spaces such as aisles at the supermarket or for family photos in the parks. These models are narrower and more maneuverable than side-byside double strollers however they don't have as much storage space under the carriage and can't accommodate infant car seat.
If you plan on using a double stroller for the course of a few years or even a decade, it's worth investing in an item that can expand with your kids. Double strollers are more expensive than single strollers however, if you select them wisely, you'll save money in the long run.
Our test participants put each of these strollers through a series of maneuverability tests and off-road adventures and found them to be easy to navigate through various 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 withstand rough treatment.
Double strollers are made to last, but the seats may be worn out earlier than you think or your children might outgrow them before they're ready to retire. If you are on a tight budget, choose an option with a warranty of at minimum four years. It is best to use it for as long as it can.
Ease of Use
It's important to make sure that the double stroller is simple to use by both children. This means comfortable harnesses for kids who are seated and handles that are easy to grab for toddlers who stand. The stroller can also be easily rolled around and maneuvered through tight spaces. The top strollers we tested in our Lab tests, such as the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie or Thule Urban Glide 2 Double are among the easiest to move around.
It's also important that a double stroller be easy to fold and store. The most efficient models fold in just a couple of steps and are small enough to fit into the majority of trunks. It's also an advantage that the stroller can be used in a variety of ways and has the option of adding a second seat or a ride-along board. Some strollers can accommodate infant car seats, so you don't need to wake your baby up to move them into the stroller when it's time to go home.
Additionally, a great double stroller must be durable to be able to be used on a variety of terrain. Some are able to be converted into a jogging stoller with a front wheel that is specially designed and others can be used as umbrella strollers. Some strollers come with a cargo bag that can be put at the back to carry shopping bags and other items.
Another consideration is whether you'd prefer either a side-byside stroller or a tandem. Side-by-side models are usually wider than tandems, and may be difficult to navigate through narrow spaces like doorways or crowded aisles in grocery stores. They are convenient because they allow each child to see the same scenery. They can also be more easy to navigate through in stormy weather as they provide greater coverage from the elements for both kids.
Many parents opt to buy a stroller that is convertible from single to
double car seat stroller so that they can use it for a newborn and then switch to a regular double when their kids are older. But after talking to parents we've learned it's best to buy what you need now, rather than trying to anticipate what your family might need in the future.
Stores
When looking for a double-stroller, you need to consider the amount of storage space available and the dimensions. Many models come with large, easy-to-access baskets that can hold a lot of cargo. They also typically have several cup holders for parents as well as seats that can be reversible to provide the best legroom available for children. Some of these features may make the price more expensive, so be sure to go through the reviews and descriptions carefully.
Most double strollers are classified as tandem or side by side designs. Tandem strollers include two seats on one frame, and are best for older children who are able to sit without assistance. They typically have more storage space than side-byside models. However, some models can be difficult to push when the front seat is fully reclined.
Side-byside strollers have two distinct seats that are positioned side-by-side and are typically suited to younger babies or toddlers who aren't yet able to master independent sitting. They also have the advantage of usually being easier to maneuver and pushing than tandem strollers. They are more expensive and have smaller baskets.
There are also specialized double strollers specifically designed for biking and jogging. They're generally more expensive than all-terrain strollers, and come with fixed front wheels, which restrict their mobility.