What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The best double strollers develop with families and offer clever features to keep children comfortable and happy. This includes adjustable foot rests and an easy stroll on trails, gravel and old sidewalks.
Kerry was thrilled that the stroller arrived in multiple boxes, however everything was clearly labeled and simple for her to open. She also appreciated the fact that it can accommodate two infant car seats and can be combined with a riding board for older kids.
Seating Options
When it comes to double strollers, the seating options are what makes or breaks the purchase of many families. You'll need to consider the age of your children, their relative sizes, and the seating arrangements that are most suitable for your needs.
Alli Cavasino is a senior editor at Consumer Reports. She says that if you're planning to buy a tandem stroller, you should look at one that has child seats that are attached. This model doesn't require car seat adapters. Double strollers are generally wider than other double strollers. They might not fit through the standard doors of your home.
If you have an age gap between your children look into a double-seat stroller that can change to a stand-and ride model that has the option of a bench or a platform seat in the back for a kid who would like to ride with or observe their sibling. These in-line strollers are also capable of accommodating infant car seats when needed and are ideal for children who will be 3 to 5 years apart.
You'll also want to look at the type of seat material, says Billingsley. Certain fabrics are more air-conditioned than others, and are easier to clean. It is also important to consider how easy it will be to fold down your stroller for storage or transporting it between your vehicle and home. "There's nothing more frustrating than buying your dream stroller only discover that it's too heavy or large for your trunk," says the expert.
If you're looking for a low-cost option that can accommodate multiple seating configurations take a look at this award-winning model from Summer Infant, which has two toddler seats with a bassinet attachment. It could be expanded to make a triple stroller, with an additional seat or riding board. The seats recline and the controls for the calf bar can be adjusted independently. This is ideal the time when one child is in need of a nap while another is looking to explore the surroundings. It's also compact when folded and easily fits into the majority of trunks.
Age Variations
Sit-and-stand strollers are a great option for families with children who are close in age. They offer comfort and ease of use. They typically come with a seat for an infant or toddler in the front, and a platform or bench that lets an older child stand or take a ride in the back. These strollers are great for older toddlers and children, but not for babies or children who do have the coordination or balance to stand on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller allows you to keep both children in view at the same time, and also be pushed through tight spaces, such as grocery store aisles or for family photos in parks. These strollers are a bit narrower and more maneuverable than double strollers that are side-by-side however they don't have as much storage space under the carriage, and they're not able to fit an infant car seats.
If you plan 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 grow with your kids. Double strollers are generally more expensive than single strollers, however If you choose the right one first time around, it can save you money over the course of time.
Our test subjects put these strollers through a series maneuverability tests as well as off-road adventures and found them to be easy to navigate through various terrains. However, if you're planning to be using it in urban areas where sidewalks and traffic are prone to bumps and uneven, you may want something more robust and durable that can handle the rough treatment.
Many double strollers are designed to last for a long period of time, but you could notice that the seats are used up faster than you anticipated or your kids grow out of it before it's ready for retirement. If you're on a budget look into one that's been rated for at least four years and aims to last as long as possible.
User-Friendliness
If you're planning to purchase a double stroller, it's essential that it is easy to use for both children. This means that the harnesses must be comfortable for children who sit and the handles should be a breeze to hold for toddlers. double stroller with bassinet means that the stroller can be moved easily and is able to be maneuvered through tight spaces and around obstacles. double stroller with bassinet tested in our Lab tests, including the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie or Thule Urban Glide 2 Double are among the most easy to maneuver.
It's also crucial that a double stroller is easy to fold and store. The best models fold down in two or three steps and are compact enough to fit in most trunks. It's a plus when you can include a second chair or a ride-along to the stroller. Some strollers can accommodate infant car seats, meaning you don't have to wake your baby to move them into the stroller when it's time to leave for home.
Furthermore, a quality double stroller should be sturdy to be able to be used on different types of terrain. Some are able to be transformed into a jogging stoller with a front wheel that is specially designed and others can be used as umbrella strollers. Some even have an accessory basket that can be attached to the rear of the stroller to carry shopping bags or groceries.
Another factor to consider is whether you'd prefer a side-by-side stroller or a tandem. Side-by-side models are usually wider than tandems, and may be difficult to maneuver through tight spaces such as doorways or crowded aisles in grocery stores. They are practical since they permit each child to see the same scenery. They are also easier to navigate during bad weather as they offer more protection from the elements.
Many parents opt to purchase an adaptable stroller that can be used by a baby and later converted into a double stroller once their children are older. After speaking with parents we've learned it's best to buy what you require at the moment instead of trying to predict what your family will require in the future.
Stores
If you're considering a double stroller, you may want to consider the size and quantity of storage space. Many models come with spacious easy-to-access baskets that are able to hold lots of cargo. Many models also come with numerous cup holders for parents and seats that can be reversible to give the best legroom for children. Some of these features can add to the price, so be sure to review the reviews and descriptions thoroughly.
The majority of double strollers are classified as tandem or side-by-side designs. Tandem strollers feature two seats that are positioned on the same frame, and they're typically better suited for older children who have already mastered unassisted sitting. They also tend to have a bigger storage basket than side-byside models, however some are awkward or difficult to push when the front seat is reclined fully.
Side-byside strollers have two distinct seats that are placed side-by-side and are typically suited to younger babies or toddlers who aren't yet able to master independent sitting. They are also easier to push and maneuver than tandem strollers. However, they tend to have smaller storage baskets than tandem strollers and may be more expensive.
There are also double strollers that are designed specifically for jogging or biking. These are usually more expensive than all-terrain strollers. They also have fixed front wheels, which limit their mobility. These strollers are worth considering if you intend to use them for these activities.
There's a double stroller for every situation, whether you're buying one for twins or a child who's not yet ready to ride alone or not quite old enough to be a proper rider. The top choices that we tested are flexible and stable. They are also easy to use, with seating that grows as your kids do. Check out our top picks for the best double stroller to accommodate your family whether you're seeking a tandem stroller or one that will fit your infant car seat.