What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The best double strollers develop with families and have thoughtful features to keep kids at ease and content. This includes adjustable foot rests as well as an easy ride on gravel, trails and old sidewalks.
Kerry was delighted that the stroller arrived in multiple boxes, but everything was clearly labeled and simple to open. She also appreciated the fact that the stroller can accommodate two infant car seats, and can be paired up with a riding-board for older children.
Seating Options
Seating options are a major element in determining whether the family will buy a double stroller. You'll have to think about the age of your children, their relative sizes of them, and the seating arrangements you like.
For instance, if have children of similar age who will sit side-by-side, you should consider a tandem stroller that has child seats attached to each other and doesn't require you to use car seat adapters, according to Alli Cavasino an editor in the senior position at Consumer Reports. These are typically wider than other types of double strollers, they won't fit through standard door frames in your home.
If your children are a different age, you may be interested in a stroller that has two seats that can be turned into a stand-and ride model. This allows a child to watch or ride along with their sibling. These types of in-line strollers can also fit infant car seats if needed and are a great option for children who will be 3-5 years apart, says Billingsley.
You'll also want to look at the type of seat material, according to Billingsley. Some fabrics are more comfortable than others, and easier to clean. You should also think about how easy it is to fold the stroller for storage purposes or transporting it to and from your car. "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 you're looking for a budget-friendly option that can accommodate different seating options take a look at this award winner from Summer Infant, which has two toddler seats as well as a bassinet attachment. The stroller can be made into a triple stroller with an additional seat or riding board. The seats recline and come with control mechanisms for the calf bar that allow them to adjust independently, which is great for those times when one child needs to sleep while the other one wants to take in the surroundings. It's also compact when folded down and easily fits into most trunks.
Age Variations
Sit-and-stand strollers are the best option for families with children who are close in age. They provide convenience and comfort. These strollers come with 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're ideal for big toddlers and preschoolers, but don't be suitable for infants 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 at the same time and get through narrow spaces like the busy aisles in the grocery store or family photos in the park. These strollers are typically smaller than double strollers that are side-by-side and are able to move more easily however they aren't able to accommodate infant car seats and generally don't have the same amount of storage under the carriage.
If you are planning to use a double stroller for many years, or even over a decade, it's worth buying one that will grow with your kids. double stroller for twins are more expensive than single ones however, if you select them wisely, you'll save money in the long run.
Our testers put each stroller through an assortment of maneuverability tests as well as off road adventures. They discovered that they were easy to navigate on various terrains. If you intend to use it in cities or areas where the sidewalks and traffic can be bumpy, you may need something more robust and durable that can handle rough treatment.
Many double strollers are designed to last for a long period of time, but you could notice that the seats are more worn than you expected or your children outgrow it before it's ready to retire. If you are on an extremely tight budget, you should choose an option with a warranty of at least four years. It is best to use it for as long as possible.
Ease of Use
If you're going to invest in a double stroller, it's essential that it's simple to use for both children. This means that the harnesses should be comfortable for children who sit and the handles should be easy to grasp for toddlers. The stroller can also be easily rolled around and maneuvered through tight spaces. In fact, the top-rated strollers in our Lab tests -- such as the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie and Thule Urban Glide 2 Double among the most comfortable to push.
It's also crucial that a double stroller be easy to fold and store. The best models fold down in just a couple of steps and are small enough to fit in most trunks. It's also a benefit when you can add a second seat or a ride-along stroller. Some can even hold infant car seats, meaning you don't have to wake your baby to transfer them into their stroller once they're ready to head home.
A quality double stroller is also durable and is able to be used in a variety of types of terrain. For instance, some models can be converted to an jogging stroller by using an adapted front wheel and some can also be used as an umbrella stroller. Some even come with a cargo basket that can be attached to the rear of the stroller to carry groceries or shopping bags.
Another consideration is whether you want an oversized stroller that can be used side-by-side or as a tandem. Side-by-side strollers are generally larger than tandem models, and can be difficult to maneuver through narrow spaces like doorways or aisles of grocery stores that are crowded. However, they provide the convenience of allowing every child to view the same scenery. They can also be easier to navigate in rough weather because they offer more protection from the elements for both kids.
Many parents choose to buy an adaptable stroller that can be used by a baby and then converted to double strollers when their children get older. After talking to parents, it became clear that it is better to purchase what you need now instead of trying to predict what you might require in the near future.
Stores
If you're considering a double stroller, then you might need to think about the size and quantity of storage space. Many models have large, easy-to access baskets that hold plenty of stuff. Many models also have multiple cup holders for parents, as well as seating configurations that can be reversed to provide the most legroom for children. Some of these features can make the price more expensive so make sure you go through the reviews and descriptions carefully.
Most 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 babies who are already comfortable with sitting on their own. They also have a larger storage basket than side-by-side models, though some are difficult or awkward to push when the front seat is fully reclined.
The side-by-side stroller has two seats that are set side-by-side. They're usually best suited to infants or toddlers, who aren't yet ready for independent sitting. They also have the added benefit of being more easy to push and maneuver than tandem strollers. However, they tend to have smaller storage baskets than tandem models and can be more expensive.
There are also specially designed double strollers designed for jogging and biking. These are usually more expensive than all-terrain strollers. They also have fixed front wheels which limit their flexibility. They are worth considering only if you plan to use them for those activities.
Whether you're shopping for twins or an infant and a toddler, or another child who's not quite ready to go out on their own, there's a great double stroller available. Our top picks are easy to maneuver, versatile and stable, with seating that expands with your child's. So whether you're in search of a tandem stroller or one that can accommodate your infant car seat, check out our top choices to find the right double stroller for your family.