What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The best double strollers are designed to grow with your family. They include thoughtful features that keep children happy and comfortable. The best double strollers come with adjustable footrests, as well as a smooth ride over old sidewalks, gravel and trails.
Kerry appreciated that the stroller arrived in multiple boxes, but everything was labeled well and was easy to open. She also appreciated that the stroller accepts 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 the main factor that determines the purchase of many families. You'll need to consider the age of your children, the sizes and seating arrangements you prefer.
For instance, if have children who are close in age who will sit side-by-side, you should consider a tandem stroller that has child seats linked to each other and doesn't require you to use car seat adapters, explains Alli Cavasino who is a senior editor at Consumer Reports. Double strollers are generally wider than other double strollers. They might not fit through the standard doors of your home.
If you're experiencing an age gap between your children look into a double-seat stroller that can convert to a stand-and-ride model with an elevated or small bench seat in the back for a kid who wants to casually ride along or watch their sibling. These strollers are able to accommodate infant car seats if needed and are ideal for children who are 3-5 years apart.
You'll also want to look at the type of seat material, explains Billingsley. Some fabrics are more comfortable than others, and are easier to clean. It's also important to take into consideration how easy it is to fold your new stroller down to store it or transport 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 bulky for your trunk," says the expert.
If you're looking for an affordable option that has different seating options look no further than this award winner from Summer Infant that comes with two toddler seats, a bassinet attachment and could be expanded to make triple stroller by adding an additional seat or riding board. The seats recline and the control of the calf bar can be adjusted independently. This is perfect for the time when one child is in need of to rest while another is looking to explore the surroundings. When folded, the seat is compact and can fit easily into the majority of trunks.
Age ranges
Sit-and-stand strollers are a great option for families with children who are close in terms of age. They provide convenience and comfort. These strollers have a seat in front for toddlers or infants, and a platform, bench or another surface in the rear which allows older children to stand up or get off and on. These strollers are great for older children and toddlers, but not for babies or children who do not yet have the balance and coordination to stand up on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller lets you to keep both children in sight at the same time, and also be squeezed into tight spaces such as aisles in the grocery store or for family photos in parks. These models are often narrower than double strollers that are side-by-side and tend to maneuver easier, but they won't accommodate infant car seats and typically don't offer as much undercarriage storage.
If you're planning to utilize a double stroller for some time--or even for over a decade, it's worthwhile buying a stroller that will grow with your kids. Double strollers tend to be more expensive than single strollers, however If you choose the right one the first time around it can save you money over the course of time.
Our testers ran each of these strollers through a series of maneuverability tests as well as off-road adventures, and they found them to be easy to maneuver over different terrains. If you intend to use it in urban areas or cities where sidewalks and traffic are prone to bumps, you may need something more robust and durable that can withstand rough treatment.
Double strollers are built to last, however the seats may get worn out faster than you anticipate or your kids may outgrow them before they're ready for retirement. If you're looking for a bargain, consider getting one that has been rated for at least four years and is designed to last as long as possible.
Easy of Use
It's important to make sure that the double stroller is simple to use by both children. This means that the harnesses need to be comfortable for children who sit, and the handles should be a breeze to hold for toddlers. It also means that the stroller is able to roll effortlessly, and is able to be maneuvered around 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 easiest to push.
A double stroller should be able to fold and store. The best models fold in two or three steps and are compact enough to fit into most trunks. It's also beneficial that the stroller can be used in a variety of ways with the option of adding a second seat or a ride-along board. Some strollers can accommodate infant car seats so 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 needs to be sturdy to be able to be used on a variety of terrain. Some are able to be converted into a jogging scooter with a specific front wheel and some can also be used as umbrella strollers. Some even come with a cargo basket that can be attached to the back of the stroller to carry shopping bags or groceries.
A tandem stroller or side-byside is another option to consider. Side-by-side strollers are typically larger than tandem models, and they can be difficult to maneuver in narrow spaces like doorways or aisles of the grocery store. However, they provide the convenience of allowing both children to view the same scenery. They are also easier to navigate in rough weather because they offer more coverage from the elements for both children.
double buggy opt to purchase an adaptable stroller that can be used by a newborn, and then converted to a double stroller once their children get older. However, after talking to parents we've learned it's best to purchase what you need now, rather than trying to anticipate what your family may need in the future.
Storage
When shopping for a double-stroller, you need to consider the amount of storage and the dimensions. Many models come with large, easy-to-access baskets that can store a lot of cargo. Many models also have several cup holders for parents and seating configurations that can be reversed to provide the most legroom for children. Some of these features may make the price more expensive so make sure you go through the reviews and descriptions carefully.
Most double strollers are classified as either 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 learned sitting without assistance. They typically have bigger storage baskets than side-by-side 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 generally for babies and toddlers who haven't mastered independent sitting. They are also easier to push and maneuver than tandem strollers. They are more expensive, and they have smaller baskets.
There are double strollers made specifically for jogging or biking. They're generally more expensive than all-terrain strollers and come with fixed front wheels, which limit their flexibility. They are worth considering only if you intend to use them for these activities.
Whether you're shopping for twins or a baby and an older toddler, or a child who isn't quite ready to ride on their own, there's a great double stroller for you. Our top picks are easy to maneuver, versatile and stable, with seating that can grow with your child's. Take a look at our top choices for the top double stroller that will meet your family's needs, whether you are searching for a tandem or one that will fit your infant car seat.