Buying Guide For Double Strollers
If you have two children who are close in age A double stroller can be an invaluable investment. These compact tandem buggies or flexible side by side buggies allow you to keep both children in the same place while you shop and parks, as well as whatever else life can throw at you.
Comfort
The comfort factor is one of the most important factors to consider when shopping for a double-stroller. This can include the seating arrangement and the overall size, which can have an impact on the ease of use and storage. Katie Billingsley, a child development expert from Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat, suggests parents be aware of the stroller's weight and folded dimensions. "They should also take a look at the seat recline options and age ranges to ensure the best fit for their family."
A quality double stroller should be robust enough to navigate all surfaces without difficulty, from parks trails to suburban sidewalks and from infant car seats to toddler booster seats. It should come with a variety of seating options for children of different age groups, and comfort features like peek-a-boo window and adjustable canopies that shield kids from rain or sun.
The seating options are important to many families who will use a double stroller from birth to the age of. "There are two main categories--in-line with one seat behind the other, and side by side with seats that are next to each other," Billingsley explains. Some parents prefer the in-line model due to its sleek design and its versatility. double pram pushchair prefer the wagon style double stroller to maximize space for bulky or grocery items.
In-line models are more likely to show this type of discrepancy. Certain models may provide different recline options, with one being almost flat, while the other remaining relatively upright. Billingsley recommends choosing a product that has a nearly flat recline and leg rests that can be adjusted for both seats to ensure both children can lie back comfortably.
She also suggests parents look for strollers with storage compartments to allow them to quickly access personal items, snacks and toys when in motion. She also suggests that it's helpful to find a stroller which includes a parent console or organizer bag attached on the handlebars. This can aid parents in keeping their essentials at hand.
Many of the top-rated double strollers can be expanded to allow parents to customize the setup depending on the needs of their family. For example, the Mockingbird Expandable is a highly-rated double stroller that can be used with just a single seat as early as birth, and then converted to tandem (with a second seat and bassinet) as the child grows older.
Safety
Double strollers should be able to support the weight of both passengers and any additional cargo. Strollers should be easy to maneuver and push, especially on difficult terrain and in tight spaces. The best strollers feature ergonomic handlebars that can be adjusted in height to help parents maintain good form while pushing them. Another nice feature is a non-rethread seat belt harness that allows for a more comfortable adjustment of the belts for your child. Safety features include a sturdy brake system and wheels that can glide across any surface.
Some parents choose an arrangement that allows both children to be able to see each other during family outings. This arrangement can prevent sibling rivalries over who gets to sit where however it's not foolproof. If the seats are different heights, a child may kick or punch one another during a walk, when the seats are on different levels.
A tandem-style stroller is a ideal option for parents with twins or siblings who are close in age. It lets parents be able to see both children simultaneously. These double strollers can be larger, and might not be able to fit through some interior doors. For maximum versatility, consider a single-to-double stroller which can switch from a single stroller to a tandem in various ways, like the well-known CYBEX Gazelle S. These models can accommodate a wide range of configurations, and allow you to click in infant car seats or cot attachments, depending on your needs.
If you opt for a side-byside or tandem-style stroller, be sure the product is JPMA-certified to meet the strictest safety standards. Pay attention to the maximum weight limit for each seat. Exceeding these limits could cause frame fatigue or other problems.
While it's easy for us to focus on the many bells and whistles that come with the latest stroller, it's crucial to keep in mind that a stroller is basically a baby carrier that is used for extended durations of time. It must be comfortable for both parents and children, easy to clean and maintain, and in the ideal case, it should offer an easy-to-use, familiar design so that the person pushing it can easily maneuver it without having to think twice about how to move forward and turn left or right, or even apply the brakes.
Simple to Use
A double stroller should be easily maneuverable on different types of terrains for families constantly on the move. Strollers with features such as windows that peek-a-boo, adjustable canopies and reliable brake systems are vital to ensure the safety of your children. But there are other factors that make them easier to use. A stroller must be compact enough to fit into the trunk of your car, but still have plenty of storage space for food or other items. It is also essential to include thoughtful details, such as the cup holder for one parent as well as consoles for parents and an eating tray. These will help make traveling with two children much easier.
In our testing we rated each stroller based on how it performed on a variety of terrains, and how easily it maneuvered in tight spaces. We also looked at how easy it was to fold and unfold and whether or not a specific feature added to the overall function of the stroller. For instance a stroller with no-rethread harnesses makes adjusting the seat belts quick and simple. This can be a huge benefit for parents on the go since it reduces time and eliminates the need to re-thread the harness.
The UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double was a top performer in this metric, as it offers a wide range of seating configurations and additional accessories to help accommodate growing families. The wagon-style double stroller can be expanded to accommodate two seats, a bassinet or even a toddler riding board that is perfect for active families planning long days on the go with multiple children of different age groups. double pram pushchair glides smoothly across cobblestones, ball fields and pavements. It also folds flat for easy storage in a trunk or closet. The design of this stroller is simple and easy to use and was a big hit with our test participant Kerry. The clever packaging clear sections, well-marked sections and user guide made it easy to put together this stroller.
Storage
A double stroller can be able to hold twice as much stuff than a single stroller, so make sure you have plenty of storage space. It is important to find a stroller with enough storage space to store the essentials of both parents and children, such as bottles and snacks, toys, and diapers. Look for under-seat baskets as well as other pockets, and look into a stroller that has an expandable cargo space that can carry heavy items such as diaper bags and lunch bags.
A good double stroller will be able to adapt to the needs of your family. Billingsley states that certain models come with a bassinet attachment to accommodate infants. Other models come with child seats which can expand with the child until they are able to ride on the back. Some double strollers allow older children to join in the fun with riding boards.
There are many different double strollers on the market. You can choose from high-performance models which are suitable for rough terrain, to more budget-friendly options that can use daily. When you're shopping, read reviews and suggestions from families like yours to gain an idea of what to expect from the double stroller you select.
Double strollers are available in three different designs: tandem, side-by-side and wagon-style. Billingsley states that side-by-side strollers are the most versatile and suitable for twins or children of a similar age. Tandem double strollers come with two seats set up in a tandem configuration, facing opposite directions. This is a good option for children of similar age, or siblings who like to play with one another. Tandem strollers are more difficult to maneuver through tight spaces, and are less likely to fit in doorways.
If you're looking for a wagon-style double stroller check out this top model from Safety 1st. This affordable model was praised by test participants for its multiple seating configurations. It can be used with two infant car seats, or one child in a convertible toddler seat. Our experts also praised the memory foam seats, canopy with 50+ SPF, and foam-filled wheels that never go flat. When it's time for folding this model needs only just a few pulls on the straps underneath each seat (under the seats where kids sit) for folding.