Why Double Stroller Isn't A Topic That People Are Interested In.
What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The best double strollers are designed to adapt to the needs of your family and come with thoughtful features that keep children at ease and happy. This includes adjustable foot rests as well as a smooth ride on gravel, trails and old sidewalks.
Kerry was delighted that the stroller was packaged in multiple boxes, however everything was clearly labeled and easy for her to open. She also liked that the stroller is able to accommodate two infant car seats, and it can be paired up with a riding-board for older children.
Seating Options
Seating options are an important factor in determining whether or an entire family will invest in a double stroller. You'll want to think about the ages of your children, their relative sizes, and the seating arrangements that will work best for you.
For instance, if have children who are close in age that will be seated together, consider a tandem model that has child seats attached to each other and does not require car seat adapters, according to Alli Cavasino who is a senior editor at Consumer Reports. They're typically larger than other double strollers, they might not 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 children to observe or ride with their siblings. These in-line strollers are also equipped to accommodate infant car seats when needed and are suitable for children aged three years apart.
You should also consider the type of seat material, according to Billingsley. Certain fabrics are more breathable than others, and are easier to keep clean. It is also important to consider how easy it will be to fold your stroller for storage or transporting it to and from your car. "Nothing is more frustrating than acquiring your dream stroller but you realize it's too heavy to lift or too large for your trunk," she says.
If you're looking for a low-cost option that offers multiple seating configurations look no further than this award-winning model from Summer Infant that comes with two toddler seats as well as a bassinet attachment. The stroller could be expanded to make a triple stroller with an additional seat or riding board. The seats recline and come with the calf bar controls that can be adjusted independently, which is perfect for those times when one child needs to sleep while the other wants take in the surroundings. It's also compact when folded down and easily fits into the majority of trunks.
Age Ranges
For families with children who are similar in age, a sit and stand stroller is the perfect combination of comfort for both children and user-friendliness. These strollers have a seat in front for an infant or toddler and a platform, bench or other surface in the rear which allows older children to stand up and walk on/off. They are great for big toddlers and preschoolers, but they 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 lets you to keep both children in sight at the same time, and also be pushed through tight spaces, such as aisles at the supermarket or for family photos in parks. These models are narrower and easier to maneuver than double strollers with side-by-side seating however they don't offer as much storage space under the carriage and aren't able to accommodate an infant car seats.
If you're planning to utilize a double stroller for several years--or even over a decade, it's worthwhile buying a stroller that will continue to adapt to your children's needs. Double strollers are more expensive than single strollers, but if they're chosen properly, you'll save money in the long run.
Our test participants put each stroller through an assortment of maneuverability tests as well as off-road excursions. They found that they were simple to maneuver over various terrains. However, if you're going to use it in cities or other urban zones where sidewalks and traffic are prone to bumps and uneven, you may want something more sturdy and robust that can withstand the rough treatment.
Double strollers are designed to last, but the seats may wear out sooner than you anticipate or your kids may outgrow them before they're ready for retirement. If you are on a tight budget, choose one with a rating of at minimum four years. It is best to use it for as long as is possible.
Simple to Use
If you're going to purchase a double stroller, you need to ensure that it is easy to use for both children. That means comfortable harnesses for children who sit, and easy-to-grasp handles for toddlers who stand. It also means that the stroller rolls easily, and can be maneuvered through tight spaces and around obstacles. The top-rated strollers in our Lab tests, like the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie or Thule Urban Glide 2 Double are among the easiest to move around.
It's also crucial that a double stroller is easy to fold and store. The most effective models come with a one- or two-step process, and they're compact enough to fit in most trunks. It's also a benefit if you can add a second seat or a ride-along stroller. Some strollers can also hold infant car seats, meaning you don't have to wake your baby to transfer them to the stroller when it's time to go home.
A quality double stroller is also sturdy and is able to be used in a variety of types of terrain. For instance, some strollers can be converted into an jogging stroller by using an adapted front wheel and some are able to be used as an umbrella stroller. Some even have a cargo basket that can be attached to the back of the stroller to carry shopping bags or groceries.
Another thing to consider is whether you want a side-by-side stroller or a tandem. Side-by-side strollers are generally bigger than tandem models and they aren't easy to maneuver through tight spaces like doorways and aisles of grocery stores that are crowded. They do offer the convenience of allowing every child to see the same scene. They are also easier to navigate during bad weather as they offer more protection from the elements.
Many parents choose to buy an adaptable stroller that can be used by a baby and then transformed into a double stroller once their children are older. However, after speaking with parents, we've learned that it's best to buy what you need now instead of trying to anticipate what your family may need in the future.
Storage
If you're considering a double stroller, then you might be interested in the size and the amount of storage space. Many models have large, easy-to-access baskets that can hold a lot of cargo. Many models also come with several cup holders for parents, as well as seats that can be reversible to give the best legroom for children. However, some of these features can add up in price therefore it is important to read descriptions and reviews carefully.
Most double strollers are categorized as tandem or side-by-side designs. Tandem strollers are two seats on one frame and are for older children who are able to sit without assistance. They usually have bigger storage baskets than side-by-side models. However, double stroller with bassinet may be difficult to push when the front seat is fully reclined.
The side-by-side stroller has two seats that are placed side-by-side. They're generally best suited to infants or toddlers who haven't yet mastered sitting independently. They are also more maneuverable and easy to push than tandem strollers. They are more expensive, and they have smaller baskets.
There are double strollers made specifically for biking or jogging. These are more expensive than the standard all-terrain strollers, and they typically come with fixed front wheels that restrict their mobility. These strollers are only worth considering if you plan to use them in these activities.
Whether you're shopping for twins, an infant and an older toddler, or a child who isn't quite ready to ride on their own, there's an ideal double stroller available. The top choices in our tests are versatile, stable, and easy to use, with seating that grows as your children get older. Take a look at our top choices for the best double stroller to fit your family, whether you are seeking a tandem stroller or one that can accommodate your infant car seat.