Buying Guide For Double Strollers
If you have two kids that are in the same age group, a double stroller can be an invaluable investment. These strollers are narrow and narrow, as well as flexible side-by-side buggies let you keep your eyes on both kids at the same time while braving the grocery aisle, parks and anything else life throws at you.
Comfort
The comfort factor is one of the most important factors to think about when purchasing a double-stroller. This can include both the seating arrangement and the overall dimensions of the stroller which impacts ease of use and storage. "Parents should check how much the stroller weighs as well as its folded dimensions," says child development expert and mom Katie Billingsley of Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat. "They should also consider the seat recline options and age ranges to ensure a good fit for their family."
A quality double stroller should be able to handle different surfaces with ease, from suburban sidewalks to park paths and from toddler booster seats to infant car seats. It should also offer versatile seating arrangements for children of different age groups and comfort features such as windows that peek out and adjustable canopy to shield children from sun or rain.
For a majority of families, a double stroller is likely to be used from birth until the teen years, so it's essential to think about the seating options. "There are two main categories--in-line with one seat in front of the other, and side by side with seats adjacent to each other," Billingsley explains. "Some parents prefer an in-line model due to its sleek appearance and versatility, whereas others prefer a wagon-style double stroller to make the most space for heavy items or grocery bags."
Although some models may have different recline options, with one seat nearly flat while the other remains relatively upright, this type of distinction is more common in models that are in-line. Billingsley recommends choosing a product with an almost flat recline as well as leg rest adjustments for both seats, so that both children can lie back comfortably.
Then, she suggests looking for a stroller that includes storage compartments that allow parents to quickly access snacks, toys, and personal items while out and about. She also recommends that it's helpful to find a stroller that includes a parent console or organizer bag attached on the handlebars. This will help parents keep their essentials to hand.
Some of the best-rated double strollers can be enlarged, allowing parents the flexibility to customize the setup according to their family's requirements. The Mockingbird Expandable, for example is a highly-rated double stroller which can be used from birth using a single seat, and later converted into a tandem (with two seats and a bassinet) when the child gets older.
Safety
Double strollers must be able to support the weight of two people, plus any additional cargo. Strollers need to be easy to maneuver and push, especially on difficult terrain and in tight spaces. The best strollers feature ergonomic handlebars and adjustable heights which make it easier for parents to maintain their form when pushing them. Another nice feature is a non-rethread seat belt harness, which allows for a more comfortable adjustment of the belts for your child. Finally, a sturdy brake system and wheels that can glide over any surface are important safety features.
Some parents choose side-by-side designs that allow both children to see each other on family outings. This arrangement can prevent sibling fights over which child is allowed to sit in which spot, but it's not foolproof. If the seats are at different levels, a child might punch or kick another during a walk if the seats are at different levels.
For parents of twins or siblings close in age, a tandem stroller can be beneficial in being able see both kids at once. However, they can be more spacious than other double strollers, so they might not be able to pass through all doors in your home. For maximum flexibility, think about a single-to-double stroller which can switch from a single to a tandem in various ways, such as the renowned CYBEX Gazelle S. These models can accommodate a wide range of configurations and allow you to click in infant car seats or cot attachments, according to your requirements.
Whether you choose a side-by-side or tandem stroller, make sure the product is certified by JPMA to meet stringent safety standards. Be aware of the weight limit that applies to each seat. Exceeding double pram pushchair could cause frame fatigue and other issues.
While it's easy to concentrate on all the extra bells and whistles that come with the latest stroller, it's important to be aware that a stroller essentially a baby carrier that will be transported for long durations of time. It must be comfortable for both passengers as well as easy to clean and maintain, and most importantly, it should offer an intuitive, familiar design so that the person pushing it is able to easily maneuver it without having to think about how to move forward or turn left or right, or even apply the brakes.
Simple to Use
For families on the go, a double stroller needs to be easy to maneuver over a variety of terrains. Features like adjustable canopies with windows that peek out and dependable braking systems are critical to help ensure your children's safety, but there are many other aspects that affect stroller ease of use. A stroller should be small enough to fit into the trunk of your vehicle and still provide plenty of storage space for food or other things. It's also important to include thoughtful details, such as cups holder for one parent, consoles for parents and a snack tray. These will make traveling with two children much easier.
During our testing We evaluated the strollers on how it performed on a variety terrains, and how easily it could maneuver in tight spaces. We also examined how simple it was to fold and unfold and whether or not a specific feature added to the overall functionality of the stroller. For instance a stroller with a harness that does not rethread makes the adjustment of the seat belts easy and quick. This is a major selling point for parents on the go, as it saves time and removes the need to re-thread the harness.
The UPPAbaby V2 Double was a top performer in this metric as it came with a variety of seating configurations and other accessories that could accommodate families that are growing. The double-stroller in the wagon style can be expanded to accommodate a second seat, bassinet or even a toddler's riding board. This is perfect for families that plan to spend long days on the road with multiple children of different ages. It easily glides over pavements, cobblestones, and ball fields. It can also be folded flat to store in a trunk or closet. Our test subject Kerry loved the simple and easy-to-use nature of the stroller's design. The clever packaging with clearly marked sections as well as a user's manual made it easy to put this stroller together.
Stores
A double stroller has the potential to hold twice as much stuff than a single stroller, therefore, you should look for plenty of storage space. Ideally, you want a stroller that is able to hold the necessities for both kids, including nappies bottles, snacks, and toys, along with parents' belongings such as wallets, phones keys and wallets. Look for baskets and pockets under the seats. Also, think about a stroller that has an expandable cargo space to take in bulky items like lunch bags and diaper bags.
A quality double stroller will be able to grow with your family. For instance, some models include a bassinet attachment that can accommodate infants, while others feature child seats that can grow with your kids until they're ready to move to the back of the stroller, Billingsley says. Some double strollers also include a rider board that allows older children to take part in the fun.
There are many different double strollers available. You can pick from models with high-performance features which are suitable for rough terrain, to affordable options that you can use on a daily basis. When you're shopping, read reviews and suggestions from families like yours to gain a better sense of what to expect from the double stroller you choose.
Double strollers are available in three models: tandem, side by side and wagon style. Billingsley states that side-by-side strollers are the most flexible and suitable for twins or children of similar ages. Tandem double strollers have two seats arranged in a tandem configuration with the opposite direction facing. This is a great option for children who are the same age, or siblings who like to be social with one another. Tandem strollers are more difficult to maneuver through narrow spaces, and less likely to be able to fit through doors.
Check out this top pick by Safety 1st if you prefer a wagon-style double stroller. This model is affordable and was praised by test participants for its various seating configurations. It can be used with two infant car seats or one child sitting in a convertible toddler chair. Our reviewers also praised the soft memory foam seats with a 50+ SPF canopy, and foam-filled tires that will never get flat. When it's time for folding this model needs only just a few pulls on the straps beneath each seat (under the seat where children sit) to fold.