Buying Guide For Double Strollers
A double stroller is an excellent investment for families with two children of similar age. These compact tandem buggies or flexible side by side buggies let you keep both children in the same place while you shop or in parks, or whatever else life throws at you.
Comfort
When looking for a double stroller, the comfort is a key aspect to take into consideration. This can include the seating arrangement as well as the overall size, which has an impact on ease of use and storage. Katie Billingsley, a child expert in child development from Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat, advises parents to check the stroller's weight and folded dimensions. "They should also consider the recline options for seats as well as the age ranges of their children to ensure that it's the perfect fit."
A quality double stroller should be robust enough to navigate all surfaces without difficulty, from suburban sidewalks to park trails and from infant car seats to toddler booster seats. It should also have flexible seating arrangements for children of various age and comfort features such as windows that can be opened and closed to protect children from sun or rain.
For a majority of families, a double stroller is likely to be utilized from birth until childhood, so it's important to think about the seating options. "There are two main categories: in-line with one seat ahead of the other, and side-byside with seats that are next to each other," Billingsley explains. Some parents prefer the in-line option due to its sleek style and versatility. Others prefer a wagon-style double stroller to make the most space for grocery or bulky items.
Some products may offer different recline options - with one seat being almost flat, while the other remains relatively upright, this type of distinction is more common in the in-line models. Billingsley suggests selecting a product that offers both a nearly flat recline and leg rest adjustment for both seats, so that each child can sleep comfortably.
Then, she suggests choosing strollers with storage compartments that enable parents to quickly access snacks, toys and personal items while on the move. She also recommends that it's helpful to choose a stroller that comes with a parent console or organizer bag that is attached to the handlebars. This will aid parents in keeping their essentials at hand.
A few of the top-rated double strollers can be enlarged, allowing parents the flexibility to modify the layout according to their family's requirements. For instance the Mockingbird Expandable is a highly rated double stroller that can be used with just a single seat from birth and then converted to tandem (with the addition of a second seat and bassinet) as the child gets older.
Safety
Double strollers should be able to handle the weight of two adults, as well as any additional cargo. Strollers must also be simple to move and push, particularly in tight spots and on terrain that is difficult to navigate. The best strollers feature ergonomic handlebars that can be adjusted in height to ensure that parents maintain a good form while pushing them. A harness that is not rethread which makes the adjustment of seat belts quicker and easier to do, is a nice feature to look for. Finally, a sturdy brake system and wheels that glide over any surface are essential safety features.
Some parents choose the side-by-side design to allow both children to meet up during family outings. This arrangement can prevent sibling squabbles over who gets to sit in which place, but it isn't foolproof. If the seats are at different levels, a child might kick or punch another while walking in the event that the seats are at different levels.
For parents of twins or siblings of similar age, a tandem stroller offers the benefit of being able see both children at the same time. Double strollers can be more spacious, and may not be able to fit through some interior doors. Consider a single-to double stroller that can be transformed from a single to double in various ways. Popular models include the CYBEX gazelle S.
Whether you choose a side-by-side or tandem-style stroller, be sure the product is JPMA-certified to meet strict safety standards. Be sure to check the weight limits that apply to each seat, as over-weighting could lead to frame fatigue or other issues.
It's easy to be swept in the sound of bells and whistles, however it's important to remember that strollers are basically baby carriers that will be carried for long periods of times. It should be comfortable for both parents and children as well as easy to clean and maintain, and ideally, it should offer an intuitive, familiar design that the person pushing it can effortlessly maneuver it without having to think about how to move forward or turn left or right, or apply the brakes.
Easy of Use
For families who are constantly on the move, a double stroller should be easy to maneuver over a variety of terrains. Features like adjustable canopy, peek-aboo windows and reliable braking systems are crucial to ensure the safety of your children but there are many other aspects that contribute to stroller ease of use. A stroller should be compact enough to fit in the trunk of your car and still provide plenty of storage space for food or other things. Also important are thoughtful touches like a one-parent cup holder, parent consoles and an eating tray for children -- all things that will make life on the go with two kids significantly more manageable.
In our tests, we assessed each stroller based on its performance on various terrains, as well as its ability to maneuver in tight spaces. We also looked at how simple it was to fold the stroller in half and then unfold it as well as if a particular feature made a difference to the overall performance. A stroller that does not have rethread straps makes it simple to adjust the seat belts. This is a huge attraction for parents who are always in motion, as it eliminates the need to rethread the harness.
The UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double scored high in this measure, since it offers a wide range of seating configurations as well as additional accessories to accommodate families that are growing. The double-stroller in the wagon style expands so that it can accommodate a second seat, bassinet or even a toddler's riding board. This is ideal for families that plan to spend long days on the road with multiple children of different age groups. It also glides smoothly over cobblestones, ball fields and pavements. It also it folds flat to make easy storage in a closet or trunk. Our tester Kerry loved the simple and intuitive nature of this stroller's design. Its stylish packaging, clearly labeled sections and helpful user guide made assembling this stroller a breeze.
Stores
Double strollers can carry twice more than one single stroller So, make sure to search for ample 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 as well as snacks, toys and diapers. Look for under-seat baskets and other pockets, and think about a stroller with an expandable cargo area that can hold heavy items such as lunch bags and diaper bags.
A good double stroller will be able to adapt to the needs of your family. For example certain models come with the bassinet attachment, which can accommodate infants, while others have child seats that can expand with your children until they're ready to switch to riding on the back of the stroller, Billingsley says. Some double strollers allow older children to join in the fun by riding on riding boards.
There are a variety of double strollers available on the market, ranging from sleek, high-performance models that excel on rough terrain to budget-friendly models that are more suited for daily use. As you shop, read reviews and suggestions from families just like yours to get an idea of what to expect with the double stroller you select.
Double strollers come in three different design formats including tandem, side-by-side and wagon-style. Billingsley states that side-by-side strollers are the most versatile and ideal for twins as well as children of similar age. double buggy come with two seats arranged in a tandem arrangement, facing opposite directions. This is a great option for children who are similar age or siblings who want to be social with one another. Tandem strollers are more difficult to maneuver through tight spaces, and less likely to fit in doors.
If you prefer a wagon-style double stroller, check out this top pick from Safety 1st. Testers loved how this affordable model has multiple seating options and the option to snap in two infant car seats or a single child riding in a convertible toddler seat. Our testers also loved the soft memory foam seats and the 50+ SPF canopy and foam-filled tires that will never get flat. When it's time to fold this model needs only just a few pulls on the straps underneath each seat (under the seats where kids sit) in order to fold.