What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The best double strollers are built to grow with families and have thoughtful features to keep kids at ease and content. The top double strollers have adjustable footrests, as well as a smooth ride on old sidewalks, gravel, and trails.
Kerry loved that the stroller arrived in multiple boxes, however everything was labeled properly and easy to open. She also liked that the stroller can accommodate two infant car seats and can be paired with a riding board for older children.
Seating Options
When it is double strollers, the seating options are what makes or breaks the purchase of many families. You'll need to consider the ages of your children, their respective sizes and the seating configurations that work best for you.
Alli Cavasino is a senior editor for Consumer Reports. She says that if you're looking to purchase a tandem stroller, it is best to think about one with children's seats that are connected. This model doesn't require car seat adapters. They're typically larger than other double strollers, they might not pass through door frames that are standard in your home.
If you're facing an age gap between your children you should consider a stroller with two seats with the option to change to a stand-and ride model that has the option of a bench or a platform seat in the back for children who wants to casually ride with or observe their sibling. These types of in-line strollers can also fit infant car seats, should they be required and are a great choice for children who'll be 3-5 years apart, says Billingsley.
Billingsley explains that you should take into consideration the fabric used to make the seat. Certain fabrics are more air-conditioned than others, and they are also easier to clean. You should also think about how easy it will be to fold the stroller for storage purposes or transport between your vehicle and home. "There's nothing more frustrating than buying your dream stroller only discover that it's too heavy or large for your trunk," says the expert.
If you're looking for a low-cost option that has multiple seating configurations take a look at this award winner from Summer Infant, which has two toddler seats, a bassinet attachment and can be made into a triple stroller with an additional seat or riding board. The seats recline, and the control of the calf bar can be adjusted independently. double buggy sale is great when one child wants to take a nap while the other is looking to explore the surroundings. It's also compact when folded down and easily fits in most trunks.
Age Ranges
Sit-and-stand strollers are the best option for families with children who are similar in age. They provide the comfort and convenience. These strollers come with an area in front that seats toddlers or infants and a platform, bench or another surface in the rear that allows older children to stand up or get off and on. They're great for big toddlers and preschoolers, but won't be ideal for 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 fit through tight spaces like grocery store aisles or for family photos at the parks. These strollers are a bit narrower and easier to maneuver than side-byside double strollers however they don't offer as much storage under the carriage and can't accommodate infant car seat.
If you plan on using a double stroller for many years, or even over a decade, it's worth investing in one that will grow with your kids. Double strollers are more expensive than single strollers however, if you choose them properly, you'll save money in the long run.
Our test participants put each of these strollers through a series of maneuverability tests and off-road adventures, and they found them to be simple to maneuver over various terrains. If you plan 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.
Many double strollers are built to last for a long time, but you may find that the seats get more worn than you expected or your children outgrow it before it's time for retirement. If you're on a budget look into a model that has been tested for at least 4 years and aims to last as long as possible.
Easy of Use
It's important to make sure that the double stroller is easy to use by both children. This means that the harnesses must be comfortable for children who are seated, and the handles should be a breeze to hold for toddlers. It also means that the stroller is able to roll easily, and can be maneuvered through 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 most easy to push.
A double stroller should also be easy to fold and put away. The best models have an easy one- or two-step procedure, and are small enough to fit into most trunks. It's also an advantage if the stroller is versatile and has the option of adding an additional seat or ride-along board. Some strollers can accommodate infant car seats, so you don't have to wake your baby to transfer them to the stroller when it's time to leave for home.
Additionally, a great double stroller needs to be sturdy so that it can be used on various types of terrain. Some are able to be transformed into a jogging stoller with a specific front wheel and some can also be used as umbrella strollers. Some come with a cargo basket that can be attached to the rear of the stroller to carry groceries or shopping bags.
A tandem or side-by-side is another option to consider. Side-by-side strollers are generally bigger than tandem models and they aren't easy to maneuver in tight spaces like doorways and aisles of the grocery store. They are practical because they allow both children to view the same scene. They are also more convenient to navigate in bad weather because they offer more protection from the elements.
Many parents choose to buy an adaptable stroller that can be used by a baby and then converted to a double stroller when their children reach an older age. After talking to parents we've learned it's best to get what you require at the moment, rather than trying to anticipate what your family may need in the near future.
Stores
If you're looking for a double stroller, you might need to think about the size and quantity of storage space. Many models come with large, easy-to-access baskets that can store a lot of cargo. Many models also feature multiple cup holders for parents and reversible seat configurations to provide the most legroom for children. However, side by side double stroller of these features can increase in cost therefore it is important to read descriptions and reviews carefully.
Most double strollers are classified as tandem or side by side models. Tandem strollers are two seats in one frame and are best suited to older babies who are able to sit without assistance. They tend to have more storage space than side-by-side models. However, some can be difficult to push when the front seat is fully reclined.
The side-by-side stroller has two separate seats that are placed side-by-side. They're usually more suitable for infants or toddlers who haven't yet mastered sitting independently. They are also more maneuverable and easy to push than tandem strollers. They may be 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 typically come with fixed front wheels that limit their flexibility. It is worth looking into them only if you intend to use them for these activities.
If you're looking for twins, an infant and a toddler, or another child who isn't quite ready to walk on their own, there's a great double stroller for you. The top choices that we tested are flexible, stable, and easy to use, with seating that grows as your children get older. So whether you're looking for a tandem stroller or one that can accommodate your infant car seat, take a look at our top picks to choose the perfect double stroller for your family.