What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The most effective 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 thrilled that the stroller was packaged in multiple boxes, however everything was clearly labeled and simple for her to open. She also appreciated that the stroller can be used with two infant car seats and can be used with a riding board for older children.
Seating Options
Seating options are a major element in determining whether the family will buy a double stroller. You'll have to think about the age of your children, their relative sizes and seating configurations you prefer.
Alli Cavasino is a senior editor for Consumer Reports. She says that if you're planning to buy a tandem stroller, you should look at one that has 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 your children are different age, you may want to consider a stroller that has two seats that can be turned into a stand-and ride model. This allows a child to watch or ride with their sibling. These strollers are capable of accommodating infant car seats if needed and are ideal for children who will be 3 to 5 years apart.
You'll also need to consider the type of seat material, says Billingsley. Some are more breathable than others and are easier to keep clean. It's also important to take into consideration how easy it is to fold your new stroller down for stowing or transporting to and from your car. "There's nothing more frustrating than buying the perfect stroller only to find out that it is too heavy or bulky for your trunk," says the expert.
If you're looking for an affordable option that can accommodate different seating options take a look at this award-winning model from Summer Infant It comes with two toddler seats, a bassinet attachment and can be made into triple stroller by adding an additional seat or riding board. The seats recline and the controls for the calf bar can be adjusted in a separate manner. This is perfect for when one child needs to rest while another wants to explore their surroundings. It's also compact when folded and easily fits in the majority of trunks.
Age ranges
Sit-and-stand strollers are a great option for families with children who are similar in age. They provide comfort and ease of use. These strollers have a seat in front for toddlers or infants, and a bench, platform or another type of surface at the rear which allows older children to stand up or get off and on. They are great for big toddlers and preschoolers, but they won't be ideal for babies or kids who do not yet have the balance and coordination to stand on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller can help keep your eyes on both children simultaneously and can fit into narrow spaces like the busy aisles in the grocery store or family photos in the park. These strollers are a bit narrower and more maneuverable than side-byside double strollers however they don't offer as much storage under the carriage and aren't able to accommodate an infant car seat.
If you're planning to use a double stroller over a period of several years, or even over a decade, it's worth investing in a model that can grow with your children. Double strollers tend to be more expensive than single strollers, but if you choose the right one the first time around it can save you money over the course of time.
Our testers ran each of these strollers through a series of maneuverability tests and off-road excursions, and they found them to be easy to navigate 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 durable and sturdy that can handle rough treatment.
A lot of double strollers are made to last for a long time, but you may notice that the seats are worn out faster than expected or your kids grow out of it before it's ready to retire. If you're looking for a bargain look into a model that has been evaluated for at least four years and is designed to last for as long as possible.
tandem double stroller to Use
If you're planning to purchase a double stroller, it's important that it be user-friendly for both children. That means comfortable harnesses for children who sit and handles that are easy to grasp for toddlers who stand. The stroller can also be easily rolled and maneuvered over obstacles and tight spaces. In fact the top-rated strollers from our Lab tests, such as the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie and Thule Urban Glide 2 Double among the most comfortable to push.
A double stroller should also be easy to fold up and put away. The best models have the option of a two-step or one-step procedure, and are small enough to fit into the majority of trunks. It's also a benefit if you can add a second seat or a ride-along to the stroller. Some strollers can also hold infant car seats so you don't need to wake your baby up to transfer them to the stroller when it's time to leave for home.
A good double stroller is also sturdy and can be used in different types of terrain. For instance, some strollers can be converted to a jogging stroller with an adapted front wheel and some can be used as an umbrella stroller. Some strollers have a cargo bag that can be put to the back of the vehicle to carry shopping bags and groceries.
Another consideration is whether you want an oversized stroller that can be used side-by-side or as a tandem. Side-by-side models are usually wider than tandems and can be difficult to navigate through narrow spaces like doorways or crowded aisles in grocery stores. They are convenient since they permit each child to view the same scene. They are also more convenient to navigate in bad weather as they offer more protection from the elements.
Many parents choose to purchase a stroller that can be converted from single to double, to use it with a baby and later change to a regular double when their children are older. After speaking with parents, we've learned that it's best to get what you need now instead of trying to predict what your family may need in the future.
Storage
If you're shopping for a double stroller, you may need to think about the size and quantity of storage space. Many models come with spacious, easy-to-access baskets that can hold lots of cargo. Many models also feature several cup holders for parents, as well as seats that can be reversible to give the most legroom for children. However, certain features can add up in cost, so it's important to read reviews and descriptions carefully.
The majority of double strollers can be classified into tandem or side by side designs. Tandem strollers have two seats assembled on the same frame, and they're typically better suited for older children who are already comfortable with sitting on their own. They tend to have larger storage baskets than side-by-side models. However, some models can be difficult to push when the front seat is fully reclined.
Side-by-side strollers have two individual seats positioned side by side and are typically for infants or toddlers who aren't yet able to master independent sitting yet. They are also easier to push and maneuver than tandem strollers. However, they usually have smaller storage baskets than tandem strollers and may be more expensive.
There are double strollers made specifically for jogging or biking. These are more expensive than the standard strollers that are all-terrain, and they usually have fixed front wheels that limit their flexibility. They are worth considering only if you plan to use them for these activities.
Whether you're shopping for twins, an infant and a toddler, or another child who's not yet ready to walk on their own, there's a great double stroller available. The top choices that we tested are flexible and stable. They're also easy to maneuver with seating that expands as your children grow. Take a look at our top picks for the top double stroller that will fit your family, whether you are searching for a tandem or one that will fit your infant car seat.