What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The best double strollers develop with families and have innovative features that keep kids happy and comfortable. This includes adjustable foot rests and an easy stroll on trails, gravel and old sidewalks.
Kerry was thrilled that the stroller was packaged in multiple boxes, but everything was clearly labeled and easy for her to open. She also loved that the stroller can be used with two infant car seats and can be paired with a riding board for older children.
Seating Options
Seating options are a major factor in determining whether or not a family will purchase a double stroller. You'll have to think about the age of your children, their relative sizes of them and the seating arrangements you prefer.
Alli Cavasino is a senior editor at Consumer Reports. She says that if you're planning to purchase a tandem stroller, you should consider one with children's seats that are connected. This model doesn't require car seat adapters. They're typically larger than other types of double strollers, however they might not fit through standard door frames within your home.
If you have an age gap between your children you should consider a stroller with two seats that can convert to a stand-and-ride model with the option of a bench or a platform seat in the back for children who likes to just ride with or observe their sibling. These in-line strollers are also able to accommodate infant car seats if necessary and are ideal for children aged 3-5 years apart.
You'll also want to take a look at the seat material, explains Billingsley. Some offer more breathable fabrics than others, and are easier to keep clean. It's also important to think about how easy it is to fold your new stroller down to store it or transport it to and from your car. "Nothing is more frustrating than acquiring your dream stroller but you realize it's too heavy for you to lift or too large for your trunk," she says.
If you're looking for a low-cost option that offers different seating options, check out this award winner from Summer Infant It comes with two toddler seats with a bassinet attachment. It could be expanded to make triple stroller by adding an additional seat or riding board. The seats recline and the control of the calf bar can be adjusted independently. This is perfect for when one child needs a nap while another wants to explore their surroundings. It's also compact when folded and fits easily in most trunks.
Age Ranges
Sit-and-stand strollers are a great option for families with children who are close in age. They offer convenience and comfort. These strollers have a seat in the front for an infant or toddler and a platform, bench or another type of surface in the rear that allows older children to stand up or hop on/off. They're ideal for big toddlers and preschoolers, but won't be ideal for babies or children who don't have the balance and coordination to stand on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller can help keep an eye on both kids at the same time and get through 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 double strollers that are side-by-side however they don't offer as much storage under the carriage, and they're not able to fit an the infant car seat.
If you're planning to use a double stroller for many years, or even a decade or more--it's worth buying a stroller that will grow with your kids. Double strollers are typically more expensive than single strollers, however if you choose the right one the first time around, it can save you money over time.
Our testers ran each of these strollers through a series maneuverability tests and off-road adventures, and they found them easy to maneuver over different terrains. If you intend to use it in urban areas or in cities where the traffic and sidewalks are prone to bumps, you might want something more robust and durable capable of handling rough treatment.
Many double strollers are designed to last a long time, but you may discover that the seats become used up faster than you anticipated or your children outgrow it before it's time to retire. If you are on the tightest budget, go for an option with a warranty of at minimum four years. It should last as long as it can.
Easy of Use
It's crucial to ensure that the double stroller is comfortable to use by both children. This means a comfortable harness for children who sit and handles that are easy to grab for toddlers who stand. The stroller can also be easily rolled and moved through tight spaces. In fact, the top-rated strollers in our Lab tests -- such as the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie and Thule Urban Glide 2 Double--are among the most easy to push.
It's also crucial that a double stroller is easy to fold and store. The best models have a one- or two-step procedure, and are small enough to fit in most trunks. It's also beneficial if the stroller is versatile and has the option of adding an additional seat or ride-along board. Some can even hold infant car seats, meaning you don't have to wake up your baby to transfer them into their stroller when they're ready to head home.
A good double stroller is also durable and can be used in different kinds of terrains. Some of them can be converted into a jogging scooter with a front wheel that is specially designed and others can be used as umbrella strollers. Some strollers come with a cargo bag that can be attached to the back of the stroller to carry groceries and shopping bags.
A tandem or side-by-side is another option worth considering. Side-by-side strollers are generally larger than tandems, and can be difficult to navigate tight spaces such as doorways or crowded aisles in grocery stores. They are practical because they allow both children to see the same scenery. They are also more convenient to navigate in bad weather as they offer more protection from the elements.
Many parents opt to purchase an adaptable stroller that can be used with a baby, and then transformed into a double stroller once their children are older. However, after talking to parents we've learned that it's best to get what you require at the moment instead of trying to anticipate what your family may need in the near future.
Stores
When you're looking for double-strollers, it's crucial to take into consideration the amount of storage space available and the dimensions. Many models have large, easy-to-access baskets that can store lots of items. They often also have multiple parent cup holders and convertible seating arrangements that provide best-in-class legroom for children. However, some of these features can add up in price and it's crucial to read reviews and descriptions carefully.
Most double strollers are categorized as either tandem or side-by-side designs. Tandem strollers come with two seats on the same frame, and they're typically better suited for older babies who are already comfortable with sitting on their own. They also typically have a larger storage basket than side-byside models, however some are awkward or difficult to push when the front seat is reclined fully.
double buggy sale -by-side stroller comes with two seats that are placed side-by-side. They're usually better suited for younger babies or toddlers who aren't yet ready for independent sitting. They also have the added benefit of being generally easier to maneuver and pushing than tandem strollers. However, they usually have smaller storage baskets than tandem models and can be more expensive.
There are also specially designed double strollers that are designed specifically for biking and jogging. These are more expensive than basic all-terrain strollers, and they typically have fixed front wheels that limit their flexibility. It is worth looking into them only if you plan to use them for those activities.
There's a double stroller to suit any situation, whether you're buying one for twins, a child who's not quite ready to ride alone or not quite old enough. Our top choices are simple to maneuver, adaptable, stable and have seating that can grow with your child's. Take a look at our top choices for the top double stroller that will accommodate your family, whether you are looking for a tandem or one that will fit your infant car seat.