Buying Guide For Double Strollers
A double stroller is a good investment if you have two children of similar age. These narrow tandem strollers or flexible side-by-side buggies allow you to keep your eyes on both kids at the same time while taking on the grocery store, parks and anything else life throws your way.
double pushchair
When looking for a double stroller for your child, comfort is a key consideration. This can include both the seating arrangement and the overall dimensions of the stroller which affects the convenience and storage. Katie Billingsley, a child expert in development from the Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat, advises parents to check the stroller's weight and folded dimensions. "They should also think about the options for recline of the seat, as well as the age ranges of their children to ensure that it is a perfect fit."
A quality double stroller should be able to navigate a variety of surfaces with ease from suburban sidewalks to park paths, and from toddler booster seats to infant car seats. It should also offer versatile seating options for children of different age and comfort features like windows that peek out and adjustable canopy to protect children from sun or rain.
For many families double strollers will be used from birth until the age of five, so it's crucial to think about seating options. Billingsley states that there are two main categories that are in-line with one seat in front of the other, and side-by-side seating with seats next to each other. Some parents prefer the inline option due to its sleek design and its versatility. Others prefer a wagon-style double stroller to make the most space for bulky or grocery items.
While some products may have different recline options - with one seat being almost flat, while the other remains relatively upright, this type of distinction is more prevalent in models that are in-line. Billingsley suggests choosing a model that has a nearly flat recline and leg rest adjustments for both seats. This will ensure that both children can lie down comfortably.
She also suggests that parents look for strollers that have storage compartments to allow them to quickly access personal items, snacks, and toys while on the move. She also suggests that it's helpful to find a stroller that has a parent console, or organizer bag that is attached to the handlebars. This can help parents keep essentials close at hand.
Many of the top-rated double strollers can be expanded, allowing parents the flexibility to customize the setup based on their family's needs. The Mockingbird Expandable, for instance is a highly rated double stroller which can be used from birth with just one seat, and then converted into a tandem (with two seats and a bassinet) as the child grows older.
Safety
Double strollers should be able to carry the weight of two passengers--plus any additional cargo. Strollers should be simple to maneuver and push, especially when on rough terrain and in tight spaces. The best strollers have ergonomic handlebars that can be adjusted in height to ensure that parents maintain a good posture when pushing them. A harness that does not need to be rethread that makes the adjustment of seat belts faster and easier to do, is a nice feature to look out for. Also, a strong brake system and wheels that can glide over any surface are essential safety features.
Some parents opt for a side-by-side design that allows both children to see one another during family outings. This arrangement can reduce sibling rivalries about who gets to sit in which seat, but it isn't foolproof. If the seats are placed at different heights, one child could be able to kick or punch the other on a walk.
A tandem stroller is a excellent option for parents with twins or siblings that are close in age. It lets parents see both children at once. However, these can be larger than other double strollers, so they may not be able to pass through all doors in your home. Think about a stroller that is single-to-double that can be transformed from a single to double in various ways. Popular models include the CYBEX gazelle S.
If you decide to purchase a side-by-side or tandem-style stroller, make sure the product is JPMA-certified to meet stringent safety standards. Pay attention to the maximum weight limit for each seat. If you exceed these limits, it could cause frame fatigue or other issues.
While it's easy for us to focus on the additional bells and whistles that come with the latest stroller, it's crucial to keep in mind that a stroller is basically a baby carrier that will be used for extended periods of time. It should be comfortable for both the passengers as well as easy to clean and maintain, and most importantly, it should offer an intuitive, familiar design that the person pushing it can easily maneuver it without having to think about how to move forward, turn left or right, or apply the brakes.
User-Friendliness
A double stroller should be simple to maneuver over a variety terrains for families who are constantly on the move. Strollers with features like windows that peek-a-boo, adjustable canopies and sturdy brake systems are crucial to ensure the safety of your children. But there are other features that make them easier to use. For instance, a stroller must be compact enough to fit in the trunk of your car, yet provide ample storage space for your groceries and other items. It is also important to consider thoughtful additions like a one-parent cup holder as well as a console for parents and a snack tray for kids--all things that will make life with two kids much simpler.
In our tests, we assessed each stroller on the basis of its performance on different surfaces and its ability to maneuver in tight spaces. We also examined the ease with which it was possible to fold and unfold, and whether or not a particular feature enhanced the overall performance of the stroller. For example a stroller that has a no-rethread harness makes adjusting the seat belts simple and easy. This can be a major selling point for parents on the go since it reduces time and removes the need to re-thread the harness.
The UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double scored highly in this metric, as it offers a wide range of seating configurations as well as additional accessories to accommodate families that are growing. The wagon-style double stroller expands to provide two seats, a bassinet or even a toddler riding board--perfect for families who are active and planning long days on the go with multiple kids of various age groups. It also glides smoothly over cobblestones, balls and pavements. It it folds flat to make easy storage in a closet or trunk. Our tester Kerry appreciated the straightforward and easy-to-use nature of the stroller's design. The clever packaging with clearly marked sections as well as a the user's guide made it simple to assemble this stroller.
Stores
A double stroller can be able to hold twice as much as a single stroller so make sure you have plenty of storage space. You'll want a stroller that has enough storage space to accommodate the necessities of parents and children including bottles and snacks, toys, and diapers. Look for under-seat baskets as well as other pockets, and look into a stroller with an expandable cargo space that can carry heavy items such as lunch bags and diaper bags.
A good double stroller must have the ability to adapt as your family expands. double pushchair states that certain models have a bassinet attachment to accommodate infants. Others have child seats which can expand with the child until they are able to ride on the back. Some double strollers even include a rider board that allows older children to take part in the fun.
There are many different double strollers on the market. You can pick from high-performance models that are great for rough terrain, to more budget-friendly options that you can use daily. When you're shopping, read reviews and suggestions from families like yours to gain an idea of what to expect from the double stroller you select.
Double strollers are available in three different styles such as tandem, side-byside, and wagon-style. Billingsley states that side-byside strollers are the most versatile and ideal for twins or children of similar ages. Tandem double strollers feature two seats arranged in a tandem arrangement, facing opposite directions. This is a good option for children who are similar age, or siblings who want to play with one another. Tandem strollers are more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces, and are less likely to fit through doorways than their side-by-side counterparts.
If you're looking for a wagon-style double stroller, check out this top pick from Safety 1st. Testers loved how this affordable model offers multiple seating configurations and the option to snap in two infant car seats or a single child riding in an convertible toddler seat. Our experts also praised memory foam seats as well as the canopy, which has 50+ SPF and foam-filled wheels that never flatten. When it's time to fold, this model only requires just a few pulls on the straps beneath each seat (under where kids sit) to fold.