What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The best double strollers develop with families and provide innovative features that keep kids happy and comfortable. The best double strollers offer adjustable footrests as well as a smooth ride over gravel, old sidewalks, and trails.
Kerry was pleased the fact that the stroller was delivered in multiple boxes, but everything was labeled well and was easy to open. She also liked the fact that it can accommodate two infant car seats and can be paired with a riding board for older children.
Seating Options
When it comes to double strollers, seating options are what makes or breaks the purchase of many families. You'll need to consider the age of your children, the sizes of them, and the seating arrangements you prefer.
For instance, if you have children who are close in age and will be sitting side-by-side, you should consider a tandem model that comes with child seats linked to each other and doesn't require you to use car seat adapters, says Alli Cavasino who is a senior editor at Consumer Reports. Double strollers are generally wider than other double strollers. They might not fit through doors that are standard in your home.
If your children are of a different age, you may be interested in a stroller with two seats that can be transformed into a stand-and-ride model. This allows a child to watch or ride with their siblings. These types of strollers can also accommodate infant car seats should they be required and are a great option for children who are 3-5 years apart, says Billingsley.
You'll also want to look at the type of seat material, explains Billingsley. Some are more breathable than others and are easier to keep clean. It's also important to consider how easy it is to fold your stroller for stowing or transporting to and from your car. "There's nothing more frustrating than purchasing your dream stroller only to discover that it's too heavy or big for your trunk," says the expert.
If you are seeking a low-cost alternative that can be configured in a variety of ways, then check out this award-winning stroller from Summer Infant. twin stroller has two toddler seats and a bassinet, and could be made to a triple stroller by adding a seat or riding board. The seats recline and the control of the calf bar can be adjusted independently. This is perfect for the time when one child is in need of a nap while another is looking to explore the surroundings. It's also compact when folded down and easily fits in the majority of trunks.
Age ranges
Sit-and-stand strollers are a great option for families with children who are close in age. They offer comfort and ease of use. They have an area in front that seats toddlers or infants, and a platform, bench or other surface in the rear that allows older children to stand up or get off and on. They're ideal for big toddlers and preschoolers, but they won't be ideal for babies or kids who do not yet have the balance or coordination to stand on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller allows you to keep both children in sight at once, and can be pushed through tight spaces, such as aisles at the supermarket or for family photos at the parks. These models are smaller and more maneuverable than side-byside double strollers however they don't have as much storage space under the carriage, and they're not able to fit an the infant car seat.
If you're planning to utilize a double stroller for many years, or even over a decade, it's worthwhile purchasing a model that will continue to adapt to your children's needs. Double strollers are typically more expensive than single strollers, but when you pick the right one first time it could help you save money over time.
Our testers took each stroller through several maneuverability tests, as well as off-road adventures. They found that they were easy to maneuver on a variety terrain. However, if you're planning to use it in cities or other urban areas where sidewalks and traffic can be bumpy and uneven, you may want something stronger and more robust that can withstand the rough treatment.
Double strollers are designed to last, but the seats can get worn out faster than you think or your children might outgrow them before they're ready to retire. If you're on an extremely tight budget, you should choose an option with a warranty of at least four years. It is best to use it for as long as is possible.
Simple to Use
If you're planning to purchase a double stroller, it's important that it is user-friendly for both children. This means comfortable harnesses for kids who are seated, and easy-to-grasp handles for toddlers who stand. The stroller can also be easily rolled around and maneuvered over obstacles and tight spaces. The top-rated strollers in our Lab tests, like the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie or Thule Urban Glide 2 Double, are among the easiest to maneuver.
It's also essential that a double stroller be easy to fold and store. The best models use an easy one- or two-step process, and they're small enough to fit in the majority of trunks. It's an advantage if you can include a second chair or a ride-along stroller. 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.
twin stroller is also strong and is able to be used in a variety of kinds of terrains. Some of them can be transformed into a jogging stoller with a front wheel that is specially designed and others can be used as umbrella strollers. Some even come with an accessory basket that can be attached to the back of the stroller to carry groceries or shopping bags.
Another thing to consider is whether you'd prefer either a side-byside stroller or a tandem. Side-by-side strollers are typically wider than tandem models, and they can be difficult to maneuver through narrow spaces like doorways or aisles of grocery stores that are crowded. However, they provide the convenience of allowing each child to view the same scenery. They are also much easier to navigate in bad weather as they offer more protection from the elements.
Many parents decide to purchase an adaptable stroller that can be used with a baby, and then converted to a double stroller once their children are older. After talking to parents, it became apparent that it is better to purchase what you need today rather instead of trying to predict what you'll need in the near future.
Storage
When you're looking for a double-stroller, you need to take into consideration the amount of storage space available and the dimensions. Many models have spacious accessible baskets that can hold lots of cargo. Many models also have numerous cup holders for parents, as well as seating configurations that can be reversed to provide the best legroom for children. Some of these features may increase the cost so make sure you read reviews and descriptions carefully.
Most double strollers are classified as tandem or side-byside designs. Tandem strollers have two seats assembled on the same frame and are generally better suited for older children who have already learned sitting without assistance. They also typically have a much larger storage basket than side-by-side models, though some are awkward or difficult to push when the front seat is fully reclined.
The side-by-side stroller has two seats that are placed side-by-side. They're usually more suitable for infants or toddlers, who haven't yet mastered sitting independently. They also have the advantage of usually being easier to push and maneuver than tandem strollers. They are more expensive and come with smaller baskets.
There are also specialized double strollers specifically designed for jogging and biking. They are generally more expensive than all-terrain strollers, and have fixed front wheels, which restrict their mobility. These strollers are worth considering if you plan to use them for these kinds of activities.
Whether you're shopping for twins or a baby and a toddler, or another child who's not quite ready to walk on their own, there's a great double stroller available. Our top picks are easy to maneuver, versatile and stable, with seating that grows with your child's. Check out our top picks for the top double stroller that will accommodate your family regardless of whether you are searching for a tandem or one that can accommodate your infant car seat.