Buying Guide For Double Strollers
A double stroller is a good investment when you have two kids with similar age. These narrow tandem buggies as well as flexible side by side buggies will keep both children within sight while you shop or in parks, or whatever else life can throw at you.
Comfort
The comfort factor is one of the most important factors to take into consideration when buying a double-stroller. This can include the seating arrangement and overall size, which has an impact on ease of use and storage. Katie Billingsley, a child expert in child development from Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat, says parents should be aware of the stroller's weight and folded dimensions. "They should also consider the recline options for seats, as well as the ages of their children to ensure that it is a perfect fit."
A well-constructed double stroller will be sturdy enough to traverse all surfaces without difficulty, from urban sidewalks to parks trails and from infant car seats to toddler booster seats. double stroller with car seat should also provide flexible seating options for children of varying ages and comfort features like peek-a-boo windows and adjustable canopies to shield children from sun or rain.
Seating best double stroller are important for many families that will utilize double strollers from birth to the age of. "There are two main categories--in-line with one seat in front of the other, and side-by-side with seats that are next to each other," Billingsley explains. "Some parents prefer an in-line stroller due to its sleek design and versatility, while others prefer a wagon-style stroller that can be used to store large items or groceries."
Although some models may have different recline options--with one seat nearly flat while the other is upright--this type of disparity is more prevalent in the in-line models. Billingsley suggests choosing a model with a near-flat recline and leg rest adjustments for both seats. This will ensure that both children can lay down comfortably.
She also suggests that parents look for strollers with storage compartments to allow them to easily access snacks, personal items and toys in motion. She also suggests that it's helpful to look for the stroller that has a parent console or organizer bag that is attached to the handlebars, which will help keep things in reach.
Some of the top-rated double strollers can be expanded, allowing parents to customize the set-up based on the needs of their growing family. The Mockingbird Expandable, for example, is a highly rated double stroller which can be used from birth with just one seat, then transformed into a tandem (with two seats and a bassinet) as the child grows older.
Safety
Double strollers must be able to handle the weight of two adults, as well as any additional cargo. Strollers should be easy to maneuver and push, especially on rough terrain or in tight spaces. The best strollers feature ergonomic handlebars that can be adjusted in height which allow parents to maintain a good posture when pushing them. Another nice feature is a no-rethread belt harness that makes it easier to adjust the belts on the seat. Safety features include a sturdy brake system and wheels that slide over any surface.
Some parents prefer a side by side design to allow both children to be together on family outings. This arrangement can help prevent sibling rivalries over who sits in which spot however, it's not 100% secure. If the seats are located at different heights, a child may kick or punch one another during a walk, when the seats are on different levels.
If you have twins or siblings of similar age, a tandem-style stroller offers the benefit of being able to see both kids at once. However, they are larger than other double strollers, so they may not be able to be able to pass through all doors in your home. Consider a single-to double stroller that can be converted from a single to double in various ways. Popular models include the CYBEX gazelle S.
If you're looking for a tandem or a side-by-side stroller, make sure that the product is JPMA certified to meet strict safety standards. Be sure to check the weight limits that apply to each seat, as over-weighting could lead to frame fatigue or other issues.
It's easy to get caught in the sound of bells and whistles, but it's important to keep in mind that strollers are basically baby carriers that will be carried for long periods of durations. It should be easy to clean and maintain and comfortable for both of the passengers. It should also have an easy-to-use, familiar design that allows the person pushing the stroller to maneuver it effortlessly.
Simple to Use
For families that are on the move, a double stroller needs to be easy to maneuver over different terrains. Strollers with features such as peek-a-boo windows, adjustable canopies and reliable brake systems are crucial to ensure the safety of your children. But there are other factors that make them simpler to use. For example, a stroller must be compact enough to fit in the trunk of your car, while still offering ample storage space for food items and other things. It is also essential to include thoughtful features, like the cup holder for one parent as well as consoles for parents and snacks on trays. These will make traveling with two kids much easier.
During our testing we evaluated each stroller on the basis of its performance on different terrains and its ability to maneuver in tight spaces. We also considered how easy it was to fold the stroller and then unfold it in a timely manner, and if a specific feature improved the overall functionality. A stroller without rethread straps is easy to adjust the seat belts. This is a major selling point for parents on the go, as it saves time and removes the need to re-thread the harness.
The UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double was a top performer in this measure, since it came with a variety of seating configurations and additional accessories to accommodate families that are growing. The double-stroller in the wagon style expands so that it can accommodate a second seat, bassinet, or even a toddler-riding board. This is ideal for families who want to spend long hours in the car with a variety of children of various ages. It easily glides over cobblestones and pavements and ballfields. It can fold flat to be stored in a trunk or closet. Our test subject Kerry was impressed by the simple and intuitive nature of this stroller's design. The clever packaging, clearly marked sections and user guide made it easy to put this stroller together.
Storage
A double stroller is able to hold twice as much than a single stroller, so look for ample storage space. You'll want a stroller that has enough storage space to store the essentials for both parents and children including bottles, toys, snacks, and diapers. Find baskets and pockets under the seats. Also, think about a stroller that has an expandable cargo area to accommodate bulky items such as lunch bags and diaper bags.
A quality double stroller will be able to adapt to the needs of your family. For example, some models include a bassinet attachment that can accommodate infants, while others have child seats that can expand with your children until they're ready to switch to riding on the back of the stroller, Billingsley says. Some double strollers even allow for a rider board to allow older siblings to be part of the fun.
You'll find a wide variety of double strollers in the market, from elegant, high-performance models that are able to handle rough terrain to budget-friendly models that are more for everyday use. When you're shopping, read reviews and suggestions from families like yours to get an idea of what to expect with the double stroller you select.
Double strollers come in three different styles such as tandem, side-byside, and wagon-style. Side-by-side double strollers provide the most versatility and are ideal for twins or kids who are close to their age, Billingsley explains. Tandem double strollers, on the other hand, have two seats set next to each other and facing opposite directions. It's a great option for children who are the same age or for siblings who like to interact with one another. Tandem strollers are more difficult to maneuver through tight spaces, and are less likely to be able to fit through doors.
If you're looking for a wagon-style double stroller check out this top pick from Safety 1st. This model is affordable and was praised by testers for its various seating configurations. It can be used with two car seats for infants or one child in a convertible toddler seat. Our experts also praised the memory foam seats and canopy that has 50+ SPF, and foam-filled wheels that never flatten. When it's time for folding, this model only requires just a few pulls on the straps under each seat (under where kids sit) to fold.