What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The most effective double strollers are designed to adapt to the needs of your family and include clever features that keep your kids content and comfortable. The best double strollers come with adjustable footrests and a smooth ride over old sidewalks, gravel and trails.
Kerry loved that the stroller arrived in multiple boxes but everything was labeled properly and easy to open. She also appreciated that the stroller accepts two infant car seats and can be used with a riding board for older children.
Seating Options
Seating arrangements are a key element in determining whether the family will buy a double stroller. all terrain double stroller 'll need to take into consideration the age of your children, the sizes of them and the seating arrangements you like.
For instance, if have children who are close in age that will be seated side-by-side, consider a tandem stroller that has child seats that are attached to one another and does not require car seat adapters, according to Alli Cavasino an editor in the senior position at Consumer Reports. These double strollers are usually larger than other double strollers. They may not be able to fit through standard doors in your home.
If your children are different age, you may think about a stroller with two seats that can be transformed into a stand-and-ride model. This will allow children to watch or ride with their siblings. These in-line strollers are also able to accommodate infant car seats if needed and are suitable for children aged 3 to 5 years apart.
Billingsley explains that you should be aware of the material used for the seat. Some fabrics are more comfortable than others, and they are also easier to 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 purchasing your dream stroller but you realize it's too heavy to carry or too large for your trunk," she says.
If you're looking for a low-cost option that has different seating options take a look at this award-winning model from Summer Infant that comes with two toddler seats, a bassinet attachment and can be expanded to become a triple stroller, with an additional seat or riding board. The seats recline and the control of the calf bar can be adjusted independently. This is ideal when one child needs to take a nap while the other is looking to explore the surroundings. When folded, it's compact and fits into most trunks.
Age ranges
Sit-and stand strollers are the ideal option for families with children who are similar in age. They provide comfort and ease of use. They typically come with seats for infants or toddler in the front, and a platform or bench that lets an older child stand or hop on and off in the back. These strollers are great for older toddlers and children but not suitable for infants or children who do have the balance and coordination to stand up on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller can help keep your eyes on both children simultaneously and can fit into tight spots like crowded grocery store aisles or family photos at the park. These models are smaller and easier to maneuver than side-byside double strollers however they don't offer as much storage space under the carriage and aren't able to accommodate an the infant car seat.
If you're planning to use a double stroller for a period of several years, or even over a decade, it's worth investing in a model that can grow with your kids. Double strollers are more expensive than single strollers, but if they're chosen properly, you'll save money over the long haul.
Our test participants put each stroller through several maneuverability tests, as well as off-road adventures. They found them simple to maneuver over a variety terrain. But if you're planning to use it in cities or other urban areas where sidewalks and traffic can be bumpy You might need something more robust and durable to withstand the rough treatment.
Double strollers are made to last, but the seats can wear out sooner than you expect or your children might outgrow them before they're ready to retire. If you're on a tight budget, choose one with a rating of at least four years. It is best to use it for as long as possible.
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 around and maneuvered through tight spaces. In fact the top strollers in our Lab tests -- such as the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie and Thule Urban Glide 2 Double--are among the easiest to push.
It's also essential that a double stroller is easy to fold and put away. The best models use an easy one- or two-step process, and they're compact enough to fit in the majority of trunks. It's also an advantage when the stroller is a versatile and has the option of adding a second seat or a ride-along board. Some strollers can accommodate infant car seats, so you don't have to wake your baby to move them into the stroller when it's time to go home.
A quality double stroller is also sturdy, so it is able to be used in a variety of types of terrain. Some can be converted into a jogging scooter with a special front wheel and some can also be used as umbrella strollers. Some even come with cargo baskets that can be affixed to the rear of the stroller to carry shopping bags or groceries.
A tandem or side-by-side is an alternative to think about. Side-by-side strollers tend to be bigger than tandem models and they aren't easy to maneuver through tight spaces like doorways and aisles of the grocery store. They do offer the convenience of allowing each child to view the same scenery. They can also be more easy to navigate in rough weather because they offer more protection from the elements for both kids.
Many parents opt to buy a stroller that is convertible from single to double so they can use it with a baby and then switch to a regular double when their kids are older. After talking to parents, it became apparent that it is better to buy what you need today rather than to try to anticipate what you will require in the near-term.
Storage
When shopping for a double-stroller, you need to consider the amount of storage available and the dimensions. Many models have large, easy-to access baskets that can store plenty of stuff. They also often feature several cup holders for parents as well as convertible seating arrangements that provide best-in-class legroom for children. Some of these features can increase the cost so make sure you review the reviews and descriptions thoroughly.
Most double strollers are classified as either tandem or side-by-side designs. Tandem strollers include two seats on one frame and are best for older children who can stand unaided. They also typically have a bigger storage basket than side-by-side strollers, but some are awkward or difficult to push when the front seat is fully reclined.
Side-by-side strollers have two individual seats positioned side by side, and they're typically better for infants or toddlers who haven't mastered independent sitting. They also have the added advantage of usually being easier to maneuver and pushing than tandem strollers. They may be more expensive and come with smaller baskets.
There are also double strollers made specifically for biking or jogging. They are more expensive than standard all-terrain strollers, and they usually have fixed front wheels that restrict their mobility. They're worth considering only if you plan to use them for these activities.
There's a double stroller for every situation whether you're looking to purchase one for twins or a child that's not quite ready to ride alone or not yet old enough to be a proper rider. Our top choices are simple to maneuver, adaptable and stable, with seating that can grow with your child's. So whether you're looking for a tandem stroller or one that can accommodate your infant car seat, look through our top choices to find the right double stroller for your family.