What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The best double strollers are built to grow with families and provide innovative features that keep kids comfortable and happy. The best double strollers come with adjustable footrests, as well as smooth riding on old sidewalks, gravel and trails.
Kerry was delighted that the stroller arrived in multiple boxes, but everything was clearly labeled and easy for her to open. sit n stand double stroller appreciated the fact that it can accommodate two infant car seats and can be combined with a riding board for older children.
Seating Options
When it comes to double strollers, seating options are what makes or breaks the purchase for many families. You'll need to consider the age of your children, their respective sizes and the seating configurations that are most suitable for your needs.
For instance, if have children who are close in age that will be seated side-by-side, consider a tandem model that comes with child seats that are attached to one another and does not require car seat adapters, according to Alli Cavasino who is a senior editor at Consumer Reports. They're typically larger than other types of double strollers,, so they may not fit through standard door frames in your home.
If you have an age gap between your children you should consider a stroller with two seats with the option to change to a stand-and ride model that has the option of a bench or a platform seat in the back for children who would like to ride along or watch their sibling. These strollers are able to accommodate infant car seats if needed and are suitable for children aged 3 to 5 years apart.
You'll also want to take a look at the seat material, according to Billingsley. Some fabrics are more air-conditioned than others, and are easier to clean. It is also important to consider how easy it is to fold the stroller for storage purposes or transportation to and from your car. "There's nothing more frustrating than buying your dream stroller only to find out that it is too heavy or bulky for your trunk," says the expert.
If you're looking for an affordable option that offers multiple configurations take a look at this award-winning stroller from Summer Infant. It has two toddler seats and the bassinet. It can be converted into a triple stroller adding an additional seat or a riding board. The seats recline and the control of the calf bar can be adjusted separately. This is ideal when one child needs to take a nap while the other wants to explore their surroundings. It's also compact when folded and easily fits into the majority of trunks.
Age ranges
Sit-and stand strollers are the ideal option for families with children who are close in age. They provide comfort and ease of use. These strollers come with a seat in front for toddlers or infants, and a bench, platform or another type of surface at the rear that lets older children stand up or get off and on. They are great for big toddlers and preschoolers, but they won't work well for younger babies or kids who don't yet have the balance or coordination to stand on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller allows you to keep both children in view at once, and can fit through tight spaces like aisles in the grocery store or for family photos in parks. These strollers are a bit narrower and more maneuverable than double strollers with side-by-side seating however they don't offer enough storage space under the carriage and aren't able to accommodate an infant car seat.
If you plan to use a double stroller over several years--or even a decade or more--it's worth investing in an option that can expand with your children. Double strollers are more expensive than single strollers however, if you select them wisely, you'll save money over the long haul.
Our testers took each stroller through an assortment of maneuverability tests as well as off-road adventures. They found that they were easy to navigate on various terrains. If you intend to use it in cities or areas where the sidewalks and traffic can be bumpy, you may need something that is more durable and robust that can handle rough treatment.
Double strollers are made to last, but the seats may get worn out faster than you think or your children may outgrow them before they're ready for retirement. If you're on a tight budget you should consider buying one that's been rated for at least four years and aims to last as long as possible.
Simple to Use
If you're planning to purchase a double stroller, it's important that it is simple to use for both children. This means a comfortable harness for kids who are seated, and easy-to-grasp handles for toddlers who stand. This also means that the stroller can be moved effortlessly, and is able to be maneuvered through tight spaces and around obstacles. The top-rated strollers in our Lab tests, such as the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie or Thule Urban Glide 2 Double are among the most easy to move around.
It's also crucial that a double stroller be easy to fold and store. The best models have the option of a two-step or one-step process, and they're small enough to fit into the majority of trunks. It's also a plus when the stroller is a 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 your baby to put them into the stroller when they're ready for a trip home.
In addition, a good double stroller needs to be sturdy to be able to be used on a variety of terrain. For instance, some models can be converted to an jogging stroller that has a front wheel that is specially designed, and some can also be used as an umbrella stroller. Some strollers come with a cargo bag that can be attached to the back of the stroller to carry groceries and shopping bags.
Another consideration is whether you'd prefer a side-by-side stroller or a tandem. Side-by-side strollers tend to be bigger than tandem models and can be difficult to maneuver through tight spaces like doorways and aisles of grocery stores that are crowded. They do offer the convenience of allowing every child to see the same scene. They can also be easier 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 for a newborn and later switch to a regular double when their kiddos are older. But after talking to parents we've learned that it's best to purchase what you need at the time instead of trying to anticipate what your family may need in the future.
Stores
If you're considering a double stroller, you might be interested in the size and amount of storage space. A lot of models have large, easy-to-access baskets that can store lots of items. They also often feature numerous cup holders for parents and seats that can be reversible to provide the best legroom available for children. However, some of these features can be costly in price therefore it is important to read reviews and descriptions carefully.
Most double strollers are classified as either tandem or side-by-side designs. Tandem strollers have two seats on one frame and are best for older children who can stand unaided. They usually have more storage space than side-byside models. However, some can be difficult to push with the front seat fully reclined.
Side-by-side strollers come with two separate seats positioned side by side, and they're typically better for infants or toddlers who aren't yet able to master independent sitting yet. They are also easier to push and maneuver than tandem strollers. They can be more expensive, and they have smaller baskets.
There are also double strollers made specifically for jogging or biking. They're generally more expensive than all-terrain strollers, and have fixed front wheels which limit their mobility. These strollers are only worth considering if you intend to use them for these activities.
There's a double stroller for every scenario, whether you're buying one for twins, a child who's not quite ready to take a ride by themselves or not yet old enough to be a proper rider. The top choices in our tests are versatile and stable. They're also easy to maneuver with seating that expands as your kids do. Take a look at our top choices for the best double stroller to meet your family's needs whether you're searching for a tandem or one that will fit your infant car seat.