What Double Strollers Experts Would Like You To Learn

Buying Guide For Double Strollers

A double stroller is a good investment when you have two kids of similar age. These compact double buggy tandem strollers or flexible side-by-side buggies allow you to keep an eye on both kids at the same time while braving the grocery aisle as well as the parks and other obstacles life throws at you.

Comfort

The comfort factor is one of the most important factors to think about when purchasing a double-stroller. This can include the seating arrangement as well as the 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, suggests parents be aware of the stroller's weight and folded dimensions. "They should also consider the recline options for seats, as well as the age ranges of their children to ensure it is a perfect fit."

A good double stroller will be durable enough to travel on different surfaces smoothly--from parks trails to suburban sidewalks and from infant car seats to toddler booster seats. It should offer a range of seating options for children at different age groups, and comfort features like peek-a-boo windows and adjustable canopy options that shield kids from rain or sun.

The seating options are important to many families that will utilize a double stroller from the time of birth until childhood. Billingsley says there are two main categories of in-line seating with one seat in front of the other, and side-by-side seating with seats next to one another. "Some parents prefer an in-line model due to its sleek look and versatility, whereas others prefer a wagon-style double stroller that can be used to store heavy items or grocery bags."

While some products may have different recline options--with one seat almost flat while the other remains relatively upright--this type of disparity is more prevalent in models that are in-line. Billingsley suggests choosing a model with a near-flat recline as well as leg rest adjustments for both seats. This will ensure that both children lie down comfortably.

She also suggests that parents look for strollers that have storage compartments to allow them to easily access their snacks, personal items, 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 aid parents in keeping their essentials to hand.

A few of the top-rated double strollers are expandable which allows parents to alter the set-up based on the needs of their growing family. The Mockingbird Expandable, for example is a highly rated double stroller that can be used from birth with just one seat, then transformed into a tandem (with two seats and a bassinet) when the child gets older.

Safety

Double strollers need to be able to carry the weight of both the passengers as well as any additional cargo. Strollers should also be easy to push and maneuver, especially in tight spaces and on terrain that is difficult to navigate. The best strollers have ergonomic handlebars with adjustable heights to help parents maintain good posture while pushing them. Another feature that is great is a no-rethread belt harness that makes it easier to adjust the belts on the seat. Safety features include a sturdy brake system, as well as wheels that slide over any surface.

Some parents choose a side by side design so that both children can see each other on family outings. This arrangement can reduce sibling rivalries over who gets to sit in which place however it's not foolproof. If the seats are set at different heights, one child could be in a position to punch or kick the other on walks.

A tandem-style stroller is ideal option for parents with twins or siblings who are similar in age. It lets them see both children at once. Double strollers are typically more spacious, and may not fit through some doors inside. For maximum flexibility, think about a single-to-double stroller with car seat stroller which can switch from a single stroller to a tandem in various ways, like the well-known CYBEX Gazelle S. These models are able to accommodate a broad range of configurations and permit you to insert infant car seats or cot attachments depending on your needs.

If you're looking for a tandem or side-byside stroller, make sure that the product has been JPMA certified to meet strict safety standards. Pay attention to the weight limit that applies to each seat. Overstepping these limits can cause frame fatigue and other issues.

While it's easy to focus on the additional bells and whistles on a new stroller, it's crucial to remember that a stroller is basically a baby carrier that is transported for long periods of time. It should be comfortable for both parents and children and easy to clean and maintain, and in the ideal case it should have an easy-to-use, familiar design so that the person pushing it is able to effortlessly move it around without having to think twice about how to move forward and turn left or right, or apply the brakes.

Simple to Use

For families who are constantly on the move, a double prams for newborn and toddler stroller must be able to maneuver easily over various terrains. Strollers with features like windows that peek-a-boo, adjustable canopies and sturdy brake systems are crucial to ensure the safety of your children. However, there are other factors that make them easier to use. A stroller should be small enough to fit in the trunk of your vehicle, but still have plenty of storage space for groceries or other things. Also important are thoughtful touches like a one-parent cup holder as well as a console for parents and an eating tray for children -- all things that will make life on the go with two kids significantly simpler.

In our testing, we evaluated each stroller on how well it performed on a variety surfaces and how well it maneuvered in tight spaces. We also examined how easy it was to fold and unfold and whether or not a specific feature enhanced the overall functionality of the stroller. For instance a stroller with no-rethread harnesses makes adjusting the seat belts quick and simple. This is a major attraction for parents who are constantly in motion, as it does away with the need to rethread their harness.

The UPPAbaby V2 Double was a top performer in this measure because it had a wide variety of seating options, as well as other accessories that could accommodate families that are growing. The wagon-style double stroller is able to accommodate a second seat as well as a bassinet or a toddler riding board--perfect for active families planning long trips with multiple kids of various ages. It also glides smoothly over pavement, cobblestones and ballfields--and it folds flat to make simple storage in a closet or trunk. Our test subject Kerry was impressed by the simple, intuitive nature of this stroller's design. Its smart packaging with clearly labeled sections as well as a helpful user guide made assembling this stroller a breeze.

Storage

Double strollers can carry twice as much as a single one, so make sure you ensure you have plenty of storage space. You'll want a stroller that has enough storage space to store the essentials for both children and parents like bottles, toys, snacks, and diapers. Find baskets under the seat and other pockets, and consider a stroller that has an expandable cargo space that can carry heavy items such as lunch bags and diaper bags.

A good double stroller will be able to expand with your family. Billingsley states that certain models have an attachment for a bassinet to accommodate infants. Other models come with child seats that can expand with the child until they are able to ride on the back. Some double strollers double strollers permit older siblings to share in the fun with the rider board.

There are a variety of double tandem pushchair strollers available on the market, from elegant, high-performance models that are able to handle rough terrain to budget-friendly models that are more for everyday use. While shopping, read reviews and opinions of families like yours to get an idea of what to expect from the double stroller you choose.

Double strollers are available in three styles: tandem, side-by-side and wagon-style. Billingsley says that side-by-side strollers are the most flexible and suitable for twins or children of similar ages. Tandem double strollers come with two seats that are set in tandem, facing opposite directions. This is a great option for children who are similar age, or siblings who want to be social with one another. Tandem strollers are more difficult to maneuver through narrow spaces, and are less likely to be able to fit through doorways.

Check out this top pick by Safety 1st if you prefer a wagon-style double stroller. Our testers were impressed by the fact that this low-cost model comes with a variety of seating options as well as the ability to snap in two infant car seats or a single child riding in a convertible toddler seat. Our experts also praised the memory foam seats, canopy with 50+ SPF and foam-filled wheels that will never wear out. When it's time for folding this model needs only just a few nudges on the straps beneath each seat (under where kids sit) for folding.