Buying Guide For Double Strollers
If you have two kids who are similar in age, a double stroller can be an invaluable investment. These compact tandem strollers or versatile side-by-side buggies help you keep an eye on both children at the same time braving the grocery aisle, parks and anything else life throws your way.
Comfort
When looking for a double stroller, comfort is a major aspect to take into consideration. This includes the seating arrangement as well as the overall size, which has an impact on ease of use and storage. double buggy must determine what the stroller weighs and its folded dimensions," says child development expert and mom Katie Billingsley of Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat. "They should also think about the options for recline of the seat and the age ranges of their children to ensure that it's a perfect fit."
A good double stroller will be durable enough to travel on various surfaces with ease, from parks trails to suburban sidewalks and from infant car seats to toddler booster seats. It should have a variety of seating options for children at different age groups, and comfort features like peek-a-boo window and adjustable canopy that protect children from the sun or rain.
Seating options are crucial for many families who use double strollers from birth to childhood. Billingsley states that there are two main categories of in-line seating, with one seat in-front of the other, and side-by-side, with seats next to one another. Some parents prefer the in-line option due to its sleek design and versatility. Others prefer a wagon style double stroller to maximize space for groceries or bulky items.
In-line models tend to have this kind of discordance. Certain models may provide different recline options, with one being almost flat, while the other remaining relatively upright. double pram stroller recommends selecting a product with both a near flat recline as well as leg rest adjustments for both seats. This will ensure that both children lay comfortably.
She also suggests parents search for strollers with storage compartments to allow them to quickly access personal items, snacks, and toys while moving about. She also recommends that it's helpful to find a stroller that has a parent console, or organizer bag that is attached to the handlebars. This will aid parents in keeping their essentials at hand.
Many of the top-rated double strollers can be extended giving parents the ability to alter the configuration according to their family's requirements. The Mockingbird Expandable, for example is a highly-rated double stroller which can be used from birth with a single seat, and then converted into a tandem (with two seats and a bassinet) when the child is older.
Safety
Double strollers should be able to handle the weight of two passengers and any additional cargo. Strollers must also be simple to push and maneuver, especially in tight spots and on terrain that is difficult to navigate. The best strollers feature ergonomic handlebars that can be adjusted in height which make it easier for parents to maintain good form when pushing them. A harness that does not need to be rethread that makes the adjustment of seat belts faster and easier is another great feature to look for. Finally, a sturdy brake system and wheels that can glide over any surface are crucial safety features.
Some parents prefer the side-by-side design so that both children can be together when they go on family outings. This arrangement can reduce sibling rivalries over who gets to sit in which spot, but it isn't foolproof. If the seats are located at different heights, a child may kick or punch another while walking if the seats are at different levels.
If sit and stand double stroller have twins or siblings of similar age, a tandem stroller can be beneficial in being able to see both children at the same time. However, they can be larger than other double strollers, and they may not be able to fit through all interior doorways. For maximum flexibility, think about a single-to-double stroller that transitions from a single to a tandem in different ways, such as the well-known CYBEX Gazelle S. These models are able to accommodate a broad variety of configurations and let you click in infant car seats or cot attachments, depending on your needs.
Whether you choose a side-by-side or tandem-style stroller, be sure that the stroller is JPMA-certified to meet strict safety standards. Be aware of the maximum weight limit for each seat. If you exceed these limits, it could cause frame fatigue or other issues.
While it's easy to concentrate on all the extra bells and whistles on the latest stroller, it is crucial to remember that a stroller is basically a baby carrier that is transported for long durations of time. It should be comfortable for both passengers as well as easy to clean and maintain, and in the ideal case it should feature an intuitive, familiar design that the person pushing it can 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 stroller should be able to navigate different terrains. Features like adjustable canopy, peek-aboo windows and dependable braking systems are critical to help ensure the safety of your children however, there are other elements that contribute to stroller ease of use. For instance, a stroller must be compact enough to fit in the trunk of your car, yet provide ample storage space for your groceries and other items. It's also essential to add thoughtful features, like a cup holder for one parent, consoles for parents and a snack tray. These can help make traveling with two children significantly easier.
During our testing we evaluated each stroller based on its performance on various terrains, as well as its ability to maneuver in tight spaces. We also looked at how simple it was to fold and unfold and whether or not a specific feature added to the overall performance of the stroller. A stroller without rethread straps makes it simple to adjust the seat belts. This can be a major selling point for parents who are on the move since it reduces time and eliminates the need to re-thread the harness.
The UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double was a top performer in this measure, since it offered an impressive range of seating configurations and additional accessories to accommodate families that are growing. The wagon-style double-stroller expands so that it can accommodate two seats, a bassinet, or even a toddler-riding board. This is perfect for families who want to spend long hours traveling with several children of different ages. It also glides smoothly across cobblestones, ball fields and pavements. It also folds flat for simple storage in a closet or trunk. The design of this stroller is simple and easy to use which was well-loved by our test participant Kerry. Its clever packaging clear sections, well-labeled sections and an informative user guide made assembling this stroller a breeze.
Stores
Double strollers can carry twice more than a single one, so make sure you ensure you have plenty of storage space. Ideally, you'll want a stroller that can accommodate the essentials for both kids--nappies bottles, snacks, and toys, along with parents' belongings such as phones, wallets keys, wallets and phones. Find baskets and pockets under the seats. Also, consider a stroller that has an expandable cargo space that can accommodate bulky items like diaper bags and lunchbags.
A good double stroller should be able to grow with your family. For example, some models include the bassinet attachment, which can be used for newborns, and others come with child seats that can grow with your kids until they're ready to switch to riding on the back of the stroller, Billingsley says. Some double strollers permit older siblings to share in the fun with a rider board.
There are many double strollers available. You can choose from models with high-performance features which are suitable for rough terrain, to affordable options that you can use daily. As you shop, read reviews from other users and the opinions of families like yours to gain an idea of what to expect with the double stroller you select.
Double strollers are available in three different designs including tandem, side-by-side and wagon-style. Side-by-side double strollers offer the most versatility and are suitable for twins or kids close to their age, Billingsley explains. Tandem double strollers come with two seats that are set in tandem, facing opposite directions. This is a good option for children of the same age or siblings who like to play with one another. Tandem strollers are more difficult to maneuver through narrow spaces, and less likely to fit into doorways.
If you prefer a wagon-style double stroller, check out this top model from Safety 1st. This budget-friendly model was praised by test participants for its various seating configurations. It can be used with two infant car seats, or one child in a convertible toddler chair. Our reviewers also praised the comfy memory foam seats, 50+ SPF canopy, and foam-filled tires that will never stop running flat. And when it's time to fold, this model needs just a couple of tugs on the straps on each seat (under where the kids sit) to fold it in half.