Double Stroller: 10 Things I Wish I'd Known Earlier
What to Look For in a Double Stroller The best double strollers grow with families and have thoughtful features to keep kids at ease and content. The top double strollers have adjustable footrests as well as smooth rides over old sidewalks, gravel and trails. Kerry was thrilled that the stroller arrived in multiple boxes, but everything was clearly labeled and easy to open. She also appreciated that the stroller can accept two infant car seats and it can be paired with a ride-board for older children. Seating Options When it is double strollers, the seating options are the main factor that determines the purchase for many families. You'll need to consider the age of your children, their respective sizes, and the seating arrangements that will work best for you. Alli Cavasino is a senior editor of Consumer Reports. She says that if you're planning to purchase a tandem stroller, you should consider one with child seats that are attached. This model doesn't require car seat adapters. They are generally larger than other types of double strollers, they might not fit into standard door frames within your home. If your children are older age, you might think about a stroller that has two seats that can be converted into a stand-and-ride model. This will allow a child to watch or ride with their sibling. These in-line strollers are also able to accommodate infant car seats when needed and are ideal for children who will be 3 to 5 years apart. You'll also need to take a look at the seat material, explains Billingsley. Some fabrics are more breathable than others, and they are also easier to clean. It's also important to consider how easy it is to fold your stroller to store it or transport it to and from your car. “Nothing is more frustrating than buying your dream stroller, but then realizing it's too heavy to carry or too large for your trunk,” she says. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option that has various seating options look no further than this award winner from Summer Infant It comes with two toddler seats as well as a bassinet attachment. The stroller could be expanded to make a triple stroller with an additional seat or riding board. The seats recline, and have control mechanisms for the calf bar that allow them to adjust independently, which is perfect for those times when one child needs to rest while the other one wants to take in the surroundings. When folded, the seat is compact and fits into most trunks. Age ranges Sit-and-stand strollers are the best option for families with children who are close in age. They offer convenience and comfort. These strollers typically have a seat for an infant or toddler in the front, and a bench or platform that allows an older child to stand or jump on and off in the back. These strollers are ideal for older toddlers and children but not suitable for infants or children who do have the balance and coordination to stand on their own. A narrow tandem stroller can help you keep your eyes on both children at once and fit through difficult areas like aisles of the grocery store that are crowded or family photos at the park. These strollers are typically smaller than double strollers that are side-by-side and are able to move more easily however they aren't able to accommodate infant car seats and generally don't offer as much undercarriage storage. If you plan to use a double stroller over several years—or even over a decade, it's worthwhile investing in an option that will grow with your kids. Double strollers are generally more expensive than single strollers. However, if you choose the right one first time it can help you save money over time. double push chair Push Chairs And Prams put these strollers through a series of maneuverability tests and off-road excursions and found them easy to navigate through various terrains. But if you're planning to be using it in urban areas where traffic and sidewalks are prone to bumps and uneven, you may want something stronger and more robust that can withstand the rough treatment. Double strollers are built to last, but the seats can be worn out earlier than you anticipate or your children might outgrow them before they're ready to retire. If you're on an extremely tight budget, you should choose an option with a warranty of at minimum four years. It should last as long as possible. Simple to Use If you're planning to invest in a double stroller, it's important that it be simple to use for both children. It means that the harnesses should be comfortable for children who are seated and the handles should be a breeze to hold for toddlers. This also means that the stroller can be moved easily and is able to be maneuvered in tight spaces and around obstacles. The top-rated strollers in our Lab tests, including the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie or Thule Urban Glide 2 Double, are among the easiest to move around. A double stroller should also be easy to fold and put away. The best models fold in two or three steps and are small enough to fit into the majority of trunks. It's also a plus if the stroller is 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 transfer them into the stroller when they're ready for a trip home. Additionally, a great double stroller should be sturdy to be able to be used on various types of terrain. Some can be transformed into a jogging stoller with a front wheel that is specially designed and others can be used as umbrella strollers. Some even have cargo baskets which can be attached to the back of the stroller to carry groceries or shopping bags. Another thing to consider is whether you'd like a side-by-side stroller or a tandem. Side-by-side strollers tend to be wider than tandems, and can be difficult to navigate through tight spaces such as the aisles of doors or grocery stores. They are useful because they allow both children to see the same scenery. They are also easier to navigate during bad weather as they offer more protection from the elements. Many parents opt to purchase an adaptable stroller that can be used by a newborn, and later converted into a double stroller once their children are older. However, after speaking with parents we've learned that it's best to get what you need at the time, rather than trying to anticipate what your family may need in the near future. Storage When you're looking for a double-stroller, it's important to think about the amount of storage space available and the dimensions. A lot of models have large, easy-to-access baskets that can hold lots of cargo. Many models also feature multiple cup holders for parents as well as reversible seat configurations to provide the most legroom for children. However, certain features can add up in price therefore it is important to read descriptions and reviews carefully. The majority of double strollers are classified as either tandem or side-by-side designs. Tandem strollers are two seats in one frame and are for older children who can stand unaided. They usually have larger storage baskets than side-by-side models. However, some can be difficult to push with the front seat fully reclined. Side-by-side strollers have two individual seats positioned side by side and are generally for babies and toddlers who aren't yet able to master independent sitting. They are also more maneuverable and easy to push than tandem strollers. However, they usually have smaller storage baskets than tandem strollers, and can be more expensive. There are double strollers designed specifically for biking or jogging. These are more expensive than the standard all-terrain strollers and often come with fixed front wheels that limit their flexibility. These strollers are worth considering if you plan to use them for these activities. There's a double stroller for every situation, whether you're buying one for twins or a child who's not yet ready to ride alone or not yet old enough. The top choices in our tests are affluent and stable. They are also easy to use, with seating that grows as your kids do. Take a look at our top picks for the best double stroller to accommodate your family whether you're looking for a tandem or one that accommodates your infant car seat.