What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The best double strollers are made to grow with your family and come with thoughtful features that keep children happy and comfortable. This includes adjustable foot rests and an easy stroll on trails, gravel and old sidewalks.
Kerry appreciated the fact that the stroller was delivered in multiple boxes but everything was labeled well and was easy to open. She also appreciated the fact that the stroller is able to accommodate two infant car seats and it is able to be set up with a riding-board for older children.
Seating Options
Seating options are a major element in determining whether not a family will purchase a double stroller. You'll need to consider the ages of your children, their relative sizes, and the seating arrangements that work best for you.
For instance, if you have children of similar age and will be sitting together, consider a tandem model that comes with child seats linked to one another and does not require car seat adapters, says Alli Cavasino, a senior editor at Consumer Reports. They're typically larger than other double strollers, however they might not fit into standard door frames in your home.
If your children are older age, you might think about a stroller with two seats that can be transformed into a stand-and-ride model. This allows children to watch or ride with their sibling. These types of in-line strollers can also accommodate infant car seats, in the event that they are needed and are a great option for children who are 3 to 5 years apart, according Billingsley.
You should also take a look at the seat material, says Billingsley. Some fabrics are more air-conditioned than others, and easier to clean. It's also important to take into consideration how easy it is to fold your stroller for stowing or transporting to and from your car. "Nothing is more frustrating than acquiring the perfect stroller, only you realize it's too heavy to carry or too big for your trunk," she says.
If you are seeking a low-cost option that offers multiple configurations take a look at this award-winning stroller from Summer Infant. It features two toddler seats as well as a bassinet, and could be made to a triple stroller by adding a third seat or riding board. The seats recline, and have control mechanisms for the calf bar that allow them to adjust independently, which is great for when one child wants to sleep while the other wants to take in the surroundings. When folded, the seat is small and easily fits into the majority of trunks.
Age Ranges
Sit-and-stand strollers are the best option for families with children who are close in age. They provide convenience and comfort. They typically come with seats for infants or toddler in the front, and a bench or platform that lets an older child stand or jump on and off in the back. These strollers are ideal for toddlers and older children however, they are not suitable for babies or children who do not have the coordination and balance to stand on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller allows you to keep both children in view at once, and can be squeezed into tight spaces such as aisles in the grocery store or for family photos in parks. These models are narrower and easier to maneuver than double strollers with side-by-side seating however they don't offer as much storage under the carriage and can't accommodate infant car seat.
If you plan to use a double stroller over many years, or even longer than a decade, it's worth purchasing a model that will grow with your kids. Double strollers are more expensive than single ones, but if they're chosen correctly, you can save money in the long run.
Our testers ran each of these strollers through a series maneuverability tests and off-road adventures, and they found them easy to navigate over a variety of terrain. If you intend to use it in urban areas or cities where the traffic and sidewalks are prone to bumps, you may need something more robust and durable that can handle rough treatment.
A lot of double strollers are made to last a long time, but you might notice that the seats are more worn than you expected or your kids outgrow it before it's time to retire. If you're on a tight budget, choose an option with a warranty of at least four years. It should last as long as is possible.
Ease of Use
It's crucial to ensure that the double stroller is comfortable to use by both children. This means comfortable harnesses for kids who are seated, and easy-to-grasp handles for toddlers who stand. It also means that the stroller is able to roll effortlessly, and is able to be maneuvered in tight spaces and around obstacles. The top strollers we tested in our Lab tests, including the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie or Thule Urban Glide 2 Double, are among the easiest to navigate.
It's also crucial that a double stroller be easy to fold and store. The best models fold down in two or three steps and are compact enough to fit in the majority of trunks. It's also beneficial that the stroller can be used in a variety of ways and has the option of adding another seat or a ride-along board. Some strollers can accommodate infant car seats so you don't need to wake your baby to transfer them to the stroller when it's time to go home.
A quality double stroller is also strong and can be used in different types of terrain. For example, some can be converted into an jogging stroller by using a specialized front wheel, and some are able to be used as an umbrella stroller. Some even have an accessory basket that can be attached to the rear of the stroller to carry groceries or shopping bags.
Another factor to consider is whether you'd prefer an oversized stroller that can be used side-by-side or as a tandem. Side-by-side strollers tend to be bigger than tandem models and aren't easy to maneuver in tight spaces such as 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 a storm, as they provide more protection from the elements for both kids.
Many parents decide to purchase an adaptable stroller that can be used by a newborn, and then transformed into double strollers when their children are older. After speaking with parents we've learned it's best to purchase what you need at the time instead of trying to predict what your family will require in the near future.
Stores
If you're considering a double stroller, then you might need to think about the size and quantity of storage space. A lot of models have large, easy-to-access baskets that can hold lots of cargo. Many models also come with several cup holders for parents as well as reversible seat configurations to provide the best legroom possible for children. Some of these features can add to the price so make sure you read reviews and descriptions carefully.
The majority of double strollers can be classified into tandem or side by side models. Tandem strollers include two seats on one frame and are suited to older babies who are able to sit without assistance. They usually have larger storage baskets than side-by-side models. However, some may be difficult to push when the front seat is fully reclined.
Side-by-side strollers have two individual seats positioned side by side and are typically for babies and toddlers who haven't mastered 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 may be more expensive.
There are also specially designed double strollers specifically designed for jogging and biking. They are generally more expensive than all-terrain strollers, and have fixed front wheels which limit their flexibility. They're worth considering only if you intend to use them for those activities.
There's a double stroller for any situation regardless of whether you're purchasing one for twins, a child who's not yet ready to take a ride by themselves, or a child who's not quite old enough. Our top picks are easy to maneuver, flexible, stable and have seating that expands with your child. Take a look at our top choices for the best double stroller to meet your family's needs, whether you are looking for a tandem or one that will fit your infant car seat.