What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The best double strollers grow with families and offer thoughtful features to keep kids comfortable and happy. The top double strollers have adjustable footrests and a smooth ride over gravel, old sidewalks and trails.
Kerry was thrilled that the stroller was packaged in multiple boxes, however everything was clearly labeled and simple to open. She also appreciated the fact that it can accommodate two infant car seats and can be paired with a riding board for older kids.
Seating Options
Seating options are a major factor in determining whether or not a family will purchase a double stroller. You'll need to consider the age of your children, the relative sizes of them, and the seating arrangements you prefer.
Alli Cavasino is a senior editor at Consumer Reports. She says that if you're planning to purchase a tandem stroller, you should think about one with child seats attached together. This model does not require car seat adapters. These double strollers are usually wider than other double strollers. double pram stroller may not be able to fit through doors that are standard in your home.
If you're facing an age gap between your kids you should consider a stroller with two seats with the option to transform into a stand-and-ride model with an elevated or small bench seat in the back for a kid who wants to casually ride along with their sibling. These strollers are able to accommodate infant car seats when needed and are ideal for children aged 3-5 years apart.
Billingsley suggests that you take into consideration the fabric used to make the seat. Some fabrics are more air-conditioned than others, and are easier to clean. You should also think about 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 discover that it's too heavy or bulky for your trunk," says the expert.
If you're looking for a budget-friendly option that can accommodate multiple seating configurations take a look at this award winner from Summer Infant, which has two toddler seats, a bassinet attachment and can be made into a triple stroller with an additional seat or riding board. The seats recline and come with calf bar controls to adjust independently, which is perfect for when one child wants to rest while the other wants to observe their surroundings. When folded, the seat is compact and can fit easily into most trunks.
Age Variations
For families with children who are near to their ages, a sit-and-stand stroller is the ideal combination of comfort for children and adults and user-friendliness. They have a seat in the front for toddlers or infants, and a platform, bench or another type of surface at the rear that allows older children to stand up and walk on/off. They are great for big toddlers and preschoolers, but won't work well for younger babies or kids who do not yet have the balance and coordination to stand on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller allows you to keep both children in sight at the same time, and also fit through tight spaces like aisles at the supermarket or for family photos in the parks. These models are usually narrower than double strollers with side-by-side designs and are able to move more easily however they aren't able to accommodate infant car seats and generally don't have as much undercarriage storage.
If you're planning to use a double stroller over some time--or even for longer than a decade, it's worth buying a stroller that can adapt to your children's needs. Double strollers are more expensive than single strollers however, if you choose them correctly, you can save money over the long haul.
Our testers tested each stroller in a series maneuverability tests and off-road adventures. They found that they were simple to maneuver over a variety terrain. If you plan to use it in cities or areas where sidewalks and traffic can be bumpy, then you might want something more durable and sturdy that can handle rough treatment.
Double strollers are built to last, but the seats may wear out sooner than you anticipate or your children may outgrow them before they're ready for retirement. If you are on an extremely tight budget, you should choose an option with a warranty of at least four years. It should last as long as it can.
Simple to Use
It's important to make sure that the double stroller is simple to use by both children. This means comfortable harnesses for kids who are seated and handles that are easy to grab for toddlers who stand. The stroller can also be easily rolled and maneuvered through tight spaces. The top-rated strollers from our Lab tests, such as the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie or Thule Urban Glide 2 Double are among the most easy to maneuver.
A double stroller must be easy to fold and take down and store. double pushchairs use an easy one- or two-step process, and they're small enough to fit into most trunks. It's also a benefit if you can include a second chair or a ride-along to the stroller. Some strollers can also hold infant car seats, meaning you don't need to wake your baby up to transfer them to the stroller when it's time to go home.
A quality double stroller is also strong, so it can be used in different terrains. Some of them can be converted into a jogging scooter with a front wheel that is specially designed and others can be used as umbrella strollers. Some strollers have a cargo bag that can be put at the back to carry shopping bags and groceries.
A tandem or side-by-side stroller is an alternative to think about. Side-by-side strollers tend to be larger than tandem models, and they can be difficult to maneuver through tight spaces like doorways and aisles of the grocery store. They are practical because they allow each child to enjoy the same view. They are also much easier to navigate in bad weather as they offer more protection from the elements.
Many parents decide to purchase an adaptable stroller that can be used by a newborn, and later converted into double strollers when their children reach an older age. After talking to parents, we've learned that it's best to purchase what you need now instead of trying to anticipate what your family might need in the future.
Storage
When shopping for a double-stroller, you need to think about the amount of storage available and the size. Many models come with large, easy-to-access baskets that can store a lot of cargo. They also often feature multiple parent cup holders and reversible seating configurations that offer best-in-class legroom for children. Some of these features can make the price more expensive so make sure you review the reviews and descriptions thoroughly.
Most double strollers can be classified into tandem or side by side designs. Tandem strollers include two seats on one frame and are suited to older babies who are able to sit without assistance. They also have a much larger storage basket than side-by-side strollers, but some are awkward or difficult to push when the front seat is fully reclined.
Side-by-side strollers come with two separate seats that are placed side-by-side, and they're typically better for infants or toddlers who haven't mastered independent sitting. They are also more maneuverable and easy to push than tandem strollers. However, they typically have smaller storage baskets than tandem models and can be more expensive.
There are also specially designed double strollers designed for biking and jogging. They are generally more expensive than all-terrain strollers. They also have fixed front wheels which limit their mobility. These strollers are only worth considering if you plan to use them for these types of activities.
Whether you're shopping for twins, an infant and a toddler, or another child who isn't quite ready to ride on their own, there's a great double stroller available. Our top picks are easy to maneuver, flexible and stable, as well as seating that expands with your child. So whether you're in search of a tandem stroller or one that will accommodate your infant car seat, look through our top picks to find the ideal double stroller for your family.