10 Double Strollers Tricks All Pros Recommend
Buying Guide For Double Strollers
A double stroller is a great investment for families with two children of similar ages. These narrow tandem strollers or flexible side-by-side buggies let you keep your eyes on both kids at the same time while navigating the aisles of the supermarket as well as the parks and other obstacles life throws your way.
Comfort
Comfort is a major factor to consider when shopping for a double-stroller. This can include both the seating arrangement and the overall dimensions of the stroller which impacts convenience and storage. "Parents should determine how much the stroller weighs and its dimensions folded," says child development expert and mom Katie Billingsley of Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat. "They should also consider the options for recline of the seat and the age ranges of their children to ensure it's the perfect fit."
A good double stroller will be sturdy enough to traverse various surfaces with ease, from suburban sidewalks to park trails, and from infant car seats to toddler booster seats. It should have a variety of seating options for children at different stages of development, as well as comfort features like peek-a-boo window and adjustable canopies which protect children from rain or sun.
For many families double strollers will be utilized from birth until the age of five, so it's crucial to consider the seating options. "There are two main categories - in-line with one seat ahead of the other, and side by side with seats that are next to each other," Billingsley explains. Some parents prefer the in-line model because of its sleek appearance and versatility. Others like a wagon-style double stroller to maximize space for groceries or bulky items.
In-line models are more likely to have this kind of discordance. Some models might offer different recline options, with one being almost flat, while the other one remaining fairly upright. Billingsley recommends selecting a product with a near-flat recline and leg rest adjustments for both seats. This will ensure that both children lie down comfortably.
Then, she suggests choosing a stroller that includes storage compartments that enable parents to quickly access snacks, toys, and personal items while on the move. She suggests that it's useful to find the stroller that has an organizer console for parents or a parent bag that can be attached to the handlebars. This will help keep things within reach.
Some of the top-rated double strollers are expandable, allowing parents to customize the set-up based on the needs of their expanding family. The Mockingbird Expandable, for example, is a highly rated double stroller that 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 have to be able to support the weight of two adults, as well as any additional cargo. Strollers should be easy to maneuver and push, especially on rough terrain or in tight spaces. The best strollers come with ergonomic handlebars with adjustable heights to ensure that parents maintain a good form when pushing them. Another great feature is a no-rethread belt harness, which makes it easier to adjust the seat belts. Also, a strong brake system and wheels that glide across any surface are important safety features.
Some parents prefer the side-by-side design to allow both children to see each other when they go on family outings. This arrangement can help prevent sibling squabbles over who gets to sit in which spot however, it's not 100% secure. If the seats are located at different levels, a child might kick or punch another while walking if the seats are at different levels.
For parents with twins or siblings who are close in age, a tandem-style stroller is a great option for being able see both children at the same time. However, these can be more spacious than other double strollers, so they may not fit through all interior doorways. For pushchairsandprams.uk , think about a stroller that can change from a single stroller to a tandem in various ways, such as the renowned CYBEX Gazelle S. These models can accommodate a wide range of configurations, and permit you to insert infant car seats or cot attachments, according to your requirements.
If you are looking for a tandem or side-byside stroller, ensure that the product is JPMA certified to meet stringent safety standards. Also pay attention to the weight limits that apply to each seat, as exceeding them could result in frame fatigue or other issues.
It's easy to be swept in the jingles and whistles, but it's important to keep in mind that strollers are essentially baby carriers that will be used for a long period of times. It should be easy to clean and maintain, and comfortable for both passengers. It should also feature a a familiar, intuitive design that allows the person pushing it to maneuver it effortlessly.
User-Friendliness
A double stroller must be easily maneuverable on various types of terrains for families constantly on the move. Features like adjustable canopies with windows that peek out and dependable brake systems are crucial to ensure your children's safety, but there are other factors that contribute to stroller ease of use. A stroller should be small enough to fit in the trunk of your vehicle, but still have plenty of storage space for food or other things. It is also important to consider thoughtful additions like a cup holder with a single parent or console for parents, as well as a snack tray for kids--all things that will make life on the go with two kids significantly simpler.
In our tests, we assessed each stroller based on its ability to perform on different surfaces and its ability to maneuver in tight spaces. We also considered how easy it was to fold the stroller and unfold it, and if a particular feature made a difference to the overall performance. A stroller with no-rethread straps makes it simple to adjust the seat belts. This is a major selling point for parents on the go, as it saves time and eliminates the need to re-thread the harness.
The UPPAbaby 2 Double was a top performer in this metric as it offered a wide range of seating configurations, and other accessories that could accommodate expanding families. The wagon-style double-stroller expands so that it can accommodate an additional seat, a bassinet or even a toddler's riding board. This is ideal for families that plan to spend long days in the car with a variety of children of different ages. It also glides smoothly over cobblestones, balls and pavements. It folds flat for simple storage in a trunk or closet. The design of this stroller is easy and easy to use, which was appreciated by our test subject Kerry. Its stylish packaging with clearly labeled sections as well as a an informative user guide made putting together this stroller a breeze.
Storage
A double stroller has the potential to hold twice as much than a single stroller, therefore, you should look for plenty of storage space. Ideally, you want a stroller that is able to hold the essentials for both kids--nappies bottles, snacks, and toys, in addition to parents' belongings like wallets, phones keys, wallets and phones. Look for baskets that fit under the seat as well as other pockets, and consider a stroller with an expandable cargo space that can carry bulky items like lunch bags and diaper bags.
A quality double stroller should be able to change as your family expands. Billingsley states that certain models have a bassinet attachment to accommodate infants. Other models come with child seats that expand with the child until they are ready to ride on the back. Some double strollers also allow for a rider board that allows older children to be part of the fun.
There's a wide selection of double strollers available on the market, from sleek, high-performance options that can handle rough terrain to budget-friendly models more suitable for use in the everyday. While shopping, read reviews and opinions of families similar to yours to get an idea of what to expect from the double stroller that you choose.
Double strollers are available in three different styles: tandem, side-by-side and wagon-style. Billingsley states that side-by-side strollers are the most adaptable and suitable for twins or children of similar ages. Tandem double strollers have two seats that are set in a tandem arrangement with the opposite direction facing. This is a good option for children who are the same age, or siblings who prefer to be social with one another. Tandem strollers are more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces, and are less likely to fit in doors.
Check out this top pick by Safety 1st if you prefer a wagon style double stroller. Testers loved how this affordable model comes with a variety of seating options and the option to snap in two infant car seats or a single child riding in an convertible toddler seat. Our experts also praised the memory foam seats, canopy with 50+ SPF and foam-filled wheels that will never wear out. And when it's time to fold, this model requires only a few tugs on the straps of each seat (under the seat where kids sit) to fold it in half.