A Step-By-Step Guide For Choosing The Right Double Strollers
Buying Guide For Double Strollers
If you have two children who are similar in age A double stroller can be an invaluable investment. These narrow tandem buggies as well as versatile side by side buggies will keep both children in sight while you shop or in parks, or whatever else life throws at you.
double strollers pushchairsandprams is a major factor to consider when shopping for a double-stroller. This can include both the seating arrangement as well as the overall size of the stroller, which can impact the ease of use and storage. "Parents should determine how much the stroller weighs as well as its dimensions when folded," says child development expert and mom Katie Billingsley of Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat. "They should also look at the seat recline options and age ranges to ensure the best fit for their family."
A good double stroller will be robust enough to navigate different surfaces smoothly--from urban sidewalks to parks trails and from infant car seats to toddler booster seats. It should offer a range of seating options for children of different ages, as well as comfort features such as a peek-a-boo windows and adjustable canopy options that shield kids from the sun or rain.
For many families, a double stroller is likely to be used from birth until childhood, so it's important to think about seating options. "There are two main categories--in-line with one seat ahead of the other, and side-byside with seats that are next to each other," Billingsley explains. Some parents prefer the in-line option due to its sleek design and flexibility. Others like a wagon style double stroller for maximum space for bulky or grocery items.
In-line models are more likely to show this kind of discordance. Certain models may provide different recline options, with one being nearly flat, and the other being more upright. Billingsley suggests choosing a model that offers both a near-flat recline and leg rest adjustments for both seats to ensure the children can both lie back comfortably.
She also suggests parents look for strollers with storage compartments to allow them to easily access personal items, snacks, and toys while moving about. She also recommends that it's helpful to find a stroller which comes with a parent console or organizer bag attached on the handlebars. This will help parents keep their essentials in their reach.
A few of the most highly-rated double strollers are expandable that allows parents to modify the configuration to meet the needs of their growing family. For example, the Mockingbird Expandable is a highly rated double stroller that can be used with a single seat from birth and later converted to tandem (with the addition of a second seat and bassinet) as the child gets older.
Safety
Double strollers have to be able to support the weight of two passengers--plus any additional cargo. Strollers should be easy to maneuver and push, especially on rough terrain or in tight spaces. The best strollers feature ergonomic handlebars with adjustable heights, making it easier for parents to maintain a good posture when pushing them. Another feature that is great is a no-rethread seat belt harness that makes it easier to adjust the belts for your child. Also, a strong brake system and wheels that can glide over any surface are crucial safety features.
Some parents choose a side-by-side design that allows both children to view each other on family outings. This arrangement can prevent sibling fights over which child gets to sit where, but it's not foolproof. If the seats are at different heights, a child may kick or punch one another during a walk, when the seats are on different levels.
For parents of twins or siblings of similar age, a tandem-style stroller can be beneficial in being able see both children at the same time. Double strollers can be larger, and might not fit through certain doors inside. Consider a single-to double stroller that can be transformed from a single stroller to double in various ways. Popular models include the CYBEX gazelle S.
If you opt for a side-byside 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 problems.
While it's easy for us to focus on the additional bells and whistles that come with the latest stroller, it's crucial to be aware that a stroller an infant carrier that is used for extended durations of time. It should be comfortable for both passengers, easy to clean and maintain, and in the ideal case it should have an intuitive, familiar design that the person pushing it is able to easily maneuver it without having to think twice about how to move forward, turn left or right, or use the brakes.
Easy of Use
For families on the go, a double stroller must be able to maneuver easily over various terrains. Strollers with features like peek-a-boo windows, adjustable canopies and sturdy brake systems are crucial to ensure the safety of your children. However, there are other features that make them simpler to use. A stroller must be compact enough to fit in the trunk of your car and still provide plenty of storage space for food or other things. Also important are thoughtful touches like a cup holder with a single parent, parent consoles and a snack tray for kids--all things that can make life on the go with two kids significantly more manageable.
In our tests, we assessed each stroller according to its performance on different surfaces and its ability to maneuver in tight spaces. We also considered how easy it was to fold the stroller and then unfold it as well as if a particular feature made a difference to the overall performance. For instance, a stroller with a no-rethread harness makes adjusting the seat belts quick and simple. This is a major benefit for parents who are constantly in motion, as it eliminates the requirement to rethread the harness.
The UPPAbaby v2 Double was a top performer in this measure because it offered a wide range of seating configurations, and additional accessories that accommodated families that are growing. The wagon-style double stroller is able to allow for an additional seat, a bassinet or even a toddler riding board--perfect for families who are active and planning long, tiring days with multiple kids of varying ages. It is able to glide effortlessly over cobblestones and pavements and ballfields. It can fold flat to be stored in a trunk or a closet. Our tester Kerry was impressed by the simple and easy-to-use nature of the stroller's design. The smart packaging, clearly marked sections and the user's guide made it simple to assemble this stroller.
Stores
Double strollers can hold twice as much as one stroller so be sure to ensure you have plenty of storage space. You want a stroller with enough storage space to accommodate the essentials of both children and parents, such as bottles as well as snacks, toys and diapers. Look for baskets and pockets under the seats. Also, think about a stroller that has an expandable cargo area to accommodate bulky items such as lunch bags and diaper bags.
A good double stroller will be able to grow with your family. For instance, some models include a bassinet attachment that can be used for newborns, and others come with child seats that can be adapted to your children until they're able to switch to riding on the back of the stroller, Billingsley says. Some double strollers permit older siblings to join in the fun by riding on the rider board.
There are many double strollers available. You can choose from models with high-performance features that are ideal for rough terrain, or affordable options that you can use daily. When you're shopping, read user reviews and recommendations from families like yours to get a better sense of what to expect with the double stroller you pick.
Double strollers are available in three styles: tandem, side-by-side and wagon-style. Billingsley states that side-byside strollers are the most flexible and ideal for twins or children of a similar age. Tandem double strollers, on contrary, have two seats that are placed close to each other and facing in opposite directions. This is a ideal choice for children of the same age, or for siblings who enjoy interacting with one another. Tandem strollers are more difficult to maneuver through tight spaces, and less likely to fit into doorways.
If you prefer a wagon-style double stroller, check out this top model from Safety 1st. The testers loved that this budget model comes with a variety of seating options as well as the ability to click in two infant car seats or a single child riding in the convertible toddler seat. Our reviewers also praised the soft memory foam seats, 50+ SPF canopy and foam-filled tires that never go flat. When it's time to fold, this model only requires just a few nudges on the straps under each seat (under the seat where children sit) in order to fold.