Five Things You've Never Learned About Double Pushchair
Buying a Double Pushchair For Twins Or Two Siblings Close in Age?
Double pushchairs are ideal for families with twins or children with similar age. Choose between tandem models or side-by-side designs like the Mountain Buggy Duet V3 which is narrow enough to fit through standard doors.
Many models also come with recliners that lie flat and can be used with infant car seats. Some even convert to single mode, like with the egg2 Pushchair which is loved for its design and versatility.
Side by Side
Side-by-side is the classic choice for families with twins or siblings of different age. They typically have two fixed seats with a single canopy, and are generally wider than an inline buggy, which gives both children the same view. They're easy to navigate, and some come with front and rear suspensions to provide better control over bumps or over the kerb while turning.
They may cost more than other double buggies, but they offer a higher cost of resales, especially when they're a popular brand. They're also ideal for jogging and can tackle rough terrain, and the seats are spacious enough for your kids to sit comfortably. These buggies come in a range of colors and styles to fit your family's preferences.
Some models come with additional accessories that can help keep your baby comfortable. These can include head cushions, seat supports and baby blankets. Some might have pockets to store snacks and toys. Parents can choose an infant buggy with an area for keeping their things close to hand.
The popular model's 2023 version features a new design and a bigger sun canopy, and fresh logos. It's a stylish choice for parents who are conscious of their image and is compatible with iCandy car seats. It's also simple to put together, although Kerry found that it took some time to take all of the parts out of the boxes. However, the packaging was well-labeled and clever, which made it easier to determine what you can expect out of each part.
It's heavier than other double buggies but still relatively light for an inline model. It's also extremely versatile and can be used with either one or two infant car seats. It can even change from a single to a tandem in one click and is a huge advantage for families with growing children.
The UPPAbaby Vista V2 is a fantastic double stroller for busy parents. It's easy to maneuver and can handle rough terrain. It comes with a huge shopping basket, an independent recline for both seats, and a padded 5-point harness to keep your kids safe.
Tandem
This clever frame can be expanded in width, allowing the possibility of a second seat being added without taking up space. It's an excellent choice for twins as young as birth and can accommodate two car seats or carrycots as well and is a great travel system for road trips. It is a little heavier and longer than a few of its rivals, but it has plenty of storage space and a large basket for shopping. The iCandy Peach is a favourite among image-conscious parents and boasts an extremely stylish, sleek design. Its seat can be repositioned into four different positions and will increase in size with your child's weight to 25kg. The addition of a second seat is easy with the quick-release Velcro fasteners, and this model can be used in tandem mode, with one child sitting on the top of the other. It's an excellent option for sleepy babies who you don't want disrupt their sleep.
This arrangement places the seats one in front of another which makes it difficult for toddlers and their parents to be distracted when they are out and out and about. This type of pushchair typically comes with a cushioned main seat that is able to recline completely and is ideal for babies. Many models have a higher and more upright seat for children who are older. Depending on the style it's possible to set them up facing each other or to the world. twin buggy to navigate narrow doors with a tandem pushchair but it can be hard to nip up kerbs and stairs with two children in tow.
A fantastic choice for special needs families, this versatile pushchair is an ideal solution for disabled children who benefit from having an older sibling to play with and encourage. It's a bit pricey but the sturdy design is built to last and there's plenty of storage space to store everything you'll require. It comes with a range of accessories to allow you to customize the buggy according to your family's requirements, such as rain covers or lines.
Lightweight
The most double pushchairs with a lightweight design are light compact and easy to use. They're typically made of a sturdy aluminium frame, but some also have air-filled wheels that help them glide over even rough surfaces. Some models have one-handed folds and shoulder straps, making them easier for you to carry. You could consider adding additional accessories like an ankle muff, a sunshade or rain cover.
The Cybex Mios is a lightweight double stroller that has an affordable price. It's a travel system that can be used as a lightweight stroller as well as a functional travel system. A carrycot can be added to make it suitable for use from birth. It features a side-byside design and both seats recline independently, providing the ideal position for toddlers and babies. It comes with a huge UPF 50+ canopy, peekaboo windows, and an infant seat that is fully padded and adjustable.
UPPAbaby Vista 2 is another top contender. It can accommodate twins or a baby and a toddler, and it is compatible with a variety of car seats. It has sleek and stylish frames with large back wheels that can handle rough terrain, and is also suitable for jogging. The double mode makes it a bit too long, and there is no storage underneath the seat.
When comparing double pushchairs consider the weight of each seat as well as the frame and suspension. The heavier the buggy, the more difficult it will be to push. This is particularly true on uneven surfaces. Check the folding dimensions, and if you can remove the seat to make it more compact. Look for features like a one-handed folding, which Kirstie was a home-based tester at the time described as "genius", or straps that can be worn over your shoulder.
You can also select a tandem double stroller which puts the kids one behind the other. It's not as maneuverable as a side-by-side, however it's still a viable option for many families and is suitable for older toddlers. Some tandems have reclining seats that let children lie down or recline depending on their mood.
Comfortable
A good double pushchair will help you get out more easily regardless of whether you have twins or two children with similar age. There are plenty of comfortable options available on the market. There are a variety of options for families, whether you're seeking a side by side model that can fit both a carrycot and a seat or a tandem model with seats in the front and back that can be switched.
Look for seats that have multiple reclining positions, as well as adjustable calfrests. They are usually controlled by one-handed buttons located at the rear of the seat. (Though in our tests, this could be a little fiddly for small-handed parents). Some of the best double strollers also have a large UPF50+ sun canopy, magnetic peekaboo window and a handy hood extension that protects your child from harmful UV rays.
Convertible Doubles
One way to save money is to invest in a convertible pushchair which can change from single mode to double as your children develop. The egg2, for instance, is a stylish choice that can be used with the toddler seat included or baby carrier from birth. It comes with a second RumbleSeat for older siblings. Its reclining seats as well as its spacious comfortable carrycots are appreciated by testers at home who appreciate how it will grow with your family.
If you're looking for a budget-friendly option that can last into toddlerhood and beyond the iCandy Venus is a great option. It includes a seat and footmuff, but can also be used with the brand's newborn cocoons (available separately for just PS59 each) to transform it into a twin pram that is suitable for twins or toddlers. Our labs were impressed by how easy it is to change between configurations and found the instructions to be clear and easy to follow - even though it may take some time to master it out of the box.
Some double pushchairs only allow you to place your children side-by-side. They generally face the world, but there are a few exceptions, such as the Bugaboo Donkey and Mountain Buggy Duet that can be configured to have both front and rear facing seating (though this will increase the overall size of the chassis). Kerb popping is generally more straightforward with a tandem, but getting through narrow doors and aisles for shopping can be an issue at times.