Why Double Strollers Is Fast Becoming The Hottest Fashion Of 2023
Buying Guide For Double Strollers
A double stroller is a good investment if you have two children of similar age. These compact tandem strollers or flexible side-by-side buggies allow you to keep your eyes on both kids at the same time braving the grocery aisle, parks and anything else life throws at you.
Comfort
When shopping for a double stroller, comfort is a key consideration. This can include both the seating arrangement as well as the overall dimensions of the stroller which impacts ease of use and storage. "Parents must determine what the stroller weighs as well as its folded dimensions," says child development expert and mom Katie Billingsley of Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat. "They should also consider the options for recline and seat age ranges to ensure a good fit for their family."
A good double stroller should be able to handle a variety of surfaces easily including suburban sidewalks, parks and from toddler booster seats to infant car seats. It should offer a range of seating options for children of different stages of development, as well as comfort features such as a peek-a-boo window and adjustable canopy that protect children from rain or sun.
Seating options are important for many families who will use a double stroller from birth to the age of. "There are two main categories - in-line with one seat behind the other, and side-byside with seats adjacent to each other," Billingsley explains. Pushchairs And Prams prefer the in-line model because of its sleek appearance and versatility. Others like the wagon style double stroller to make the most space for bulky or grocery 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 and the other one remaining fairly upright. Billingsley suggests choosing a model with a near-flat recline and leg rest adjustments for both seats. This will ensure that both children lay down comfortably.
She also suggests that parents look for strollers with storage compartments so that they can quickly access snacks, personal items and toys moving about. She also suggests that it is beneficial to choose a stroller that comes with a parent console or organizer bag attached on the handlebars. This can help parents keep their essentials to hand.
A few of the most highly-rated double strollers can be expanded, allowing parents to customize the layout to meet the requirements of their growing family. For instance the Mockingbird Expandable is a highly rated double stroller that can be used with just a single seat from birth and then transformed into tandem (with a second seat and bassinet) as the child grows older.
Safety
Double strollers need to be able to handle the weight of both the passengers as well as any additional cargo. Strollers should be simple to maneuver and push, particularly on rough terrain or in tight spaces. The best strollers have ergonomic handlebars that can be adjusted in height to ensure that parents maintain a good form while pushing them. Another nice feature is a no-rethread belt harness, which allows for a more comfortable adjustment of the seat belts. Also, a strong brake system and wheels that glide over any surface are important safety features.
Some parents choose an arrangement that allows both children to see each other on family outings. This arrangement can help prevent siblings arguing over who gets to sit in which seat, but it isn't foolproof. If the seats are set at different heights, one child could be in a position to punch or kick the other on walks.
For parents of twins or siblings who are close in age, a tandem-style stroller is a great option for being able to see both children at the same time. These double strollers can be more spacious, and may not fit through some doors inside. Think about a stroller that is single-to-double that can be transformed from a single to double in various ways. Popular models include the CYBEX gazelle S.
If you're looking for a tandem or side-by-side stroller, be sure the stroller has been JPMA certified to meet the strictest safety standards. Pay attention to the weight limit that applies to each seat. Overstepping these limits can cause frame fatigue or other issues.
It's easy to be swept in the jingles and whistles, however it's important to keep in mind that strollers are essentially baby carriers that are used for extended time. It must be easy to clean and maintain as well as comfortable for both passengers. It should also feature a an easy-to-use, familiar design that allows the person pushing the stroller to maneuver it effortlessly.
Ease of Use
A double stroller must be easy to maneuver on different terrains for families who are constantly moving. Strollers with features such as windows that peek-a-boo, adjustable canopies and sturdy brake systems are essential to ensure the safety of your children. But there are also other factors that make them easier to use. For example, a stroller must be small enough to fit into the trunk of your car, yet provide ample storage space for your groceries and other items. It is also important to consider thoughtful additions like a one-parent cup holder as well as a console for parents and snacks for children--all things that will make life on the go with two kids much more manageable.
In our tests we rated each stroller based on how it performed on a variety of terrains, and how easily it maneuvered 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 improved the overall functionality. For example a stroller that has a harness that does not rethread makes the adjustment of the seat belts simple and easy. This is a major benefit for parents who are on the move since it reduces time and removes the need to re-thread the harness.
The UPPAbaby 2 Double scored well in this metric as it offered a wide range of seating configurations and additional accessories that accommodated expanding families. The wagon-style double stroller expands to allow for an additional seat as well as a bassinet or a toddler-friendly riding board, which is ideal for families with active children who plan long trips with multiple children of different age. It glides easily over cobblestones and pavements and ballfields. It can also be folded flat to fit in a trunk or a closet. The design of this stroller is easy and easy to use, which was appreciated by our test participant Kerry. The sleek packaging, clearly marked sections and user guide made it easy to assemble this stroller.
Stores
A double stroller is able to hold twice as much as a single stroller, so make sure you have plenty of storage space. You want a stroller with enough storage space to accommodate the essentials of both children and parents including bottles, toys, snacks, and diapers. Look for baskets that fit under the seat as well as other pockets, and consider a stroller with an expandable cargo area that can carry bulky items like lunch bags and diaper bags.
A quality double stroller will be able to expand with your family. Billingsley states that certain models have a bassinet attachment to accommodate newborns. Others have child seats that can grow with the child until they are old enough to ride on the back. Some double strollers allow for a rider board to let older siblings join in the fun.
There are many double strollers available. You can choose from high-performance models which are suitable for rough terrain, or more budget-friendly options that you can use on a daily basis. While shopping, take a look at user reviews and recommendations from families just like yours to get an idea of what you can expect from the double stroller you choose.
Double strollers are available in three models: tandem, side by side and wagon style. Billingsley states that side-byside strollers are the most versatile and ideal for twins or children of similar age. Tandem double strollers feature two seats that are set in tandem, facing opposite directions. This is a good option for children of similar age or siblings who like to play with one another. Tandem strollers are more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces and are less likely to pass through doorways than their side-by-side counterparts.
If you're looking for a wagon-style double stroller take a look at this top choice from Safety 1st. Testers loved how this affordable model comes with a variety of seating options, including the ability to snap in two infant car seats or a single child in a convertible toddler seat. Our testers also loved the soft memory foam seats with a 50+ SPF canopy and foam-filled tires that never get flat. And when it's time for you to fold, this model needs just a couple of tugs on the straps of each seat (under the seats where kids are) to fold it in half.