7 Small Changes That Will Make The Biggest Difference In Your Double Stroller
What to Look For in a Double Stroller
The best double strollers are built to grow with families and have clever features to keep children comfortable and happy. This includes adjustable foot rests as well as an easy ride on gravel, trails and old sidewalks.
Kerry loved that the stroller arrived in multiple boxes but everything was labeled well and was easy to open. She also liked that the stroller is able to accommodate two infant car seats, and can be paired up with a riding-board for older children.
Seating Options
Seating options are an important element in determining whether the family will buy a double stroller. You'll need to take into consideration the age of your children, the relative sizes and seating arrangements you like.
For example, if you have children close in age and will be sitting side-by-side, you should consider a tandem model that comes with child seats linked to each other and does not require car seat adapters, says Alli Cavasino who is a senior editor at Consumer Reports. They're typically larger than other types of double strollers, however they might not pass through door frames that are standard in your home.
If your children are a older age, you might think about a stroller with two seats that can be transformed into a stand-and ride model. This allows children to observe or ride with their siblings. These types of strollers can also accommodate infant car seats, in the event that they are needed and are a great choice for children who'll be 3-5 years apart, says Billingsley.
You'll also need to take a look at the seat material, says Billingsley. Some offer more breathable fabrics than others, and are easier to keep clean. It's also important to consider how easy it is to fold your new stroller down to store it or transport it to and from your car. "Nothing is more frustrating than buying the perfect stroller, only finding it's too heavy to lift or too big for your trunk," she says.
If you're looking for an affordable option that offers different seating options take a look at this award winner from Summer Infant that comes with two toddler seats with a bassinet attachment. It could be expanded to make a triple stroller with an additional seat or riding board. The seats recline, and have the calf bar controls that can be adjusted independently, which is ideal for when one child wants to nap while the other wants observe their surroundings. It's also compact when folded down and fits easily in most trunks.
Age ranges
For families with kids who are close in age, a sit-and-stand stroller is the ideal combination of comfort for children and adults and ease of use. These strollers typically have seats for infants or toddler in front and a bench or platform that lets an older child stand or take a ride in the back. They are great for big toddlers and preschoolers, but won't be ideal for babies or children who don't have the balance and coordination to stand on their own.
A narrow tandem stroller can help you keep an eye on both kids at the same time and get through tight spots like busy aisles in the grocery store or family photos at the park. These models are narrower and more maneuverable than side-byside double strollers however they don't have as much storage under the carriage and aren't able to accommodate an infant car seats.
If you plan on using a double stroller over a period of several years or even a decade, it's worth buying one that will grow with your kids. Double strollers are typically more expensive than single strollers, however when you pick the right one first time around it can save you money over time.
Our test participants put each of these strollers through a series of maneuverability tests as well as off-road adventures and found them to be easy to navigate over a variety of terrain. However, if you're going to use it in urban areas where sidewalks and traffic are prone to bumps and uneven, you may want something more sturdy and robust that can withstand the rough treatment.
Many double strollers are built to last for a long period of time, but you may discover that the seats become worn out faster than expected or your children outgrow it before it's time to retire. If you're on an extremely tight budget, you should choose a model with a rating of at minimum four years. It is best to use it for as long as is possible.
Easy of Use
If you're planning to purchase a double stroller, it's essential that it be easy to use for both children. It means that the harnesses should be comfortable for children who are seated and the handles must be simple to grasp for toddlers. This also means that the stroller can be moved effortlessly, and is able to be maneuvered around tight spaces and around obstacles. The top strollers we tested in our Lab tests, including the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie or Thule Urban Glide 2 Double are among the most easy to maneuver.
A double stroller should be easy to fold and store. The best models have the option of a two-step or one-step procedure, and are small enough to fit in the majority of trunks. It's also a plus when the stroller is a versatile and has the option of adding a second seat or a ride-along board. Some strollers can even accommodate infant car seats, meaning you don't need to wake up your baby to transfer them into the stroller when they're ready to go home.
A good double stroller is also strong and can be used on a variety of types of terrain. For example, some can be converted to an jogging stroller that has a front wheel that is specially designed, and some can be used as an umbrella stroller. Some even have a cargo basket that can be affixed to the back of the stroller to carry shopping bags or groceries.
Another consideration is whether you'd like a side-by-side stroller or a tandem. Side-by-side strollers are generally larger than tandems and can be difficult to maneuver through tight spaces such as entrances or aisles that are crowded in grocery stores. However, they provide the convenience of allowing both children to view the same scenery. They can also be easier to navigate through in stormy weather as they provide greater coverage from the elements for both children.
Many parents decide to purchase a stroller that can be converted from single to double, so that they can use it with a baby and later switch to a regular double once their kiddos are older. After talking with parents, it became apparent that it is better to purchase the items you require now rather instead of trying to predict what you'll require in the near-term.
Storage
If you're shopping for a double stroller, you might need to think about the size and the amount of storage space. Many models have large, easy-to access baskets that can hold a lot of cargo. Many models also feature numerous cup holders for parents, as well as reversible seat configurations to provide the best legroom for children. Some of these features can increase the cost, so be sure to go through the reviews and descriptions carefully.
Most double strollers are categorized as tandem or side-by-side designs. Tandem strollers have two seats in one frame and are suited to older babies who are able to sit without assistance. They typically have bigger storage baskets than side-byside models. However, some may be difficult to push when the front seat is fully reclined.
Side-byside strollers have two distinct seats that are positioned side-by-side and are generally suited to younger babies or toddlers who haven't yet learned independence sitting yet. They also have the added benefit of being more easy to maneuver and push than tandem strollers. However, they tend to have smaller storage baskets than tandem models and can be more expensive.
There are also special double strollers that are designed specifically for biking and jogging. These are usually more expensive than all-terrain strollers, and have fixed front wheels, which limit their mobility. These strollers are worth considering if you plan to use them for these types of activities.
If you're looking for twins, an infant and a toddler, or a child who's not yet ready to go out on their own, there's an ideal double stroller for you. Our top choices are easy to maneuver, flexible and stable, as well as seating that expands with your child. So whether you're looking for a tandem stroller or one that will accommodate your infant car seat, look through our top choices to find the right double stroller for your family.