Buying Guide For Double Strollers
If you have two kids who are close in age A double stroller can be a great investment. These compact tandem strollers or versatile side-by-side buggies help you keep an eye on both children at the same time braving the grocery aisle or the parks, and whatever else life throws your way.
Comfort
Comfort is a major factor to take into consideration when buying a double-stroller. This can include the seating arrangement and the overall size, which will have an impact on the ease of use and storage. "Parents should determine how much the stroller weighs and its dimensions when folded," says child development expert and mom Katie Billingsley of Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat. "They should also consider the recline options for seats and age ranges to ensure a perfect fit for their family."
A good double stroller will be robust enough to navigate different surfaces smoothly--from parks trails to suburban sidewalks, and from infant car seats to toddler booster seats. It should come with a variety of seating options for children of different ages, as well as comfort features like peek-a-boo window and adjustable canopy that protect children from the sun or rain.
Seating options are crucial for many families who will utilize a double stroller from birth to childhood. Billingsley explains that there are two primary categories of in-line seating with one seat in front of the other and side-byside, with seats next to each other. Some parents prefer the in-line option because of its sleek appearance and versatility. Others like a wagon style double stroller to make the most space for grocery or bulky items.
In-line models are more likely to show this type of discrepancy. Some products may offer different recline options, with one being almost flat and the other being more upright. Billingsley recommends selecting a product with a near-flat recline as well as leg rest adjustments for both seats. This will ensure that both children can lay comfortably.
Finally, she advises to look for strollers that have storage compartments that will allow parents to access their snacks, toys and other personal items while on the move. She adds that it's also useful to find the stroller that has an organizer console for parents or a parent bag attached to the handlebars. This can help keep essentials close at hand.
A few of the most highly-rated double strollers can be expanded, allowing parents to customize the configuration to meet the requirements of their growing family. The Mockingbird Expandable, for example, is a highly rated double stroller which can be used from birth using a single seat, then transformed into a tandem (with two seats and a bassinet) when the child gets older.
Safety
Double strollers have to be able to carry the weight of two people, plus any additional cargo. Strollers must also be simple to move and push, particularly in tight spaces and on difficult terrain. The best strollers have ergonomic handlebars with adjustable heights which make it easier for parents to maintain a good posture when pushing them. Another nice feature is a no-rethread belt harness that allows for a more comfortable adjustment of the seat belts. Safety features include a sturdy brake system and wheels which glide over any surface.
Some parents prefer a side-by-side design that allows both children to view each other during family outings. This arrangement can help prevent sibling rivalries over who is allowed to sit where but it's not a guarantee. If the seats are positioned at different heights, one child may be capable of punching or kicking the other on walks.
A tandem-style stroller is a ideal option for parents with twins or siblings that are similar in age. It lets them see both children at once. These double strollers can be more spacious, and may not fit through certain doors inside. For maximum versatility, consider a stroller that can change from a single to a tandem in different ways, like the popular 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 opt for a side-byside or tandem-style stroller, make sure the product is certified by JPMA to meet stringent safety standards. Be aware of the weight limit that applies to each seat. If you exceed these limits, it could cause frame fatigue or other issues.
It's easy to be swept in the sound of bells and whistles, but it's important to keep in mind that strollers are in essence baby carriers that are carried for long periods of times. It must be comfortable for both parents and children as well as easy to clean and maintain, and most importantly it should have an easy-to-use, familiar design so that the person pushing it is able to easily maneuver it without having to think about how to move forward or turn left or right, or use the brakes.
User-Friendliness
A double stroller must be easily maneuverable on different of terrains for families that are constantly moving. 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 affect stroller ease of use. A stroller should be small enough to fit in the trunk of your vehicle and still provide plenty of storage space for groceries and other things. It is also important to consider thoughtful additions like a cup holder with a single parent as well as a console for parents and an eating tray for children -- all things that make life with two children significantly more manageable.
During our testing we evaluated each stroller based on 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 unfold it as well as if a particular feature enhanced the overall functionality. For instance a stroller that has no-rethread harnesses makes adjusting the seat belts simple and easy. This can be a huge selling point for parents on the go, as it saves time and reduces the need to rethread the harness.
The UPPAbaby v2 Double scored highly in this test because it had a wide variety of seating configurations, and additional accessories that accommodated families that are growing. The double-stroller that looks like a wagon expands to accommodate two seats, a bassinet, or even a toddler-riding board. This is perfect for families who want to spend long days in the car with a variety of children of various ages. It also glides effortlessly over pavement, cobblestones and ballfields--and can be folded flat for easy storage in a trunk or closet. Our tester Kerry appreciated the straightforward and easy-to-use nature of the stroller's design. Its stylish packaging, clearly labeled sections and an informative user guide made putting together this stroller an absolute breeze.
Stores
Double strollers can carry twice more than one single stroller so be sure to ensure you have plenty of storage space. It is important to find a stroller with enough storage space to accommodate the essentials of both parents and children including bottles as well as snacks, toys and diapers. Find baskets under the seat and other pockets, and consider a stroller with an expandable cargo area that can hold bulky items like diaper bags and lunch bags.
A good double stroller will be able to adapt to the needs of your family. Billingsley says that some models have a bassinet attachment to accommodate infants. similar internet page have child seats that can be able to grow with your child until they are old enough to ride on the back. Some double strollers permit older siblings to share in the fun by riding on riding boards.
There are a variety of double strollers available. You can choose from high-performance models that are ideal for rough terrain, to more budget-friendly options that you can use every day. While shopping, read reviews and recommendations of families just like yours to get an idea of what you can expect from the double stroller that you select.
Double strollers are available in three models: tandem, side by side and wagon-style. Billingsley states that side-by-side strollers are the most adaptable and ideal for twins or children of similar age. Tandem double strollers on the other hand, feature two seats that are placed adjacent to one another and facing in opposite directions--a great option for children who are the same age or for siblings who like to interact with each other. Tandem strollers are more difficult to maneuver through tight spaces, and are less likely to be able to fit through doors.
If you prefer a wagon-style double stroller, take a look at this top choice from Safety 1st. Our testers were impressed by the fact that this low-cost model has multiple seating options and the option to click in two infant car seats or a single child riding in an convertible toddler seat. Our reviewers also praised the comfortable memory foam seats and the 50+ SPF canopy and foam-filled tires that will never go flat. When it's time for folding this model requires only just a few nudges on the straps under each seat (under where kids sit) for folding.