Buying Guide For Double Strollers

A double stroller is a good investment when you have two kids with similar age. These compact double stroller tandem strollers or versatile side-by-side buggies help you keep an eye on both kids at the same time while braving the grocery aisle or the parks, and whatever else life throws your way.

Comfort

When shopping for a double stroller for your child, comfort is a major factor to consider. This can include both the seating arrangements and the overall dimensions of the stroller which affects the convenience and storage. Katie Billingsley, a child expert in child development from Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat, advises parents to be aware of the stroller's weight and folded dimensions. "They should also look at the options for recline and seat age ranges to ensure a good fit for their family."

A quality double stroller should be durable enough to travel on various surfaces with ease, from suburban sidewalks to park trails and from infant car seats to toddler booster seats. It should come with a variety of seating options for children of different age groups, and comfort features like peek-a-boo window and adjustable canopy that protect children from the sun or rain.

The seating options are important to many families who will utilize a double stroller from the time of birth until the age of. "There are two main categories - in-line with one seat ahead of the other, and side-by-side with seats that are next to each other," Billingsley explains. "Some parents prefer an in-line model due to its sleek look and versatility, whereas others prefer a wagon-style double stroller that can be used to store large items or groceries."

In-line models tend to have this type of discrepancy. Certain models may provide different recline options, with one seat being nearly flat, and the other being more upright. Billingsley suggests selecting a product that offers both a nearly flat recline and leg rest adjustments for both seats, so that the children can both lie back comfortably.

She also suggests that parents search for strollers with storage compartments to allow them to easily access their snacks, personal items and toys when in motion. She also recommends that it's helpful to choose a stroller that includes a parent console or organizer bag that is attached to the handlebars. This will help parents keep their essentials to hand.

A few of the top-rated double strollers can be expanded, allowing parents to customize the configuration to meet the requirements of their growing family. For instance, the Mockingbird Expandable is a highly rated double stroller that can be used with a single to double buggy seat as early as birth, and then transformed into tandem (with a second seat and bassinet) as the child gets older.

Safety

Double strollers have to be able to handle the weight of two passengers--plus any additional cargo. Strollers must also be easy to push and maneuver, especially in tight areas and on difficult terrain. The best Double stroller (kingranks.com) strollers feature ergonomic handlebars that can be adjusted in height to allow parents to maintain their good form when pushing them. Another feature that is great is a non-rethread seat belt harness, which allows for a more comfortable adjustment of the belts on the seat. Also, a strong brake system and wheels that can glide over any surface are crucial safety features.

Some parents choose an arrangement that is side by side so that both children can be together on family outings. This arrangement can help prevent siblings arguing about who gets to sit in which spot however it's not foolproof. If the seats are placed at different heights, one child could be in a position to punch or kick the other on the course of a walk.

A tandem stroller is a ideal option for parents with twins or siblings who are close in age. It lets parents be able to see both children simultaneously. Double strollers can be more spacious, and may not be able to fit through some doors inside. Think about a stroller that is single-to-double that can be transformed from a single to a double in a variety ways. Popular models include the CYBEX gazelle S.

Whether you choose a side-by-side or tandem stroller, make sure that the stroller is JPMA-certified to meet the strictest safety standards. Be sure to check the weight limits that apply to each seat, since exceeding them could result in frame fatigue or other issues.

It's easy to be swept in the jingles and whistles, but it's important to keep in mind that strollers are in essence baby carriers that are used for extended time. It should be easy to clean and maintain and comfortable for both passengers. It should also have an intuitive, familiar design that allows the person pushing it to maneuver it effortlessly.

Easy of Use

For families that are on the move, a double stroller should be easy to maneuver over different terrains. Features like adjustable canopy windows, peek-aboo windows, and dependable brake systems are crucial to ensure your children's safety, but there are other factors that affect stroller ease of use. For instance the stroller must be compact double stroller enough to fit into the trunk of your car, yet provide ample storage space for food items and other things. Additionally, you should consider thoughtful features like a cup holder with a single parent or console for parents, as well as an eating tray for children -- all things that can make life with two kids significantly simpler.

In our testing we rated each stroller based on how it did on a variety of terrains and how easily it could maneuver in tight spaces. We also examined how simple it was to fold and unfold, and whether or not a specific feature enhanced the overall function of the stroller. For instance a stroller with a no-rethread harness makes adjusting the seat belts easy and quick. This is a huge benefit for parents who are constantly moving around, since it does away with the need to rethread the harness.

The UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double scored highly in this metric, as it offered an impressive range of seating options and accessories to accommodate growing families. The double-stroller that looks like a wagon expands so that it can accommodate two seats, a bassinet or even a toddler's riding board. This is perfect for families who plan to spend long days traveling with several children of various ages. It is able to glide effortlessly over pavements, cobblestones, and ballfields. It can also be folded flat to fit in a trunk or closet. Our test subject Kerry was impressed by the simple, intuitive nature of this stroller's design. Its clever packaging clear sections, well-labeled sections and an informative user guide made putting together this stroller an absolute breeze.

Storage

Double strollers can hold twice as much as one twin stroller with car seats, so make sure you ensure you have plenty of storage space. Ideally, you want a stroller that can accommodate the necessities for both kids, including nappies, bottles, snacks and toys, along with parents' items such as wallets, phones, and keys. Find baskets and pockets under the seats. Also, think about a stroller with an expandable cargo area to accommodate bulky items such as diaper bags and lunchbags.

A good double stroller will be able to grow with your family. Billingsley says that some models come with the option of a bassinet attachment that can accommodate infants. Others have child seats that expand with the child until they are able to ride on the back. Some double strollers permit older siblings to join in on the fun by riding on a rider board.

There's a wide selection of double strollers on the market, ranging from sleek, high-performance models that excel on rough terrain to budget-friendly models more suitable for use in the everyday. While shopping, read reviews and recommendations of families just like yours to get an idea of what you can expect from the double stroller you choose.

Double strollers come in three different styles including tandem, side-by-side and wagon-style. Billingsley states that side-byside strollers are the most flexible and ideal for twins or children of similar ages. Tandem double strollers, on the other hand, have two seats set close to each other and facing opposite directions. It's a good option for kids of the same age, or for siblings who like to interact with one another. Tandem strollers are more difficult to maneuver through tight spaces, and are less likely to fit in doorways.

Check out this top pick by Safety 1st if you prefer a wagon style double stroller. This model is affordable and was praised by testers for its various seating configurations. It can be used with two infant car seats or one child in a convertible toddler seat. Our experts also praised memory foam seats and canopy that has 50+ SPF and foam-filled wheels that never flatten. When it's time for folding this model needs only just a few nudges on the straps underneath each seat (under the seats where kids sit) in order to fold.