Buying Guide For Double Strollers
If you have two kids that are in the same age group, a double stroller can be a valuable investment. These compact tandem strollers or versatile side-by-side buggies help you keep an eye on both kids at the same time taking on the grocery store, parks and anything else life throws at you.
Comfort
When shopping for a double stroller for your child, comfort is a key factor to consider. This could include the seating arrangement as well as the overall size, which will have an impact on ease of use and storage. "Parents should determine how much the stroller weighs and its dimensions folded," 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 perfect fit for their family."
A good double stroller should be able to handle a variety of surfaces easily from suburban sidewalks to park paths and from toddler booster seats to infant car seats. It should have a variety of seating options for children at different age groups, and comfort features like peek-a-boo window and adjustable canopy that protect children from rain or sun.
The seating options are important to many families who use double strollers from birth to the age of. Billingsley says there are two primary categories of in-line seating with one seat in front of the other and side-byside seating with seats next to each other. "Some parents prefer an in-line stroller due to its sleek appearance and versatility, whereas others prefer a wagon-style double stroller that can be used to store bulky items or groceries."
Some products may offer different recline options - with one seat nearly flat while the other remains relatively upright, this kind of difference is more prevalent in the in-line models. Billingsley suggests selecting a model with a near-flat recline as well as leg rest adjustments for both seats. This will ensure that both children lay down comfortably.
In the end, she suggests choosing a stroller that includes storage compartments that allow parents to quickly access snacks, toys, and personal belongings while on the go. She also suggests that it's beneficial to choose a stroller that has an organizer console for parents or a parent bag attached to the handlebars, which will help keep things close at hand.
A few of the top-rated double strollers can be expanded giving parents the ability to modify the layout according to their family's requirements. For double buggy with car seat , the Mockingbird Expandable is a highly-rated double stroller that can be used with a single seat from birth and then transformed into tandem (with an additional seat and bassinet) as the child gets older.
Safety
Double strollers should be able to support the weight of two adults, as well as any additional cargo. off road double buggy must also be simple to move and push, particularly in tight areas and over challenging terrain. The best strollers feature ergonomic handlebars with adjustable heights, making it easier for parents to maintain good form when pushing them. A harness that does not need to be rethread that makes the adjustment of seat belts quicker and easier, is another nice feature to look out for. Safety features include a sturdy brake system and wheels which can glide across any surface.
Some parents prefer a side by side design to ensure that both children meet up during family outings. This arrangement can prevent sibling fights over which child is allowed to sit where however it's not foolproof. If the seats are set at different heights, one child could be capable of punching or kicking the other during the course of a walk.
If you have twins or siblings who are close in age, a tandem stroller can be beneficial in being able see both kids at once. Double strollers are typically larger, and might not fit through some interior doors. To maximize versatility, you should consider a stroller that can change from a single stroller to a tandem in a variety of ways, such as the popular CYBEX Gazelle S. These models can accommodate a wide variety of configurations and let you click in infant car seats or cot attachments according to your requirements.
If you're looking for a tandem or side-by-side stroller, make sure that the product is JPMA certified to meet stringent safety standards. Be aware of the maximum weight limit for each seat. Exceeding these limits could cause frame fatigue and other issues.
While it's easy to focus on the additional bells and whistles on the latest stroller, it's crucial to be aware that a stroller essentially a baby carrier that will be transported for long periods of time. It should be easy to clean and maintain as well as comfortable for both passengers. It should also have a familiar, intuitive design that lets the person pushing the stroller to move it easily.
Easy of Use
A double stroller should be easily maneuverable on various terrains for families who are constantly on the move. Features like adjustable canopies with windows that peek out and reliable braking systems are critical to help ensure the safety of your children, but there are other factors that contribute to stroller ease of use. For instance the stroller should be small enough to fit into the trunk of your car, yet provide ample storage space for groceries and other belongings. It is also essential to include thoughtful features, like the cup holder for one parent as well as consoles for parents and a snack tray. These will make traveling with two children significantly easier.
During our testing We evaluated each stroller based on how it performed on a variety of terrains and how easily it maneuvered in tight spaces. We also assessed how easy it was to fold and unfold, and whether or not a specific feature improved the overall functionality of the stroller. A stroller without rethread straps makes it easy to adjust the seat belts. This can be a big selling point for parents who are constantly on the move, as it removes the requirement to rethread the harness.
The UPPAbaby V2 Double scored well in this test because it came with a variety of seating configurations and additional accessories that accommodated growing families. The wagon-style double stroller can be expanded to accommodate two seats as well as a bassinet or a toddler-friendly riding board, which is ideal for families who are active and planning long trips with multiple children of different ages. It easily glides over cobblestones, pavements, and ballfields. It can fold flat to fit in a trunk or closet. The design of this stroller is simple and easy to use and was a big hit with our test subject Kerry. Its stylish packaging, clearly labeled sections and helpful user guide made putting together this stroller a breeze.
Storage
A double stroller can be able to hold twice as much stuff than a single stroller, therefore, you should look for plenty of storage space. You want a stroller with enough storage space to hold the necessities of parents and children, such as bottles as well as snacks, toys and diapers. Look for baskets that fit under the seat and other pockets, and look into a stroller with an expanding cargo area that can carry bulky items like diaper bags and lunch bags.
A quality double stroller will be able to expand with your family. Billingsley says that some models have an attachment for a bassinet to accommodate infants. Other models come with child seats that grow with the child until they are able to ride on the back. Some double strollers permit older siblings to share in the fun with riding boards.
There are a variety of double strollers on the market. You can choose from models with high-performance features that are great for rough terrain, or more budget-friendly options that can use daily. When shopping, take a look at reviews and suggestions from families like yours to get a better idea of what to expect from the double stroller you choose.
Double strollers come in three different designs: side-by-side, tandem, and wagon-style. Billingsley states that side-byside strollers are the most versatile and ideal for twins as well as children of similar age. Tandem double strollers, on the contrary, have two seats set next to each other and facing opposite directions. It's a good option for kids who are the same age or for siblings who enjoy interacting with one another. Tandem strollers are more difficult to maneuver through narrow spaces, and are less likely to fit into doorways.
If you prefer a wagon-style double stroller check out this top model from Safety 1st. Testers loved how this affordable model comes with a variety of seating options, including the ability to click in two infant car seats or a single child riding in the convertible toddler seat. Our experts also praised memory foam seats and canopy that has 50+ SPF, and foam-filled wheels that never go flat. When it's time to fold, this model requires only a few tugs on the straps of each seat (under the seats where kids are) to fold in half.