Buying Guide For Double Strollers
A double stroller is a great investment when you have two kids of similar age. These strollers are narrow and narrow, as well as flexible side-by-side buggies let you keep your eyes on both kids at the same time braving the grocery aisle, parks and anything else life throws your way.
Comfort
When looking for a double stroller, the comfort is an important factor to consider. This could include both seating arrangements and the overall dimensions of the stroller which impacts convenience and storage. Katie Billingsley, a child development expert from Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat, advises parents to be aware of the stroller's weight and folded dimensions. "They should also consider the seat recline options and age ranges to ensure a good 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 offer a range of seating options for children of different age groups, and comfort features like peek-a-boo window and adjustable canopies that protect children from the sun or rain.
Seating options are crucial for many families who use double strollers from the time of birth until childhood. "There are two main categories - in-line with one seat ahead of the other, and side-by-side with seats next to each other," Billingsley explains. Some parents prefer the in-line model because of its sleek appearance and versatility. Others like a wagon-style double stroller to maximize space for groceries or bulky items.
While some products may have different recline options--with one seat being almost flat, while the other is upright--this type of disparity is more prevalent in the in-line models. Billingsley suggests choosing a model that has a nearly flat recline and leg rest adjustments for both seats. This will ensure that both children can lie down comfortably.
Finally, she advises to look for strollers that have storage compartments that enable parents to access their snacks, toys and personal items while out and about. She also recommends that it is helpful to choose a stroller that has a parent console, or organizer bag that is attached to the handlebars. This can help parents keep essentials close to hand.
Some of the best-rated double strollers can be extended giving parents the ability to alter the configuration based on their family's needs. For example the Mockingbird Expandable is a highly rated double stroller that can be used with just a single seat from birth, and then converted to tandem (with a second seat and bassinet) as the child gets older.
Safety
Double strollers need to be able to support the weight of both passengers and any additional cargo. Strollers need to be able to move and push, especially when on rough terrain and in tight spaces. The best strollers feature ergonomic handlebars that can be adjusted in height, making it easier for parents to maintain a good posture when pushing them. A no-rethread harness, which makes adjusting seat belts quicker and easier, is another nice feature to look out for. Also, a strong brake system and wheels that can glide over any surface are crucial safety features.
Some parents opt for a side-by-side design that allows both children to view one another during family outings. This arrangement can prevent siblings arguing about 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 during a walk.
A tandem-style stroller is great option for parents with twins or siblings who are close in age. strollers double strollers lets parents observe both children at the same time. However, they can be more spacious than other double strollers, so they might not fit through all doorways in the interior. 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 opt for a side-byside or tandem-style stroller, make sure that the stroller is JPMA-certified to meet the strictest safety standards. Pay attention to the maximum weight limit for each seat. Overstepping these limits can cause frame fatigue and other issues.
While it's easy to focus on the additional bells and whistles of a new stroller, it is crucial to keep in mind that a stroller is basically a baby carrier that will be used for extended periods of time. It must be easy to clean and maintain, and comfortable for both passengers. It should also have a familiar, intuitive design that lets the person pushing it to maneuver it effortlessly.
Easy to Use
For families who are constantly on the move, a double stroller should be able to maneuver easily over various terrains. Strollers that have features like windows that can be opened and closed, adjustable canopy and sturdy brake systems are vital to ensure the safety of your children. But there are other features that make them easier to use. A stroller should be small enough to fit in the trunk of your car yet have plenty of storage space for groceries or other things. It is also important to consider thoughtful additions like a one-parent cup holder as well as a console for parents and an eating tray for children -- all things that will make life with two children significantly simpler.
During our testing We evaluated each stroller based on how it did on a variety of terrains, and how easily it could maneuver in tight spaces. We also considered how easy it was to fold the stroller in half and then unfold it as well as if a particular feature enhanced the overall functionality. A stroller that does not have rethread straps is easy to adjust the seat belts. This is a major benefit for parents on the go because it cuts down on time and reduces the need to rethread the harness.
The UPPAbaby V2 Double was a top performer in this metric as it had a wide variety of seating options, as well as additional accessories to accommodate expanding families. The double-stroller that looks like a wagon expands to accommodate an additional seat, a bassinet, or even a toddler-riding board. This is ideal for families that plan to spend long days traveling with several children of different age groups. It is able to glide effortlessly over cobblestones, pavements, and ballfields. strollers double strollers can fold flat to fit in a trunk or a closet. The design of this stroller is easy and intuitive, which was appreciated by our test subject Kerry. The sleek packaging with clearly marked sections as well as a the user's guide made it simple to put together this stroller.
Stores
Double strollers can carry twice more than a single one so be sure to ensure you have plenty of storage space. You want a stroller with enough storage space to store the essentials for both parents and children including bottles, toys, snacks, and diapers. Find baskets and pockets under the seats. Also, consider a stroller with an expandable cargo area to accommodate bulky items like lunch bags and diaper bags.
A good double stroller should be able to change as your family grows. Billingsley says that some models have a bassinet attachment to accommodate newborns. Some models have child seats that can expand with the child until they are old enough to ride on the back. Some double strollers even include a rider board that allows older children to be part of the fun.
You'll find a wide variety of double strollers in the market, from elegant, high-performance models that excel on rough terrain to budget-friendly models more suitable for use in the everyday. While shopping, read reviews and suggestions from families similar to yours to get a better idea of what to expect from the double stroller you choose.
Double strollers come in three different design formats: side-by-side, tandem, and wagon-style. Billingsley says that side-by-side strollers are the most flexible and ideal for twins or children of similar ages. Tandem double strollers on the other hand, feature two seats that are arranged next to each other and facing in opposite directions--a good option for kids of 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 fit through doorways than their side-by-side counterparts.
If you prefer a wagon-style double stroller check out this top model from Safety 1st. Our testers were impressed by the fact that this low-cost model comes with a variety of seating options, including the ability to click in two infant car seats or a single child in the convertible toddler seat. Our experts also appreciated the comfortable memory foam seats and the 50+ SPF canopy, and foam-filled tires that never stop running flat. When it's time for folding this model needs only a few tugs on the straps under each seat (under where kids sit) for folding.