Why All The Fuss About Double Strollers?

Buying Guide For Double Strollers

If you have two children who are close in age A double buggy with car seat stroller can be a valuable investment. These narrow tandem buggies or versatile side by side buggies will keep both children within sight while you shop, parks, and whatever else life throws at you.

Comfort

Comfort is a major factor to consider when shopping for a double-stroller. This includes the seating arrangement and the overall size, which has an impact on 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 as well as the age ranges of their children to ensure it is a perfect fit."

A good double buggy that converts to single (inquiry) stroller will be sturdy enough to traverse various surfaces with ease, 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 stages of development, as well as comfort features like peek-a-boo window and adjustable canopies which protect children from rain or sun.

For many families, a double stroller will be used from birth until the teen years, so it's essential to think about the seating options. "There are two main categories--in-line with one seat ahead of the other, and side-byside with seats that are next to each other," Billingsley explains. "Some parents prefer an in-line option for its sleek look and versatility, whereas others prefer a wagon-style stroller to maximize space for heavy items or groceries."

In-line models are more likely to have this type of discrepancy. Some products may offer different recline options, with one seat being almost flat, while the other one remaining fairly upright. Billingsley suggests selecting a product with a near-flat recline and leg rests that can be adjusted for both seats, so that the children can both lie back comfortably.

She also suggests parents look for strollers that have storage compartments to allow them to quickly access personal items, snacks and toys when on the move. She also suggests that it is helpful to find a stroller that comes with a parent console or organizer bag, that can be attached to the handlebars. This will help parents keep essentials close to hand.

Some of the best-rated double strollers can be enlarged to allow parents to customize the setup depending on the needs of their family. The Mockingbird Expandable, for example is a highly-rated double stroller which can be used from birth using a single seat, and later converted into a tandem (with two seats and a bassinet) when the child is older.

Safety

Double strollers need to be able to handle the weight of both the passengers as well as any additional cargo. Strollers must also be simple to move and push, particularly in tight areas and on terrain that is difficult to navigate. The best strollers come with ergonomic handlebars with adjustable heights which allow parents to maintain their form when pushing them. A no-rethread harness that makes the adjustment of seat belts quicker and easier is another great feature to look out for. Also, a strong brake system and wheels that glide over any surface are crucial safety features.

Some parents choose an arrangement that is side by side to ensure that both children see each other during family outings. This arrangement can help prevent sibling rivalries over who gets to sit where however it's not foolproof. If the seats are at different heights, a child could kick or punch another while walking in the event that the seats are at different levels.

If you have twins or siblings of similar age, a tandem-style stroller can be beneficial in being able to see both children at the same time. However, these can be wider than other double strollers double strollers, meaning they may not be able to be able to pass through all doors in your home. Think about a stroller that is single-to-double that can be converted from a single to a double in a variety ways. The most popular models are the CYBEX gazelle S.

If you decide to purchase a side-by-side or tandem-style stroller, make sure the product is JPMA-certified to meet the strictest safety standards. Pay attention to the maximum weight limit for each seat. If you exceed these limits, it could cause frame fatigue or other problems.

It's easy to be swept up in the bells and whistles, however it's important to keep in mind that strollers are basically baby carriers that will be carried for long periods of durations. It should be easy to clean and maintain and comfortable for both passengers. It should also have a a familiar, intuitive design that lets the person pushing the stroller to maneuver it effortlessly.

Easy to Use

A double stroller must be easily maneuverable on different types of terrains for families constantly on the move. Features like adjustable canopy systems with windows that peek out and dependable brake systems are essential to ensure the safety of your children however, there are other elements that influence stroller comfort of use. For example the stroller should be small enough to fit in the trunk of your car, while still offering ample storage space for your groceries and other items. Additionally, you should consider thoughtful features like a one-parent cup holder, parent consoles and an eating tray for children -- all things that will make life with two children significantly easier.

During our testing, we evaluated each stroller based on its performance on different terrains, as well as its ability to maneuver through tight spaces. We also examined the ease with which it was possible to fold and unfold and whether or not a specific feature improved the overall performance of the stroller. For example, a stroller with no-rethread harnesses makes adjusting the seat belts easy and quick. This is a major benefit for parents who are always in motion, as it eliminates the need to rethread their harness.

The UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double scored high in this metric, as it came with a variety of seating configurations and additional accessories to accommodate growing families. The wagon-style double stroller can be expanded to allow for an additional seat as well as a bassinet or a toddler riding board that is perfect for families with active children who plan long days on the go with multiple kids of various age groups. It is able to glide effortlessly over pavements, cobblestones, and ballfields. It can be folded flat to fit in a trunk or a closet. The design of this stroller is easy and intuitive, which was appreciated by our test participant Kerry. The clever packaging, clearly marked sections and the user's guide made it simple to put together this stroller.

Stores

A double stroller has the potential to hold twice as much as a single stroller, so look for ample storage space. It is ideal to have an item that can hold the necessities for both kids, including nappies bottles, snacks, and toys, as well as parents' belongings such as phones, wallets keys and wallets. Look for baskets that fit under the seat and other pockets, and consider a stroller with an expanding cargo area that can carry heavy items such as lunch bags and diaper bags.

A good double stroller with bassinet stroller will be able to grow with your family. For instance certain models come with the bassinet attachment, which can accommodate infants, while others feature child seats that can be adapted to your children until they're able to switch to riding on the back of the stroller, Billingsley says. Some double strollers allow older children to join in on the fun with a rider board.

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

Double strollers are available in three models: tandem, side by side and wagon style. Billingsley states that side-by-side strollers are the most flexible and ideal for twins or children of a similar age. Tandem double strollers, on other hand, feature two seats set next to each other and facing in opposite directions. This is a ideal choice for children who are the same age or for siblings who love to interact with each other. Tandem strollers may be harder to maneuver in tight spaces and are less likely to fit through doorways than their side-byside counterparts.

If you're looking for a wagon-style double stroller, check out this top pick from Safety 1st. Testers loved how this affordable model has multiple seating options, including the ability to connect two infant car seats or a single child riding in the convertible toddler seat. Our experts also praised memory foam seats as well as the canopy, which has 50+ SPF and foam-filled wheels that never flatten. When it's time for folding this model requires only just a few pulls on the straps underneath each seat (under the seat where children sit) for folding.