It's The Complete Guide To Double Strollers
Buying Guide For Double Strollers
If you have two kids who are close in age, a double stroller could be an invaluable investment. These narrow tandem strollers or versatile side-by-side buggies help you keep an eye on both kids at the same time braving the grocery aisle as well as the parks and other obstacles life throws your way.
Comfort
The comfort factor is one of the most important factors to take into consideration when buying a double-stroller. This includes the seating arrangement as well as the overall size, which can have an impact on ease of use 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 look at the options for recline and seat age ranges to ensure a perfect fit for their family."
A quality double stroller should be robust enough to navigate all surfaces without difficulty, from suburban sidewalks to park trails, and from infant car seats to toddler booster seats. It should have a variety of seating options for children of different ages, as well as features that provide comfort, such as a peek-aboo window and adjustable canopies which protect children from the sun or rain.
For a lot of families, a double stroller will be used from birth and into childhood, so it's important 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 stroller due to its sleek design and versatility, while others like a wagon-style double stroller to maximize space for heavy items or groceries."
In-line models are more likely to have this type of discrepancy. Certain models may provide different recline options, with one seat being almost flat and the other one remaining fairly upright. Billingsley suggests choosing a model that has a nearly flat recline and leg rest adjustments for both seats. This will ensure that both children lie down comfortably.
She also suggests parents look for strollers that have storage compartments to allow them to easily access their snacks, personal items and toys on the move. She also says that it's helpful to find a stroller which has a parent console, or organizer bag attached on the handlebars. This can help parents keep their essentials in their reach.
A few of the top-rated double strollers are expandable that allows parents to modify the configuration to meet the needs of their expanding family. The Mockingbird Expandable, for example is a highly-rated double stroller which can be used from birth with just one seat, and later converted into a tandem (with two seats and a bassinet) as the child grows older.
Safety
Double strollers should be able to handle the weight of two passengers--plus any additional cargo. Strollers should be able to move and push, especially on rough terrain or in tight spaces. The best strollers have ergonomic handlebars with adjustable heights which make it easier for parents to maintain their form when pushing them. A no-rethread harness which makes the adjustment of seat belts more quickly and easily to do, is a nice feature to look for. Also, a strong brake system and wheels that can glide over any surface are crucial safety features.
Some parents opt for the side-by-side design to allow both children to see each other when they go on family outings. This arrangement can stop sibling rivalries over who gets to sit where however it's not foolproof. If the seats are located at different levels, a child might punch or kick another while walking when the seats are on different levels.
A tandem-style stroller is excellent option for parents with twins or siblings that are similar in age. It allows them to be able to see both children simultaneously. Double strollers are typically wider, and may not be able to fit through some doors inside. To maximize versatility, you should consider a single-to-double stroller that transitions from a single stroller to a tandem in different ways, like the popular CYBEX Gazelle S. These models can be adapted to 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. Pay attention to the maximum weight limit for each seat. Exceeding compact double buggy could cause frame fatigue or other problems.
It's easy to be swept in the jingles and whistles, however it's important to keep in mind that strollers are essentially baby carriers that will be used for extended durations. It must be easy to clean and maintain as well as comfortable for both passengers. It should also have an easy-to-use, familiar design that allows the person pushing it to move it easily.
Easy to Use
A double stroller must be easy to maneuver on different terrains for families who are always on the move. Features like adjustable canopies with windows that peek out and dependable brake systems are critical to help ensure the safety of your children, however, there are other elements that contribute to stroller ease of use. A stroller should be small enough to fit in the trunk of your vehicle, but still have plenty of storage space for groceries and other things. It's also essential to add thoughtful details, such as a cup holder for one parent or consoles for parents, as well as snacks on trays. These can make traveling with two kids much easier.
In our tests, we assessed each stroller according to its performance on various terrains and its ability to maneuver through tight spaces. We also considered how easy it was to fold the stroller and unfold it, and if a particular feature improved the overall functionality. A stroller that does not have rethread straps makes it easy to adjust the seat belts. This is a major attraction for parents who are always in motion, as it does away with the requirement to rethread the harness.
The UPPAbaby V2 Double scored highly in this measure because it came with a variety of seating configurations, and other accessories that could accommodate families that are growing. The wagon-style double-stroller can be expanded to accommodate an additional seat, a bassinet or even a toddler's riding board. This is perfect for families who want to spend long days traveling with several children of various age groups. It is able to glide effortlessly over cobblestones and pavements and ballfields. It can also be folded flat to be stored in a trunk or a closet. The design of this stroller is easy and easy to use, which was appreciated by our test subject Kerry. The sleek packaging clear sections, well-marked sections and user guide made it easy to assemble this stroller.
Storage
A double stroller can be able to hold twice as much than a single stroller, so look for ample storage space. Ideally, you'll want an item that can hold the necessities for both kids, including nappies bottles, snacks, and toys, as well as parents' items such as wallets, phones keys, wallets and phones. Look for baskets that fit under the seat as well as other pockets, and look into a stroller with an expandable cargo area that can carry heavy items such as diaper bags and lunch bags.
A quality double stroller will be able to adapt to the needs of your family. For example, some models include an attachment for a bassinet that can accommodate newborns, while others have child seats that can grow with your children until they're able to switch to riding on the back of the stroller, Billingsley says. Some double strollers also include a rider board that allows older children to be part of the fun.
There are many different double strollers available. You can pick from high-performance models that are ideal for rough terrain, or more budget-friendly options that can use daily. While shopping, take a look at reviews and suggestions from families just like yours to get an idea of what you can expect from the double stroller you pick.
Double strollers are available in three different designs: tandem, side-by-side and wagon style. Side-by-side double strollers offer the most flexibility and are perfect for twins or children who are close in age, Billingsley explains. Tandem double strollers, on other hand, feature two seats that are arranged adjacent to one another and facing opposite directions. It's a great option for children of the same age, or for siblings who love to interact with each other. Tandem strollers are more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces, and less likely to fit into doorways.
If you prefer a wagon-style double stroller, take a look at this top choice from Safety 1st. This model is affordable and was highly praised by our testers for its various seating configurations. It can be used with two car seats for infants 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 go flat. When it's time to fold, this model requires just a couple of tugs on straps on each seat (under where the kids sit) to fold in half.