Buying Guide For Double Strollers
A double stroller is an excellent investment for families with two children of similar ages. These narrow tandem buggies or versatile side-by-side buggies will keep both children within sight while navigating the grocery aisle and parks, as well as whatever else life throws at you.
Comfort
The comfort factor is one of the most important factors to take into consideration when buying a double-stroller. This can include both the seating arrangement and the overall dimensions of the stroller which can impact the ease of use and storage. lightest double stroller , a child expert in development from the Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat, suggests parents be aware of the stroller's weight and folded dimensions. "They should also consider the recline options for seats as well as the age ranges of their children to ensure that it's the perfect fit."
A quality double stroller should be able to handle a variety of surfaces with ease from suburban sidewalks to parks and from toddler booster seats to infant car seats. It should also provide flexible seating options for children of various ages and comfort features like peek-a-boo windows and adjustable canopies to keep kids shielded from rain or sun.
For a lot of families, a double stroller is likely to be used from birth and into the teen years, so it's essential to consider the seating options. Billingsley says there are two major categories: in-line, with one seat in-front of the other and side-byside seating with seats next to each other. Some parents prefer the in-line model because of its sleek appearance and versatility. Others like a wagon-style double stroller for maximum space for groceries or bulky items.
Although double travel stroller may have different recline options--with one seat being almost flat, while the other remains relatively upright, this type of distinction is more common in models that are in-line. lightweight double pushchair suggests selecting a model with both a near flat recline and leg rest adjustment for both seats. This will ensure that both children can lay comfortably.
She also suggests parents search for strollers with storage compartments to allow them to easily access personal items, snacks and toys when moving about. She also says that it is helpful to choose a stroller that comes with a parent console or organizer bag that is attached to the handlebars. This can help parents keep their essentials at hand.
Some of the most highly-rated double strollers are expandable which allows parents to alter the configuration to meet the requirements of their growing family. For example the Mockingbird Expandable is a highly rated double stroller that can be used with a single seat as early as birth, and then transformed into a tandem (with an additional seat and bassinet) as the child gets older.
Safety
Double strollers must be able to support the weight of both passengers and 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 that can be adjusted in height to allow parents to maintain their good posture while pushing them. A harness that is not rethread that makes the adjustment of seat belts more quickly and easily to do, is a nice feature to look for. Finally, a sturdy brake system and wheels that glide across any surface are crucial safety features.
Some parents opt for a side by side design to allow both children to see each other during family outings. This arrangement can reduce siblings arguing about who gets to sit in which place however, it's not 100% secure. If the seats are at different levels, a child might punch or kick one another during a walk, if the seats are at different levels.
If you have twins or siblings close in age, a tandem stroller offers the benefit of being able to view both children at the same time. However, they can be wider than other double strollers, and they may not be able to fit through all doorways in the interior. For maximum flexibility, think about a single-to-double stroller that transitions from a single stroller to a tandem in various ways, such as the well-known CYBEX Gazelle S. These models are able to accommodate a broad range of configurations and permit you to insert infant car seats or cot attachments depending on your needs.
If you decide to purchase a side-by-side or tandem-style stroller, be sure that the stroller is JPMA-certified to meet stringent safety standards. Be aware of the maximum weight limits for each seat, as over-weighting could lead to frame fatigue or other issues.
While it's easy for us to focus on the additional bells and whistles of a new stroller, it's important to keep in mind that a stroller is essentially a baby carrier that is carried around for long periods of time. It must be easy to clean and maintain as well as comfortable for both of the passengers. It should also feature a an intuitive, familiar design that allows the person pushing it to easily maneuver it.
Easy of Use
For families on the go, a double stroller must be able to navigate various terrains. Features like adjustable canopy windows, peek-aboo windows, and dependable brake systems are crucial to ensure the safety of your children but there are many other aspects that affect stroller ease of use. For example the stroller must be small enough to fit in the trunk of your car while still offering ample storage space for groceries and other belongings. Additionally, you should consider thoughtful features like a one-parent cup holder as well as a console for parents and snacks for children--all things that will make life with two kids much simpler.
During our testing We evaluated each stroller on how well it performed on a variety of terrains, and how easily it maneuvered in tight spaces. We also examined how simple it was to fold and unfold and whether or not a specific feature added to the overall function of the stroller. For example, a stroller with no-rethread harnesses makes adjusting the seat belts easy and quick. This can be a big attraction for parents who are constantly in motion, as it removes the need to rethread their harness.
The UPPAbaby V2 Double scored well in this test because it came with a variety of seating configurations and additional accessories that accommodated expanding families. The double-stroller in the wagon style expands so that it can accommodate an additional seat, a bassinet, or even a toddler-riding board. This is ideal for families who plan to spend long days in the car with a variety of children of different age groups. It also glides smoothly over pavement, cobblestones and ballfields--and can be folded flat for easy storage in a closet or trunk. The design of this stroller is simple and easy to use and was a big hit with our tester Kerry. Its smart packaging, clearly labeled sections and helpful user guides made putting together this stroller a breeze.
Storage
Double strollers can carry twice more than a single one So, make sure to ensure you have plenty of storage space. You'll want a stroller that has enough storage space to accommodate the essentials for both parents and children including bottles, toys, snacks, and diapers. Look for baskets and pockets under the seats. Also, think about a stroller with an expandable cargo area to take in bulky items like diaper bags and lunchbags.
A good double stroller should be able to adjust as your family grows. Billingsley says that some models come with the option of a bassinet attachment that can accommodate newborns. Some models have child seats that can be able to grow with your child until they are able to ride on the back. Some double strollers allow older siblings to join in on the fun with a rider board.
There are a variety of double strollers available on the market, from elegant, high-performance models that can handle rough terrain to budget-friendly models that are more suited for daily use. When you're shopping, read reviews and suggestions from families just like yours to get an idea of what to expect from the double stroller you select.
Double strollers are available in three models: tandem, side by side and wagon style. Billingsley states that side-byside strollers are the most adaptable and ideal for twins as well as children of similar ages. Tandem double strollers have two seats arranged in a tandem arrangement with the opposite direction facing. This is a great option for children of the same age or siblings who like to be social with one another. Tandem strollers are more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces and are less likely to fit through doorways than their side-by-side counterparts.
Check out this top pick by Safety 1st if you prefer a wagon-style double stroller. Testers loved how this affordable model comes with a variety of seating options and the option to snap in two infant car seats or a single child in an convertible toddler seat. Our experts also appreciated the comfy memory foam seats with a 50+ SPF canopy, and foam-filled tires that never go flat. When it's time to fold, this model needs only a couple of pulls on straps on each seat (under the seat where kids sit) to fold in half.