Buying Guide For Double Strollers
A double stroller is a great investment if you have two children with similar age. These narrow tandem buggies or versatile side by side buggies will keep both children in the same place when you are navigating the aisles of your grocery store and parks, as well as whatever else life can throw at you.
Comfort
Comfort is a major factor to take into consideration when buying a double-stroller. This can include the seating arrangement and the overall size, which will have an impact on the ease of use and storage. Katie Billingsley, a child expert in child development from Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat, advises parents to examine the stroller's weight as well as folded dimensions. "They should also consider the options for recline of the seat, as well as the age ranges of their children to ensure that it's the perfect fit."
A good double stroller will be sturdy enough to traverse various surfaces with ease, from urban sidewalks to parks trails and from infant car seats to toddler booster seats. It should also offer versatile seating arrangements for children of various age and comfort features like windows that peek out and adjustable canopy to shield children from sun or rain.
Seating options are important for many families who will use a double stroller from birth to childhood. "There are two main categories - in-line with one seat in front of the other, and side by side with seats next to each other," Billingsley explains. "Some parents prefer an in-line model due to its sleek design and versatility, while others prefer a wagon-style stroller that can be used to store bulky items or grocery bags."
In-line models tend to have this type of discrepancy. Some models might offer different recline options, with one being almost flat and the other one remaining fairly upright. Billingsley suggests selecting a model that has a nearly flat recline as well as leg rest adjustments for both seats. This will ensure that both children can lay comfortably.
She also suggests that parents look for strollers that have storage compartments so that they can easily access their snacks, personal items, and toys while on the move. She adds that it's also beneficial to choose a stroller that has a parent console or organizer bag that is attached to the handlebars, which can help keep essentials within reach.
A few of the top-rated double strollers can be expanded, allowing parents to customize the configuration to meet the requirements of their growing 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 gets older.
Safety
Double strollers must be able to carry the weight of two adults, as well as any additional cargo. Strollers should be able to move and push, particularly when on rough terrain and in tight spaces. The best strollers feature ergonomic handlebars with adjustable heights to help parents maintain good posture while pushing them. Another great feature is a non-rethread seat belt harness, which allows for a more comfortable adjustment of the seat belts. Safety features include a durable brake system and wheels which slide over any surface.
Some parents choose a side by side design to allow both children to be together when they go on family outings. This arrangement can reduce sibling squabbles over who sits in which spot, but it isn't foolproof. If the seats are set at different heights, one child may be in a position to punch or kick the other during the course of a walk.
For parents of twins or siblings who are close in age, a tandem-style stroller offers the benefit of being able to see both children at the same time. However, they are more spacious than other double strollers, meaning they may not be able to fit through all doorways in the interior. To maximize versatility, you should consider a single-to-double stroller that transitions from a single to a tandem in a variety of ways, such as the well-known 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're in the market for a tandem or side-by-side stroller, be sure the product has been JPMA certified to meet stringent safety standards. Be aware of the maximum weight limits for each seat, since exceeding them can lead to frame fatigue or other issues.
It's easy to get caught in the jingles and whistles, however it's important to remember that strollers are essentially baby carriers that are carried for long periods of time. It should be easy to clean and maintain, and comfortable for both of the passengers. It should also feature a a familiar, intuitive design that lets the person pushing the stroller to maneuver it effortlessly.
Easy of Use
A double stroller must be easy to maneuver on a variety terrains for families who are always on the move. Strollers that have features like windows that peek-a-boo, adjustable canopies and sturdy brake systems are vital to ensure the safety of your children. But there are also other features that make them simpler to use. For instance the stroller must be compact enough to fit in the trunk of your car, while still offering ample storage space for your groceries and other items. It's also important to include thoughtful features, like a cup holder for one parent or consoles for parents, as well as an eating tray. These will make traveling with two kids much easier.
During our testing we evaluated each stroller based on its performance on various terrains, as well as its ability to maneuver through tight spaces. We also examined how easy it was to fold and unfold, and whether or not a particular feature enhanced the overall function of the stroller. A stroller without rethread straps makes it easy to adjust the seat belts. This can be a major selling point for parents on the go because it cuts down on time and removes the need to re-thread the harness.
The UPPAbaby 2 Double was a top performer in this metric as it offered a wide range of seating configurations, and additional accessories to accommodate families that are growing. The wagon-style double stroller expands to accommodate an additional seat, a bassinet or even a toddler riding board that is perfect for families who are active and planning long, tiring days with multiple kids of varying age. It is able to glide effortlessly over cobblestones and pavements and ballfields. It can be folded flat to fit in a trunk or a closet. Our test subject Kerry was impressed by the simple and intuitive nature of this stroller's design. The clever packaging with clearly marked sections as well as a the user's guide made it simple to put this stroller together.
Stores
A double stroller has the potential to hold twice as much as a single stroller, therefore, you should look for plenty of storage space. You want a stroller with enough storage space to accommodate the essentials of both parents and children including bottles as well as snacks, toys and diapers. Look for baskets and pockets under the seats. Also, think about pushchairsandprams.uk with an expandable cargo space to accommodate bulky items like lunch bags and diaper bags.
A quality double stroller should be able to adjust as your family grows. For instance certain models come with the bassinet attachment, which can accommodate newborns, while others feature child seats that can expand with your children until they're ready to ride on the back of the stroller, Billingsley says. Some double strollers permit older siblings to share in the fun with a rider board.
There are many different double strollers on the market. You can choose from models with high-performance features which are suitable for rough terrain, to affordable options that you can use daily. While shopping, you can read reviews and suggestions from families just like yours to get a better idea of what to expect from the double stroller you choose.
Double strollers are available in three different design formats such as tandem, side-byside, and wagon-style. Billingsley says that side-by-side strollers are the most adaptable and ideal for twins as well as children of a similar age. Tandem double strollers, on other hand, have two seats set next to each other and facing in opposite directions--a ideal choice for children of the same age, or for siblings who love to interact with each other. Tandem strollers are more difficult to maneuver through narrow spaces, and are less likely to fit in doors.
Check out this top selection by Safety 1st if you prefer a wagon-style double stroller. Testers loved how this affordable model has multiple seating options as well as the ability to connect two infant car seats or a single child in the convertible toddler seat. Our experts also praised memory foam seats and canopy that has 50+ SPF and foam-filled wheels that will never wear out. When it's time to fold this model requires only a few tugs on the straps under each seat (under where kids sit) to fold.