The Reason Why Double Strollers Is Everyone's Obsession In 2023
Buying Guide For Double Strollers
If you have two kids that are in the same age group, a double stroller can be an invaluable investment. These strollers are narrow and narrow, as well as versatile side-by-side buggies help you keep an eye on both children at the same time navigating the aisles of the supermarket or the parks, and whatever else life throws your way.
Comfort
When you are looking for a double stroller for your child, comfort is a key consideration. This can include the seating arrangement as well as the overall size, which will have an impact on ease of use and storage. Katie Billingsley, a child expert in child development from Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat, advises parents to be aware of the stroller's weight and 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 a perfect fit."
A good double stroller should be able to navigate a variety of surfaces easily, from suburban sidewalks to parks, and from toddler booster seats to infant car seats. It should also offer versatile seating arrangements for children of different age groups and comfort features like windows that peek out and adjustable canopy to keep kids shielded from sun or rain.
Seating options are crucial for many families who will use double strollers from the time of birth until the age of. "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 inline option due to its sleek style and flexibility. Others prefer a wagon-style double stroller for maximum space for grocery or bulky items.
In-line models tend to have this kind of difference. Some models might offer different recline options, with one being almost flat and the other being more upright. Billingsley suggests selecting a model with both a near flat recline and leg rest adjustments for both seats. This will ensure that both children can lie down comfortably.
She also suggests 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 suggests that it's beneficial to choose a stroller with an organizer or parent console bag attached to the handlebars, which can help keep essentials within reach.
Some of the most highly-rated double strollers can be expanded, allowing parents to customize the set-up based on the needs of their expanding family. For example, the Mockingbird Expandable is a highly-rated double stroller that can be used with just a single seat as early as birth, and then converted to tandem (with an additional seat and bassinet) as the child grows older.
Safety
Double strollers must be able to handle the weight of two passengers--plus any additional cargo. Strollers should also be easy to maneuver and push, especially in tight areas and on terrain that is difficult to navigate. The best strollers come with ergonomic handlebars and adjustable heights which make it easier for parents to maintain good form when pushing them. A harness that does not need to be rethread 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 glide over any surface are important safety features.
Some parents choose a side by side design so that both children can be together when they go on family outings. This arrangement can prevent siblings fighting over who is allowed to sit in which spot but it's not a guarantee. If the seats are different heights, a child could kick or punch another while walking in the event that the seats are at different levels.
For parents with 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. Double strollers are typically wider, and may not be able to fit through some interior doors. For maximum versatility, consider a single-to-double stroller that transitions from a single stroller to a tandem in different ways, such as the well-known CYBEX Gazelle S. These models can accommodate a wide range of configurations and let you click in infant car seats or cot attachments according to your requirements.
If you decide to purchase a side-by-side or tandem-style stroller, make sure that the stroller is JPMA-certified to meet the strictest safety standards. Be sure to check the maximum weight limits for each seat, as over-weighting could lead to frame fatigue or other issues.
It's easy to be swept in the jingles and whistles, but it's important to keep in mind that strollers are essentially baby carriers that will be used for extended durations. It should be easy to clean and maintain, and comfortable for both passengers. It should also have an easy-to-use, familiar design that lets the person pushing it to easily maneuver it.
Simple to Use
A double stroller should be easy to maneuver on different terrains for families who are constantly moving. Strollers with features such as windows that can be opened and closed, adjustable canopy and reliable brake systems are vital to ensure the safety of your children. But there are other features that make them more convenient to use. A stroller must be compact enough to fit in the trunk of your car, but still have plenty of storage space for groceries or other items. It is also important to consider thoughtful additions such as a cup holder for one parent, parent consoles and a snack tray for kids--all things that will make life on the go with two kids much more manageable.
During our testing we rated each stroller based on how it performed on a variety terrains, and how easily it could maneuver in tight spaces. We also assessed how easy it was to fold and unfold, and whether or not a particular feature improved the overall functionality of the stroller. A stroller with no-rethread straps is easy to adjust the seat belts. This is a major selling point for parents on the go because it cuts down on time and reduces the need to rethread the harness.
The UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double scored high in this measure, since it offers a wide range of seating configurations and additional accessories to accommodate families that are growing. The wagon-style double stroller is able 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 children of different age groups. It easily glides over cobblestones, pavements, and ballfields. It can fold flat to store in a trunk or closet. Our tester Kerry was impressed by the simple and intuitive nature of this stroller's design. The clever packaging clear sections, well-marked sections and the user's guide made it simple to put this stroller together.
Stores
A double stroller can be able to hold twice as much stuff as a single stroller, so look for ample storage space. Ideally, you want an item that can hold the essentials for both kids--nappies bottles, snacks, and toys, along with parents' belongings like phones, wallets keys and wallets. Look for pockets and baskets under the seats. Also, consider a stroller that has an expandable cargo area to accommodate bulky items such as lunch bags and diaper bags.
A quality double stroller should be able to adjust as your family expands. Billingsley states that certain models come with an attachment for a bassinet to accommodate infants. Others have child seats that can expand with the child until they are able to ride on the back. double pram stroller allow older children to join in the fun by riding on the rider board.
There's a wide selection of double strollers in the market, ranging from sleek, high-performance models that are able to handle rough terrain to budget-friendly models more suitable for use in the everyday. While shopping, read reviews and recommendations of families just like yours to get an idea of what to expect from the double stroller you select.
Double strollers are available in three different styles: 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 who are close to each other in age, Billingsley explains. Tandem double strollers feature two seats set up in a tandem arrangement facing in opposite directions. This is a great option for children who are the same age, or siblings who want to play 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.
Take a look at this top choice by Safety 1st if you prefer a wagon style double stroller. This model is affordable and was praised by testers for its many seating options. It can be used with two car seats for infants or one child sitting in a convertible toddler chair. Our reviewers also praised the memory foam seats and canopy that has 50+ SPF and foam-filled wheels that will never wear out. When it's time for folding this model requires only a few tugs on the straps beneath each seat (under the seats where kids sit) to fold.