Are Double Strollers As Important As Everyone Says?
Buying Guide For Double Strollers
If you have two kids that are in the same age group A double stroller can be a great investment. These compact tandem buggies or versatile side-by-side buggies let you keep both children in sight while navigating the grocery aisle, parks, and whatever else life can throw at you.
Comfort
The comfort factor is one of the most important factors to think about when purchasing a double-stroller. This includes the seating arrangement and overall size, which will have an impact on the ease of use and storage. "Parents should determine how much the stroller weighs as well as its folded dimensions," says child development expert and mom Katie Billingsley of Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat. "They should also look at the seat recline options and age ranges to ensure a good fit for their family."
A good double stroller should be able to handle a variety of surfaces easily from suburban sidewalks to park paths and from toddler booster seats to infant car seats. It should have a variety of seating options for children of different stages of development, as well as comfort features such as a peek-a-boo windows and adjustable canopy options which protect children from rain or sun.
Seating best compact double stroller are crucial for many families who will use a double stroller from birth to childhood. Billingsley states that there are two primary categories of in-line seating with one seat in front of the other, and side-by-side seating with seats next to one another. "Some parents prefer an in-line option for its sleek appearance and versatility, while others prefer a wagon-style stroller to maximize space for bulky items or groceries."
Some products may offer different recline options - with one seat being almost flat, while the other one remains upright--this type of disparity is more common in models that are in-line. Billingsley recommends selecting a product with both a near flat recline as well as leg rest adjustments for both seats. This will ensure that both children lay comfortably.
She also suggests parents look for strollers that have storage compartments to allow them to quickly access snacks, personal items and toys when on the move. She also says that it is helpful to find a stroller that comes with a parent console or organizer bag attached on the handlebars. This can help parents keep essentials close at hand.
A few of the top-rated double strollers are expandable, allowing parents to customize the configuration to meet the requirements of their growing family. The Mockingbird Expandable, for instance is a highly-rated double stroller which can be used from birth using a single seat, then transformed into a tandem (with two seats and a bassinet) when the child is older.
Safety
Double strollers must be able to support the weight of two adults, as well as any additional cargo. Strollers must also be simple to maneuver and push, especially in tight spaces and on difficult terrain. The best strollers come with ergonomic handlebars with adjustable heights which allow parents to maintain a good posture when pushing them. Another great feature is a no-rethread belt harness that allows for a more comfortable adjustment of the seat belts. A sturdy brake system and wheels that glide over any surface are crucial safety features.
Some parents choose a side by side design so that both children can be together during family outings. This arrangement can reduce siblings arguing over who gets to sit in which seat, but it isn't foolproof. If the seats are placed at different heights, one child may be in a position to punch or kick the other on walks.
A tandem-style stroller is great option for parents with twins or siblings that are similar in age. It lets them observe both children at the same time. These double strollers can be wider, and may not be able to fit through some doors inside. You could consider a single-to-double stroller that can be transformed from a single stroller to double in various ways. Popular models include the CYBEX gazelle S.
If you're in the market for a tandem or a side-by-side stroller, be sure the product has been JPMA certified to meet strict safety standards. Pay attention to the weight limit that applies to each seat. If you exceed these limits, it could cause frame fatigue or other issues.
While it's easy to concentrate on all the extra bells and whistles on the latest stroller, it's important to keep in mind that a stroller is an infant carrier that will be carried around for long durations of time. It must be easy to clean and maintain and comfortable for both of the passengers. It should also have a a familiar, intuitive design that allows the person pushing the stroller to easily maneuver it.
Easy to Use
A double stroller must be easily maneuverable on different terrains for families who are constantly moving. Features like adjustable canopy systems with windows that peek out 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. A stroller must be compact enough to fit into the trunk of your vehicle yet have plenty of storage space for food or other items. It is also important to consider thoughtful additions like a one-parent cup holder, parent consoles and a snack tray for kids--all things that will make life with two kids much more manageable.
In our tests, we evaluated each stroller on how well it performed on a variety surfaces and how well it could maneuver in tight spaces. We also assessed how simple it was to fold and unfold and whether or not a specific feature improved the overall functionality of the stroller. A stroller that does not have rethread straps makes it easy to adjust the seat belts. This can be a huge benefit for parents who are on the move, as it saves time and removes the need to re-thread the harness.
The UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double scored highly in this metric, as 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 two seats as well as a bassinet or a toddler riding board that is perfect for families with active children who plan long, tiring days with multiple kids of varying age groups. It is able to glide effortlessly over cobblestones, pavements, and ballfields. It can be folded flat to fit in a trunk or closet. Our test subject Kerry was impressed by the simple and intuitive nature of this stroller's design. The smart 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 than a single stroller, so make sure you have plenty of storage space. It is ideal to have a stroller that is able to hold the necessities for both kids, including nappies, bottles, snacks and toys, in addition to parents' items such as wallets, phones keys and wallets. Find baskets under the seat and other pockets, and think about a stroller with an expandable cargo space that can carry heavy items such as diaper bags and lunch bags.
A quality double stroller will be able to expand with your family. Billingsley says that some models come with the option of a bassinet attachment that can accommodate newborns. Other models come with child seats that be able to grow with your child until they are able to ride on the back. Some double strollers allow for a rider board that allows older children to be part of the fun.
There are many double strollers available. You can choose from models with high-performance features that are ideal for rough terrain, or more budget-friendly options that you can use daily. While shopping, take a look at reviews and suggestions from families like yours to get a better sense of what to expect with the double stroller you choose.
Double strollers are available in three different models: tandem, side by side and wagon-style. Billingsley states that side-byside strollers are the most flexible and ideal for twins as well as children of similar age. Tandem double strollers, on the other hand, have two seats that are placed adjacent to one another and facing in opposite directions--a ideal choice for children of the same age or for siblings who love to interact with one another. Tandem strollers are more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces, and are less likely to fit in doorways.
Take a look at this top choice by Safety 1st if you prefer a wagon style double stroller. This budget-friendly model was highly praised by our testers for its many seating options. It can be used with two infant car seats or one child sitting in a convertible toddler seat. Our experts also appreciated the comfy memory foam seats, 50+ SPF canopy, and foam-filled tires that never stop running flat. And when it's time for you to fold, this model requires only a couple of pulls on the straps of each seat (under the seats where kids are) to fold it in half.