Double Stroller: The Good, The Bad, And The Ugly

What to Look For in a Double Stroller The best double strollers develop with families and provide thoughtful features to keep kids at ease and content. The best double strollers come with adjustable footrests, as well as smooth riding over old sidewalks, gravel, and trails. Kerry appreciated that the stroller arrived in multiple boxes but everything was well-labeled and easy to open. double buggy appreciated that the stroller accepts two infant car seats and can be paired with a riding board for older children. Seating Options When it comes to double strollers, the seating options are the main factor that determines the purchase for many families. You'll need to consider the age of your children, their relative sizes, and the seating arrangements that will work best for you. Alli Cavasino is a senior editor at Consumer Reports. She says that if you're looking to purchase a tandem stroller, you should look at one that has child seats that are attached. This model does not require car seat adapters. These double strollers are typically wider than other double strollers. They may not fit through the standard doors of your home. If your children are older age, you might want to consider a stroller with two seats that can be transformed into a stand-and-ride model. This allows children to observe or ride with their sibling. These types of in-line strollers can also be adapted to fit infant car seats, should they be required and are a great choice for children who'll be 3 to 5 years apart, according Billingsley. Billingsley advises that you must be aware of the fabric used to make the seat. Certain fabrics are more breathable than others, and easier to clean. It's also important to consider how easy it is to fold your new stroller down for transporting it to and from your car. “There's nothing more frustrating than purchasing your dream stroller only discover that it's too heavy or large for your trunk,” says the expert. If you're looking for an affordable option that can accommodate different seating options take a look at this award winner from Summer Infant It comes with two toddler seats as well as a bassinet attachment. The stroller can be made into a triple stroller, with an additional seat or riding board. The seats recline and the control of the calf bar can be adjusted independently. This is great when one child wants a nap while another wants to explore their surroundings. When folded, it's compact and fits into the majority of trunks. Age Ranges Sit-and-stand strollers are the best option for families with children who are close in age. They provide convenience and comfort. These strollers come with a seat in front for toddlers or infants and a platform, bench or another type of surface at the rear that allows older children to stand up or get off and on. These strollers are ideal for older children and toddlers but not suitable for infants or children who do not yet have the balance and coordination to stand on their own. A narrow tandem stroller can help you keep your eyes on both children simultaneously and can fit into tight spots like aisles of the grocery store that are crowded or family photos at the park. These models are smaller and easier to maneuver than double strollers that are side-by-side however they don't offer as much storage space under the carriage, and they're not able to fit an the infant car seat. If you plan to use a double stroller for several years—or even over a decade, it's worthwhile purchasing a model that can adapt to your children's needs. Double strollers are more expensive than single ones, but if they're chosen correctly, you can save money over the long haul. Our testers put each stroller through a series maneuverability tests and off-road adventures. They found them easy to navigate on various terrains. If you intend to use it in urban areas or in cities where the sidewalks and traffic are prone to bumps, you may want something more robust and durable that can handle rough treatment. Many double strollers are designed to last for a long period of time, but you could find that the seats get worn out faster than expected or your kids grow out of it before it's ready to retire. If you're on a budget look into one that's been tested for at least 4 years and aims to last as long as you can. Simple to Use If you're planning to purchase a double stroller, you need to ensure that it be easy to use for both children. That means comfortable harnesses for children who sit, and easy-to-grasp handles for toddlers who stand. The stroller can also be easily rolled around and maneuvered through tight spaces. The top strollers we tested in our Lab tests, like the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie or Thule Urban Glide 2 Double are among the most easy to maneuver. A double stroller should also be easy to fold and put away. The most efficient models fold in two or three steps and are small enough to fit into the majority of trunks. It's also a plus if the stroller is versatile, with options to add an additional seat or ride-along board. Some strollers can also hold infant car seats so you don't have to wake your baby to transfer them to the stroller when it's time to go home. A good double stroller is also strong, so it can be used on a variety of terrains. For example, some can be converted into an jogging stroller that has a specialized front wheel, and some can also be used as an umbrella stroller. Some even come with cargo baskets that can be affixed to the back of the stroller to carry groceries or shopping bags. Another factor to consider is whether you'd like a side-by-side stroller or a tandem. Side-by-side strollers are typically larger than tandem models, and they aren't easy to maneuver through narrow spaces like doorways or aisles of the grocery store. However, they offer the convenience of allowing both children to view the same scenery. They are also much easier to navigate in bad weather since they provide more protection from the elements. Many parents choose to purchase a stroller that can be converted from single to double, so that they can use it with a baby and later change to a regular double when their children are older. After talking with parents, it became apparent that it is better to purchase what you need now than to try to anticipate what you will require in the near-term. Stores When shopping for double-strollers, it's crucial to consider the amount of storage available and the size. Many models have spacious easy-to-access baskets that are able to store a large amount of items. They also often feature several cup holders for parents as well as convertible seating arrangements that provide the most comfortable legroom for children. Some of these features can increase the cost therefore, make sure to go through the reviews and descriptions carefully. Most double strollers are classified as tandem or side-byside designs. Tandem strollers have two seats assembled on the same frame and are typically more suitable for older children who are already comfortable with sitting on their own. They usually have more storage space than side-by-side models. However, some models can be difficult to push with the front seat fully reclined. Side-byside strollers have two distinct seats that are positioned side-by-side and are generally suited to younger babies or toddlers who haven't yet learned independence sitting yet. They are also easier to push and maneuver than tandem strollers. They can be more expensive, and they have smaller baskets. There are also specialized double strollers specifically designed for jogging and biking. They are more expensive than the standard all-terrain strollers and typically come with fixed front wheels that restrict their mobility. It is worth looking into them only if you plan to use them for such activities. Whether you're shopping for twins or an infant and an older toddler, or a child who isn't quite ready to go out on their own, there's a perfect double stroller for you. Our top choices are easy to maneuver, flexible and stable, as well as seating that can grow with your child's. So whether you're looking for a tandem stroller or one that will accommodate your infant car seat, look through our top choices to find the ideal double stroller for your family.