Buying Guide For Double Strollers
A double stroller is an excellent investment if you have two children of similar age. These strollers are narrow and narrow, as well as flexible side-by-side buggies allow you to keep an eye on both children at the same time while braving the grocery aisle or the parks, and whatever else life throws 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 as well as the overall size, which can have an impact on the ease of use and storage. Katie Billingsley, a child development expert from Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat, says parents should check the stroller's weight and folded dimensions. "They should also look at the recline options for seats and age ranges to ensure a good fit for their family."
A quality double stroller should be robust enough to navigate all surfaces without difficulty, from parks trails to suburban sidewalks and from infant car seats to toddler booster seats. It should also provide flexible seating arrangements for children of varying ages and comfort features such as windows that can be opened and closed to keep kids shielded from rain or sun.
The seating options are important to many families that will use double strollers from birth to childhood. Billingsley explains that there are two major categories: in-line which has one seat in front of the other, and side-by-side with seats adjacent to one another. "Some parents prefer an in-line stroller due to its sleek appearance and versatility, while others prefer a wagon-style stroller to maximize space for large items or grocery bags."
Although some models may have different recline options--with one seat almost flat while the other remains relatively upright--this type of disparity is more common in the in-line models. Billingsley suggests choosing a model with an almost flat recline as well as leg rest adjustments for both seats, so that each child can sleep comfortably.
She also suggests that parents search for strollers with storage compartments to allow them to easily access snacks, personal items and toys when in motion. She suggests that it's useful to find a stroller with a parent console or organizer bag that is attached to the handlebars, which can help keep essentials within reach.
A few of the most highly-rated double strollers are expandable that allows parents to modify the layout to meet the needs of their growing family. For instance the Mockingbird Expandable is a highly-rated double stroller that can be used with a single seat from birth and later converted to a tandem (with the addition of a second seat and bassinet) as the child gets older.
Safety
Double strollers must be able to support the weight of two passengers and any additional cargo. Strollers must also be simple to maneuver and push, especially in tight areas and over challenging terrain. The best strollers have ergonomic handlebars and adjustable heights which make it easier for parents to maintain good form when pushing them. Another feature that is great is a non-rethread seat belt harness, which allows for a more comfortable adjustment of the seat belts. Also, double push chair and wheels that glide over any surface are crucial safety features.
Some parents prefer an arrangement that is side by side so that both children can meet up when they go on family outings. This arrangement can stop sibling rivalries over who is allowed to sit in which spot but it's not a guarantee. If the seats are set at different levels, one child might be in a position to punch or kick the other during the course of a walk.
For parents with twins or siblings close in age, a tandem-style stroller is a great option for being able to view both kids at once. However, they can be more spacious than other double strollers, meaning they may not be able to pass through all doors in your home. Consider a single-to double stroller that can be transformed from a single to a double in a variety ways. The most popular models are the CYBEX gazelle S.
If you're in the market for a tandem or side-by-side stroller, make sure that the stroller has been JPMA certified to meet strict safety standards. Be double jogging stroller of 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 that come with a new stroller, it's important to be aware that a stroller an infant carrier that will be transported for long periods of time. It should be comfortable for both parents and children and easy to clean and maintain, and in the ideal case, it should offer an intuitive, familiar design that the person pushing it is able to effortlessly move it around without having to think about how to move forward, turn left or right, or apply the brakes.
Ease of Use
A double stroller must be simple to maneuver over different types of terrains for families constantly on the move. Features like adjustable canopy systems windows, peek-aboo windows, and reliable braking systems are essential to ensure the safety of your children however, there are other elements that affect stroller ease of use. For instance the stroller should be compact enough to fit in the trunk of your car, while still offering ample storage space for food items and other things. Additionally, you should consider thoughtful features like a one-parent cup holder or console for parents, as well as an eating tray for children -- all things that can make life on the go with two kids significantly more manageable.
During our testing we evaluated each stroller according to its ability to perform on different terrains and its ability to maneuver through tight spaces. We also considered how easy it was to fold the stroller in half and then unfold it in a timely manner, and if a specific feature made a difference to the overall performance. A stroller without rethread straps makes it simple to adjust the seat belts. double push chair is a major selling point for parents who are constantly on the move, as it eliminates the need to rethread their harness.
The UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double scored high in this metric, as it offered an impressive range of seating configurations as well as additional accessories to accommodate growing families. The double-stroller that looks like a wagon can be expanded to accommodate an additional seat, a bassinet or even a toddler's riding board. This is ideal for families who plan to spend long days traveling with several children of various age groups. It easily glides over cobblestones, pavements, and ballfields. It can also be folded flat to fit in a trunk or closet. Our test subject Kerry was impressed by the simple and easy-to-use nature of the stroller's design. The clever packaging, clearly marked sections and user's manual made it easy to put this stroller together.
Stores
Double strollers can hold twice as much as one stroller so be 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 children and parents including bottles as well as snacks, toys and diapers. Look for baskets and pockets under the seats. Also, consider a stroller that has an expandable cargo space to take in bulky items like lunch bags and diaper bags.
A good double stroller should be able to adjust as your family grows. For example certain models have a bassinet attachment that can accommodate infants, while others feature child seats that can expand with your kids until they're ready to switch to riding on the back of the stroller, Billingsley says. Some double strollers also include a rider board to let older siblings join in the fun.
There are many double strollers available. You can choose from high-performance models that are great for rough terrain, to more budget-friendly options that can use every day. When shopping, take a look at reviews and recommendations of 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 styles: tandem, side-by-side and wagon style. Side-by-side double strollers provide the most flexibility and are perfect for twins or children who are close to their age, Billingsley explains. Tandem double strollers feature two seats arranged in tandem facing in opposite directions. This is a good option for children who are the same age or siblings who like to be social with one another. Tandem strollers are more difficult to maneuver through narrow spaces, and less likely to fit in doorways.
If you prefer a wagon-style double stroller check out this top pick from Safety 1st. This model is affordable and was praised by test participants for its multiple seating configurations. It can be used with two infant car seats, or one child in a convertible toddler seat. Our testers also loved the soft memory foam seats and the 50+ SPF canopy, and foam-filled tires that will never go flat. And when it's time to fold, this model requires only a couple of pulls on the straps on each seat (under the seats where kids are) to fold in half.