Buying Guide For Double Strollers
If you have two children who are close in age, a double stroller could be a great investment. These narrow tandem strollers or flexible side-by-side buggies allow you to keep your eyes on both kids at the same time while navigating the aisles of the supermarket or the parks, and whatever else life throws your way.
Comfort
Comfort is a major factor to think about when purchasing a double-stroller. This could include 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, suggests parents be aware of the stroller's weight and folded dimensions. "They should also take a look at the recline options for seats and age ranges to ensure the best fit for their family."
A reputable double stroller must 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 come with a variety of seating options for children at different age groups, and features that provide comfort, such as a peek-aboo window and adjustable canopy that shield kids from the sun or rain.
Seating options are crucial for many families who use a double stroller from the time of birth until the age of. "There are two main categories - in-line with one seat in front of the other, and side by side with seats adjacent to each other," Billingsley explains. "Some parents prefer an in-line model due to its sleek design and versatility, whereas others prefer a wagon-style stroller to make the most space for large items or grocery bags."
In-line models are more likely to have this kind of difference. Some models might offer different recline options, with one being almost flat, while the other remaining relatively upright. Billingsley suggests choosing a model that has a near-flat recline and leg rest adjustments for both seats, so that both children can lie back comfortably.
Then, she suggests to look for a stroller that includes storage compartments that allow parents to quickly access snacks, toys, and personal items while out and about. She adds that it's also beneficial to choose the stroller that has an organizer or parent console bag that is attached to the handlebars, which can help keep essentials close at hand.
A few of the top-rated double strollers can be enlarged to allow parents to customize the setup according to their family's requirements. For example the Mockingbird Expandable is a highly rated double stroller that can be used with just a single seat from birth, and later converted to a tandem (with the addition of a second seat and bassinet) as the child grows older.
Safety
Double strollers have to be able to carry the weight of two people, plus any additional cargo. Strollers must also be easy to push and maneuver, especially in tight areas and over challenging terrain. The best strollers have ergonomic handlebars that can be adjusted in height to ensure that parents maintain a good posture when pushing them. Another great feature is a non-rethread seat belt harness that makes it easier to adjust the belts for your child. Safety features include a robust brake system and wheels which slide over any surface.
Some parents opt for an arrangement that allows both children to be able to see one another during family outings. This arrangement can help prevent sibling squabbles about who gets to sit in which place however it's not foolproof. If the seats are different heights, a child could punch or kick another while walking when the seats are on different levels.
For parents of twins or siblings of similar age, a tandem-style stroller is a great option for being able to see both kids at once. Double strollers can be larger, and might not be able to fit through some doors inside. You could consider a single-to-double stroller that can be transformed from a single to double in various ways. The most popular models are the CYBEX gazelle S.
If you opt for a side-byside or tandem stroller, make sure that the stroller is JPMA-certified to meet stringent safety standards. Also pay attention to the maximum weight limits for each seat, as exceeding them can lead to frame fatigue or other issues.
It's easy to be swept in the jingles and whistles, but it's important to remember that strollers are basically baby carriers that are used for extended times. It should be comfortable for both parents and children and easy to clean and maintain, and in the ideal case it should have an intuitive, familiar design so that the person pushing it can effortlessly move it around without having to think twice about how to move forward, turn left or right, or even apply the brakes.
Easy of Use
A double stroller must be simple to maneuver over different terrains for families who are constantly on the move. Features like adjustable canopy systems windows, peek-aboo windows, and dependable brake systems are essential to ensure the safety of your children but there are other factors that contribute to stroller ease of use. A stroller should be compact enough to fit into the trunk of your vehicle, but still have plenty of storage space for groceries and other things. It is also important to consider thoughtful additions like a cup holder with a single parent, parent consoles and a snack tray for kids--all things that make life with two kids much more manageable.
In our tests, we assessed each stroller according to its performance on various surfaces and its ability to maneuver through tight spaces. We also assessed the ease with which it was possible to fold and unfold and whether or not a particular feature added to the overall functionality of the stroller. For instance a stroller with a harness that does not rethread makes the adjustment of the seat belts quick and simple. click the following page can be a big benefit for parents who are constantly moving around, since it removes the need to rethread their harness.
The UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double scored highly in this metric, as it offered an impressive range of seating configurations and additional accessories to accommodate families that are growing. The wagon-style double stroller can be expanded to allow for two seats as well as a bassinet or a toddler riding board--perfect for active families planning long days on the go with multiple kids of varying ages. It is able to glide effortlessly over pavements, cobblestones, and ballfields. It can fold flat to be stored in a trunk or closet. The design of this stroller is easy and easy to use which was well-loved by our test subject Kerry. Its clever packaging, clearly labeled sections and helpful user guide made putting together this stroller a breeze.
Stores
Double strollers can carry twice as much as one stroller so be sure to search for ample storage space. Ideally, you want a stroller that is able to hold the essentials for both kids--nappies bottles, snacks, and toys, in addition to parents' belongings such as phones, wallets keys and wallets. Look for baskets and pockets under the seats. Also, consider a stroller with an expandable cargo space to take in bulky items like diaper bags and lunchbags.
A quality double stroller will be able to adapt to the needs of your family. For instance certain models have an attachment for a bassinet that can accommodate newborns, while others have child seats that can be adapted to your children until they're able to ride on the back of the stroller, Billingsley says. Some double strollers even include 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 which are suitable for rough terrain, or more budget-friendly options that can use daily. As you shop, read reviews and suggestions from families like yours to gain an idea of what you can expect from the double stroller you select.
Double strollers are available in three different styles: tandem, side-by-side and wagon style. Billingsley states that side-byside strollers are the most adaptable and ideal for twins as well as children of similar age. Tandem double strollers feature two seats arranged in a tandem configuration facing in opposite directions. This is a great option for children of similar age or siblings who want to play with one another. Tandem strollers are more difficult to maneuver through tight spaces and are less likely to pass through doorways than their side-by-side counterparts.
If you're looking for a wagon-style double stroller, check out this top pick from Safety 1st. The testers loved that this budget model comes with a variety of seating options, including the ability to snap in two infant car seats or a single child riding in an convertible toddler seat. Our experts also praised the memory foam seats as well as the canopy, which has 50+ SPF, and foam-filled wheels that never flatten. When it's time for folding, this model only requires just a few nudges on the straps under each seat (under where kids sit) for folding.