Buying Guide For Double Strollers
If you have two children that are in the same age group A double stroller can be a great investment. These compact tandem strollers or versatile side-by-side buggies help you keep an eye on both kids at the same time braving the grocery aisle as well as the parks and other obstacles life throws your way.
Comfort
The comfort factor is one of the most important factors to consider when shopping for a double-stroller. This includes the seating arrangement as well as the overall size, which will have an impact on the ease of use and storage. Katie Billingsley, a child development expert from Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat, advises parents to check the stroller's weight and folded dimensions. "They must also take into consideration the recline options for seats and the age ranges of their children to ensure that it's the perfect fit."
A good double stroller should be able to handle different 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 age groups, and comfort features like peek-a-boo window and adjustable canopies that protect children from the sun or rain.
For a majority of families double strollers will be used from birth and into the age of five, so it's crucial to consider the seating options. Billingsley states that there are two major categories of in-line seating with one seat in front of the other, and side-by-side, with seats next to one another. Some parents prefer the in-line option due to its sleek style and its versatility. Others prefer the wagon style double stroller to maximize space for grocery or bulky items.
While some products may have different recline options, with one seat almost flat while the other is upright, this type of distinction is more prevalent in the in-line models. Billingsley suggests selecting a model with a near-flat recline and leg rest adjustment for both seats. This will ensure that both children can lay comfortably.
She also suggests that parents look for strollers with storage compartments to allow them to quickly access their snacks, personal items, and toys while on the move. She also suggests that it's beneficial to choose a stroller that has a parent console or organizer bag that can be attached to the handlebars, which can help keep essentials within reach.
A few of the top-rated double strollers can be expanded giving parents the ability to modify the layout according to their family's requirements. The Mockingbird Expandable, for instance is a highly-rated double stroller which can be used from birth with just one seat, and later converted into a tandem (with two seats and a bassinet) when the child is older.
Safety
Double strollers have to be able to support the weight of two adults, as well as any additional cargo. Strollers need to be simple to maneuver and push, especially when on rough terrain and in tight spaces. The best strollers feature ergonomic handlebars that can be adjusted in height to allow parents to maintain their good posture when pushing them. A harness that does not need to be rethread which makes the adjustment of seat belts faster and easier to do, is a nice feature to look for. A sturdy brake system and wheels that can glide over any surface are essential safety features.
Some parents opt for an arrangement that is side by side to allow both children to meet up during family outings. double travel stroller Push Chairs And Prams UK can help prevent siblings arguing about who gets to sit in which place however it's not foolproof. If the seats are positioned at different heights, one child may be able to kick or punch the other on a walk.
If you have twins or siblings who are close in age, a tandem stroller can be beneficial in being able to see both children at the same time. However, they are more spacious than other double strollers, and they may not fit through all interior doorways. For maximum versatility, consider a stroller that can change from a single to a tandem in different ways, like the well-known CYBEX Gazelle S. These models can be adapted to a wide range of configurations, and let you click in infant car seats or cot attachments depending on your needs.
If you decide to purchase a side-by-side or tandem stroller, make sure that the stroller is JPMA-certified to meet strict safety standards. Be sure to check the weight limits that apply to each seat, as exceeding them could result in frame fatigue or other issues.
While it's easy to concentrate on all the extra bells and whistles of the latest stroller, it's crucial to remember that a stroller is essentially a baby carrier that will be used for extended 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 lets the person pushing the stroller to move it easily.
Ease of Use
For families that are on the move, a double stroller must be able to maneuver easily over various terrains. Strollers with features such as peek-a-boo windows, adjustable canopies and sturdy brake systems are crucial to ensure the safety of your children. But there are also other features that make them easier to use. For instance, a stroller must be small enough to fit into the trunk of your car while still offering ample storage space for food items and other things. Also important are thoughtful touches like a one-parent cup holder or console for parents, as well as an eating tray for children -- all things that will make life on the go with two kids much simpler.
In our testing, we evaluated each stroller based on how it did on a variety of surfaces and how well it maneuvered in tight spaces. We also assessed how easy it was to fold and unfold, and whether or not a specific feature improved the overall functionality of the stroller. For example a stroller that has a harness that does not rethread makes the adjustment of the seat belts easy and quick. This is a major selling point for parents who are constantly moving around, since it removes the need to rethread the harness.
The UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double scored highly in this measure, since it offered an impressive range of seating configurations and additional accessories to accommodate families that are growing. The wagon-style double stroller is able to accommodate an additional seat as well as a bassinet, or a toddler riding board--perfect for families who are active and planning long days on the go with multiple kids of various age groups. It is able to glide effortlessly over pavements, cobblestones, and ball fields. It can be folded flat to store in a trunk or closet. Our test subject Kerry was impressed by the simple, intuitive nature of this stroller's design. Its clever packaging clear sections, well-labeled sections and helpful user guides made assembling this stroller an absolute breeze.
Stores
Double strollers can carry twice more than a single one so be sure to search for ample storage space. You want a stroller with enough storage space to accommodate the essentials of both parents and children like bottles and snacks, toys, and diapers. Look for baskets and pockets under the seats. Also, consider a stroller that has an expandable cargo area to accommodate bulky items such as diaper bags and lunchbags.
A good double stroller should be able to grow with your family. Billingsley states that certain models come with a bassinet attachment to accommodate newborns. Other models come with child seats that be able to grow with your child until they are old enough to ride on the back. Some double strollers also allow for a rider board to let older siblings join in the fun.
You'll find a wide variety of double strollers in the market, from elegant, high-performance models that can handle rough terrain to budget-friendly models that are more for everyday use. While shopping, read reviews and suggestions from families similar to yours to get a better idea of what you can expect from the double stroller that you select.
Double strollers are available in three different design formats including tandem, side-by-side and wagon-style. Billingsley says that side-by-side strollers are the most adaptable and ideal for twins or children of similar ages. Tandem double strollers, on contrary, have two seats set adjacent to one another and facing in opposite directions--a great option for children who are the same age or for siblings who enjoy interacting with each other. Tandem strollers are more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces, and less likely to fit in doorways.
Check out this top selection by Safety 1st if you prefer a wagon style double stroller. This budget-friendly model 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 experts also praised memory foam seats as well as the canopy, which has 50+ SPF and foam-filled wheels that never flatten. And when it's time for you to fold, this model requires just a couple of tugs on the straps of each seat (under the seats where kids are) to fold in half.