What to Look For in a Double Stroller

The most effective double strollers are designed to adapt to the needs of your family. They include thoughtful features that keep children at ease and happy. This includes adjustable foot rests and an easy ride on gravel, trails and old sidewalks.

Kerry was delighted that the stroller was packaged in multiple boxes, however everything was clearly labeled and easy for her to open. She also appreciated the fact that the stroller is able to accommodate two infant car seats and it can be paired with a ride-board for older children.

Seating Options

When it is double strollers, the seating options are the main factor that determines the purchase for many families. You'll have to think about the age of your children, the relative sizes of them and the seating configurations you prefer.

For instance, if have children of similar age and will be sitting together, consider a tandem model that has child seats attached to each other and doesn't require you to use car seat adapters, according to Alli Cavasino who is a senior editor at Consumer Reports. They are generally larger than other types of double strollers, however, so they may not fit into standard door frames in your home.

If your children are of a different age, you may think about a stroller that has two seats that can be transformed into a stand-and-ride model. This allows a child to watch or ride along with their sibling. These types of in-line strollers can also accommodate infant car seats, if needed, and are a good option for children who will be 3-5 years apart, says Billingsley.

You should also take a look at the seat material, says Billingsley. Some offer more breathable fabrics than others and are easier to clean. You should also think about how easy it is to fold your stroller to store it or for transport between your vehicle and home. "Nothing is more frustrating than purchasing your dream stroller but then realizing it's too heavy for you to lift or too large for your trunk," she says.

If you're looking for a budget-friendly option that offers multiple seating configurations look no further than this award-winning model from Summer Infant, which has two toddler seats, a bassinet attachment and can be made into triple stroller by adding an additional seat or riding board. The seats recline and have the calf bar controls that can be adjusted independently, which is perfect for those times when one child needs to sleep while the other wants take in the surroundings. It's also compact when folded down and easily fits in the majority of trunks.

Age Ranges

Sit-and stand strollers are the ideal option for families with children who are close in terms of age. They provide the comfort and convenience. These strollers double usually have a seat for an infant or toddler in front and a bench or platform that allows an older child to stand or hop on and off in the back. They're great for big toddlers and preschoolers, but they won't be suitable for infants or kids who don't yet have the balance and coordination to stand on their own.

A narrow tandem stroller lets you to keep both children within sight at the same time, and also be squeezed into tight spaces such as grocery store aisles or for family photos at the parks. These models are narrower and easier to maneuver than side-byside double strollers double strollers, but they don't have as much storage space under the carriage, and they're not able to fit an the infant car seat.

If you are planning to use a double stroller over the course of a few years, or even over a decade, it's worth purchasing a model that can grow with your children. Double strollers are typically more expensive than single strollers, but when you pick the right one first time it can save you money over the course of time.

Our test participants took each stroller through a series maneuverability tests and off-road excursions. They found them simple to maneuver over various terrains. However, if you're going to use it in urban areas where sidewalks and traffic can be bumpy You might need something more robust and durable that can handle the rough treatment.

Many double strollers are designed to last for a long time, but you could discover that the seats become more worn than you expected or your children grow out of it before it's ready to retire. If you're on a tight budget, consider getting one that's been evaluated for at least four years and is designed to last for as long as is possible.

Ease of Use

If you're going to purchase a double stroller, you need to ensure that it's easy to use for both children. This means that the harnesses need to be comfortable for children who sit, and the handles should be easy to grasp for toddlers. It also means that the stroller rolls easily and is able to be maneuvered in tight spaces and around obstacles. In fact the top-rated strollers from our Lab tests--such as the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie and Thule Urban Glide 2 Double pram stroller (www.medflyfish.com) among the most easy to push.

It's also important that a double stroller is easy to fold and to store. The best models use a one- or two-step process, and they're small enough to fit in the majority of trunks. It's an advantage to include a second chair or a ride-along to the stroller. Some even have the capacity to hold infant car seats, meaning you don't need to wake your baby to transfer them into the stroller when they're ready to go home.

A quality double stroller is also durable and can be used in different kinds of terrains. For example, some can be converted to an jogging stroller by using an adapted front wheel and some are able to be used as an umbrella stroller. Some twin strollers for newborns come with a bag that can be tacked to the back of the stroller to carry shopping bags and groceries.

Another consideration is whether you'd prefer either a side-byside stroller or a tandem. Side-by-side strollers are typically bigger than tandem models and aren't easy to maneuver in narrow spaces like doorways or aisles of grocery stores that are crowded. However, they provide the convenience of allowing every child to view the same scenery. They are also much easier to navigate in bad weather as they offer more protection from the elements.

Many parents decide to purchase a stroller that can be converted from single to double, so that they can use it as a baby, and later change to a regular double when their kiddos are older. But after speaking with parents we've learned it's best to buy what you require at the moment, rather than trying to anticipate what your family will require in the future.

Storage

When you're looking for a double-stroller, you need to consider the amount of storage available and the size. Many models come with spacious, easy-to-access baskets that can hold lots of cargo. Many models also feature several cup holders for parents, as well as seats that can be reversible to give the best legroom for children. However, certain features can add up in cost and it's crucial to read descriptions and reviews carefully.

The majority of double strollers can be classified into tandem or side by side models. Tandem strollers have two seats on one frame, and are best for older children who can sit unassisted. They usually have more storage space than side-byside models. However, some can be difficult to push with the front seat fully reclined.

The side-by-side stroller has two seats that are positioned side-by-side. They're typically best suited to infants or toddlers who aren't yet ready for sitting on their own. They are also easier to push and maneuver than tandem strollers. They are more expensive, and they have smaller baskets.

There are also specialized double strollers that are designed specifically for jogging and biking. They're generally more expensive than all-terrain strollers, and have fixed front wheels, which restrict their mobility. These strollers are worth considering if you intend to use them for these types of activities.

If you're looking for twins, an infant and an older toddler, or a child who isn't quite ready to walk on their own, there's a great double stroller available. Our top choices are easy to maneuver, flexible and stable, with seating that grows with your child's. Check out our top picks for the top double stroller that will accommodate your family regardless of whether you are seeking a tandem stroller or one that accommodates your infant car seat.