How to Choose the Best Double Stroller
If you're in the market for a double stroller there are a variety of options. Katie Billingsley, a child development expert and mother, was able to help us choose the right model for you.
Look for a stroller that's fairly easy to push, fold and carry. You should consider a stroller that can accommodate two infant car seats or a toddler with a riderboard.
Safety
Look for a double-stroller that has all-terrain wheels and a brake that can be operated with a hand if you want to ensure your children are safe while walking. These wheels and brake help you navigate trails as well as sidewalks, gravel, and other paths without the risk of your children sliding or slipping away. The best double strollers offer ample storage space to store items for your kids, including snacks and toys.
Choosing the right double stroller for your family starts by determining how old and distant in age. Many double strollers only accommodate one child seat, but those are available in different configurations, so you can select the type of seating that is most suitable for your children and your lifestyle.
The classic doubles are perfect for children of similar ages that like to interact. Double-decker designs permit you to place one seat above the other, or add a riderboard to older siblings. Babies can be placed in a bassinet attached to the frame or in a standalone attachment that allows you to have an unobstructed view of your baby. If you are expecting twins or already have twins and want to have a twin stroller, it is the best choice.
For families who are more adventurous, look for a double stroller that is able to handle off-road terrain or even hiking. Many of these strollers were designed with active parents and their children in mind. They come with features that will let you take them on any trip, no matter how rough or high the climbs may be.
In addition to all-terrain tires, the top double strollers come with thoughtful features that make navigating tough terrain and weather easier. For example this jogging stroller comes with a wrist loop for your child, so you're sure they're secure when running downhill or at speeds that are higher. It also comes with a full-coverage canopy that is ventilated to keep your kids cool in the summer heat.
If you're looking for a light, compact double stroller, look at this model from Joovy. It weighs less than 23lbs., making it ideal for air travel and storage in overhead compartments or trunks. It also comes with a large storage basket and an easy-to-use one-step parking brake.
Seating
Contrary to the giant strollers of the past the modern double strollers are sleek and can accommodate various configurations that can be adapted to families. Some work as traditional side-by-side strollers, while others -- like the Baby Trend Sit 'N Stand Double Stroller--function as a base for car seats, toddler seats or bassinets click into. They are available in a variety of widths and weight limits, allowing infants and children up to kindergarten.
A good double stroller should be easy to fold and move, as well as allowing you to adjust your handlebar height to ensure you are comfortable on all of your outings. A good handlebar is easy to hold and will encourage you to walk in a logical manner (ask for advice from other parents). It should come with a variety of storage options that can accommodate all the essentials your children need.
If your twins are close in age, you might discover that a tandem stroller is best for your family. The seats on these models are positioned together, allowing you to be able to interact with them both and keep an eye on both of them at the same time. They can also recline separately so that one child can sleep while the other is awake and ready to go.
The downside to twin strollers is that it's larger than a single-occupant model, which can make it difficult to navigate the aisles of shops, sidewalks and narrow doorways. For some families the benefits are worth the extra effort and size.
If you're looking for a small double-stroller, then the UPPAbaby V2 Double is a good option. The UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double is a great choice for urban living due to its shock absorption, sleek design, and capacity to accommodate two infant car seats. It also has an optional running board that can be used by older children who are mobile.
Another alternative is a wagon-style double stroller, such as the Delta Children LX Side-by-Side Stroller. It's a basic model however it has plenty of storage space and seating. It also has sturdy wheels that can handle any terrain. It also features a 50+ SPF canopy and adjustable handlebars. Some parents complain that the seats are a little too low and can't recline to a fully flat position, making it difficult for small children to be comfortable or reach their snack trays.
Easy of Use
A double stroller is usually an investment of a large amount and one that you hope to use for many years. When shopping for one you need to ensure that it's easy to use and clean. The best double strollers have been developed to be user-friendly and have many convenient features.
All strollers we tested could be folded easily and compactly with just one hand. These strollers are lightweight and are ideal for traveling. Many of them fit in the majority of trunks and can be checked for gate-checking on planes. Furthermore, the majority our test subjects found that their strollers folded down to smaller dimensions than their single-seat counterparts and some even had a carry strap for convenient carrying.
If you're looking for a versatile double stroller that will adapt to your family's needs Look no further than the Valco Snap Duo Trend. This side-byside stroller is compatible with infant car seats and other accessories. It can be used from birth up to preschool age. Each seat has a 5-point harness and an enormous canopy that offers ample shade from the sun.
The Joovy Twin Roo is another option that's highly praised. The stroller is light and extremely compact, measuring just 22 lbs and 26 inches wide when folded. The front seat reclines to almost the full flat position and the back seat comes with an adjustable recline for each child. There's a large storage bin and an easy, one-step linked parking brake that makes this stroller extremely user-friendly and easy to maneuver.
The only downsides to the Joovy Twin Roo are minor and specific to this model. Kerry says that the packaging is clever and enjoyable, however, it comes in five boxes that could be a bit cumbersome to carry around. She also found the Genuis magnetic clasp somewhat awkward and took her some time before she could master it. She was happy with the stroller, however, and would highly recommend it.
Stores
Strollers are available in a variety of sizes and styles that include tandems (single-file seating) and side-by-side doubles and many that let you modify the layout using a car seat or bassinet attachment. Some have rider boards that can be added for older children. They're not all created equal. Some are lightweight and easy to use, while others are heavy, bulky and difficult to fold.
If pushchair double pushchairsandprams.uk looking for a lightweight double stroller, take a look at the Joovy Caboose Ultralight Graphite. It was the lightest option in our tests at close to 23 pounds. It is also easy to fold, yet it still has all of the features parents need to have a great time out with two children.
The Vista v2 double by UPPAbaby is another model that our test subjects loved. They were particularly impressed by its sleek design and ease-of-use. It can accommodate two infant car seats, a toddler seat, and a bassinet with no adapters required. The rear seat can be removed to make it a triple or quad stroller. It comes with a large basket for storage and can be upgraded by adding an organizer for parents and all-terrain tires as well with side storage bags.
Billingsley says the ideal double stroller for toddlers is one that offers multiple customization options, like an adjustable seat or bassinet. This is because toddlers typically have little endurance, so a stroller with a bassinet attachment will provide them with a safe spot to nap. The expert says that a double stroller should also have a comfortable recline position and harness system as well as plenty of storage space for snacks and toys.
The ZOE Twin+ is popular with parents due to its light weight and flexibility. It is gate-check-friendly for airlines it can be accessed through all doors (without taking off the wheels on the front), and can be made into a quad or triple stroller by adding an additional tandem. The nearly flat, independently reclined seats as well as the extra-long sun canopies that are adjustable are other highlights. A spacious underseat basket and the inclusion of parent and child cup holders round out the impressive set of features. The only disadvantage according to Taylor the manufacturer, is that it doesn't have a a small profile when folded and can be difficult to stow.