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Buying Guide For Double Strollers

If you have two children that are in the same age group, a double stroller can be an invaluable investment. These narrow tandem buggies or versatile side by side buggies will keep both children in sight while you shop, parks, and whatever else life throws at you.

Comfort

The comfort factor is one of the most important factors to take into consideration when buying a double-stroller. This can include the seating arrangement and overall size, which has an impact on ease of use and storage. Katie Billingsley, a child development expert from Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat, suggests parents check the stroller's weight and folded dimensions. "They should also consider the seat recline options and the age ranges of their children to ensure that it is a perfect fit."

A well-constructed double stroller will be durable enough to travel on various surfaces with ease, from parks trails to suburban sidewalks, and from infant car seats to toddler booster seats. It should also offer versatile seating arrangements for children of varying age and comfort features like windows that peek out and adjustable canopy to keep kids shielded from rain or sun.

For a majority of families double strollers will be used from birth until childhood, so it's important to think about seating options. "There are two main categories--in-line with one seat ahead of the other, and side-byside with seats next to each other," Billingsley explains. Some parents prefer the inline option because of its sleek appearance and flexibility. Others like the wagon style double stroller to maximize space for grocery or bulky items.

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 models that are in-line. Billingsley recommends selecting a product with a near-flat recline and leg rest adjustments for both seats. This will ensure that both children can lay comfortably.

She also suggests parents search for strollers with storage compartments to allow them to easily access personal items, snacks and toys when in motion. She also says that it is helpful to choose a stroller that has a parent console, or organizer bag attached on the handlebars. This will help parents keep their essentials to hand.

Many of the top-rated double strollers can be extended giving parents the ability to modify the layout depending on the needs of their family. The Mockingbird Expandable, for example, is a highly rated double stroller which can be used from birth with just one seat, and then converted into a tandem (with two seats and a bassinet) when the child is older.

Safety

Double strollers should be able to handle the weight of two people, plus any additional cargo. Strollers need to be able to move and push, particularly when on rough terrain and in tight spaces. The best strollers have ergonomic handlebars that can be adjusted in height which allow parents to maintain a good posture when pushing them. Another feature that is great is a no-rethread belt harness that allows for a more comfortable adjustment of the belts on the seat. A sturdy brake system and wheels that glide across any surface are essential safety features.

Some parents opt for side-by-side designs that allow both children to be able to see each other during family outings. This arrangement can reduce sibling squabbles over who sits in which seat however, it's not 100% secure. If the seats are positioned at different heights, one child may be capable of punching or kicking the other on the course of a walk.

For parents of twins or siblings of similar age, a tandem-style stroller is a great option for being able to view both children at the same time. These double strollers double strollers can be more spacious, and may not fit through some doors inside. For maximum versatility, consider a stroller that can change from a single to a tandem in different ways, such as the renowned CYBEX Gazelle S. These models can be adapted to a wide variety of configurations and allow you to click in infant car seats or cot attachments depending on your requirements.

If you opt for a side-byside or tandem-style stroller, be sure the product is certified by JPMA to meet the strictest safety standards. Also pay attention to the weight limits that apply to each seat, since over-weighting could 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 durations. It should be easy to clean and maintain as well as comfortable for both the passengers. It should also have a an easy-to-use, familiar design that allows the person pushing the stroller to move it easily.

Simple to Use

A double stroller must be simple to maneuver over a variety of terrains for families that are constantly moving. Features like adjustable canopy with windows that peek out and dependable brake systems are critical to help ensure the safety of your children but there are other factors that contribute to stroller ease of use. For example the stroller should be compact enough to fit into 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 cup holder with a single parent as well as a console for parents and an eating tray for children -- all things that can make life on the go with two kids significantly easier.

During our testing, we evaluated each stroller on the basis of its ability to perform on different 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 improved the overall functionality of the stroller. For instance a stroller that has a harness that does not rethread makes the adjustment of the seat belts quick and simple. This is a major benefit for parents who are constantly on the move, as it does away with the need to rethread the harness.

The UPPAbaby v2 Double scored highly in this metric as it came with a variety of seating configurations, and additional accessories to accommodate families that are growing. The wagon-style double stroller is able to allow for an additional seat as well as a bassinet, or a toddler riding board that is perfect for families with active children who plan long trips with multiple children of different age. It also glides effortlessly over cobblestones, balls and pavements. It folds flat for easy storage in a closet or trunk. The design of this stroller is simple and intuitive, which was appreciated by our test subject Kerry. The sleek packaging, clearly marked sections and the user's guide made it simple to assemble this stroller.

Stores

Double strollers can hold twice as much as one stroller, so make sure you look for plenty of storage space. Ideally, you'll want a stroller that can accommodate the basic necessities for both kids: nappies bottles, snacks, and toys, as well as parents' belongings like wallets, phones keys, wallets and phones. Look for pockets and baskets under the seats. Also, consider a stroller with an expandable cargo space that can take in bulky items like lunch bags and diaper bags.

A good double stroller will be able to grow with your family. Billingsley says that some models come with the option of a bassinet attachment that can accommodate infants. Some models have child seats that can grow with the child until they are old enough to ride on the back. Some double strollers allow older children to join in the fun with the rider board.

There are a variety of double strollers on the market. You can choose from models with high-performance features which are suitable for rough terrain, as well as more budget-friendly options that can use every day. While shopping, take a look at user reviews and recommendations from families like yours to gain an idea of what to expect with the double stroller you choose.

Double strollers come in three different design formats: side-by-side, tandem, and wagon-style. Side-by-side double strollers provide the most flexibility and are perfect for twins or children close in age, Billingsley explains. tandem double stroller double strollers, on the other hand, have two seats that are placed 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 can be difficult to maneuver through tight spaces, and are less likely to fit through doors than their side-by-side counterparts.

Check out this top pick by Safety 1st if you prefer a wagon-style double stroller. This budget-friendly model was highly praised by our testers for its many seating options. It can be used with two infant car seats or one child in a convertible toddler chair. Our testers also loved the comfortable memory foam seats, 50+ SPF canopy and foam-filled tires that will never get flat. When it's time to fold this model requires only a few tugs on the straps beneath each seat (under where kids sit) to fold.