How to Choose the Best Double Stroller
If you're looking for a double stroller there are plenty of options. Katie Billingsley, a child development expert and mother, was able to help us choose the right one for you.
It is recommended to choose a stroller that is easy to fold and push, as well as carry. Consider a model that can hold two infant car seats or a toddler with a riderboard.
Safety
Look for a double-stroller that includes all-terrain wheels as well as a brake that is operated by hand if you want to keep the kids safe when walking. These brakes and wheels assist you in navigating trails and sand without children falling or rolling. The best double strollers also offer plenty of storage space for gear as well as essentials for kids, such as snacks and toys.
The first step in choosing the right double stroller is to know how old your children are and how far apart they are. A majority of double strollers can only accommodate one child seat. However, some offer a variety of options that let you choose the seating that's best for your family.
The classic doubles are great for children of similar ages that want to play. Double-decker designs permit you to place one seat above the other, or add an additional riderboard for older siblings. Newborns can either be snuggled in a bassinet that is attached to the frame, or with an attachment that lets you look at your baby. If you are expecting twins or 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 take on off-road terrains or even hike. A majority of these strollers are designed with active parents in mind, and have features that let you take your kids to any adventure, regardless of how rough the terrain or how high the climbs may be.
In addition to all-terrain tires the top double strollers feature thoughtful features that make getting around tough terrain and weather easier. For example this stroller for jogging has a wrist loop for your child so you're sure they're secure when running downhill or at higher speeds. It also comes with a full-coverage canopy that is ventilated to keep your kids cool in the summer heat.
This model is a light and compact double stroller from Joovy. It weighs less than 23lbs. It's perfect for air travel and storage in overhead compartments or trunks. Additionally, it comes with a huge storage basket and a parking brake that is linked in one step that is simple to use.
Seating
Double strollers are now sleeker and can be set up in a variety of ways to suit your family. Some double strollers can be used as side-by-side models, while others, like the Baby Trend Sit 'N Stand Dual Stroller, can be used as a base for car seats, toddlers ' seats and bassinets. They are available in various widths and weight limits, allowing infants and children up to kindergarten.
A good double stroller should be a breeze to move and fold, while also permitting you to adjust the handlebar's height to make sure you're comfortable throughout your outings. A great handlebar is one that is easy to hold, and it should encourage you to walk in a proper posture (ask other parents for advice on this). It should also have a variety of storage options that accommodate all the necessities you'll require for your kids.
If your twins are similar age and are in the same age group, a tandem stroller might be the ideal option for your family. These models have seats that are side-by-side, so you can interact with them both and keep an eye on each of them at the same. They can also recline separately so that one child can nap while the other is awake and ready to go.
The downside of a twin stroller could be that it is wider than one designed for a single person. This makes it difficult to navigate narrow aisles for stores, doors, or walkways. However, for certain families, the benefits are worth the extra space and effort.
If you're looking for a compact double-stroller then the UPPAbaby V2 Double is an excellent option. Its shock absorption, streamlined design and capacity for two infant car seats - plus an optional running board for mobile older children -- make it a great option for city-living.
Another option is a wagon-style stroller, such as the Delta Children LX Side-by-Side Stroller. This bare-bones model offers lots of space for seating and storage space, along with heavy-duty wheels that manage any terrain. It also has a 50+ SPF canopy and adjustable handlebars. However, some parents feel that the seats are a little too low and they don't recline to a fully flat position, making it difficult for small children to sit comfortably or reach their snack trays.
Simple to Use
Double strollers are typically an investment that will be using for a long time. When you are shopping for one you must make sure it will be easy to operate and clean. The top double strollers have been developed to be user-friendly and have numerous features that are convenient.
For starters, all the strollers we tested fold up easily and compactly (with one hand!). They're also light, which makes them ideal for traveling. Many of them can be gate checked on airplanes and fit into most trunks. Furthermore, the majority our test subjects found that their strollers folded down to a smaller size than their single-seat counterparts and some even had an adjustable carry strap for easy carrying.
The Valco Snap Duo trend is a double stroller that has lots of options that can adapt to the needs of your family. This side-byside stroller works with infant car seats and other accessories. It can be used from birth up to preschool age. Each seat has five-point harnesses with a large canopy, as well as ample sun protection.
Another highly-regarded option is the Joovy Twin Roo. The stroller is light and compact, weighing only 22 pounds when folded. The front seat reclines to a flat position, and the back seat can be adjusted to fit each child. This stroller is easy to maneuver and use thanks to its large storage basket, easy one-step parking brake and large storage basket.
The only downsides to the Joovy Twin Roo are minor and specific to this model. Kerry says that the packaging is innovative and enjoyable, however, it comes in five boxes which can be a bit heavy to carry around. She also found that Genuis's magnetic buckle was a bit difficult to master. In the end, however, she was very happy with this stroller and would definitely recommend it.
Storage
Strollers are available in various sizes and designs and styles, including tandems (single-file seating) and side-by-side doubles and some that let you customize the configuration using the use of a bassinet or car seat attachment. Some even have add-on rider boards for older children. But, they're not all created equal -- some are sleek and easy to use, whereas others are heavy, bulky and difficult to fold or store.
If you're looking for a stroller that is light that can accommodate two children, the Joovy Caboose Graphite is a great option. strollers double strollers was the lightest stroller in our tests, weighing just under 23 lbs. It folds easily and comes with all the features parents would want to enjoy a day out with two children.
The Vista v2 double by UPPAbaby is another model that our testers loved. They were particularly impressed by its sleek design and ease-of-use. It can accommodate two infant car seats, a toddler's seat, and a bassinet with no adapters required. The rear seat can be removed to make it 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 as side storage bags.
Billingsley says that the best double stroller for toddlers is one that has numerous options for customization. This includes a seat or bassinet that can be removed. This is because toddlers typically have limitations in endurance, and having a stroller that has the bassinet attachment can provide them with a safe spot to take a nap. A double stroller must also have a good harness system and recline positions, as well as plenty of storage room for toys and snacks.
The ZOE Twin+ is a popular choice among parents because of its light weight and the versatility. It's easy to check at airport gates and fits through most doors (without removing the front wheels) and expands into a quad or triple stroller with an add-on tandem seat. Its nearly-flat, independently reclining seats, extra-long sun canopy and adjustable footrests are further highlights, while its large underseat storage basket as well as the inclusion of kid and parent cup holders complete the impressive set of features. One drawback, according to Taylor, is that it lacks a the smallest profile when folded and can be difficult to store.