Buying Guide For Double Strollers
If you have two children that are in the same age group, a double stroller could be a great investment. These strollers are narrow and narrow, as well as versatile side-by-side buggies help you keep an eye on both kids at the same time braving the grocery aisle or the parks, and whatever else life throws at you.
Comfort
When looking for a double stroller, comfort is a key consideration. This could include both seating arrangement as well as the overall size of the stroller which impacts convenience and storage. "Parents must determine what the stroller weighs and its dimensions folded," says child development expert and mom Katie Billingsley of Fourth Trimester Postnatal Retreat. "They should also consider the options for recline of the seat and the age ranges of their children to ensure that it's the perfect fit."
A well-constructed double stroller will be robust enough to navigate various surfaces with ease, from urban sidewalks to parks trails and from infant car seats to toddler booster seats. It should come with a variety of seating options for children of different stages of development, as well as comfort features like peek-a-boo windows and adjustable canopy options which protect children from the sun or rain.
For a majority of families, a double stroller is likely to be utilized from birth until the age of five, so it's crucial to think about seating options. Billingsley states that there are two major categories of in-line seating which has one seat in front of the other, and side-by-side seating with seats next to one another. "Some parents prefer an in-line model due to its sleek look and versatility, while others prefer a wagon-style stroller that can be used to store large items or groceries."
In-line models are more likely to show this type of discrepancy. Some models might offer different recline options, with one seat being almost flat and the other remaining relatively upright. Billingsley recommends selecting a product with both a near flat recline and leg rest adjustment for both seats. This will ensure that both children can lay comfortably.
Finally, she advises to look for a stroller that includes storage compartments that will allow parents to easily access snacks, toys and personal items while out and about. She also suggests that it's useful to find the stroller that has an organizer console for parents or a parent bag that is attached to the handlebars, which can help keep essentials in reach.
A few of the top-rated double strollers can be expanded, allowing parents to customize the configuration to meet the requirements of their growing family. The Mockingbird Expandable, for example is a highly rated double stroller which can be used from birth with just one seat, then transformed into a tandem (with two seats and a bassinet) when the child gets older.
Safety
Double strollers have to be able to support the weight of two passengers--plus any additional cargo. Strollers need to be easy to maneuver and push, especially on difficult terrain and in tight spaces. The best strollers feature ergonomic handlebars that can be adjusted in height to help parents maintain good form while pushing them. A harness that is not rethread, which makes adjusting seat belts quicker and easier, is another nice feature to look out for. double pushchair www.pushchairsandprams.uk include a robust brake system, as well as wheels that glide over any surface.
Some parents opt for the side-by-side design so that both children can meet up when they go on family outings. This arrangement can help prevent sibling squabbles over who gets to sit in which place however it's not foolproof. If the seats are positioned at different levels, one child might be capable of punching or kicking the other on the course of a walk.
If you have twins or siblings close in age, a tandem stroller can be beneficial in being able to see both children at the same time. However, they can be larger than other double strollers, meaning they may not be able to pass through all doors in your home. You could consider a single-to-double stroller that can be transformed from a single to a double in many ways. The most popular models are the CYBEX gazelle S.
Whether you choose a side-by-side or tandem-style stroller, be sure the product is JPMA-certified to meet stringent safety standards. Pay attention to the maximum weight limit for each seat. Exceeding these limits could cause frame fatigue or other problems.
While it's easy for us to focus on the many bells and whistles that come with a new stroller, it's crucial to remember that a stroller is basically a baby carrier that will be transported for long durations of time. It should be easy to clean and maintain, and comfortable for both the passengers. It should also feature a a familiar, intuitive design that lets the person pushing the stroller to move it easily.
Easy of Use
For families on the go, a double stroller should be easy to maneuver over a variety of terrains. Strollers with features such as windows that can be opened and closed, adjustable canopy and sturdy brake systems are essential to ensure the safety of your children. But there are also other features that make them easier to use. A stroller must be compact enough to fit into the trunk of your car and still provide plenty of storage space for food or other things. It is also essential to include thoughtful details, such as the cup holder for one parent or consoles for parents, as well as a snack tray. These can make traveling with two kids much easier.
In our tests, we evaluated each stroller based on how it performed on a variety of terrains and how easily it could maneuver in tight spaces. We also examined how simple it was to fold and unfold and whether or not a specific feature added to the overall functionality of the stroller. For instance a stroller with a harness that does not rethread makes the adjustment of the seat belts easy and quick. This can be a big benefit for parents who are constantly on the move, as it does away with the need to rethread their harness.
The UPPAbaby V2 Double was a top performer in this test because it came with a variety of seating configurations and additional accessories to accommodate expanding families. The wagon-style double stroller is able to allow for two seats as well as a bassinet, or a toddler riding board that is perfect for families with active children who plan long trips with multiple kids of varying age groups. It also glides smoothly over pavement, cobblestones and ballfields--and folds flat for easy storage in a closet or trunk. Our test subject Kerry was impressed by the simple and intuitive nature of this stroller's design. Its clever packaging with clearly labeled sections as well as a an informative user guide made putting together this stroller an absolute breeze.
Storage
A double stroller is able to hold twice as much as a single stroller so make sure you have plenty of storage space. Ideally, you want a stroller that is able to hold the basic necessities for both kids: nappies, bottles, snacks and toys, along with parents' belongings like wallets, phones keys and wallets. Find baskets and pockets under the seats. Also, consider a stroller that has an expandable cargo area to accommodate bulky items like lunch bags and diaper bags.
A good double stroller must be able to change as your family expands. For example certain models have an attachment for a bassinet that can accommodate newborns, while others have child seats that can expand with your kids until they're ready to switch to riding on the back of the stroller, Billingsley says. Some double strollers permit older siblings to share in the fun by riding on riding boards.
There are a variety of double strollers available. You can choose from high-performance models that are great for rough terrain, as well as more budget-friendly options that you can use every day. While shopping, you can read reviews and opinions of families just like yours to get an idea of what to expect from the double stroller you choose.
Double strollers are available in three different models: tandem, side by side and wagon-style. Billingsley states that side-byside strollers are the most adaptable and ideal for twins as well as children of similar age. Tandem double strollers have two seats set up in a tandem arrangement with the opposite direction facing. This is a great option for children of similar age, or siblings who want to be social with one another. Tandem strollers can be difficult to maneuver through tight spaces and are less likely to fit through doorways than their side-by-side counterparts.
Check out this top selection by Safety 1st if you prefer a wagon style double stroller. Our testers were impressed by the fact that this low-cost model offers multiple seating configurations, including the ability to click in two infant car seats or a single child in the convertible toddler seat. Our experts also praised memory foam seats, canopy with 50+ SPF and foam-filled wheels that never go flat. When it's time to fold, this model requires only a couple of pulls on straps on each seat (under the seat where kids sit) to fold in half.