What to Look For in a Double Stroller

The best lightweight double stroller double strollers develop with families and provide clever features to keep children happy and comfortable. The best double strollers offer adjustable footrests as well as smooth rides over gravel, old sidewalks and trails.

Kerry was pleased the fact that the stroller was delivered in multiple boxes but everything was labeled well and was easy to open. She also appreciated the fact that the stroller is able to accommodate two infant car seats and it is able to be set with a ride-board for older children.

Seating Options

Seating options are a major aspect in determining whether or an entire family will invest in a double stroller. You'll have to think about the age of your children, the sizes and seating arrangements you like.

For instance, if you have children who are close in age who will sit side-by-side, consider a tandem model that has child seats linked to each other and does not require car seat adapters, explains Alli Cavasino an editor in the senior position at Consumer Reports. These double strollers are usually larger than other double strollers. They may not be able to fit through standard doors in your home.

If you're facing an age gap between your kids you should consider a stroller with two seats that can change to a stand-and ride model that has a platform or small bench seat in the back for a kid who would like to ride with or observe their sibling. These in-line strollers are also equipped to accommodate infant car seats if necessary and are ideal for children who are 3 to 5 years apart.

You'll also need to look at the type of seat material, according to Billingsley. Some fabrics are more air-conditioned than others, and easier to clean. It's also important to consider how easy it is to fold your new stroller down to store it or transport it to and from your car. "There's nothing more frustrating than purchasing the perfect stroller only to discover that it's too heavy or big for your trunk," says the expert.

If you're looking for an affordable option that has various seating options take a look at this award winner from Summer Infant It comes with two toddler seats with a bassinet attachment. It can be made into a triple stroller with an additional seat or riding board. The seats recline, and the calf bar controls can be adjusted in a separate manner. This is ideal when one child wants to take a nap while the other wants to explore their surroundings. It's also compact when folded and easily fits in most trunks.

Age ranges

For families with children who are similar to their ages, a Sit N stand double stroller-and-stand stroller is the ideal combination of comfort for both children and convenience. These strollers have a seat in the front for an infant or toddler and a bench, platform or other surface in the rear which allows older children to stand up or get off and on. These strollers are ideal for older toddlers and children however, they are not suitable for babies or children who do have the balance and coordination to stand up on their own.

A narrow tandem stroller can help you keep an eye on both kids simultaneously and can fit into narrow spaces like the aisles of the grocery store that are crowded or family photos at the park. These models are often narrower than side-by-side double strollers and are able to move more easily however they aren't able to accommodate infant car seats and typically don't have the same amount of undercarry storage.

If you're planning to use a double stroller over many years or even for a decade, you should consider purchasing an item that can expand along with your children. Double strollers tend to be more expensive than single strollers, but if you choose the right one first time around it could save you money over time.

Our test participants put each of these strollers through a series maneuverability tests and off-road adventures, and they found them to be easy to maneuver over a variety of terrain. If you plan to use it in urban areas or in cities where the traffic and sidewalks can be bumpy, you may want something more durable and sturdy capable of handling rough treatment.

Double strollers are designed to last, however the seats can get worn out faster than you expect or your children may outgrow them before they're ready to retire. If you're on a budget, consider getting one that has been tested for at least 4 years and is designed to last as long as is possible.

Simple to Use

It's crucial to ensure that the double stroller is comfortable to use by both children. It means that the harnesses must be comfortable for children sitting, and the handles should be simple to grasp for toddlers. The stroller can also be easily rolled around and maneuvered through tight spaces. In fact the top-rated strollers from our Lab tests -- such as the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie and Thule Urban Glide 2 Double--are among the easiest to push.

A double stroller should also be able to fold and take down and store. The best models have a one- or two-step process, and they're compact enough to fit in most trunks. It's also beneficial when the stroller is a versatile, with options to add a second seat or a ride-along board. Some strollers can also hold infant car seats, meaning you don't have to wake your baby to transfer them to the stroller when it's time to go home.

Additionally, a great double stroller needs to be sturdy to be able to be used on various types of terrain. Some can be converted into a jogging scooter with a special front wheel and others can be used as umbrella strollers. Some strollers come with a bag that can be put to the back of the vehicle to carry groceries and shopping bags.

Another thing to consider is whether you'd like a side-by-side stroller or a tandem. Side-by-side strollers are typically bigger than tandem models and they aren't easy to maneuver through tight spaces such as doorways and crowded grocery store aisles. They are convenient since they permit each child to view the same scene. They can also be more easy to navigate in rough weather as they provide greater coverage from the elements for both kids.

Many parents choose to buy an adaptable stroller that can be used by a newborn, and then transformed into a double stroller once their children reach an older age. However, after talking to parents we've learned it's best to get what you need now, rather than trying to predict what your family will require in the future.

Stores

If you're shopping for a double stroller, then you might need to think about the size and quantity of storage space. Many models come with large, easy-to access baskets that can hold a lot of cargo. They also typically have numerous cup holders for parents and reversible seating configurations that offer the best legroom available for children. Certain of these features could make the price more expensive so make sure you read reviews and descriptions carefully.

Most double strollers are classified as tandem or side-byside designs. Tandem strollers have two seats assembled on the same frame, and are generally better suited for older children who have already learned unassisted sitting. They also have a larger storage basket than side-byside models, however they can be a bit awkward or difficult to push when the front seat is fully reclined.

The side-by-side stroller comes with two seats that are positioned side-by-side. They're generally better suited for younger babies or toddlers, who aren't yet ready for independent sitting. They also have the added benefit of being more easy to push and maneuver than tandem strollers. However, they tend to have smaller storage baskets than tandem strollers, and can be more expensive.

There are also specially designed double strollers designed for jogging and biking. They are generally more expensive than all terrain double stroller-terrain strollers. They also come with fixed front wheels, which limit their flexibility. These strollers are worth considering if you intend to use them in these activities.

If you're looking for twins or a baby and a toddler, or a child who's not quite ready to walk on their own, there's a perfect double stroller for you. Our top choices are easy to maneuver, flexible, stable and have seating that expands with your child. Take a look at our top picks for the top double stroller that will accommodate your family regardless of whether you are looking for a tandem or one that can accommodate your infant car seat.