How to Choose the Best Double Stroller
If you're in the market for a double stroller there are plenty of options. To help you pick the right one for your family, we talked to experts in child development as well as mom Katie Billingsley.
You should choose a stroller that is easy to fold and push, as well as carry. You should consider a stroller that can accommodate two infant car seats or a toddler that has a riderboard.
Safety
If you want to keep your children safe while walking opt for a double stroller with features like all-terrain tires as well as a hand-operated brake. These brakes and wheels allow you to navigate trails and sand without children falling or rolling. The best double strollers offer plenty of storage space for gear as well as kids-sized items like snacks and toys.
The first step in selecting the best double stroller is to figure out how old your children are and how far apart they are. Most double strollers only accommodate one child seat. However, those that offer a variety of options that let you choose the seating that is ideal for your family.
Side-by-side doubles are an iconic choice, and they're perfect for kids of similar ages who want to interact with each other. Some models have a double-decker style, allowing you to place one of the seats above the other or even attach a rider board for older siblings. Babies can be placed in a bassinet, which is attached to the frame or as an independent attachment that allows you to have the chance to peek at your baby. If you have twins or are expecting twins, a specially designed twin stroller is the best way to go.
For families who are more adventurous opt for a double stroller that can take on off-road terrains or even hike. A majority of these strollers have been designed with active parents in mind and include features that allow you to take your kids to any adventure, regardless of how rough the road or how steep the climbs may be.
The top double strollers come with thoughtful features to make it easier to navigate through difficult terrain and in bad weather. This jogging stoller for instance, features wrist loops so that you can ensure your child's safety when going downhill at a higher speed or in extreme weather conditions. It also comes with a canopy that covers the entire area and has ventilation to ensure your children stay comfortable during the summer heat.
This model is a light and compact double stroller from Joovy. It weighs just over 23 pounds, which makes it lighter than most single strollers and perfect for air travel or storage in trunks and overhead compartments. It also comes with a large storage basket and an integrated parking brake that's easy to use.
Seating
Double strollers of today are sleeker and can be configured in various ways to meet the needs of your family. Some double strollers are designed to be used as side-by-side models while others, such as 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 a range of widths and weights to accommodate children from newborns up to kindergarten.
A good double stroller must be a breeze to move and fold, while also permitting you to adjust the handlebar's height to make sure you're able to walk comfortably throughout your excursions. A good handlebar is comfortable to grip and should encourage you to walk in a logical manner (ask for advice from other parents). It should also have various storage options that accommodate everything you need for your kids.
If your twins are near in age, you could find a tandem stroller works best for your family. These models come with seats that are side-byside, so you can talk to them both and keep an eye on each of them at the same. They also recline independently so that one child can nap while the other is awake and ready to go.
The drawback of twin strollers is that it can be wider than a single-occupant model and can make it difficult to maneuver around walkways, aisles for shopping, and narrow doorways. For certain families, however, the benefits are worth the extra effort and size.
If you're in the market for a compact double stroller, the UPPAbaby Vista Double is a great option. Its shock absorption, streamlined design, and capacity for two infant car seats, plus an optional running board for more mobile children--make it an ideal choice for city living.
Another option is a wagon-style double stroller, such as the Delta Children LX Side-by-Side Stroller. This basic model comes with lots of space for seating and storage, as well as robust wheels that can handle any terrain. It also has an umbrella with 50+ SPF and adjustable handlebars. Some parents complain that the seats are a little too low and they don't recline to a fully flat position, making it difficult for smaller children to be comfortable or reach their snack trays.
Easy of Use
Double strollers are typically an investment that will use for many years. If you are in the market for a double stroller, make sure it's easy to use and clean. The best double strollers have been developed to be easy-to-use and come with numerous features that are convenient.
All strollers we tested could be folded easily and compactly using just one hand. They are light and perfect for travel. A lot of them fit into most trunks and can be checked at the gate on planes. Furthermore, the majority our test subjects found that their strollers folded to a smaller size than the single seat models, and some even came with a carry strap for convenient carrying.
The Valco Snap Duo trend is a double stroller with a lot of versatility that can adapt to the needs of your family. This side-by-side stroller can be used with infant car seats and other accessories. It can be used from birth until preschool age. double pushchair is equipped with a five-point harness and a large canopy that gives ample protection from the sun.
The Joovy Twin Roo is another option that's highly regarded. The stroller is light compact and weighs only weighs 22 pounds when folded. The front seat reclines to almost a full flat position and the back seat comes with an adjustable recline that can be adjusted for each child. This stroller is easy to use and maneuver 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 was enjoyable and innovative, but it was also packaged in five boxes which can be an inconvenience to carry around. She also found the Genuis magnetic clasp a bit clunky and it took her some time before she was able to master it. In the end, however she was extremely pleased with the stroller and would definitely recommend it.
Stores
Strollers are available in various sizes and styles, including tandems (single-file seating) and side-by-side doubles and many that allow you to customize the setup with an automobile seat or bassinet attachment. Some have rider boards which can be added for older children. They're not all created equal. Some are lightweight and easy to use, whereas others are bulky, heavy and difficult to fold.
If you're looking to purchase a light double stroller, check out the Joovy Caboose Ultralight Graphite. It was the lightest stroller we tested in our tests, with a weight of just under 23 lbs. It is also easy-to-fold and comes with all the features parents would want to enjoy a day out with two children.
UPPAbaby's Vista v2 double is another model that our testers loved. They were particularly impressed by its sleek design and user-friendly. It can accommodate two infant car seats or a toddler's bassinet and seat without the need for adapters. Its rear seat can be removed to make it into a triple or quad stroller. It comes with a large basket for storage and can be upgraded with an organizer for parents and all-terrain tires, as with side storage bags.
Billingsley states that the best double stroller to use for toddlers is one that offers numerous options for customization. This includes a seat or a bassinet that can be removed. Toddlers are often weak in endurance, and a stroller that has an attached bassinet will offer a safe spot for them to sleep. She suggests that a double stroller should also have a great recline position and harness system, as well as ample storage space for snacks and toys.
The ZOE Twin+ is a popular choice among parents because of its light weight and the versatility. It's gate-check-friendly on airlines it can be accessed through all doors (without removing the wheels on the front) and can be converted into a quad or triple stroller by adding an extra tandem. Its near-flat independently reclining seats, extra-long sun canopy and footrests that can be adjusted are other highlights, while its large underseat storage basket as well as the inclusion of parent and kid cup holders complete the impressive list of features. Taylor says that the only drawback is that it has an enormous size when folded and can be difficult for parents to store.