What to Look For in a Double Stroller

The best double strollers grow with families and offer thoughtful features to keep kids comfortable and happy. The top double strollers have adjustable footrests, as well as smooth riding over old sidewalks, gravel and trails.

Kerry was delighted that the stroller came in multiple boxes, but everything was clearly labeled and simple for her to open. She also appreciated the fact that it can accommodate two infant car seats and can be used with a riding board for older kids.

Seating Options

Seating options are an important aspect in determining whether or not a family will purchase a double stroller. You'll need to consider the ages of your children, their respective sizes, and the seating arrangements that work best for you.

Alli Cavasino is a senior editor for Consumer Reports. She says that if you're looking to purchase a tandem stroller, it is best to look at one that has child seats attached together. This model does not require car seat adapters. They're typically larger than other types of double strollers, they won't pass through door frames that are standard in your home.

If your children are of a different age, you may want to consider a stroller with two seats that can be transformed into a stand-and ride model. This allows children to observe or ride with their sibling. These kinds of in-line strollers can also be adapted to fit infant car seats if needed and are a great choice for children who'll be 3 to 5 years apart, according Billingsley.

You should also consider the type of seat material, according to Billingsley. Certain fabrics are more breathable than others, and are easier to clean. You should also think about how easy it will be to fold down the stroller for storage purposes or transporting it to and from your vehicle. "Nothing is more frustrating than purchasing your dream stroller, but then realizing it's too heavy to lift or too large for your trunk," she says.

If you are looking for a budget-friendly option that offers multiple configurations take a look at this award-winning stroller from Summer Infant. It has two toddler seats and an infant bassinet. It can be expanded into a triple stroller adding a seat or a riding board. The seats recline, and the calf bar controls can be adjusted independently. This is perfect for when one child needs a nap while another wants to explore their surroundings. When folded, the seat is small and easily fits into most trunks.

Age Variations

Sit-and-stand strollers are a great option for families with children who are similar in age. They provide the comfort and convenience. These strollers usually have a seat for an infant or toddler in the front, and a bench or platform that allows an older child to stand or hop on and off in the back. They are great for big toddlers and preschoolers, but don't be ideal for babies or children who don't have the balance or coordination to stand on their own.

A narrow tandem stroller can help you keep your eyes on both children at once and fit through tight spots like aisles of the grocery store that are crowded or family photos in the park. These models are smaller and easier to maneuver than double strollers that are side-by-side however they don't have enough storage space under the carriage, and they're not able to fit an the infant car seat.

If you are planning to use a pushchair double stroller for a period of several years, or even over a decade, it's worth investing in one that will grow with your kids. Double strollers tend to be more expensive than single strollers, but if you choose the right one the first time it can save you money over time.

Our test participants put each stroller through several maneuverability tests, as well as off-road adventures. They found that they were easy to navigate on a variety terrain. If you intend to use it in urban areas or cities where the traffic and sidewalks can be bumpy, then you may need something that is more durable and robust that can handle rough treatment.

Many double strollers are designed to last for a long time, but you may find that the seats get more worn than you expected or your kids outgrow it before it's time to retire. If you're on a tight budget you should consider buying one that has been evaluated for at least four years and is designed to last as long as you can.

Simple to use

If you're planning to purchase a double stroller, you need to ensure that it be easy to use for both children. That means comfortable harnesses for kids who are seated and handles that are easy to grasp for toddlers who stand. It also means that the stroller is able to roll easily, and can be maneuvered through tight spaces and around obstacles. The top-rated strollers in our Lab tests, like the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie or Thule Urban Glide 2 Double are among the most easy to navigate.

A double stroller should be able to fold and store. The best twin stroller double stroller - look at more info - models fold in two or three steps and are small enough to fit into the majority of trunks. It's also an advantage that the stroller can be used in a variety of ways with the option of adding another seat or a ride-along board. Some even have the capacity to hold infant car seats, meaning you don't need to wake your baby to put them into their stroller once they're ready to head home.

Furthermore, a quality double stroller must be durable to be able to be used on different types of terrain. Some of them can be transformed into a jogging stoller with a specific front wheel and some can also be used as umbrella strollers. Some even have a cargo basket that can be affixed to the back of the stroller to carry shopping bags or groceries.

A tandem stroller or side-byside is an alternative to think about. Side-by-side strollers are generally bigger than tandem models and they aren't easy to maneuver through tight spaces like doorways and crowded grocery store aisles. They are useful because they allow each child to view the same scene. They are also easier to navigate through in stormy weather, as they provide more coverage from the elements for both kids.

Many parents decide to purchase an adaptable single-to-double stroller, to use it with a baby and then later switch to a regular double when their kiddos are older. After speaking with parents we've learned that it's best to buy what you need now instead of trying to predict what your family will require in the future.

Storage

If you're looking for a double stroller, you might be interested in the size and quantity of storage space. Many models come with large, easy-to access baskets that can store plenty of stuff. They also typically have numerous cup holders for parents and reversible seating configurations that offer best-in-class legroom for children. Certain of these features could make the price more expensive therefore, make sure to go through the reviews and descriptions carefully.

Most double strollers are categorized as tandem or side-byside designs. Tandem strollers have two seats on one frame and are best for older children who can sit unassisted. They also typically have a larger storage basket than side-by-side strollers, but they can be a bit difficult or awkward to push when the front seat is fully reclined.

Side-by-side strollers come with two separate seats positioned side by side, and they're typically better suited to younger babies or toddlers who aren't yet able to master independent sitting. They are also easier to push and maneuver than tandem strollers. They can be more expensive and come with smaller baskets.

There are also specialized double strollers that are designed specifically for jogging and biking. These are more expensive than basic all-terrain strollers, and they usually have fixed front wheels that restrict their mobility. These strollers are worth considering if you plan to use them for these types of activities.

Whether you're shopping for twins or a baby and a toddler, or a child who's not yet ready to walk on their own, there's a great double stroller for you. The top choices that we tested are flexible, stable, and easy to maneuver and have seating that grows as your kids do. So whether you're looking for a tandem stroller or one that can accommodate your infant car seat, check out our top choices to find the right double stroller for your family.