The 10 Most Scariest Things About Double Stroller

What to Look For in a Double Stroller

The best double strollers are made to adapt to the needs of your family and include thoughtful features that keep children at ease and happy. The best double strollers offer adjustable footrests as well as smooth riding on old sidewalks, gravel and trails.

Kerry was delighted that the stroller was packaged in multiple boxes, however everything was clearly labeled and easy to open. She also appreciated the fact that the stroller is able to accommodate two infant car seats, and can be paired with a ride-board for older children.

Seating Options

When it comes to double strollers, the seating options are the main factor that determines the purchase of many families. You'll need to take into consideration the age of your children, the sizes of them and the seating configurations you prefer.

Alli Cavasino is a senior editor for Consumer Reports. She says that if you're planning to purchase a tandem stroller, it is best to look at one that has children's seats that are connected. This model doesn't require car seat adapters. These double strollers are typically wider than other  double strollers . They may not be able to fit through standard doors in your home.

If your children are a older age, you might think about a stroller that has two seats that can be converted into a stand-and-ride model. This allows children to observe or ride along with their siblings. These strollers are able to accommodate infant car seats when needed and are suitable for children who will be 3 to 5 years apart.

Billingsley advises that you must also consider the type of fabric used to make the seat. Certain fabrics are more comfortable than others, and are easier to clean. It is also important to consider how easy it is to fold your stroller for storage or transportation to and from your car. "There's nothing more frustrating than buying your dream stroller only to find out that it is too heavy or bulky for your trunk," says the expert.

If you are looking for an affordable alternative that can be configured in a variety of ways, then check out this award-winning stroller from Summer Infant. It features two toddler seats and a bassinet, and can be converted into a triple stroller by adding a seat or a riding board. The seats recline and the controls for the calf bar can be adjusted independently. This is ideal the time when one child is in need of to rest while another wants to explore their surroundings. It's also compact when folded and fits easily in most trunks.

Age Variations

Sit-and stand strollers are the ideal option for families with children who are close in terms of age. They provide comfort and ease of use. They have an area in front that seats toddlers or infants, and a bench, platform or another type of surface at the rear that lets older children stand up and walk on/off. They're ideal for big toddlers and preschoolers, but don't be ideal for babies or kids who don't yet have the balance or coordination to stand on their own.

A narrow tandem stroller can help keep your eyes on both children at the same time and get through narrow spaces like the crowded grocery store aisles or family photos in the park. These models are usually narrower than double strollers with side-by-side designs and are generally easier to maneuver however they aren't able to accommodate infant car seats and generally don't have as much undercarriage storage.

If you are planning to use a double stroller for some time--or even for over a decade, it's worthwhile purchasing a model that will expand with your children. Double strollers tend to be more expensive than single strollers, however when you pick the right one the first time, it can save you money over the course of time.

Our test participants put each of these strollers through a series maneuverability tests and off-road adventures, and they found them to be simple to maneuver over different terrains. If you plan to use it in cities or areas where sidewalks and traffic can be bumpy, then you may need something more robust and durable capable of handling rough treatment.

Many double strollers are built to last a long time, but you could discover that the seats become worn out faster than expected or your children outgrow it before it's ready to retire. If you're on a tight budget, choose a model with a rating of at least four years. It should last as long as it can.

Easy of Use

It's important to make sure that the double stroller is comfortable to use by both children. This means a comfortable harness for seated kids and handles that are easy to grab for toddlers who stand. The stroller can also be easily rolled 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 among the easiest to push.

A double stroller should also be easy to fold up and take down and store. The best models have a one- or two-step procedure, and are small enough to fit into the majority of trunks. It's a plus when you can add a second seat or a ride-along to the stroller. Some strollers can even accommodate infant car seats, meaning you don't have to wake up your baby to get them into their stroller once they're ready for a trip home.

A quality double stroller is also strong, so it can be used in different kinds of terrains. For example, some can be converted into a jogging stroller with a front wheel that is specially designed, and some can also be used as an umbrella stroller. Some strollers come with a cargo bag that can be tacked at the back to carry shopping bags and groceries.

A tandem or side-by-side stroller is another option worth considering. Side-by-side strollers are generally larger than tandems, and may be difficult to navigate through tight spaces such as the aisles of doors or grocery stores. They do offer the convenience of allowing every child to view the same scenery. They are also easier to navigate through in stormy weather, as they provide more coverage from the elements for both kids.

Many parents choose to buy an adaptable stroller that can be used with a baby, and later converted into a double stroller once their children are older. But after speaking with parents, we've learned that it's best to buy what you need at the time instead of trying to anticipate what your family may need in the future.

Storage

When shopping for double-strollers, it's crucial to consider the amount of storage and the dimensions. Many models come with large, easy-to access baskets that can store lots of items. Many models also have numerous cup holders for parents and reversible seat configurations to provide the best legroom for children. However, some of these features can add up in price therefore it is important to read the descriptions and reviews carefully.

Most double strollers can be classified as tandem or side by side models. Tandem strollers come with two seats on the same frame, and they're typically better suited for older children who have already mastered sitting without assistance. They tend to have larger storage baskets than side-by-side models. However, some may be difficult to push with the front seat fully reclined.

Side-by-side strollers come with two separate seats that are positioned side-by-side and are typically suited to younger babies or toddlers who haven't yet learned independence sitting. They are also more maneuverable and easy to push than tandem strollers. They are more expensive and come with smaller baskets.

There are double strollers made specifically for jogging or biking. These are more expensive than basic all-terrain strollers and typically have fixed front wheels that limit their flexibility. These strollers are only worth considering if you intend to use them in these kinds of activities.

There's a double stroller to suit any situation whether you're looking to purchase one for twins, a child who's not quite ready to ride on their own, or a child who's not yet old enough to be a proper rider. The best options that we tested are flexible and stable. They are also easy to navigate, with seating that grows as your children grow. So whether you're looking for a tandem stroller or one that can accommodate your infant car seat, take a look at our top picks to find the right double stroller for your family.