Double strollers are a great investment for families with two kids under the age of three. But which one is right for you? There are many options on the market today, so it can be hard to decide which is best. In this Ultimate Guide to Double Strollers, we will explore all your choices and help you make an informed decision about what type of double stroller suits your family’s needs best!
Types of Double Strollers
There are four main types of double strollers: full-size (with two side-by-side seats), tandem (one seat behind the other), and inline (only one seat). If both parents plan on being active while pushing their children, then it makes sense to choose an inline version that will enable them better access.
However, if only one parent is available most of the time but enjoys taking walks together as well, then a tandem might be more appropriate Here are a few things to consider before buying. A double umbrella-style stroller features two seats that are connected at the back and can accommodate children from six months up to about four years old.
Inline vs. Side by Side
Some people prefer an inline double since it has plenty of space for kids who want to walk alongside their parents without feeling penned in from behind all day long, whereas some others may feel like a side-by-side double is a better fit because it’s more compact and doesn’t take up much space on the sidewalk.
Inline doubles are especially great for big toddlers who want their freedom while still being close enough to see mom or dad; not only do these have all sorts of legroom but you can also opt to face them either way, too!
Tandem or Double Umbrella
A tandem is the same width as a single stroller and accommodates two kids who can either sit or stand next to each other while in the seat, whereas double umbrella options have one bench-style seat that sits on top of another for an open design.
Here are our recommendations for the best double strollers based on features. All of these strollers are safe for babies that are least 4lbs.
Best Overall Double Stroller
If you’re looking for a reliable stroller for your twins, this is a perfect choice. The Graco Ready 2 Grow is easy to handle and can easily carry children weighing up to 50 lbs.
No products found.
Best Tandem Stroller
This stroller keeps both children happy with complete visibility!
No products found.
Best Double Jogger Stroller
This unique double jogger stroller has several unique features that separate it from other ordinary strollers for two. The speakers really won us over for this model!
No products found.
Safety Features
Most importantly, you’ll want to consider safety features when selecting your double stroller. Here’s a quick checklist of questions to ask when choosing your double stroller.
-Does it have an adequate safety strap that can be used to both secure the front passenger and keep them from falling out of their seat?
-Are the wheels lockable so you’re not constantly walking around with one child in tow while pushing a stroller with two seats (not recommended)?
-Is there a brake on each wheel for safe stopping during travel, should something go awry?
Not all double strollers are created equal when it comes to these features. So before purchasing your next set of wheels, make sure they’ll suit your needs best by considering these important but often overlooked aspects.
What features are most important?
Now that safety’s covered, determine what additional features are important to you when choosing your double-stroller. If space is a priority, then choosing a double stroller with a large basket underneath is a must.
If maneuverability is important then it’s important to choose a design that has smaller wheels. Keep in mind, if space is your priority but maneuverability also needs to be considered, then an inline version may work best for you.
Where will you be using your double stroller most often?
Terrain
In the city? Outdoors on a country path? Are both parents planning on being active while pushing their children, or is one parent always available but would enjoy taking walks together as well?
The type of terrain and climate will determine what features you need to look for in your double stroller. If you live near a city and plan on using it mostly indoors or paved surfaces outside, then there are many options available with smaller wheels.
Wheel Size
However, larger wheel designs might make more sense in other cases such as unpaved sidewalks or gravel paths which require extra shock absorption. If you plan to go off-road or will be in places where there are lots of stairs then think about what type is best suited before purchase so that it meets all your needs.
How much are you willing to spend?
Double strollers can range from $150-$1000, so choose an appropriate price point based on your budget and needs.
There are some really great double strollers on the market that will cost you as little as $200 (and even less if you’re willing to buy a used one) but they won’t have the same features as more expensive brands like BOB or Mountain Buggy which can start at around $600.
Generally speaking, most parents report feeling very satisfied with their purchase of any type though so don’t think it has to break your bank! If safety or comfort factors into the decision, be prepared for those products to cost more than standard models.
For instance, if durability is important then look for high-quality fabrics that will resist wear and tear over time; if convenience while pushing matters most consider features like moving locks or wheels with shocks (or all of these!)
How much weight can each seat hold?
Manufacturers generally list the weight capacity for each seat, with some weighing as little as eight pounds while others weigh up to 40 or 50 pounds. Most side-by-sides will accommodate children from about 18 months old until they reach 40 pounds and 36 inches tall – although some can take up 65 pounds!
What is the age range of your children?
The age of your children will dictate the type of stroller you need to buy. Younger babies will be best suited for a side-by-side, which means they’ll sit beside each other and face forward but it also can mean they’re facing outwards as well (or at least have that option). Older toddlers are better off in an inline configuration where one child is behind the other; this way there’s more room for them to stand up or play with toys while riding!
What color do I want?
Double strollers typically come in black or white, but you can also find models in a variety of colors and patterns. Can I get two different colors that match well together so they look more stylish as twins instead of just one color like many other brands out there?
How much storage space do I need?
Some doubles come equipped with an extra-large storage bin in front of one child’s seat so parents can easily access snacks and other items without disturbing their kids; this is especially helpful if you’re out walking all day long!
What about storage space for drinks, snacks, and extra items? If you have more than two young ones then this might prove difficult because it can fill up quickly! It may also impede access to cup holders for parents who need quick access too so plan ahead with what will work best for your family before purchase.
Others are designed more like side-by-side strollers where there isn’t much room between seats but that also means they take up less space on public transit than inline models, perfect for when you want to ride the bus home after work.
Some have more than one storage bin while others offer no options for parents to store anything on board; if you like going outside with all your gear or don’t live near public transit stops then it might be worth investing in one that has at least two parent-accessible compartments where you can stash snacks, books, diapers or even a change of clothes.
How much storage space does each child need/want when sitting down? For instance, some toddlers might feel like they’re getting squished by their sibling’s feet while seated next to them! You’ll also want to look at how much room they will have to stand, and how much room for the parent trying to push them.
Seat Configurations
Do you want seating configurations for both kids facing each other or side by side? If two youngsters are better friends than siblings then they might enjoy being near each other but if there’s sibling rivalry-be prepared!
Do you want to be able to face the children in whichever direction, such as when they’re napping? This is a great idea if your kids are happy to nap while looking at each other or if one of them has separation anxiety and doesn’t like their back facing outwards.
Otherwise, it’s less important how the stroller looks from that perspective. Side-by-side seats make it easier for younger ones to get out faster without waking their sleeping sibling.
Do both seats recline inward so they will fit two newborns side by side (such as some tandem double strollers)? Does one seat fold down flat when not in use (allowing more storage space) such as on many single/tandem models with just one child in the front seat?
Convenience and Comfort
Stroller Weight
Do the seats recline? Can they both recline independently? Do they look comfortable enough for my baby/toddler’s naps? You want something easy to transport (so wheels are preferred), lightweight when folded up (less than 40 pounds is a good goal) and a frame that’s not too cumbersome when folded up.
Mobility
Will the children be walking separately or does one need assistance when it comes time to take off shoes, climb stairs, etc.? In that case, consider getting something with an adjustable handle height so parents can switch between pushing and pulling while holding hands at different heights as needed.
Suspension System
The suspension system on your stroller will make a big difference in the comfort of travel. Does it have suspension? A front wheel with swivel capability and an all-wheel shock system? These features can help you maneuver over bumpy paths, curbs or uneven terrain without causing as much discomfort on the baby’s backside.
How often will you use this double stroller on average?
For those with kids of similar ages who don’t mind sharing one seat, it can work for a few years but if you want to double up on the stroller use and have two full-sized children this may prove more difficult.
Vehicle Size
Your vehicle size will influence your decision on what type of double stroller to buy. Will it fit into your trunk easily without folding down one seat in exchange for access? Families with smaller vehicles will want to choose a lightweight tandem stroller that folds up small. Larger vehicles will require a heavier side-by-side or front and back configuration with more storage space.
A final word
In addition to the size, weight capacity, storage options, and recline capabilities mentioned earlier, there are other things you’ll want to take note of as well:
- How do the seats attach together (are they click-in or slide)?
- How wide is it once collapsed?
- What kind of weather cover does it come with?
- Will my infant car seat fit onboard without an adapter if we’re out walking around during cold winter months?
Keep these questions in mind before making your next purchase so you can find something that suits your needs best.
Finally, If you’re not sure which type suits your family best it’s worth taking advantage of free trials at local stores before making a purchase!
Last update on 2022-07-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
