What to Look For in a Double Stroller

The best double strollers grow with families and provide innovative features that keep kids comfortable and happy. The top double strollers have adjustable footrests, as well as a smooth ride over old sidewalks, gravel and trails.

Kerry loved that the stroller arrived in multiple boxes but everything was labeled properly and easy to open. She also appreciated that the stroller can accommodate two infant car seats, and it is able to be set with a riding board for older children.

Seating Options

Seating options are an important element in determining whether not a family will purchase a double stroller. You'll need to consider the age of your children, the relative sizes and seating configurations you prefer.

For example, if you have children close in age and will be sitting side-by-side, you should consider a tandem model that comes with child seats that are attached to one another and does not require car seat adapters, according to Alli Cavasino an editor in the senior position at Consumer Reports. These double strollers are typically larger than other double strollers. They might not fit through the standard doors of your home.

If you're experiencing an age gap between your kids you should consider a stroller with two seats that has the option to change to a stand-and ride model with the option of a bench or a platform seat in the back for children who wants to casually ride with or observe their younger sibling. These strollers are capable of accommodating infant car seats if needed and are ideal for children aged 3 to 5 years apart.

Billingsley explains that you should take into consideration the material you choose for your seat. Some offer more breathable fabrics than others and are more easy to clean. It's also important to think about how easy it is to fold your stroller to store it or transport it to and from your car. "Nothing is more frustrating than buying your dream stroller but finding it's too heavy for you to lift or too big for your trunk," she says.

If you're looking for an affordable option that can accommodate different seating options take a look at this award-winning model from Summer Infant It comes with two toddler seats, a bassinet attachment and can be expanded to become triple stroller by adding an additional seat or riding board. The seats recline and the calf bar controls can be adjusted in a separate manner. This is great when one child wants to take a nap while the other wants to explore their surroundings. When folded, the seat is compact and fits into the majority of trunks.

Age Ranges

Sit-and-stand strollers are a great option for families with children who are close in age. They offer the comfort and convenience. These strollers have an area in front that seats toddlers or infants, and a platform, bench or another type of surface at the rear which allows older children to stand up or get off and on. These strollers are great for older children and toddlers but not suitable for infants or children who do have the balance and coordination to stand up on their own.

A narrow tandem stroller lets you to keep both children within sight at once, and can fit through tight spaces like grocery store aisles or for family photos in the parks. These strollers are typically smaller than side-by-side double strollers and are able to move more easily but they don't have the capacity to fit infant car seats and typically do not offer the same amount of storage under the carriage.

If you're planning to use a double stroller over several years--or even over a decade, it's worthwhile purchasing a model that can expand with your children. Double strollers are more expensive than single strollers however, if you choose them wisely, you'll save money in the long run.

Our testers took each stroller through an assortment of maneuverability tests as well as off-road adventures. They discovered that they were simple to maneuver over a variety terrain. However, if you're going to use it in urban zones where sidewalks and traffic can be bumpy, you might want something stronger and more robust that can withstand the rough treatment.

Double strollers are designed to last, however the seats could get worn out faster than you think or your children may outgrow them before they're ready to retire. If you're on the tightest budget, go for an option with a warranty of at least four years. It should last as long as is possible.

Ease of Use

It is essential to ensure that the double stroller is easy to use by both children. This means that the harnesses must be comfortable for children who are seated, and the handles should be a breeze to hold for toddlers. The stroller can also be easily rolled and moved around obstacles and in tight spaces. In fact the top strollers in our Lab tests -- such as the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie and Thule Urban Glide 2 Double--are among the most comfortable to push.

A double stroller should be easy to fold and store. The best models have the option of a two-step or one-step process, and they're small enough to fit into most trunks. It's a plus to add a second chair or a ride-along to the stroller. Some even have the capacity to hold infant car seats, so you don't need to wake up your baby to get them into their stroller once they're ready to go home.

Additionally, a great double stroller needs to be sturdy to be able to be used on different types of terrain. For instance, some strollers can be converted into a jogging stroller with an adapted front wheel and some can also be used as an umbrella stroller. Some even come with an accessory basket that can be affixed to the rear of the stroller to carry groceries or shopping bags.

A tandem or side-by-side stroller is another option to consider. Side-by-side strollers tend to be wider than tandems, and can be difficult to navigate through tight spaces such as doorways or crowded aisles in grocery stores. They are practical because they allow both children to view the same scene. They are also easier to navigate during bad weather as they offer more protection from the elements.

Many parents decide to purchase an adaptable Single Double Stroller-to-double stroller, to use it with a baby and then switch to a regular double when their kids are older. After speaking with parents, it became apparent that it is better to purchase the items you require now rather instead of trying to predict what you'll require in the near-term.

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 spacious accessible baskets that can store a large amount of items. Many models also have numerous cup holders for parents and reversible seat configurations to provide the best legroom possible for children. Some of these features can make the price more expensive, so be sure to review the reviews and descriptions thoroughly.

Most double strollers can be classified as tandem or side by side designs. Tandem strollers include two seats in one frame, and are best suited to older babies who can stand unaided. They also have a larger storage basket than side-by-side models, though some are difficult or awkward to push when the front seat is fully reclined.

The side-by-side stroller has two separate seats that are placed side-by-side. They're generally best suited to infants or toddlers, who aren't yet comfortable with sitting independently. They also have the advantage of usually being easier to push and maneuver than tandem strollers. They may be more expensive, and they have smaller baskets.

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

There's a double stroller for every scenario, whether you're buying one for twins or a child who's not yet ready to take a ride by themselves, or a child who's not yet old enough to be a proper rider. The top choices in our tests are affluent and stable. They are also easy to maneuver with seating that expands as your children grow. So whether you're in search of a tandem stroller or one that will accommodate your infant car seat, check out our top choices to find the right double stroller for your family.