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 your children at ease and happy. The top double strollers have adjustable footrests and smooth rides on old sidewalks, gravel, and trails.

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

Seating Options

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

For instance, if you have children of similar age who will sit side-by-side, you should consider a tandem model that comes with child seats that are attached to each other and does not require car seat adapters, says Alli Cavasino an editor in the senior position at Consumer Reports. They are generally larger than other types of double strollers,, so they may not pass through door frames that are standard in your home.

If you have an age gap between your children you should consider a stroller with two seats with the option to convert to a stand-and-ride model with an elevated or small bench seat in the back for children who wants to casually ride with or observe their sibling. These in-line strollers are also capable of accommodating infant car seats if necessary, and are good for children who are 3-5 years apart.

You'll also need to take a look at the seat material, says Billingsley. Some fabrics are more breathable than others, and easier to clean. You should also consider how easy it will be to fold your stroller to store it or for transporting it to and from your car. "There's nothing more frustrating than buying the perfect stroller only to find out that it is too heavy or large for your trunk," says the expert.

If you're looking for a budget-friendly option that can accommodate multiple seating configurations, check out this award-winning model from Summer Infant It comes with two toddler seats as well as a bassinet attachment. The stroller can be expanded to become a triple stroller with an additional seat or riding board. The seats recline and come with the calf bar controls that can be adjusted independently, which is perfect for when one child is looking to nap while the other wants look around. When folded, it's compact and can fit easily into the majority of trunks.

Age Variations

Sit-and stand strollers are the ideal option for families with children who are close in age. They provide convenience and comfort. These strollers come with an area in front that seats toddlers or infants, and a bench, platform or another type of surface in the rear which allows older children to stand up or hop on/off. They're ideal for big toddlers and preschoolers, but won't work well for younger babies or kids who do not yet have the balance or coordination to stand on their own.

A Narrow Double Stroller tandem stroller can help you keep an eye on both kids at the same time and get through difficult areas like aisles of the grocery store that are crowded or family photos at the park. These strollers are typically smaller than side-by-side double strollers and are generally easier to maneuver 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 some time--or even for a decade or more--it's worth investing in an option that will continue to expand with your children. 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 subjects put these strollers through a series maneuverability tests and off-road excursions and found them easy to navigate over a variety of terrain. However, if you're going to be using it in cities or other urban areas where traffic and sidewalks are prone to bumps, you might want something stronger and more robust that can withstand the rough treatment.

Many double strollers are built to last for a long period of time, but you could find that the seats get worn out faster than expected or your children grow out of it before it's ready for retirement. If you're on a tight budget, choose an option with a warranty of at minimum four years. It should last as long as possible.

Easy of Use

If you're going to purchase a double stroller, it's essential that it is easy to use for both children. This means comfortable harnesses for seated kids and handles that are easy to grab for toddlers who stand. This also means that the stroller is able to roll easily, and can be maneuvered around tight spaces and around obstacles. The top-rated strollers from our Lab tests, like the BOB Revolution Flex Duallie or Thule Urban Glide 2 Double are among the easiest to move around.

It's also essential that a double stroller be easy to fold and store. The most efficient models fold in one or two steps and are small enough to fit in most trunks. It's also beneficial when the stroller is a versatile with the option of adding a second seat or a ride-along board. Some strollers can even accommodate infant car seats, meaning you don't have to wake up your baby to get them into the stroller when they're ready to head home.

A good double stroller is also durable, so it can be used on a variety of kinds of terrains. For instance, some models can be converted into a jogging stroller with a front wheel that is specially designed, and some are able to be used as an umbrella stroller. Some strollers come with a cargo bag that can be put at the back to carry shopping bags and other items.

A tandem stroller or side-byside is an alternative to think about. Side-by-side strollers tend to be larger than tandem models, and can be difficult to maneuver in tight spaces such as doorways and aisles of the grocery store. They are useful since they permit each child to view the same scene. They are also easier to navigate in a storm, as they provide more protection from the elements for both children.

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

Stores

If you're shopping for a double stroller, you might want to consider the size and the amount of storage space. Many models have spacious, easy-to-access baskets that can accommodate a lot of cargo. They often also have numerous cup holders for parents and convertible seating arrangements that provide the best legroom available for children. However, a few of these features can increase in price therefore it is important to read the descriptions and reviews carefully.

The majority of double strollers are classified as either tandem or side-by-side designs. Tandem strollers include two seats on one frame, and are best travel double stroller suited to older babies who can sit unassisted. They typically have larger storage baskets than side-byside models. However, some can be difficult 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 haven't yet learned independence sitting. They are also more maneuverable and easy to push than tandem strollers. However, they usually have smaller storage baskets than tandem models and can be more expensive.

There are also specially designed double strollers designed for jogging and biking. They are more expensive than the standard all-terrain strollers, and they usually come with fixed front wheels that limit their flexibility. These strollers are only worth considering if you plan to use them for these activities.

There's a double stroller to suit any situation, whether you're buying one for twins or a child that's not quite ready to take a ride by themselves, or a child who's not yet old enough. Our top picks are easy to maneuver, flexible, stable and have seating that expands with your child's. Check out our top picks for the best double stroller to fit your family whether you're seeking a tandem stroller or one that will fit your infant car seat.