How to Choose the Best Double Strollers
A double stroller makes things easier for parents of twins or children of different ages, whether you're on your way to a relaxing walk or for a morning run. With numerous options available to choose from, how do you pick the right one for your family?
This expandable model allows you to adjust the seating to meet your needs. Our newest member, Kerry, tested it out.
Safety
If you're running errands, visiting the zoo, or heading out trick-or-treating with your kids your stroller should be secure. It's important to have a sturdy frame, comfortable harnesses and easy-to-grab handle for toddlers. It should also be able to pass through doorways and be easy to move and fold. And of course, it must be of good value.
Each double stroller we tested was put through rigorous testing in our laboratory at the zoo, in our lab and on city streets. We also took them out for family outings to suburban areas. Our lab tests evaluate the stroller's maneuverability and stability, and ease of steering. sit n stand double stroller test the comfort of the suspension for both the driver as well as the rider, the weight capacity, seat canopy heights and storage space.
We ask parents for feedback on each model as well as the standard safety check performed by our team. We then take into account all of this information when making our recommendations.
If you're in search of a secure, high-quality stroller, start with our top choices. These strollers can be used in multiple seating configurations to accommodate infant car seats. They can be used as an individual stroller or in tandem and are suitable for children from birth through elementary school.
The best double strollers are made to adapt to your growing family. They're sleek and stylish and can accommodate many different customization options, and can accommodate both toddlers and infants in tandem or side-by-side (single-file) seating designs. Some also have an enormous storage basket as well as a handlebar that could be telescopically adjusted, as well as one-handed folding mechanisms.
If you have twins or a child who is a similar age to their sibling, consider using a tandem stroller with an extra bench seat in the back that could be used by a 3rd child. These strollers are great for siblings who would like to get together, but not be able to do so in a standard stroller. They could end up fighting or arguing. There are convertible models that permit you to remove the bench seat when your children are ready for a ride without using a car seat.
Comfort
The best double strollers come with comfortable child seats that are well-padded and well-supported. They also come with plenty of storage space, spacious footwells for children's feet and legs, and UPF 50+ sun-protection canopies that offer excellent sun protection. Seats should recline at an angle so that kids are comfortable. They should also include adjustable calf bar that allow parents to independently adjust the seat. The handlebars must be ergonomic and easy to move according to Alli Cavasino, a certified child passenger safety technician. The handlebars must be close enough to the children's seats that you can reach them and grasp them. If the handlebars on the stroller are not close enough it will be a challenge to maintain your balance and good posture when pushing them.
The ride should be smooth even on rough or hard surfaces. Some of the models that we tested had shock absorbers installed to keep the ride stable. Certain models come with front and back suspension which improves control and reduces the amount of force needed to push them. The wheels must have a long-lasting tread and be made of premium rubber.
We searched for the most versatile double-strollers which can be used from the time of to toddlerhood. A few of the ones we came across can be set up as tandem strollers or side-by-side and one that we found, the Uppababy Vista v2, can even transform into a single-file stroller for infants. The model is three times more expensive as our primary tandem choice however, its materials are more durable, and it will last longer.
The best double strollers will be light and maneuverable for long walks and trips to the zoo or the park and for other errands. The double strollers are typically larger than single strollers and can be difficult to fit into narrow doorways or store aisles. Some of them cost more than single-seaters, but that's normal since you get a lot more for your money. The models we recommend are comfortable for kids and adults alike and will continue to grow with your family.
Convenience
If you're planning to spend money on a double stroller, it must be easy to push and put away. The stroller should be light and easily fits in the trunk of your car or at home. It should be able to maneuver rough terrain and make tight turns. Some of the top double-strollers come with adjustable calf support, and seats that recline. They also offer UPF sun protection. The canopy should be big enough to protect both kids and, if you're concerned about getting the sun into their eyes, choose one with a peek-aboo window.
The age and stage of your children will determine the kind of stroller you'll need. Parents of twins may choose a convertible stroller which can accommodate two infant car seats simultaneously and families with a child who is older and a toddlers may prefer side-byside doubles. You'll also need to decide whether you want an infant stroller that can be pushed through narrow doors or in crowded grocery store aisles and is able to be used on planes.
In our Lab tests, we discovered that the top double strollers are relatively easy to fold and carry. Most double strollers fold in a matter of one or two steps, and are compact enough to fit into the majority of compact cars. They're also designed to be sturdy and easy to put back together.
Some of the best double strollers come with practical features for parents like a one-parent cup holder and a large storage basket. Be sure to check if the stroller is equipped with a lock for the front seat to stop your child from escaping. Some strollers come with an universal adapter that fits car seats and can be converted to a single seat when your child grows.
Some of the top double strollers can be expensive, but they offer superior build quality and higher resale values than lower-end models. They are also easier to maneuver, and can withstand rough terrain such as urban walkways or parks.
Style
Parents who are looking for a double stroller are looking for more than just a way to carry two kids. They want a lightweight stroller that can be maneuvered with enough onboard storage and thoughtful features that allow it to grow with the kids--and be simple to push and maneuver. Since they will be carrying more children, the stroller needs to be comfortable on their backs and shoulders.
This is why the top double strollers are sleek, offer a variety of options for customization, and be adapted to infant car seats for an effortless transition from baby to toddler. They are available in tandem (single-file seating) as well as side-by-side. They are even lightweight enough to use for running.
In addition to size parents should also think about whether the double stroller will fit through doorways or other narrow spaces. Most of the models that we tested for our most recent version can be pushed through doors for exterior use that measure 36 inches wide.
Other aspects we take into consideration when reviewing the best double strollers is the speed and ease with which they fold and unfold, how big the cargo basket is, how cushioned the seats are, and how flexible the canopy are. We also consider how comfortable the seat straps and buckles are for children who sit in the stroller, and how easy it is to adjust the handlebar height.
For instance our top option is the Uppababy Vista V2, is lightweight and has ample onboard storage for both children. It has one parent cup holders, reclined seats that can be reclined independently, and a large UPF 50+ canopy with peekaboo windows. The padded straps for the seat and buckles are among the most comfortable in our tests and we found the seat to be among the easiest to secure for children of all different ages.
If you're still not sure if you're ready to buy a double stroller, Facebook Marketplace and other second-hand sites often have good-condition used options for reasonable prices. Make sure you do your homework and look for any signs of damage before you buy.