How to Choose the Best Double Stroller

If you're in the market for a double stroller there are plenty of options. To help you choose the best one for your family, we talked to experts in child development as well as mom Katie Billingsley.

Look for a stroller that's reasonably easy to push, fold and carry. And consider a model that's versatile enough to accommodate two infant car seats or a toddler along with an adult rider board.

Safety

Look for a double-stroller that has all-terrain wheels and a brake that is operated by hand if want to keep the kids safe while walking. These brakes and wheels help you navigate trails and gravel without your children falling or rolling. The best double strollers also have plenty of storage space for gear and kids-sized items like snacks and toys.

The first step in selecting the right double stroller is to know how old your children are and how far apart they are. A majority of double strollers are designed to can accommodate one child's seat, but the ones are available in various configurations so that you can choose the type of seating that is most suitable for your children and your lifestyle.

Side-byside doubles are a popular option, and they're great for kids of similar ages who like to be social with one another. Certain models feature a double-decker design, allowing you to place one seat above the other or even attach a rider board to older siblings. Babies can be placed in an infant bassinet that is attached to the frame or as an individual attachment that allows you to have a peek-a-boo view of your baby. If you have twins or are expecting twins, a twin stroller is the best option to go.

For families that are more adventurous opt for a double stroller that is able to handle off-road terrain or even hiking. A lot strollers were created with active parents and their children in mind. They have features that will let you take them on any adventure, no matter how rough or high the climbs might be.

In addition to all-terrain tires the best double strollers have clever features that make traversing tough terrain and weather easier. For instance, this jogging stroller includes a wrist loop for your child, so you can be sure they're secure when running downhill or at faster speeds. It also comes with a full-coverage canopy that is ventilated to keep your kids cool in the summer heat.

This model is a light and compact double stroller from Joovy. It weighs less than 23 pounds., making it ideal for air travel and storage in trunks or overhead compartments. Additionally, it comes with a large storage basket and an integrated parking brake that is simple to use.

Seating

Unlike the behemoth strollers of the past, today's double strollers are sleek and can accommodate an array of configurations to fit families. Some of them function as traditional side-byside strollers, while others -- like the Baby Trend Sit 'N Stand Double Stroller--work as a base to which car seats, toddler seats or bassinets snap into. They are available in a variety of widths and weight limits to fit children from birth to kindergarten.

A good double stroller must be a breeze to move and fold, while also permitting you to alter the height of the handlebar to ensure you're able to walk comfortably throughout your excursions. A well-designed handlebar should be comfortable to hold, and it should allow you to walk in a proper form (ask other parents for advice on this). stroller double Links to an external site. should also offer a variety of storage options that accommodate all the essentials you'll need for your children.

If your twins are of a similar age and are in the same age group, a tandem stroller might be the best option for your family. These models come with seats that are side-byside, so you can interact with them each other and keep an eye on both of them at the same time. They also recline independently, so one child can rest while the other is ready to go.

The disadvantage of twin strollers is that it can be wider than a single-occupant model which makes it difficult to maneuver around sidewalks, shop aisles and narrow doorways. For some families, the benefits are worth the extra effort and size.

If you're looking for an ultra-compact double stroller, the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double is a great choice. Its shock absorption, streamlined design and capacity for two infant car seats - plus an optional running board for older children--make it an ideal option for urban living.

Another alternative is a wagon-style double stroller, such as the Delta Children LX Side-by-Side Stroller. The model is basic however it has plenty of storage space and seating. It also comes with heavy-duty wheels to tackle any terrain. It also has an umbrella with 50+ SPF and adjustable handlebars. Some parents complain that the seats are too low and cannot recline fully flat, which makes it difficult for little children to reach their snacks or get comfortable.

User-Friendliness

A double stroller is often an investment of a large amount and one you're hoping to use for years. If you are in the market for a double stroller, make sure that it is easy to use and clean. Fortunately, the best double strollers are designed to be as user-friendly as they can and include a variety of features that are convenient for parents.

For starters, all of the strollers we tested fold up easily and compactly (with just one hand!). They're also light, making them ideal for traveling. Many of them can be checked at the gate on planes and fit in most trunks. Most of our testers also found that their strollers can be folded down to a smaller size than single-seat versions. Some even came with a carrying strap.

If you're looking for a versatile double stroller that can expand with your family, look no further than the Valco Snap Duo Trend. This side-byside stroller is compatible with infant car seats as well as other accessories. It can be used from birth up to the age of preschool. Each seat has five points of harness with a large canopy, as well as plenty of sun protection.

Another popular option is the Joovy Twin Roo. It is light compact and weighs only 22 pounds when folded. The front seat reclines to a flat position and the back seat can be adjusted for each child. There's a large storage basket and a simple, one-step linked parking brake that makes this stroller simple to move and use.

The only drawbacks of the Joovy Twin Roo are minor and specific to that model. Kerry says that the packaging is smart and fun, however it comes in five boxes which can be a little cumbersome to carry around. She also found the Genuis magnetic clasp to be somewhat difficult to use and took her a while before she was able to master it. She was pleased with the stroller in the end and would recommend it.

Stores

Strollers are available in various sizes and styles that include tandems (single-file seating) as well as side-by-side doubles and many that allow you to modify the layout using the use of a bassinet or car seat attachment. Some come with rider boards designed for older kids. However, they're not all created equal. Some are sleek and easy to use, while others are heavy, bulky and difficult to fold or store.


If you're seeking a stroller with a light weight that can accommodate two children and two children, the Joovy Caboose Graphite is a great option. It was the lightest choice in our tests, weighing close to 23 pounds. It is also simple to fold, but it has all the features parents require for a fun outing with two kids.

The UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double is a different model that our testers adored particularly for its sleek design and user-friendly. It can accommodate two infant car seats, a toddler seat and a bassinet. There are no adapters needed. The rear seat can be removed to create triple or quad stroller. It has a large storage basket that can be upgraded to include an organizer for parents, all-terrain wheels, and side storage bags.

Billingsley states that the best double stroller for toddlers is one that has multiple customization options, like an adjustable seat or bassinet. This is because toddlers typically have limitations in endurance, and having a stroller that has an attachment for a bassinet will provide them with a safe spot to take a nap. A double stroller should come with a sturdy harness system and recline positions, and plenty of storage space for snacks and toys.

The ZOE Twin+ is popular among parents due to its lightweight and versatility. It is airline gate-check friendly and fits through the majority of doorways (without removing the wheels on the front), and can be expanded into a quad or triple stroller by adding an additional tandem. Its nearly-flat, independently reclining seats, extra-long sun canopies and adjustable footrests are additional highlights, while its spacious underseat storage area and the inclusion of parent and child cup holders round out the impressive list of features. The one downside according to Taylor the manufacturer, is that it doesn't have a a small footprint when folded and can be difficult to store.