How to Choose the Best Double Stroller

If you're in the market for a double stroller there are plenty of options. Katie Billingsley, a child development expert and mother, was able to help us choose the right one for you.

Look for a stroller that's reasonably easy to fold, push and carry. You should consider a stroller that can accommodate two infant car seats or a toddler that has a riderboard.

Safety

If you want to keep your kids safe while walking opt for double strollers that have features such as all-terrain tires and an electronic brake that can be operated by hand. These brakes and wheels will help you navigate paths and dirt without worrying about your children slipping or rolling. The best double strollers offer plenty of storage space for gear and essentials for kids, such as snacks and toys.

The first step to choosing the right double stroller is to figure out the age of your children and how far apart they are. A majority of double strollers can only accommodate one child seat. However, some do come with a variety of configurations that let you pick the seating that is best for your family.

The classic doubles are ideal for children of similar ages who like to interact. Double-decker designs permit you to place one of the seats over the other, pushchairsandprams or even attach a riderboard to older siblings. Newborns can be placed in a bassinet that is attached to the frame or in an attachment that lets you play peek-a-boo with your baby. If you have twins or are expecting twins, a twin stroller is the best option to go.

For more adventurous families consider a double stroller that is able to take on off-road terrains or even hike. A majority of these strollers have been designed with active parents in mind, and have features that allow you to take your kids on any adventure, regardless of how rough the path or how high the climbs might be.

The best double strollers have thoughtful features to make it easier to navigate in a difficult terrain or bad weather. For example, this jogging stroller includes a wrist loop for your child so you'll be able to ensure they're secure when running downhill or at speeds that are higher. It also has a full-coverage canopy that is ventilated to keep your children cool in the summer heat.

This model is a compact and compact double stroller from Joovy. It weighs just 23 pounds, which makes it lighter than some single strollers, and ideal for air travel or storage in trunks or overhead compartments. It also comes with a huge storage basket and a one-step linked parking brake that is easy to use.

Seating

In contrast to the massive strollers of the past the modern double strollers are sleek and offer an array of designs to accommodate families. Some work as traditional side-by-side strollers, while others -- like the Baby Trend Sit 'N Stand Double Stroller--function as a base for car seats, toddler seats, or bassinets click into. They come in various widths and weight limits to fit children from birth through kindergarten.

A quality double stroller should be a breeze to move and fold, while allowing you to adjust the handlebar height so you're in a comfortable position throughout your trips. A good handlebar should be easy to grip, and it should encourage you to walk with proper posture (ask other parents for tips on this). It should also provide a variety of storage options that can accommodate all the essentials you'll need for your children.

If your twins are near in age, you may consider a tandem stroller that works best for your family. These models have seats that are side-by-side which means you can interact with them both and keep an eye on each of them at the same time. They also recline separately so that one child can rest while the other is ready to go.

The disadvantage of a twin stroller is that it can be larger than a single-occupant model and can make it difficult to maneuver around the aisles of shops, sidewalks and narrow doorways. For certain families, however the benefits are worth the extra effort and size.

If you are looking for a compact double-stroller then the UPPAbaby V2 Double is a good alternative. The UPPAbaby Vista Double is an excellent choice for urban living due to its shock absorption capabilities, sleek design, and capacity to accommodate two infant car seats. It also comes with an optional running board that can be used by older children who are mobile.

A wagon-style double stroller like the Delta Children LX Stroller Side-by-Side is another option. This basic model comes with lots of space for seating and storage, plus robust wheels that can handle any terrain. It also features a 50+ SPF canopy and a handlebar that can be adjusted. Some parents complain that the seats are too low and they don't recline to a completely flat position, which makes it difficult for smaller children to get comfortable or reach their snack trays.

User-Friendliness

A double stroller can be a significant investment and one you're hoping to use for a long time. When you are shopping for a double stroller, be sure it's easy to use and clean. Luckily, the most effective GYMAX Double Seat Stroller: Adjustable Push Handle Pram strollers are designed to be as user-friendly as is possible and come with a wide array of convenient features for parents.

All strollers we tested fold quickly and compactly in one hand. They are also light and are ideal for traveling. A lot of them fit into most trunks and can be gate-checked on airplanes. In addition, the majority of our test subjects found that their strollers folded down to smaller sizes than the single seat models, and some even came with the option of carrying a strap for carrying.

If you're looking for a flexible double stroller that can adapt to your family's needs Look no further than the Valco Snap Duo Trend. This side-byside stroller is compatible with infant car seats, a bassinet, and other accessories, which means you can use it from birth to the age of preschool. Each seat features five-point harnesses with a large canopy, as well as ample sun protection.

Another highly-regarded option is the Joovy Twin Roo. This stroller is lightweight and extremely compact, measuring just 22 pounds and 26 inches in width when folded. The front seat reclines almost to the full flat position and the back seat features an adjustable recline for every child. There's a large storage bin and a simple, one-step linked parking brake that makes this stroller easy to maneuver and use.

The only downsides to the Joovy Twin Roo are minor and specific to that model. Kerry notes that the packaging was fun and clever, however it was also packaged in five boxes which can be a hassle to lug around. She also found the Genuis magnetic clasp somewhat awkward, and it took a while before she was able to master it. She was satisfied with the stroller, however, and would recommend it.

Storage

Strollers are available in various sizes and styles and styles, including tandems (single-file seating) and side-by-side doubles and many that let you customize the configuration using a car seat or bassinet attachment. Some have rider boards that can be added to accommodate older siblings. However, not all of them are made equal. Some are elegant and simple to use, whereas others are bulky, heavy and difficult to fold or stow.

If you're looking for a stroller that is light that can fit two children, the Joovy Caboose Graphite is a great choice. It was the lightest option in our tests at close to 23 pounds. It is also easy to fold, yet it has all the features parents need for a fun outing with two kids.

The Vista v2 double from UPPAbaby is another model our testers loved. They particularly liked its sleek design and user-friendly. It can accommodate two infant car seats, a toddler's seat and a bassinet. There are no adapters needed. The rear seat can also be removed to create a triple or quad stroller. It comes with a large storage basket that can be upgraded to include an organizer for parents wheel, all-terrain wheels, as well as side storage bags.

Billingsley says that the most suitable double stroller for toddlers is one that has various options for customization. This includes a bassinet or seat that can be removed. Toddlers are typically restricted in their endurance, so strollers that have an attached bassinet will provide a safe place for them to sleep. She suggests that a double stroller should come with a sturdy harness system and recline positions, as well as plenty of storage room for toys and snacks.

The ZOE Twin+ is popular with parents due to its lightweight and flexibility. It is gate-check-friendly for airlines and fits through the majority of doorways (without taking off 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, sun canopy with extra-long lengths and footrests that can be adjusted are other highlights, while its large underseat storage basket and inclusion of kid and parent cup holders round out the impressive set of features. Taylor states that the only disadvantage is that it has a a large size when folded and it can be difficult for parents to store.