How to Choose the Best Double Stroller

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

You should choose a stroller that is simple to fold and push, as well as carry. Also, consider a stroller that is able to accommodate two infant car seats or a toddler along with an adult rider board.

Safety

If you want to keep your kids secure on your walks, look for a double stroller with features such as all-terrain tires and a hand-operated brake. These brakes and wheels will help you navigate trails and sand without children slipping or rolling. The best double strollers also offer plenty of storage space for gear as well as kid-sized necessities like snacks and toys.

Choosing the right double stroller for your family starts by understanding how old and distant in terms of age your children are. Most double strollers only accommodate one child seat. However, some do have a variety options that let you choose the seating that is ideal for your family.

Side-by-side doubles are a classic option, and they're great for kids of similar ages who like to interact with each other. Some models have a double-decker design, allowing the user to place one of the seats above the other or add an extra rider board for older siblings. Babies can be placed in an infant bassinet that is attached to the frame or in a standalone attachment that gives you a peek-a-boo view of your baby. If you have twins or are expecting twins, a twin stroller is the best way to go.

Look for a double-wheeled stroller that is capable of handling off-road terrain, and even hiking. Many of these strollers are designed with active parents in mind, and come with features that let you take your kids to any adventure, regardless of how rough the road or how steep the climb may be.

In addition to all-terrain tires the top double strollers feature clever features that make traversing difficult terrain and weather more enjoyable. This jogging stoller, for instance, comes with a wrist loop, so you can make sure your child is safe when going downhill at a higher speed or in extreme weather conditions. It also features an all-over canopy that's ventilated to keep your children cool during summer heat.

If you're looking for a light compact double stroller look at this model from Joovy. It weighs less than 23 pounds. It's perfect for air travel and storage in trunks or overhead compartments. Additionally, it comes with a huge storage basket and a one-step linked parking brake that's easy to use.

Seating

In contrast to the massive strollers of old these double strollers are sleek and support a variety of configurations that can be adapted to families. Some of them function as traditional side-byside strollers, while others -- like the Baby Trend Sit 'N Stand stokke Double Stroller Stroller - function as a base to which car seats, toddler seats or bassinets snap into. They come in a variety of sizes and weight limits, allowing children from birth through kindergarten.

A good double stroller should be easy to maneuver and fold, while also permitting you to alter the handlebar height so you're comfortable throughout your outings. A good handlebar is easy to hold and should inspire you to walk in a logical manner (ask for tips from other parents). It should also have various storage options that accommodate everything you need for your kids.

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

The downside to twin strollers is that it can be wider than a single-occupant model which makes it difficult to navigate walkways, aisles for shopping, and narrow doorways. For some families, the benefits are worth the extra effort and size.

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

Another option is a wagon-style double stroller, such as the Delta Children LX Side-by-Side Stroller. This model is bare bones but it comes with plenty of storage and seating space. It also comes with heavy-duty wheels that can take on any terrain. It also has a 50+ SPF canopy and adjustable handlebars. Some parents complain that the seats are a little too low and don't recline to a completely flat position, which makes it difficult for small children to sit comfortably or reach their snack trays.

Simple to Use

Double strollers are usually a large investment that you will use for many years. When shopping for one you need to ensure that it's easy to use and clean. The best double strollers have been developed to be user-friendly and have numerous features that are convenient.

All strollers we tested can be folded easily and compactly with just one hand. They are also light and ideal for traveling. A majority of them are gate checked on airplanes and fit in most trunks. Many of our test subjects discovered that their strollers could be folded down much smaller than the single seat equivalents. Some even had a carrying strap.

The Valco Snap Duo trend is a double stroller that has many options that will grow with your family. This side-by-side stroller can be used 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, a large canopy and plenty of sun protection.

Another option that is highly regarded is the Joovy Twin Roo. The stroller is light and extremely compact, weighing just 22 lbs and 26 inches wide when folded. The front seat reclines almost to a full flat position and the back seat has an adjustable recline for every child. The stroller is simple to maneuver and use thanks to its large storage basket, simple one-step parking brake and large storage basket.

The only drawbacks of the Joovy Twin Roo are minor and specific to the model. Kerry says that the packaging is innovative and enjoyable, however, it comes in five boxes that can be a bit heavy to carry around. She also found the Genuis magnetic clasp a bit clunky and it took her some time before she could master it. In the end, however she was very pleased with this stroller and would highly recommend it.

Stores

Strollers are available in various sizes and designs that include tandems (single-file seating) and side-by-side doubles and some that let you modify the layout using the use of a bassinet or car seat attachment. Some have rider boards which can be added for older children. They're not all created equal. Some are lightweight and easy to use, while others are bulky, heavy and difficult to fold.

If you are looking for a lightweight stroller that can fit two children, the Joovy Caboose Graphite is a great option. It was the lightest option in our tests at close to 23 pounds. It is also simple to fold, but it has all the features parents need to enjoy a great time with two kids.

The Vista v2 Double from UPPAbaby is another model that our testers loved especially for its sleek design and easy to use. It can accommodate two infant car seats or a toddler bassinet and seat without adapters. The rear seat can be removed to turn it into a triple or quad stroller. It comes with a large basket for storage and can be upgraded by adding an organizer for parents as well as all-terrain tires as well with side storage bags.

Billingsley says that the most suitable double stroller for toddlers is one that offers numerous options for customization. This includes a seat or a bassinet that can be removed. Toddlers are often restricted in their endurance, so strollers that have a bassinet attached will provide a safe place for them to nap. She suggests that a double stroller must also have a good harness system and recline positions, and plenty of storage space for snacks and toys.

The ZOE Twin+ is a popular choice for parents because of its light weight and flexibility. It's easy to check at airport gates it can be accessed through all doors (without taking off the front wheels) and can be expanded into a triple or quad stroller with an added tandem seat. The near-flat, independently reclining seats and extra-long sun canopies that are adjustable are among the other features. A large underseat storage basket as well as parent and child cup holders make up the impressive features. One drawback, according to Taylor, is that it doesn't have an elongated profile when folded and can be difficult to stow.