Buying a Double Pushchair From Birth
If you love long walks with your toddler and are contemplating having a second child using a double pushchair, it can simplify your family life. Luckily there are many options to choose from.
Most tandem buggies can adapt to a variety of configurations. Some tandem buggies have reversible seating that allows siblings to be facing each other, or you.
Size
If you're buying a double pushchair from birth it's worth bearing in mind that they're usually bigger than single buggies. This is why it's important to make sure that the buggy you choose fits through your home's doors and is able to easily move through kerbs, and up and down steps.
Double strollers tend to come in two main formats: tandem and side-by-side. Tandem buggies are an ideal option for parents with twins. Side-by-side strollers are ideal for children of all ages and can be converted into a single-to-double stroller with the addition of seating.
Most tandem buggies come with seats that face one another and are available in a variety of configurations. This allows your children to be able to see each other while riding. However, if your kids are of a similar age to get along (or at least not fight over who is the best seat!) You may find that they prefer sitting together rather than next to each other.
A great choice for families with twins or younger siblings who need to be seated side-by-side is the iCandy Venus. This stylish, budget-friendly buggy can also be used in conjunction with an infant car seat, so it can expand with your family. To ensure your babies are snuggly and warm in their cocoons, iCandy also include additional accessories that other brands charge separately, such as fleecy lines.
Another great option for expanding families is the Egg2. This sleek pushchair is a favorite among fashion-conscious parents. It can be used as a single or in a double configuration thanks to its flexible frame that has adaptors available for adding a seat or a carrycot. It's not the cheapest double stroller, but it has some unique features which set it apart from other strollers. One of these is the large basket that is placed behind seat when in the parent-facing position.
Style
Most double buggies are heavier and bulkier than single models, so bear this in mind when contemplating buying a vehicle that will last many years. However, they do provide more storage space, usually with a larger shopping basket. They also come with a seat that faces the parent as well as a sunshade which can be extended and a peekaboo window. They may also have seats that can recline independently. Some even have a built-in adjustable foot and leg rests that eases any discomfort caused by long walks or prolonged periods of sitting.
Tandems and side-by-sides are the most sought-after types of double buggy . Tandems are designed to have the children placed on opposite sides, which gives them both the same view and may help avoid sibling arguments about who sits where. They're not foolproof and children may still punch or kick each other when they ride. Side-by-side is more traditional with two fixed seats that are mounted on a single, wide stroller frame. They don't offer the same number of configurations, and they're usually recommended for infants who have mastered unassisted sitting but don't need the back support of a car seat.
Our lab experts recommend the Cybex Venus if you're looking for a lightweight, double from birth. This model is able to be transformed from mono to twin by expanding widthways. It can be used to accommodate two or one infant seat or carrycots. It's also compact when folded, and has a large shopping basket as well as front and rear suspension for a more comfortable ride. The seats include the RumbleSeat are cushioned, comfortable, and have adjustable leg and footrests. They also come with a large UPF 50+ canopy that provides plenty of shade.
The Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 is a similar value product. Like the Venus one, it's a side by side pushchair that can be configured to meet the needs of your family. It is compatible with a single infant car seat, and you can add the Baby Jogger Glider Board for a third passenger (though this limits the use to twins). The seat can recline independently and the City Mini GT2 has some of the best maneuverability among double buggies. Testers noted that it was easy to move through kerbs and up and down.
Comfort
The padding and fabric of the seat are comfortable for children. In addition, the UPF 50+ canopies are large enough to provide shade, and also have a cute peekaboo feature. Our testers also appreciated that the seat reclines at various angles. The only drawback to this model is that it's not nearly as compact as some models. However, our lab experts said it could be opened and closed with ease.
Double strollers are traditionally heavier and bulkier, as well as more expensive than single buggies. However, they're an essential investment for families with two children that are close in age (generally under 4). Choose a brand that will last for a long time and retain its value.
Tandem buggies started out as a single pushchair, however they can be fitted with adaptors that permit you to add an additional seat, carrycot, or (in certain instances) the car seat to the frame. Some are fixed doubles, while others - such as this one made by Leclerc can be converted to a side-byside configuration when your children are ready for it.
While a side-byside is generally larger than other double buggy types, it can be easier to move up and down kerbs as the weight is distributed more evenly. But it's not 100% reliable for avoiding sibling squabbles and children in the same seat can punch or kick each other when they ride.
A front-facing tandem could be a good alternative to a side-by-side model for older children. It also decreases the possibility of sibling rivalries since your children aren't directly facing eachother. It's important to remember that some children may feel isolated or lonely in a front-facing tandem since they don't have the same view of the world around them.
The egg2 is a chic modern product that comes at an affordable price. Our testers loved the ease of use and push, but wanted it had more storage space and that the handlebars were a little more comfortable. It's suitable from birth and can be used as a twin stroller from newborn. It's not the cheapest double buggy on the market however it is competitive in cost and an excellent sales.
Stores
A double pushchair will simplify your life for parents with more than one child. There is a wide range of double strollers available from tandems to side-by-sides and tandems in different colors and styles. Before making a purchase you must take into consideration your family's lifestyle and the features that are most important to you. The process of assessing your needs will allow you narrow down your possibilities and pick the best double pram for you.
A quality double buggy should be agile, easy to maneuver and should be lightweight. This is especially important for those who live in an urban area where you need a double buggy that can navigate busy streets and pass through doorways that are narrow for to the shops or for lunch runs.
The best double buggies come with suspensions that reduce the impact of bumps and uneven surfaces as well as a recline feature for when your little one would like to sleep. The seats should be able to adjust leg and footrests, UPF 50+ canopy with windows that peek out, as well as comfortable buckles and straps.
Another aspect to consider when deciding on a double pushchair is how compact it is when folded. Certain double buggies are able to be folded into a small size that is easy to carry and fit into small spaces like cabinets. Others might be heavier but they'll still be easy to transport and store.
If you're on the tight end of your budget, you can find double strollers for sale at a great price. For instance the Cybex Influencer can be used as a single or double, and it comes with a basket that is placed under the seat in parent-facing mode. It is also lightweight, folds flat and has a great resale value.
The UPPAbaby Vista is also a good option for families because it can be configured with different seating arrangements and accommodates two infant car seats. It has reversible seats so your children can face either one another or the entire world and it can be fitted with a bassinet that is suitable for newborns.