Double strollers are an excellent solution for twins or two littles close in age. Although they are more expensive, a double stroller will make daycare pickup, grocery shopping, and long walks a much easier experience. Altogether, a double stroller may be worth the investment. In today’s double stroller guide, we will be going through the difference between double strollers, what to pay attention to and how to choose the one that best suits you and your child’s needs. With all the options, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one, so let’s dive into the double stroller adventure.
Side by Side Double Strollers
To simplify the differences between double strollers, we can divide them into two main categories: side-by-side double strollers and tandem double strollers.
A side-by-side double stroller is built with two seats, one next to the other. The two kids sit beside each other with plenty of leg room and recline space. These strollers are usually more expansive, and getting into certain doorways or aisles is harder. This is an ideal stroller for those who will spend most of their time outside with the stroller, taking walks or going to the park.
Tandem Double Strollers
Tandem double strollers, sometimes called in-line double strollers, are built with one seat in front of the other. This design makes entering doorways, crowded sidewalks, or aisles in a store easier. Tandem strollers have a stadium design with one seat higher than the other, so both kids have a street view. This leaves one kid with all the leg space and the other with barely any.
Another issue with tandem strollers are the kids fighting for what they seat they get which can cause fights with each outing. Overall, tandem strollers are a little bit harder to turn, being that they are on the heavier side.
Baby Jogger City Mini GT2 Double Stroller
The Baby Jogger City Mini is a narrow side-by-side double stroller. It is relatively lightweight for a double stroller and is the narrowest model. It is sturdy, easy to push and maneuver, and, most importantly, very easy to fold. The seats recline low, and the storage basket is divided, which can be a minus for some. Overall, this is a very popular side-by-side double stroller model that is comfortable for children and caregivers.
Check out our article on Choosing the Best Travel Stroller.
Uppababy Vista V2
The Uppababy Vista V2 is a convertible tandem stroller. This means that the seats are aligned one in front of the next. The seats can be adjusted and moved to face one another, forward or backward. This stroller can be used as a single stroller, a sit-and-stand stroller, or a double stroller. It has quite a lot of storage space for shopping bags or your children’s diaper bags.
The Uppababy Vista is a very sturdy, heavy-duty double stroller. Its price point is a little high, but with all the features and possibilities, it’s definitely worth the price.
Thule Urban Glide 3
This stroller is for families who love jogging, exercising, hiking, and the like. The Thule Urban Glide 3 is a double stroller for joggers. This is one of the more jumbo double strollers that may not fit in the trunk of an average car, will take up more space on the sidewalk, and is heavier than most options. However, it glides over rocky roads, sand, grass, and the like better than other double strollers in the market.
Cybex Gazelle S Twin
The Cybex Gazelle S Twin is a tandem double stroller. The seats can be adjusted to face each other or away. Although it may look big, it folds pretty compactly and can fit into the average car trunk. It has a modern look and can fit a bassinet and toddler seat. This stroller is heavier, quite sturdy, and more narrow than a side-to-side double stroller.
Key Features to Consider
Seat Reclines: Seats that recline provide ultimate comfort for babies and toddlers, whether for a toddler nap or for babies who can’t yet sit up. In a side-by-side double stroller, both seats can be fully reclined with no limit; however, in a tandem double stroller, oftentimes, there’s a limit as to how far back the seats can be reclined because of the back-to-back design of the seats.
Adjustable Handlebar: An adjustable handlebar makes pushing easier for parents of varying heights. It is a game changer and gives caregivers a more customizable experience.
Storage Basket: The storage basket under a stroller is a lifesaver for parents on the go. The more packets and compartments, the better! Whatever your preference, make sure your stroller satisfies your storage needs. Think of all the things you’ll be taking with you on a trip with two kids. The more storage space you have under the stroller, the more available your hands will be to push that bad boy.
Fold: The fold of a double stroller is crucial. As big as they often seem, it can be surprising how small they can be when folded. Consider whether you’ll be loading your double stroller in the car often or storing it in a closet in your apartment. Either way, an easy folding mechanism is a great plus.
Conclusion – Double Stroller Guide
The market for the best double strollers, whether side-by-side or tandem, is broad. Throughout this double stroller buying guide we discussed four popular double stroller options: two tandem and the other side-by-side. All of them have advantages and disadvantages and ultimately, the choice depends on your preferences as a growing family. We hope this article can help you easily choose between the options. Remember to consider all aspects before making your final decision.
Are double strollers suitable for newborns?
Many double strollers come with a bassinet attachment or are compatible with an infant car seat. Double stroller seats that can be reclined to a lying-down position can also be great for newborns.
Which is easier to maneuver, a side-by side double stroller or a tandem double stroller?
This is very dependent on parents’ preferences and stroller choices. A side-by-side double stroller can be a lighter option but is often wider and difficult to get into doorways, whereas a tandem double stroller is narrower and easier to maneuver in some cases.
