When I was pregnant with my son, I remember feeling mind-blown at the sheer number of stroller options out there. I barely knew where to start! Which brands were best? How much did I want to spend? Did I want something lightweight and portable, or heavier and more durable for all-terrain adventures? There were so many things to consider, and that was just for a single stroller!
If you’ve got a second child on the way and you’re looking for a double stroller, I’m here to take some of the guesswork out of it for you! There are still lots of things to consider when buying a double stroller, but with a good grasp on the available options, advantages, disadvantages, and brands, you’ll be able to feel confident in your purchasing decision.
What is a double stroller?
A double stroller carries two kids at once. Whether you’re a mom of twins, or you have a baby and a toddler, or even a baby and a kindergarten-aged child, a double stroller is the easiest way to transport multiple children. They do tend to be heavier and bulkier than a single stroller, but offer the obvious advantage of a convenient way to take both of your kids on outings.
Types of double strollers
Believe it or not, there are actually several different options available when it comes to double strollers.
Side-by-side strollers
A side-by-side stroller positions your children right next to each other (like this one from Mountain Buggy). It’s kind of like having two strollers joined together. This type of stroller is popular for moms of twins, or for kids who are very close in age. It gives both babies an equal and unobstructed view of what’s in front of them, and can even allow your children to interact with each other more easily. It’s super easy to get babies in and out of this type of stroller, since there’s nothing blocking either of the seats. Another benefit of a side-by-side stroller is that it easily reclines when one baby (or both babies) wants to nap. The closer your babies are in weight, the better option this stroller is, since the weight will be evenly distributed.
If your babies are further apart in age and weight, a side-by-side stroller may not be the best choice. Another disadvantage of this type of stroller is that you don’t have the option to position one baby facing you. Most side-by-side strollers don’t work with car seats. And since the babies sit right next to each other, the frame is usually quite a bit wider than a standard stroller. This can make it difficult to go through doors, grocery aisles, and other narrow spaces.
Front and back strollers
If you need something narrower, a front and back stroller will do the trick. Also known as a tandem stroller, this type of stroller positions one seat behind and slightly above the other (like this Contours Option Stroller). It’s generally the same width as a standard stroller, so it’s a sleeker way to navigate through tight spaces. Many front and back strollers are compatible with infant car seats. Some allow you to position the back seat so that it faces you, which is perfect for infants, while your toddler can ride up front. Others even have the capability to position the babies facing each other. Some brands offer a second seat that simply clips in, so you can still use it as a single stroller when only one child is with you.
Sit and stand strollers
A sit and stand stroller (like this one from Baby Trend) is ideal if you have a child who is too large to ride in a stroller, but still too little to walk beside you. This type of stroller is exactly what is sounds like: one child sits while the other one stands. This way, you can get around faster by giving your older child the option to stand on the platform and be pushed. Most sit and stand double strollers offer the option to convert the platform section into a second seating area, so as your older child outgrows the seat, they can still tag along safely on the platform.
What different double stroller brands have to offer
With so many brands on the market, how do you know which one is right for you and your family? It depends what your priorities are.
Affordability
If you’re looking for affordability, Summer Infant is a brand that won’t break the bank. A standard double stroller is just a $250 investment and has everything you need to keep two babies comfortable. This brand offers simple, compact, lightweight designs with a single-hand fold and the ability to recline. There’s ample storage space and comfortables touches for both babies and moms. It’s nothing fancy, but it’s a great budget-friendly double stroller option.
Luxury
If you’re looking for luxury, look no further than Mountain Buggy. This brand offers comfort, style, and all the bells and whistles you could possibly think of. At more than twice the price of a Summer Infant stroller, it’s a substantial investment, but totally worth it if quality and comfort are your main priorities. Mountain Buggy offers a variety of colours and patterns to customize the look of your stroller to your taste, plus gorgeously soft fabric. These strollers are well-designed and easy to manoeuvre. Their side-by-side double stroller even has bragging rights as being the same width as a single stroller. With designer touches like adjustable handlebars and silent peek-a-boo windows, this is the brand to buy for smooth, hassle-free walks and a stylish mode of transportation for your children.
Versatility
One of the most loved and trusted baby brands is Graco. This company makes everything from play pens to high chairs. Graco specializes in portability, convenience, and versatility, and their strollers are no exception. All of their strollers—even their jogging strollers—are compatible with Graco Click Connect infant car seats, which makes them a great option for travel. This brand of stroller offers many different riding positions, lots of storage, and removable trays and cup holders. It’s a practical and versatile double stroller option.
Ready to invest in a double stroller?
For more things to consider when you’re investing in a stroller, check out Best Buy’s stroller buying guide. If you’re already confident you know what you want, head over to BestBuy.ca to pick out the best double stroller for your family today.
