Buying a Double Pushchair From Birth
A double pushchair is an excellent option if you enjoy long walks with your toddler and are planning to have a second child. There are a variety of options to choose from.
The majority of tandem buggies can adapt to various configurations. For example, some have reversible seats that let siblings face one another or the other.
Size
If you're considering purchasing a double pushchair right from the start, it's important to remember that they're usually bigger than single buggies. That's why you need to ensure that your chosen buggy can fit through your doorways and can easily maneuver through kerbs, and up and down steps.
Double strollers are typically available in two basic forms that are tandem and side-by-side. Tandem buggies can be an ideal option for parents with twins. Side-by-side strollers are ideal for children of all ages and can be transformed into a single-to-double stroller by adding a seat.
Most tandem buggies have seats that face each other and are available in a variety of configurations. This lets your children be able to see each other while riding. If your children are of a similar age, they may be able to get along or at least not fight over who gets the most comfortable seats. then you may discover that they're more comfortable together rather than facing one another.
A great choice for families with twins or younger siblings who require to sit side by side is the iCandy Venus. This stylish, budget-friendly buggy can also be used with an infant car seat so it can grow along with your family. To ensure that your infants are cozy and warm in their cocoons, iCandy also include extra accessories that rival brands cost separately, such as fleecy lines.
Another great option for expanding families is the Egg2. This stylish pushchair is a popular choice for image-conscious parents, and it can be used as a single unit or as a double due to its movable frame, which has adaptors to add a seat or a carrycot. It's not the least expensive double stroller on the market however it does come with distinctive characteristics that differentiate it from other strollers, such as the large shopping basket that is placed behind the seat when it is in the face-to-parent mode.
Style
Most double buggies are heavier and bulkier than single models, so bear this in mind if looking to purchase a model that will last for several years. However, they do provide more storage space, often with a bigger shopping basket. They also typically feature seating that is facing the parent, with an extendable sunshade and the peekaboo window, aswell being reclining seats that can be reclined independently. Some even come with an adjustable leg and foot rest that eases any discomfort that is caused by long walks or extended periods of sitting.
The most well-known double buggy styles include side-by-sides and tandems. Tandems are designed with children seated side-by-side with the same view. This can prevent siblings fighting over where to sit. However, they're still not 100% secure, and children may punch or kick each on the other while they're riding. The side-by-side model is more conventional with two fixed seats mounted on a single wide stroller frame. They might not come with as many configurations and are ideal for infants that can sit unassisted but do not need the back support offered by an infant car seat.
Our lab experts recommend the Cybex venus if you are seeking a light, double from birth. This innovative model can be converted from mono to twin mode by expanding in width. It can accommodate either 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 smoother travel. The seats and the optional RumbleSeat are cushioned and comfortable and come with adjustable leg and foot rests and generous UPF 50+ canopy that provide plenty of shade.
Another option that is a good value is the Baby Jogger City Mini GT2. It's a side by side pushchair, just like the Venus. You can configure it to suit your needs. It can accommodate a single infant car seat, and you can add the Baby Jogger Glider Board for an additional passenger (though this limits the usability 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 up and down kerbs.
Comfort
The padding and fabric of the seat are both comfortable for children. Additionally the UPF 50+ canopy are long enough to provide shade and an adorable peekaboo feature. Our testers also appreciated that the seat reclines at a variety of angles. The only downside is that the fold isn't as compact as some other models, but our lab experts say it opens and closes easily.
Double buggies are larger, heavier and more expensive, but are an excellent investment for families with two children of the same age (generally less than 4). Choose a brand that is designed to last for many years and will not lose its value.
Tandem buggies begin as one pushchair. They come with adaptors that allow you to add another seat, a carrycot or (in some cases) car seats to the frame. Some are fixed doubles, while others - such as this one made by Leclerc can be changed to a side-by-side arrangement when your children are ready for it.
A side-by-side double buggy typically wider than other types however it is much more maneuverable over kerbs as the weight is distributed more evenly. However, it's not foolproof for avoiding sibling squabbles as children sharing the same seat can kick or punch each other when they ride.
A front-facing tandem is an ideal alternative to a traditional side-by-side model for older children. It can also reduce the likelihood of sibling fights because your children aren't directly facing each other. Some children might feel left out in a tandem that is facing forward, as they don't get the same view.
The egg2 has a sleek, modern design and an attractive price tag. Our test subjects liked how easy to push, but they wished it had more storage. They also wished the handlebars were more comfortable. It's suitable from birth, and can be used in twin mode from newborn, or as the combination of carrycot(s)/infant seats/car seat(s) for twins. It's also the most flexible of our double buggies, which is why it's been a MadeForMums popular model since 2009. It is not the cheapest double buggy available, but it has a competitive cost and an excellent selling.
Storage
A double pushchair will make life easier for you for parents with more than one baby. There are a myriad of types of double strollers, ranging from tandems to side by sides in a variety of styles and colours. Before making a purchase you must think about your family's needs and the features that are most important to you. By evaluating your needs you will be able to narrow your options and choose the most appropriate double pram.
A good double buggy is agile and easy to maneuver. It should be light. This is especially crucial if you live within an urban area where you'll need a double pram that can tackle busy streets and fit into doorways that are narrow for lunch runs or shopping days out.
The best double buggies come with suspension that will soften the impact of bumps and uneven surfaces, and also a recline feature for when your little one wants to take a snooze. The seats should be able to adjust foot and leg rests, a UPF 50+ canopy with a peekaboo window, and comfy straps and buckles.
Another aspect to consider when selecting a double pushchair is how compact it can be when folded. Certain double buggies are able to be folded down to a compact size that is easy to carry, and can be tucked away in tight spaces like cabinets. Others may be slightly bulkier but they'll still be easy to transport and store.
If you are on an extremely tight budget, you can find double strollers at an affordable price. The Cybex Influencer is one example, can be used either as a single stroller or a double stroller. It also has a basket underneath the seat when in parent-facing mode. It is lightweight, folds flat, and has a very high resale cost.
The UPPAbaby Vista is also an ideal option for families since it can be set up with different seating arrangements and can accommodate two infant car seats. It comes with reversible seats, so that your children can sit facing one another or the world, and it can also be equipped with a bassinet that is suitable for newborns.