Choosing a Double Pram and Pushchair
A double pram can simplify life for families, particularly in bustling shops or on busy streets. Find a model that has generous storage space for stowing nappies, snacks and other essentials.
Some parents who are new to the world choose a future-proof pushchair that can be used both as a single stroller once baby is born, and then transformed into a twin-mode after he or she arrives. Joolz has a variety of options.
Tandem
The announcement that you're expecting a child is one of life's most exciting experiences. But, once the excitement of the beginning fades and reality sinks in, you may be faced with a myriad of decisions regarding how to prepare your family for the arrival of your new one or one. The right pram or stroller is among the most crucial considerations.
double pushchair (also known as "in-line" double prams) are a classic design that feature two bassinets or seats for prams arranged side by side. The front seat, which is usually cushioned, reclines and is suitable for newborns. The second seat is upright and is designed to accommodate toddlers as young as three years. Some models allow you to choose whether your children look at each other or look outwards. Many tandems can be converted to a single pushchair when your oldest child is no longer in need of the second seat.
In terms of price, a tandem is much cheaper than a twin pushchair and can be a great choice for parents who want to save money but not compromising on safety or convenience. However, one disadvantage of a tandem is that it may be a bit heavy and lengthy to steer, particularly when moving up and down kerbs. Additionally, it is usually less stable than a twin pushchair, especially if the child with the most weight is sitting in the front. A tandem can be difficult to fit onto public transport, and it can be difficult to maneuver on narrow roads.
The iCandy Peach is a popular model with a strong image that's a great choice for a single parent who is looking for something that is sleek, but the tandem mode can make it feel heavy and long when pushing. It has an innovative frame that can be expanded to allow the addition of the second seat, and it is compatible with many combinations of carrycots, buggy seats and car seats (two at a time or separately). The iCandy Wave tandem is another lightweight option that is easy to use and compatible with a range of car seats or carrycots.
Side by side
When it comes to choosing a double pram or pushchair there's a lot to consider. If you're buying for twins or other siblings that are similar in age, there are a number of configuration choices to think about. Tandem prams, referred to as side-by-side prams are popular choices because they can be configured so that the infant is able to sit in the bassinet in the middle while the older child or toddler is seated in the second seat.
Some models have reversible seats which allow you to alter the configuration for your family during the toddler and baby years. This lets you see your children at all times, and allows them to connect with them as they walk.
Tandem prams can be jogging buggies or all-terrain buggies. They are ideal for outdoor excursions, like to the park. They are also great for narrow aisles and checkouts in supermarkets and shops, as they are more compact.
The Redsbaby JIVE3 pram for instance, can be used in tandem mode right from birth, with the addition of the rumble seat. (PS249) It is then possible to switch to the single pram mode when your little one gets used to the rumble seat or choose the adaptors for car capsules (PS53) to transform it into a travel system from newborn to toddler.
Another alternative is the Side by Side Pram from Babybee. This double side-byside pram comes in a range of colors and is designed with a modern design. Designed to be used from birth, you can add the LUNA newborn cocoon (PS262) or the LUNA infant seats (PS53 each) to ensure that your little ones are safe and comfy.
The Egg 2 is a stylish sleek pushchair that can be transformed into a double side by side. It's available in a variety of infant seat and carrycot combinations to cater for twins or siblings of different ages and is super-easy to fold. It's also quite light and therefore an ideal option for those who have small cars or only a little storage space.
Convertible
The top double prams and pushchairs are able to be used in multiple ways and some are capable of changing seating arrangements to meet your family's changing needs. There is the possibility of fitting two toddlers in seats or a third child on the seat board, and still have space for a basket to store your shopping, and the option to add accessories such as rain covers is another benefit. Convertible double strollers are generally heavier and larger than single pushchairs because they are designed to accommodate two or more children. The Graco Modes Nest2Grow convertible is an example of a very inexpensive convertible that is very easy to use. However, our testers thought it was a bit heavy for its price.
Some convertible double strollers, like the Baby Jogger City Select 2 has a carrycot option that is suitable for infants. This reduces the size of the double stroller when it is not in use, and makes it smaller. Our test participants were awestruck by the City Select's unique one-handed fold, though it requires a bit of practice. It's also quite agile and agile, despite being larger than other double strollers.
The Cybex Mockingbird single-to-double stroller is another affordable option. It converts from a parent-facing infant car seat to a forward-facing toddler seat and the bassinet-style mode is a fantastic option for infants (although keep in mind that infants under 4 months old should never sleep in strollers because of the risk of asphyxia in a position).
If you're looking to expand your options look into a convertible with dual modes like the iCandy Peach. It's a small double buggy that can fit two children in a row, but it can also be used as a tandem, with the addition of a second-seat kit and rider board. It is responsive and nimble, and our testers liked its sleek design. It's not as lightweight like some of the other models on our list, but it comes with a big basket that's ideal for parents who have to carry bags full of toys and other items.
Lightweight
Convertible double strollers are an excellent option for parents who already have children and anticipate to have another. The iCandy Peach can be converted from a single pushchair into a double with the addition of a toddler seat or the brand's carrycot (which works well to sleep at night). Our test subjects were impressed by how comfortable the seats are and adore the fact that can recline in a variety of positions, come with built-in foot and leg supports and generous UPF 50+ canopy with peekaboo windows. The rear seat can also be raised to provide a standing platform for the older child to climb on and off, so that they can access items in the basket of groceries.
Cher said that the one negative aspect of the iCandy Peach was its weight. But she felt this was offset by the fact that it is easy to move and has plenty of storage and cup holders for parents and children as well as seat-back pockets and an enormous basket underneath the seat. Cher also appreciated the feature that the seats are reversible, so they can be set to face one another for siblings who want to talk and get together while out and about.
The Delta Children LX Side-by-Side Stroller is a less heavy option, but still impressive. It weighs only 18 pounds, is small, and has an auto-standing fold, making it simple to transport or store in your trunk. Parents love the quality of the materials and workmanship as well as the low price point. The only issue is that the seats don't recline as much as other models we've examined and the back seat isn't very well-lit due to its positioning that is higher than the front seats.
Another popular option is the Joolz Geo 3, which is slim, sleek and easy to steer, with an attractive design and lifetime guarantee. Although they are narrower side-by-side prams may be more spacious than tandems and inline doubles. This makes them difficult to maneuver on busy streets and in shops. They are also smaller, making them more maneuverable in tight spaces.