Choosing a Double Pram and Pushchair
A well-designed double pram or pushchair can simplify life for families, particularly when walking on busy roads or in shops and stores. Choose a model with ample storage space for nappies, snacks and other essentials.
Some first-time parents choose a pushchair that is future-proof and can be used as a single stroller when baby is born, and then transformed into a twin-mode when the baby is born. Joolz offers a range of these options.
Tandem
The news that you're expecting a baby is one of the most exciting events in your life. However, once the initial excitement wears off and reality sinks in, you could be faced with a multitude of decisions regarding how to prepare your family for the arrival of your little one or one. The proper stroller or pram is among the most crucial considerations.
Tandem prams, also referred to as "in-line" double prams are a classic design that has two seats or bassinets placed side by side. The front seat, which is typically cushioned, reclines and is suitable for infants. The second seat is more upright and is designed to accommodate toddlers as young as three years old. Certain models let you decide if your children will look at each other or look outwards. Many tandems have the option of being converted into a single pushchair if you decide your oldest child does not require the second seat.
A tandem is cheaper than twin prams and is a great option for parents looking to save money, but without compromising safety or functionality. However, a drawback of a tandem is that it may be a bit heavy and lengthy to steer, particularly when going up or down kerbs. It is usually less stable than a twin pushchair, particularly if the older child is sitting in the front. A tandem can also be tricky to get onto public transport and can be difficult to navigate on narrow pavements.
The iCandy Peach is a popular model with a strong image that's a great choice for a single parent looking for a sleeker design, but the tandem mode can make it feel heavy and long when pushing. It comes with an innovative frame that expands in width to allow for the addition of the second seat, and can be used with a variety of combinations of carrycots, buggy seats and car seats (two at a time or separately). The iCandy Wave is another lightweight tandem option that is easy to use and compatible with a range of car seats and carrycots.
Side by side
When it comes time to choose a double pram or pushchair, there's a lot to consider. There are numerous configuration options to choose from, whether you're purchasing for twins or close-in-age siblings. Tandem prams, referred to as side-by-side prams, are popular options because they can be set up in a way 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 come with seats that can be reversible, meaning you can adapt the configuration to suit your family's needs throughout the baby and toddler years. This lets you be able to watch your children at all times and gives them the chance to interact while they walk.
Tandem prams are often jogging buggies or all-terrain ones which makes them ideal for outdoor adventures and the park. They are also great for narrow aisles and checkouts in supermarkets and shops, as they are less bulky.
The Redsbaby JIVE3 Pram, for example, can be used as a tandem pram from birth in the dual mode, with the addition of the rumble seat (PS249). You can then change to a single pram mode once your baby grows out of the rumble seat or choose the adaptors for car capsules (PS53) to turn it into a travel system from newborn to toddler.
Another option is the Side by Side Pram from Babybee. This double side-by-side pram comes in a range of colors and is designed with a contemporary style. It is designed to be used from the moment of birth, you can add the LUNA Cocoon for newborns (PS262) and the LUNA Infant Seats (PS53 each).
If you're seeking a sleek, stylish pushchair that converts into a side-by-side double and a side-by-side double, the Egg 2 from Chicco is an excellent choice. It's available in a range of carrycot and infant seat configurations to accommodate twins or siblings of varying age groups and is easy to fold. It is also relatively lightweight and therefore a good option for people with smaller vehicles or have limited space to store.
Convertible
The best double pushchairs or prams can be made into various seats to accommodate your changing needs. There is the possibility of fitting two toddlers in the seats or a third child on the seat board, and still have enough space for a shopping basket, and the ability to add additional accessories such as rain covers is a benefit. Convertible double strollers are generally heavier and bulkier than single pushchairs because they are designed to accommodate two or more children. The Graco Modes Nest2Grow convertible is an example of a very affordable convertible that is easy to use. However, our test participants found it to be somewhat heavy for its price.
Some double strollers that can be converted into convertibles like the Baby Jogger City Select 2 come with a carrycot suitable for newborns. This reduces the size of the double stroller when it is not in use, and makes it smaller. Our test subjects were awed by the City Select's clever one-handed fold, although it requires some time to master. It is also quite responsive and nimble even despite its size.
Another affordable option is an affordable option is the Cybex Mockingbird Single-to-Double Stroller. It can be converted from a rear-facing infant car seat to a forward-facing toddler seat, and the bassinet mode is a great option for infants (although remember that babies under 4 months old should never sleep in strollers because of the risk of asphyxia in a position).
To be more flexible, opt for a dual-mode convertible such as the iCandy Peach. This is a narrow double stroller that can hold two children side-by-side. It can also be used to make a tandem by adding a second seat kit. It's nimble and responsive, and our testers liked its sleek design. It's not as light as some of the other pushchairs we've reviewed however, it comes with an enormous shopping basket that is handy for parents carrying bags full of toys and groceries.
Lightweight
Some parents want to ensure the future of their double pushchair if they have one child and are expecting another and a convertible model is a great option. The iCandy Peach allows you to change from a single pushchair to a double pushchair with the addition of either an infant seat or the brand's carrycot (which is suitable for sleeping at night). Our test subjects were impressed by the comfort of the seats and love the fact that they both recline to different positions, come with built-in leg and foot supports and generous UPF 50+ canopies with windows that peek out. The rear seat can be raised high to allow the child of a higher age can stand on it to reach the basket of shopping.
Cher stated that the only negative aspect of the iCandy Peach was its weight. However, she felt this was offset by the fact that it's easy to move and has plenty of storage, including two cup holders for parents and their children seats-back pockets, as well as a large basket under the seat. Cher also liked that the seats can be reversed to face each other. This is perfect for siblings who like to interact and talk when out and about.
The Delta Children LX Side-by-Side Stroller is a lighter option, but still impressive. It weighs only 18 pounds, is small and features a self standing fold, making it simple to carry around or put in your trunk. Parents are impressed by the quality of materials and workmanship, as well as the affordable cost. The only negatives are that the seats do not recline as much as other models we have tested and the rear seat is not as prominent due to its location - it is raised higher than the front seat.
The Joolz Geo 3 is another popular option. It is slim, sleek and easy to steer and comes with an unbeatable lifetime warranty. sit and stand double stroller is important to remember that, despite their smaller size side by side prams remain more spacious than tandem and in-line doubles and can be difficult to navigate through busy streets or in shops. They are also shorter, making them more maneuverable in tight spaces.