Choosing a Double Pram and Pushchair
A double pram can simplify the lives of families, particularly in busy stores or on busy streets. Select a model that offers ample storage space for nappies as well as snacks and other necessities.
Some first-time parents choose a future-proof pushchair which can be used as a single stroller when baby is born, and changed to a twin mode after he or she arrives. 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, after the initial excitement wears off and reality begins to sink into your life, you'll be faced with a myriad of decisions about 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 known as "in-line" double prams) are a classic design with two bassinets or seats for prams arranged side by side. The front seat is usually covered in padding and reclines to a flat position making it suitable for infants while the second one is more upright and can accommodate toddlers from around three years of age. Some models allow you to select whether your children stare at each other or outwards. Many tandems have the option to convert into a single pushchair when you decide your oldest child doesn't require the second seat.
A tandem is less expensive than a twin pram and can be an excellent choice for parents looking to save money, but without losing safety or function. A tandem can be a bit heavy and difficult to steer, particularly when you're tripping over curbs. It's also less stable than twin pushchairs, especially if an older child is seated in the front. A tandem can be difficult to get onto public transport and can be difficult to navigate on narrow roads.
The iCandy Peach, a popular model with a focus on image, is a great alternative for parents who are single and want an elegant appearance. However the tandem mode makes it feel a bit heavy and long to push. It comes with an innovative frame that expands widthways to accommodate the second seat, and it can be used with multiple combinations of carrycots, buggy seats and car seats (two at once or separately). The iCandy Wave is another lightweight tandem option that's easy to use and compatible with a variety of car seats and carrycots.
Side by side
When it comes to selecting a double pram or pushchair there's a lot to think about. There are many configuration options to choose from, regardless of whether you're buying for twins or close-in-age siblings. Tandem prams (also called side by side prams) are popular choices as they can be configured to accommodate infants in a bassinet on the top, while the older toddler or infant is in the lower seat below.
Some models have reversible seats that allow you to customize the configuration for your family throughout the infant and toddler years. This lets you keep your little ones always in your sight and also gives them a chance to interact with each other as they stroll.
Tandem prams are usually all-terrain buggies or jogging ones that is why they're great for outdoor adventures and in the park. They are also great for narrow aisles or checkouts in shops and supermarkets, as they are more compact.
The Redsbaby JIVE3 pram, for example can be used in tandem mode right from birth, with the addition of an rumble seat. (PS249) It is then possible to change to a single pram mode once your child grows out of the rumble seat or choose the car capsule adaptors (PS53) to turn it into a travel system for infant to toddler.
Another alternative is the Side by Side Pram from Babybee. This double side-byside pram comes in a variety of colors and is designed in a contemporary style. Designed to be used right from birth, you can also add the LUNA newborn Cocoon (PS262) and the LUNA Infant Seats (PS53 each).
If you're looking for a sleek and 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 variety of infant seat and carrycot combinations to accommodate twins or siblings of different ages and is super-easy to fold. It's also light and compact, making it a great choice for those who have small cars or limited space to store.
Convertible
The top double prams and pushchairs are versatile, and some are even capable of changing seat configurations to suit your changing family needs. It is possible to fit up to three children on the seat board, or two toddlers in the seats, and still have enough space to carry shopping bags. Accessories such as rain covers are also available. Convertible double strollers tend to be heavier and larger than single pushchairs due to the fact that they need to hold two or more children. The Graco Modes Nest2Grow is one instance of a low-cost convertible that is easy to use, although our testers thought it was a bit heavy for the price.
Some double strollers that convert into convertibles, such as the Baby Jogger City Select 2 have a carrycot that is suitable for newborns. This allows the double stroller to be folded down and reduced in size when not used. The City Select's clever folding system that is one-handed impressed our test subjects, but it takes some practice. It's also very responsive and nimble in spite of its size.
Another option that is reasonably priced is an affordable option is the Cybex Mockingbird Single-to-Double Stroller. The seat converts from a parent-facing infant car seat to a forward-facing toddler car seat and the bassinet option is a fantastic option for infants (although be aware that babies younger than four months old shouldn't sleep in strollers because of the risk of positional asphyxia).
If you're looking to expand your options Consider a convertible that has dual modes such as the iCandy Peach. It's a compact double stroller that is able to accommodate two children side-by-side. It can be used to create a tandem by adding a second seat kit. It's responsive and agile and our test participants loved its sleek design. It's not as light as the other pushchairs in our list, but it offers an ample shopping basket that is ideal for parents with bags full of toys and groceries.
Lightweight
Some parents prefer to secure their double buggy when they have a child and are expecting another so a convertible option 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 optional carrycot (which is suitable for overnight sleeping). The seats are very comfortable and our test subjects love that they can be reclined in multiple positions. They also love the feature that the canopy comes with an open window that can be seen from afar and has UPF 50+ protection. The rear seat can also be lifted high to offer a standing platform for a child to climb on and off, so that they can access items in the basket of groceries.
Cher said that the one downside of the iCandy Peach was its weight. However, she believed this was offset because it is easy to move and has plenty of storage with two cup holders for children and parents, seat-back pockets, and a large basket underneath the seat. Cher also liked that the seats can be turned so that they be positioned to face each other, which is great for siblings who love to chat and have conversations when they are out and out and about.
The Delta Children LX Side-by-Side Stroller is a lighter option however, it is still awe-inspiring. It weighs just 18 pounds, is lightweight, and has self-standing fold, making it easy to carry around or put in your trunk. Parents love the quality of materials and workmanship, and the low cost. The only downsides are that the seats don't recline as much compared to other models we've tried and the rear seat is not as prominent due to its location and height. It is higher than the first seat.
The Joolz Geo 3 is another popular choice. It's slim, sleek, easy to steer and comes with an unbeatable lifetime warranty. It's worth bearing in mind that despite their narrower design, side by side prams remain larger than tandems and in-line doubles. They may be tricky to navigate on busy streets or in shops. However, they're generally smaller, and are easier to maneuver in tight spaces than tandems.