Choosing a Double Pram and Pushchair
A double pram can simplify the lives of families, especially in busy stores or on busy streets. Find a model that has ample storage space to store nappies, snacks and other essentials.
Some first-time parents choose a future-proof pushchair that can be used both as a single stroller at the time baby is born, and later changed to a twin mode when the baby is born. Joolz provides a variety of these options.
Tandem
The news that you're about to have a baby is one of the most exciting events in life. However, after the initial excitement wears off and reality sinks into your life, you'll be faced with a myriad of decisions regarding how to prepare your family for the arrival of your new one or ones. One of the most important aspects to consider is choosing the right pram or pushchair.
Tandem prams, also known as "in-line" double prams are a classic design with two bassinets or chairs placed side-by-side. The front seat, which is usually padded, reclines flat and is suitable for infants. The second seat is upright and designed to accommodate toddlers as young as three years. Certain models let you select whether your children stare at each other or look outwards. Many tandems have the option to convert into a single pushchair in the event that you decide that your oldest child does not require the second seat.
In terms of price the tandem is cheaper than a twin pushchair, and can be a great choice for parents looking to save money but not compromising on safety or convenience. However, one disadvantage of a tandem is that it can be heavy and long to steer especially when bumping up or down kerbs. It is often less stable than a twin pram, especially if the child who is older is seated at the front. A tandem can also be tricky to fit onto public transport and is difficult to maneuver on narrow roads.
The iCandy Peach, a popular model that is focused on image, is an excellent alternative for parents with one child who want an elegant design. However the tandem mode makes it feel a bit heavy and long to push. It has an expanded frame that increases in size to accommodate a second seat. It can be used with a range of combinations of buggy seats, car seats and carrycots (two at simultaneously or separately). The iCandy Wave tandem is another lightweight option that is easy to use and compatible with a range of car seats and carrycots.
Side by side
There are a lot of things to think about when selecting a double pram or pushchair. There are many configuration options to choose from, regardless of whether you're buying for twins or close-in-age siblings. Tandem prams, also referred to as side-by-side prams, are a popular options because they can be set up so that the infant can be seated in the bassinet at the top while the older child or toddler is sitting in the second chair.
Some models come with seats that can be reversible, meaning you can adapt the configuration to meet the needs of your family throughout the toddler and baby years. This lets you see your children at all times and gives them the chance to be a part of the journey as they walk.
Tandem prams can be jogging buggies or all-terrain buggies. They are perfect for outdoor excursions, like to the park. They're also a good option when you have to traverse narrow aisles in the supermarket or at checkouts, as they're generally more compact than single-seaters.
The Redsbaby JIVE3 pram, for instance, can be utilized in tandem mode from birth, with the addition of an Rumble seat. (PS249) Then, you can switch to the single mode once your baby grows out of the rumble seat or select the adaptors for car capsules (PS53) to turn it into a travel system for 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 contemporary design. It is designed to be used from birth, you can add the LUNA Cocoon for newborns (PS262) and the LUNA Infant Seats (PS53 each).
If you're looking for a sleek and elegant pushchair that can convert into a side-byside double then the Egg 2 from Chicco is an excellent choice. It is available in a variety of infant seats and carrycots to accommodate twins or siblings with different ages. It's also incredibly easy to fold. It is also relatively lightweight, making it a good option for those with little space in their cars or don't have enough space to store.
Convertible
The top double prams and pushchairs can be used in a variety of ways and some are capable of changing seating arrangements to meet your family's changing needs. It is possible to fit two toddlers in seats or a third rider on the seat board and still have enough space for a basket to store your shopping, and the option to add accessories such as rain covers is a advantage. Convertible double strollers tend to be 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 an affordable convertible that is easy to use. However, our testers found it to be quite heavy for the money.
Some double strollers that convert into convertibles, such as the Baby Jogger City Select 2 include a carrycot suitable for babies. This allows the double stroller to be compacted and reduced in size when it is not used. Our test subjects were awed by the City Select's clever one-handed fold, though it requires a bit of practice. It is also quite agile and responsive even despite its size.
The Cybex Mockingbird single-to-double stroller is an alternative that is affordable. The seat can be converted from a child-facing car seat to an forward-facing toddler seat. The bassinet mode is a great option for infants.
If you're looking for more flexibility Consider a convertible that has dual modes such as the iCandy Peach. It's a small double buggy that can hold two children in a row and can be used as a tandem, with the addition of a second-seat kit and rider board. It is nimble and agile, and our testers liked its sleek design. It's not as light as some of the other pushchairs on our list however, it comes with an ample shopping basket that is handy for parents carrying bags full of groceries and toys.
Lightweight
Some parents like to future-proof their double buggy if they have a child and are expecting another and a convertible model is a good option. The iCandy Peach allows you to transform from a single 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 testers noted the comfort of the seats and loved the fact that both recline to different positions, feature built-in foot and leg supports and generous UPF 50+ canopy that has windows that peek out. The rear seat can also be raised to provide a standing platform for a child to get off and on, to allow them to reach items in the shopping basket.
Cher stated that the only downside of the iCandy Peach was its weight. However, she felt this was offset by the fact that it is easy to move and offers plenty of storage space and cup holders for children and parents seats-back pockets, as well as a large basket underneath the seat. She also liked the seat's design, which is adjustable, meaning they can be set to face each other for siblings who wish to talk and get together when out and about.
The Delta Children LX Side-by-Side Stroller is a smaller model however, it is still awe-inspiring. It weighs just 18 pounds, is lightweight and features a self standing fold, making it simple to transport or put in your trunk. www.pushchairsandprams.uk are impressed by the quality of the materials and craftsmanship as well as the affordable price. The only drawback is that the seats don't recline as far as the other models we've tried and the back seat doesn't have great visibility due to its position - it's raised higher than the front seat.
Another popular choice is the Joolz Geo 3, which is slim and sleek. It is also easy to steer, with an attractive design and lifetime guarantee. While they're smaller than side-by-side strollers, they can be larger than tandems and inline doubles. This makes them difficult to maneuver on busy streets and in shops. However, they're usually shorter, which means they can be easier to turn in tight spaces than tandems.