Choosing a Double Pram and Pushchair
A double pram can simplify life for families, particularly in busy stores or on busy streets. Look for a model with ample storage space for nappies, snacks and other essentials.
Some parents who are new to the world choose a future-proof pushchair which can be used as a single stroller once baby is born, and then converted to a twin mode when the baby is born. Joolz offers a range of options.
Tandem
The news that you're about to have to have a baby is among the most exciting times in your life. However, once the excitement fades and reality begins to sink in, you could be faced with a myriad of decisions about how to prepare your family for the arrival of your new one or one. One of the most important things to consider is choosing the right pram or pushchair.
double pram and pushchair , also referred to as "in-line" double prams are a classic design that has two bassinets or chairs placed side by side. The front seat, which is usually cushioned, reclines and is suitable for newborns. The second seat is a bit higher and designed to fit toddlers as young as 3 years. Some models allow you to select whether your children stare at each other or outwards. Many tandems also 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 more affordable than a twin pram and is an excellent choice for parents looking to save money, without losing safety or function. A tandem can be a bit heavy and difficult to steer, particularly when bumping over curbs. It's also less stable than twin prams especially when a bigger child is in the front. A tandem isn't always easy to fit on public transport, and it may be difficult to navigate narrow roads.
The iCandy Peach, a popular model that focuses on image, is a great option for parents with one child who want an elegant appearance. However the tandem mode makes it feel a bit heavy and long to push. It features a clever frame that can be expanded to allow for the addition of the second seat, and can be used with multiple combinations of carrycots, buggy seats and car seats (two at a time or separately). The iCandy Wave tandem is another lightweight option that's easy-to-use and compatible with a range of car seats or carrycots.
Side by side
When it comes time to choose a double pram or pushchair there's plenty to consider. If you're buying a double pram for twins or siblings close in age, there are a number of configuration choices to think about. Tandem prams (also known as side by side prams) are popular choices as they can be configured to fit infants in a bassinet on the top, while the larger infant or toddler sits in the lower seat below.
Certain models come with reversible seats that let you customize the layout of your family members throughout the infant and toddler years. This allows you to keep your children in sight at all times and gives them a chance to interact with one another as they walk.
Tandem prams are often all-terrain buggies or jogging ones, which means they're ideal for outdoor adventures and the park. They're also ideal for narrow aisles and checkouts in supermarkets and shops, as they are less bulky.
The Redsbaby JIVE3 pram, for example, 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 mode once your baby is old enough to leave the rumble seat, or use the adaptors for car capsules (PS53) to turn it into a travel system from newborn to toddler.
The Side by Side Pram from Babybee is another option. This side-by-side double pram is available in a range of colors and comes with a beautiful modern style. It is designed to be used from birth, you can also add the LUNA newborn cocoon (PS262) or the LUNA infant seats (PS53 each) to ensure 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 range of infant and carrycot configurations to accommodate twins or siblings of varying age groups. It's also easy to fold. It's also fairly light and therefore an ideal option for those with smaller cars or a limited storage space.
Convertible
The best double prams and pushchairs are versatile and some are able to change into different seating arrangements to meet the changing needs of your family. You can fit two toddlers in a seat or a third child on the seat board and have enough space for a shopping basket and the ability to add accessories such as rain covers is another advantage. Convertible double strollers tend to be heavier and bulkier than single pushchairs due to the fact that they need to hold two or more children. The Graco Modes Nest2Grow is one example of an affordable convertible that is extremely user-friendly, but our test subjects felt it was a bit heavy for the money.
Some double strollers that convert into convertibles, such as the Baby Jogger City Select 2 have a carrycot that is suitable for infants. This allows the double stroller to be compacted and reduce in size when not being used. Our test participants were awestruck by the City Select's unique one-handed fold. However, it takes some practice. It's also extremely agile and responsive even despite its size.
The Cybex Mockingbird single-to-double stroller is another option that is reasonably priced. It can be transformed from a parent facing infant car seat to an forward-facing toddler seat. The bassinet mode makes it a great option for infants.
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 in a tandem. It can also 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 some of the other pushchairs on our list however, it comes with an ample shopping basket that is ideal for parents with bags full of groceries and toys.
Lightweight
Some parents want to ensure the future of their double buggy if they have one child and are expecting another so a convertible option is a great option. The iCandy Peach can be converted from a single pushchair a double with the addition of a toddler seat or the brand's carrycot (which is great to sleep at night). Our test subjects were impressed by how comfortable the seats are and love the fact that they can recline in a variety of positions, feature built-in leg and foot support and large UPF 50+ canopy with windows that peek out. The rear seat can also be lifted high to offer an elevated platform for the older child to climb off and on, so that they can reach items in the basket of groceries.
The only drawback of the iCandy Peach is that it is quite heavy. However, Cher believed that this was overcome by how easy it is to manoeuvre and how spacious the storage space is with two hanging parent and child cup holders as well as seat-back pockets, and a large underseat basket. Cher also appreciated the feature that the seats are reversible, so they can be positioned to face one another for siblings that want to talk and interact while out and out and about.
The Delta Children LX Side-by-Side Stroller is a lighter option, but still impressive. It weighs only 18 pounds, is compact, and has self-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 drawbacks are that the seats don't recline as much compared to other models we've tested and the rear seat isn't as well-lit due to its location and height. It is higher than the front seat.
Another popular option is the Joolz Geo 3, which is slim sleek, stylish and easy to steer, and comes with an attractive design and a lifetime guarantee. Although they are smaller side-by-side prams may be larger than tandems and inline doubles. This can make them difficult to maneuver on busy streets and in shops. However, they are often smaller, and can be more maneuverable in tight spaces than tandems.