Choosing a Double Pram and Pushchair
A double pram can simplify the lives of families, especially in busy stores or on busy streets. Choose a model that has ample storage space for nappies as well as snacks and other essentials.
Some parents who are new to the world choose a future-proof pushchair which can be used both as a single stroller once baby is born, and later transformed into a twin-mode after he or she arrives. Joolz offers a range of these options.
Tandem
The announcement that you're expecting a child is among the most exciting events in life. However, once the initial excitement wears off and the reality sets in, you may be faced with a multitude of choices regarding how to prepare your family for the arrival of your new one or ones. One of the most important things to consider is choosing the right pram or pushchair.
Tandem prams, also known as "in-line" double prams are a classic style with two seats or bassinets placed side-by-side. The front seat, which is usually padded, reclines flat and is suitable for newborns. The second seat is a bit higher and is designed to accommodate toddlers as young as 3 years old. Certain models feature seats that can be reversible, so you can decide if your children face towards each other or gaze at you. Many tandems can be made into a single pushchair when your oldest child is no longer using the second seat.
In terms of cost the tandem is cheaper than a twin pushchair and is a great option for parents looking to save money but not compromising on safety or convenience. However, the drawback of a tandem is that it may be heavy and long to steer especially when going up or down kerbs. Additionally, it is usually less stable than a twin pram, particularly if the older child is sitting in the front. A tandem can be difficult to place on public transport, and it can be difficult to navigate narrow roads.
The iCandy Peach is a popular image-conscious model that's a great option for a single parent who wants something streamlined, but the tandem mode can make it feel long and heavy when pushing. It features an innovative frame that expands in width 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 once or separately). The iCandy Wave tandem is another lightweight option that's easy-to-use and compatible with a variety of carrycots or car seats.
Side by side
When it comes to choosing a double pushchair or pram there's a lot to think about. There are many configuration options to choose from, whether you're purchasing for twins or close-in-age siblings. Tandem prams, also referred to as side-by-side prams are popular choices due to the fact that they can be set up in a way that the infant can sit in the bassinet at the top while the toddler or older child is sitting in the second chair.
Some models even have reversible seats, which means you can adapt the configuration to meet the needs of your family throughout the baby and toddler years. This allows you to see your children at all times and gives them the chance to interact as they walk.
Tandem prams are often jogging or all-terrain buggies, which means they're ideal for outdoor adventures and the park. They're also a good option if you need to brave narrow supermarket isles or checkouts, as they are generally smaller than single-seaters.
The Redsbaby JIVE3 pram, for instance, can be used in tandem mode right from birth with the addition of the Rumble seat. (PS249) You can then switch to the single mode when your little one is old enough to leave the rumble seat or choose the adaptors for car capsules (PS53) to transform it into a traveler from newborn to toddler.
The Side by Side Pram from Babybee is another option. This double side-by-side pram comes in a variety of colors and is designed with a modern design. The design is intended to be used from birth, you can add the LUNA newborn cocoon (PS262) or the LUNA infant seats (PS53 each) to ensure your children are comfortable and safe.
The Egg 2 is a stylish, sleek pushchair that can be converted into a double side-by-side. It's available in a range of infant and carrycot combinations to cater for twins or siblings of varying age groups and is easy to fold. It is also relatively light and therefore a good option for people with small cars or limited space to store.
Convertible
The best double pushchairs or prams can be set up to meet your changing needs. You can fit up to three children on the seat board or two toddlers in the seats, with room for a shopping bag. Accessories such as rain covers are also available. In general, convertible double strollers are larger and heavier than single pushchairs due to the fact that they must be able to accommodate two or more children. The Graco Modes Nest2Grow is one example of a convertible that is affordable that is user-friendly, but our test subjects felt it was a bit heavy for the money.
Some double strollers that can be converted into convertibles like the Baby Jogger City Select 2 have a carrycot that is suitable for infants. This allows the double stroller to be compacted and reduced in size when it is not used. The City Select's clever single-handed folding impressed our test participants but it does require some practice. It's also very fluid and agile, despite its size.
Another option that is affordable is an affordable option is the Cybex Mockingbird Single-to-Double Stroller. It can be converted from a parent facing infant car seat to a forward-facing toddler seat. The bassinet-style mode is a great option for infants.
To be more flexible, opt for a convertible with 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 nimble and responsive, and our testers liked its sleek design. It's not as lightweight as the other models on our list, however it does come with a huge basket that is useful for parents who have to carry bags full of toys and groceries.
Lightweight
Convertible double strollers are a great option for parents who have children and anticipate the arrival of a second. The iCandy Peach can be converted from a single pushchair to double with the addition of a toddler seat, or the brand's carrycot (which is ideal to sleep at night). Our test subjects were impressed by how comfortable the seats are and loved the fact that both recline to different positions, have built-in foot and leg supports and large UPF 50+ canopy that has windows that peek out. The rear seat can be raised so that the older child can stand on it to reach the basket of shopping.
The only downside to the iCandy Peach is that it is quite heavy, however Cher found that this was offset by how easy it is to move around and how big the storage space is, with two hanging parent and child cup holders with seat-back pockets as well as a large underseat storage basket. Cher also appreciated that the seats can be reversed so that they face each other, which is perfect for siblings who like to interact and talk when out and out and about.
A lighter, but equally impressive choice is the Delta Children LX side-by-side stroller that weighs just 18 lbs, is super compact and has a self-standing fold that makes it easy to transport and put in your trunk or at home. Parents love the quality of the materials and craftsmanship as well as the low price point. The only downside is that the seats don't recline as much as some other models we've tested and the rear seat doesn't have great visibility due to its position as it's higher than the front seats.
The Joolz Geo 3 is another popular choice. It's slim, sleek, easy to steer and comes with an unbeatable lifetime warranty. Although they are smaller, side-by-side prams can still be larger than tandems and inline doubles. This can make them difficult to maneuver on busy streets and in shops. They are also shorter which makes them more maneuverable in tight spaces.