Choosing a Double Pram and Pushchair
A double pram can simplify life for families, particularly in bustling stores or on busy streets. Pick a model with ample storage space to store nappies snacks, nappies, and other essentials.
Some first-time parents opt for an infant pushchair that can be used as a single stroller when baby is born, and later converted into a twin mode when the baby has arrived. Joolz offers a variety of these options.
Tandem
The announcement that you are expecting a baby is one of life's most exciting moments. But, once the initial excitement wears off and the reality sets in, you may be faced with a myriad of choices regarding how to prepare your family for the arrival of your baby one or ones. The right pram or stroller is one of the most crucial considerations.
Tandem prams (also called "in-line" double prams) are a timeless design that have two seats or pram bassinets arranged side-by-side. The front seat is usually cushioned and reclines to a flat position, making it suitable for infants while the second one is more upright and can be used by toddlers from around three years older. Some models come with reversible seating so you can choose whether your children face towards each other or gaze at you. Many tandems can be converted to one pushchair once your oldest child is no longer in need of the second seat.
A tandem is more affordable than twin prams and is a great option for parents who want to save money without losing safety or function. However, the drawback of a tandem is that it can be a bit heavy and lengthy to steer, particularly when bumping up or down kerbs. It is generally less stable than a twin pushchair, especially if the child with the most weight is seated in the front. A tandem can also be difficult to transport on public transport and is difficult to maneuver on narrow pavements.
The iCandy Peach, a popular model that focuses on image, is a great option for parents who are single and want a sleeker design. However the tandem mode can make it feel a bit heavy and long to push. It comes with frames that can be expanded in width to accommodate the second seat. It can be used with a range of combinations of buggy seats, car seats, and carrycots (two at a time or separately). The iCandy Wave tandem is another lightweight option that's user-friendly and compatible with a range of car seats and carrycots.
Side by side
When it comes to selecting a double pushchair or pram, there's a lot to think about. Whether you're buying for twins or other siblings that are similar in age there are plenty of configuration options to take into account. Tandem prams (also called side by sides prams) are a popular choice because they can be configured to fit infants in a bassinet on the top while the older toddler or infant sits in the second seat below.
Some models have reversible seats that let you customize the layout of your family during the infant and toddler years. This lets you keep your kids always in your sight and gives them a chance to get to know each other while they walk.
Tandem prams are often jogging or all-terrain buggies, which means they're ideal for outdoor excursions and the park. They're also a great option if you need to brave narrow aisles in the supermarket or at checkouts, as they are generally smaller than single-seaters.
The Redsbaby JIVE3 Pram, for instance can be used as a tandem pram from birth in dual mode, with the addition of the rumble seat (PS249). If your child is no longer a member of the rumble chair, you can change to the single pram mode. You can also choose to make use of the car capsule adaptors to transform it from a newborn to toddler travel system.
The Side by Side Pram made by Babybee is a different option. The double side-by-side pram is available in a range of colors and is designed with a modern design. The design is intended to be used from birth, you can also add the LUNA newborn cocoon (PS262) or the LUNA infant seats (PS53 each) to ensure that your baby is safe and comfy.
If you're seeking a sleek, stylish pushchair that converts into a double-sided side-by-side then the Egg 2 from Chicco is an excellent choice. It's available in a range of carrycot and infant seat combinations to accommodate twins or siblings of varying ages and is super-easy to fold. It's also relatively lightweight and therefore a great choice for those with smaller cars or a limited storage space.
Convertible
The best double prams and pushchairs can be used in a variety of ways and some are capable of changing seating arrangements to meet the changing needs of your family. It is possible to fit two toddlers in the seats or a third child on the seat board, and still have space for a shopping basket and the capability to add accessories like rain covers is another plus. Convertible double strollers are generally heavier and bulkier than single pushchairs due to the fact that they are designed to accommodate two or more children. The Graco Modes Nest2Grow is one example of a convertible that is affordable that is extremely user-friendly, however our testers felt that it was a little heavy for the price.
Some convertible double strollers, like the Baby Jogger City Select 2, have a carrycot option which is suitable for newborns. This helps to reduce the size of the double stroller when not in use, and makes it more compact. Our test participants were awestruck by the City Select's clever one-handed fold, although it takes a bit of practice. It's also very responsive and nimble even despite its size.
Another affordable option is the Cybex Mockingbird Single-to-Double Stroller. The seat converts from a car seat with a parent seat to a forward-facing toddler car seat, and the bassinet mode is a great choice for infants (although be aware that babies younger than 4 months old should never use strollers to sleep due to the risk of asphyxia in a position).
If you want more flexibility, consider a dual-mode convertible such as the iCandy Peach. This is a narrow double stroller that can accommodate two children side-by-side. It can also be used to create a tandem by adding a second seating kit. It's fluid and responsive, and our test users loved its sleek design. It's not quite as lightweight as some of the other models we've reviewed, however it does come with a huge basket that's great for parents who are carrying bags of toys and food items.
Lightweight
Some parents like to future-proof their double pushchair if they have a child and are expecting another and a convertible model is a great option. The iCandy Peach can be converted from a single pushchair into double by the addition of a toddler seat, or the brand's carrycot (which works well for overnight sleeping). The seats are extremely comfortable and our testers appreciate the fact that they can recline in multiple positions. They also appreciate the design of the canopy, which has a peekaboo window and UPF 50+ protection. double pram and pushchair can be raised so that the child who is older can stand on it to reach the shopping basket.
Cher stated that the only disadvantage of the iCandy Peach was its weight. But she felt this was offset because it is easy to move and comes with plenty of storage space and cup holders for children and parents, seat-back pockets, and a large basket under the seat. Cher also liked that the seats can be reversed to be positioned to face each other, which is ideal for siblings who want to interact and talk while out and about.
The Delta Children LX Side-by-Side Stroller is a lighter option and still impressive. It weighs just 18 pounds, is lightweight and features 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 low cost. The only drawbacks are that the seats do not recline as well as other models we've tried and the rear seat isn't as visible due to its location - it is raised higher than the seat in front.
Another popular choice is the Joolz Geo 3, which is slim, sleek and easy to steer, and comes with an appealing design and a lifetime guarantee. It's worth bearing in mind that, despite their smaller size Side by side prams are more spacious than tandem and in-line doubles. They can be tricky to navigate on busy streets or in shops. However, they are often shorter, which means they are easier to maneuver in tight spaces than tandems.
