Choosing a Double Pram and Pushchair

A good double pram or pushchair can simplify the lives of families, especially on busy footpaths or in shops and stores. Choose a model with ample storage space for nappies, snacks, and other essentials.

Some first-time parents choose a future-proof pushchair that can be used as a single stroller once baby is born, and then transformed into a twin-mode after the baby arrives. Joolz offers a wide range of choices.

Tandem

The announcement that you are expecting a child is one of life’s most exciting experiences. However, after the excitement of the beginning fades and reality begins to sink in, you may be faced with a variety of decisions regarding how to prepare your family for the arrival of your baby one or one. One of the most important aspects to consider is choosing the correct pram or pushchair.

Tandem prams (also known as ‘in-line’ double prams) are a classic style with two bassinets or seats for prams arranged side-by-side. The front seat, which is typically padded, reclines flat and is suitable for infants. The second seat is a bit higher and designed to fit toddlers as young as 3 years old. Certain models let you select whether your children stare at each other or face each other. Many tandems can be converted to a single pushchair when your oldest child is no longer required to have the second seat.

In terms of cost it is cheaper than a twin pushchair, and can be a great choice for parents who want to save money, but not compromise on safety or function. However, one disadvantage of a tandem is that it can feel long and heavy to steer, particularly when going up or down kerbs. Additionally, it is usually less stable than a twin pushchair, especially if the child who is older is seated in the front. A tandem can be difficult to place on public transportation, and it can be difficult to navigate narrow roads.

The iCandy Peach, a popular model that focuses on image, is a fantastic alternative for a single parent who wants an elegant style. However, the tandem mode makes it feel a bit heavy and long to push. It comes with an innovative frame that expands in width to allow for the addition of the second seat, and is compatible with many combinations of carrycots, buggy chairs and car seats (two at a time or separately). The iCandy Wave tandem is another lightweight double stroller option that’s easy-to-use and compatible with a range of car seats and carrycots.

Side by side

When it comes to choosing a double running stroller pram or pushchair there’s plenty to think about. There are numerous configuration options available, whether you’re buying for twins or close-in-age siblings. Tandem prams (also called side by side prams) are a popular choice because they can be set up to fit infants in a bassinet on top, while the larger infant or toddler sits in the lower seat below.

Certain models come with reversible seats which allow you to alter the configuration for your family throughout the toddler and baby years. This lets you keep your kids always in your sights and gives them a chance to interact with one another as they walk.

Tandem prams can be jogging buggies, or all-terrain buggies. They are ideal for trips outdoors, such as to the park. They’re also ideal 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 from birth, with the addition of an Rumble seat. (PS249) Then, you can switch to the single pram mode once your child is old enough to leave the rumble seat or select the car capsule adaptors (PS53) to transform it into a travel system for infant to toddler.

The Side by Side Pram made by Babybee is a different alternative. 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 add the LUNA newborn cocoon (PS262) or the LUNA infant seats (PS53 each) to ensure your children are secure and comfortable.

The Egg 2 is a stylish elegant pushchair that is able to 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 ages and is super-easy to fold. It’s also fairly light and therefore a great choice for those with small cars or limited storage space.

Convertible

Some of the best nipper double buggy prams or pushchairs can be configured into different seats to accommodate your changing needs. It is possible to fit up to three children on the seat board, or two toddlers in the seats, with enough space for shopping bags. Accessories such as rain covers are also available. Most convertible double strollers are larger and heavier than single pushchairs as they are required to be capable of holding two or more children. The Graco Modes Nest2Grow convertible is an example of an affordable convertible that is simple to use. However, our test participants found it to be a bit heavy for its price.

Some convertible double strollers, such as the Baby Jogger City Select 2 has a carrycot option which is suitable for babies. This allows the double stroller to be folded down and reduced in size when it is not used. Our testers were impressed with the City Select’s clever one-handed fold, though it requires a bit of practice. It’s also quite agile and responsive, despite being bigger than double strollers.

Another option that is affordable is an option that is affordable is the Cybex Mockingbird Single-to-Double Stroller. It converts from a rear-facing infant car seat to a forward-facing toddler seat, and the bassinet mode is a fantastic option for infants (although remember that babies under 4 months old should never be able to sleep in strollers due to the danger of asphyxia from position).

If you’re looking to expand your options look into a convertible with dual modes such as the iCandy Peach. It’s a small cheap double pushchair buggy which can accommodate two children side-by-side, but it can also be used as a tandem, with the addition of a second seat kit and rider board. It’s responsive and agile and our test participants loved its sleek design. It’s not as light as some of the other models on our list however it does come with a huge basket that is useful for parents who have to carry bags filled with toys and other items.

Lightweight

Convertible double strollers are a great option for parents who have a child and expect to have another. The iCandy Peach allows you to change from a single pushchair to a double pushchair with the addition of an infant seat or the brand’s carrycot (which is suitable for sleeping at night). Our test subjects were impressed by the comfort of the seats and adore the fact that they both recline to different positions, feature built-in leg and foot support and have UPF 50+ canopy that has windows that peek out. The rear seat can be raised to provide an elevated platform for a child to get off and on so that they can reach things in the basket of groceries.

The only downside to the iCandy Peach is that it is quite heavy. However, Cher found that it was overcome by its ease to manoeuvre and how spacious the storage area is, with two hanging parent and child cup holders as well as seat-back pockets, and a large underseat storage basket. Cher also liked that the seats can be turned to face each other, which is great for siblings who like to chat and have conversations while out and about.

A lighter, but equally impressive choice is the Delta Children LX side-by-side by side double stroller stroller that weighs just 18 pounds, is extremely 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 issue is that the seats don’t recline as far as some other models we’ve tried and the rear seat isn’t as well-lit due to its position – it’s raised higher than the front seat.

The Joolz Geo 3 is another popular option. It’s slim, sleek and easy to steer and comes with a lifetime warranty. Although they are narrower, side-by-side prams can still be more spacious than tandems and inline doubles. This makes them difficult to maneuver around busy footpaths and in shops. However, they’re usually shorter, which means they can be more maneuverable in tight spaces than tandems.