Stroller strategies
Question: What are the options for double strollers for walks into town and errands if you live in the suburbs?
Answer: Since you'll have two kids to cart around, you're a definite candidate for a double stroller. There are two basic types: tandem (one seat directly behind the other) and side-by-side models. I'd certainly take a close look at the tandems, especially because you will have two kids of different weights which can cause a side-by-side stroller to veer to one side. Plus many brands of tandems can be used with an infant car seat, which will be your new baby's main mode of transportation until he/she can sit up unassisted. The downside to tandems is that steering can be tricky, especially when navigating curbs, so be sure to test-drive models in the store and check maneuverability. And bring your infant car seat along, so you get a good idea of how the set-up will function with both kids. Some tandems have limited leg support and very little legroom, especially for the rear passenger. But on some models, you can set the seats so the children face each other. That maybe helpful down the road for when your kids want to play. Others have a "stadium seat" that allows the child in the back to see over the one in the front. That's good too, so your back passenger won't get bored.
Posted by: D Snyder | Mar 31, 2008 1:18:59 AM
I have two children 27 months apart. We went with the Baby Jogger City double stroller, and have been totally satisfied. With 2 front wheels, it tracks perfectly straight (even with only one child on a hill) and rolls better than our Maclaren single! The "instant" fold makes traveling a breeze (but it is a bit heavy). It fits through any ADA compliant door, and the short length makes turning inside a tight space (elevator, etc) a snap.
Posted by: W.Splashing | Mar 26, 2008 9:55:04 PM
I have to agree with K.Casey. We have an Urban Double side-by-side as well and love it. We have a Graco tandem before and it was terrible. The UD has been to Disney World many times, as well as NYC and does an excellent job. Very easy to push. The only cons are the amount of space it takes up in the back. We have a SUV and it still takes up all the cargo area. Also, it is heavy and finding replacement inner tubes for the tire was not easy. We also got the stroller cover made to fit and that was a great investment. An excellent stroller if you have the space.
Posted by: K Casey | Mar 3, 2008 9:32:43 AM
We have had a Mountain Buggy side by side stroller for 3 years now and it indestructable. We had have had a couple flat tires and only one issue with the brake, all of which were fixed without a problem. I'm not kidding when I say we have taken this stroller to the ends of the earth on planes, buses, etc. It is easy to steer and fits and continues to impress me with how well it turns in tight spaces. It's wide wheelbase negates the veer. We have had a BOB and have a Kelty single, but still prefer to take the double even if only the 3 year old is riding. Great storage, seat backs tilt back for naptime. Great stuff