The differences between a single and double stroller
Single stroller
Single strollers are exactly what you must have imagined when you heard the word stroller. These strollers have a front-facing seat, and some of them are equipped with bigger wheels for better maneuverability. Since these strollers have a single-seat, they are easier to fold and transport. Apart from this, you will also find some other essential features on this stroller, such as a snack tray, cup holders, sun canopy, and storage compartments. With countless options available in different price ranges, the single stroller is the top choice of the majority of parents out there.
Benefits of having a single stroller
There are many advantages to having a single stroller. Firstly, they are the less expensive type when compared to a double stroller. This means that you can purchase a high-end single stroller rather than settling for a low-end double stroller at the same price. Apart from this, these strollers are smaller, more lightweight, easier to fold, and more convenient to store and travel with.
Double stroller:
If you are blessed with twins or babies born close together, then you should definitely go for a double stroller. There are two types of double strollers for you to choose from; tandem stroller and a side-by-side double stroller. Continue reading to learn more about these types.
- Tandem:A tandem or in-line stroller is the type of double stroller where the two seats are placed in a line. This means that one of your babies will be seated in the front while the other will be seated close to you.
Unlike side-by-side strollers, tandem strollers can fit through regular doorways quite easily. However, the downside of this stroller is that they are a little difficult to steer, especially when a heavier kid is seated on the front. Additionally, the child sitting in the back seat can also protest because the view is very limited.
- Side-by-Side:A side-by-side stroller is the type of double stroller that offers identical seats placed next to one another. This stroller is a lot easier to push than a tandem stroller because its unique construction allows it to distribute the weight evenly over the wheels. Apart from this, these strollers also offer an equal view to both of your kids; this means that there will be no more fights for the front seat. The downside of these strollers is that they are extra wide, which will be very challenging for you to pass through regular doorways with this stroller. However, many manufacturers have introduced models that are able to fit through doorways just like a standard single stroller.
Benefits of having a double stroller
If you are a parent with more than one child, then you must have wished to have a seat on your stroller for all of them so that it is safer and more convenient to travel. This is why double strollers are so practical. If you have twins or kids that are close together in age, then a double stroller seems to be the only practical and efficient option for you.
Are you still indecisive?
If you are still indecisive of which stroller best fits your family, then it is highly recommended to consider a convertible stroller for your family.
What is a convertible stroller?
True to their name, convertible strollers can easily convert from a single to a double stroller. A convertible stroller appeals to the majority of parents because of its huge variety of seating configurations that will work for both newborns and bigger babies.
If you are blessed with a baby, and you are thinking about growing your family soon, then you can purchase a convertible stroller now. The single stroller seat will welcome your firstborn, and when the time comes, you can attach the infant car seat on the stroller and convert it into a double stroller.
A convertible stroller will be able to cater to the changing needs of your family. These strollers also tend to offer features and accessories essential for you and your child’s comfort, such as extendable sun canopies, storage pockets, cupholders, and much more.
Major types of strollers:
The following are some of the major types of strollers. You can easily find both single and double stroller variants in the following types.
Standard stroller
Also known as a full-size stroller, everyday stroller, or an all-purpose stroller, these strollers are perfect for everything ranging from a casual walk around the block to a family picnic to the beach or the zoo. These strollers offer smooth rides along with other convenient features such as a storage basket, storage pockets, cup holders, and a sun canopy.
Lightweight stroller
These strollers are also commonly known as umbrella strollers or travel strollers. The name implies that this stroller weighs relatively lesser than an average stroller. A typical lightweight stroller will weigh less than 15 pounds. This means that it will take less effort to pick it up and load it in your car’s trunk. Some models are so small and fold so compact that they can even fit in the overhead storage airplane bins.
These strollers do not offer the comforts and luxuries of other strollers such as large wheels, storage basket, huge weight capacity, and recline options, but they are extremely budget-friendly. A lightweight, umbrella stroller ranks as a consistent favorite for those parents who are on a budget.
Jogging stroller
If you are an active parent who loves to run, then jogging strollers will allow you to bring your baby along for your daily exercise. These strollers are not just for running; they can also be used to commute through bumpy and uneven terrain.
Armed with super-efficient suspension systems along with oversized bicycle-like tires, jogging strollers are constructed to absorb the bumps faced on uneven surfaces. These strollers also have front swivel wheel that can be fixed in place so that parents can expect the stroller to be stable during their run. Some models also come with features such as hand brakes in order to stop or slow down the stroller. You can also expect a sun canopy to protect your baby from the sun.
Jogging strollers are popular for being heavy and bulky, mainly due to their oversized wheels. And since you are getting all these unique features and accessories that you will not find in any other stroller, a jogging stroller is relatively more expensive than the others.
How to make a decision?
Choosing the correct stroller that suits your family’s needs depends on a number of factors. Each family has its own unique set of needs and budgets, a stroller might work for one family, but it might not be the best choice for another family. If you want to choose the best stroller, then it is important to consider the following factors:
- Your budget:Parents who are shopping for a stroller for the first time are usually shocked to know how much they cost. If you are on a budget, then it certainly does not make sense to spend your hard-earned money on pricier options that are equipped with features such as suspension systems, bigger wheels, etc.
Sometimes you do not even need these additional features, and it is very likely to find a stroller that suits your requirements for much less. We recommend going for a lightweight umbrella stroller if you do not wish to spend a fortune on a baby stroller that you will hardly use.
- Your lifestyle:This is the most significant factor that will help you decide whether you should choose a single or double stroller. If you live in a city and you will be using the stroller for your regular visits to the mall or the grocery stores, then your stroller choice will significantly differ from the needs of a suburban family who might need a stroller that can handle all types of terrains.
Your stroller choice will also depend on whether you live in a home or an apartment, whether you use your car or public transportation, whether you will use the stroller for casual walks or you will use it for jogging. The right stroller for your family will be the one that complements your lifestyle. So, try to answer these questions before making a decision.
- The size of your family:If you are blessed with a baby, and you are not planning on extending your family any time soon, then a single stroller will be an ideal option for you. However, if you are planning on having another baby within the next few years, then you should definitely get a double stroller or a convertible stroller that can easily convert to a double stroller.
Product Recommendations
Single stroller:
Thule Urban Glide 2 is a mid-range jogging stroller aimed for those parents who are keen on fitness. It weighs 25 pounds, which is way lighter when compared to other jogging strollers. This is an extremely sturdy and durable stroller, and it can easily carry up to 75 pounds of weight. Since it is an all-terrain stroller, it can effortlessly maneuver on grass, dirt, beach sand, and bumpy pavements. Like any other jogging stroller, the Glide 2 also comes with a lockable front swivel wheel.
It is a stylish and incredibly practical stroller that comes with ample storage and other essential features and accessories. It is also easier to push even with one hand. It is also well-equipped with an adjustable handlebar so that parents can have a comfortable experience while strolling with their babies.
Pros:
- Stylish yet sturdy
- Easy to push even on uneven terrain
- Adjustable handlebar
- Ample storage
Cons:
- A little expensive
- large width makes it a little cumbersome.
The Joovy Zoom 360 is a three-wheel ultralight stroller that comes with a lockable swivel front wheel, rear-wheel suspension, and pneumatic tires. This stroller weighs around 26 pounds, which is neither too heavy nor too light.
Apart from this, the Joovy Zoom 360 is comparatively easy to fold. It comes with a huge sun canopy along with a peek-a-boo window so that you can keep a check on your baby. You will also get a spacious under-carriage storage bin that can easily fit a large diaper bag, and much more.
The Zoom 360 does not offer an adjustable handlebar, which is one of the most-liked features for serious runners. This stroller can handle all types of terrains, but if you are looking for a jogging stroller, then this might be a poor choice.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly
- Easy to maneuver in tight spaces
- Can handle all-terrain
Cons:
- The handlebar is not adjustable.
Double stroller
The Britax B-Lively Double Stroller is one of the best side-by-side double strollers available on the market. If you are blessed with twins or you have babies of similar ages, then this stroller might be an ideal option for you.
With a 29-pound aluminum frame, this stroller is relatively lightweight than other full-size double strollers. This means that it will be easier to push and lift.
The best part about this stroller is its storage options. The B-Lively Double comes with a huge under-seat storage basket that can be accessed from both the front and back of the stroller. In addition to the spacious storage bin, you will also find many easy-to-access pockets on the stroller so that you can keep your keys, wallet, phone, and baby wipes.
You will also get huge and identical sun canopies on each seat. The sunshades are UV 50+, and they have breathable mesh windows in order to keep your babies cool and comfortable.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Ample storage
- Identical sun canopies
- Easy to push
Con:
- Expensive
- Cannot handle rougher terrain
The Graco DuoGlider is one of the best tandem double strollers you can buy. This stroller weighs around 29 pounds and has a weight capacity of 80 pounds. It is a well-designed stroller with lots of features that will appeal to you and your babies.
This stroller comes with snack trays along with cup holders for each seat. Not only that, but it also has footrests for your babies so that they can stretch out their legs during nap time. The front seat of this stroller can partially recline, while the back seat can recline completely flat, making it suitable for both infants and bigger babies.
Parents will also enjoy some add-on features such as deep cup holders, storage pockets, and a generously-sized storage basket.
Pros:
- Easy to fold
- Ideal for both infants and bigger babies
- Spacious storage basket
- Budget-friendly
Cons:
- May not maneuver well on rough terrain.
Convertible stroller
Convertible strollers are extremely popular these days. The only drawback of these strollers is that they are incredibly expensive. Some may even cost more than $1000. If you are someone on a tight budget, then don’t worry, the Evenflo Pivot Xpand can be the right convertible stroller that will fit in your budget.
Evenflo Pivot Xpand can accommodate two infant car seats or two different seats. You don’t even need additional tools or adapters to attach the second seat. The best part about this convertible stroller is that it offers 22 different seating configurations. This means that you can attach the infant car seat just the way you like.
Parents instantly fall in love with its enormous storage basket. The basket has enough space to hold all of the essential baby gear. The extra space can also be utilized to store grocery bags and much more.
Pros:
- Rear-wheels suspension
- Spacious storage basket
- Budget-friendly
- Great value for money
Cons:
- It may not handle rough and uneven terrain.
- The stroller is a little heavy.
Conclusion
We have said it before, and we will say it again, the best way to decide whether you should choose a single or double stroller is by considering your budget, lifestyle, and family’s size.
Some parents like to buy both double and single strollers so that they can use them in different situations. At the same time, some like to go for a convertible stroller that will allow you to convert a single stroller into a double stroller when the time comes. This does not mean that you should do the same. Your final decision will probably vary because your needs are different than the others.
We hope that this parent’s guide will help you in choosing the best single or double stroller for your family. With so many options on the market, we are sure that you will end up purchasing a stroller that meets your needs.