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The miracle of life is magnificent.
It can also be mind-blowing, especially if you find out you have more than one baby on the way.
While you don't have a choice about how many babies your doctor might find growing in your tummy at your ultrasound, you DO have lots of choices to make after you find out you're expecting twins.
While you probably didn't expect to get surprised (and blessed) with multiple babies, you probably also didn't expect all of the extra things you'd have to research during your twin pregnancy.
While you probably didn't expect to get surprised (and blessed) with multiple babies, you probably also didn't expect all of the extra things you'd have to research during your twin pregnancy. Like, which strollers are better for twins.
There are two different kinds of double strollers: a side-by-side, where your twins side next to one another; and a tandem one, where your twins sit with one in front of the other.
Which is better when you have twins? At the end of the day, it comes down to personal preference, but there are a handful of reasons why we, as twin parents, feel that side-by-side strollers are better than tandem ones when you're going to be strolling around with two newborns.
Why side-by-side strollers are superior
1. They allow your twins to interact with one another
As the person who's pushing the side-by-side stroller and taking in your twins' cuteness, you get a front seat to their unique relationship, watching it grow as they do. Side-by-side strollers allow your twins to hold hands—heck, our twins even held feet on the hot summer days when they were barefoot for an afternoon stroll.
They can also reach over and hug each other, which melts your heart—but beware, they can also reach over and grab each other, which might sometimes work against you if they're fighting over a coveted snack or toy…but, more often than not, it's just plain sweet to see your little ones interacting with one another.
2. They're easy to push, simple to steer, and more maneuverable
Side-by-side double strollers have a better-balanced weight than tandem ones. This gives you more stability, which is important when you're trucking your twins around town. Feeling secure and confident at the helm of this style of stroller makes side-by-sides ideal for longer walks and strolling through all different kinds of terrain, no matter how regular or rugged it is.
Believe me when I say our side-by-side stroller absolutely conquered the uneven, slippery snowpiles and treacherous ice chunks on the sidewalk in a place affectionately known as Winterpeg, thanks to our harsh winters that come with an abundance of snow.
3. They can still fit through standard doorways
Side-by-side double strollers can fit through standard doors (yes, of course you'll have better peace of mind with a slimmer tandem stroller that has your kids sitting one in front of the other, BUT, in four years of using our double stroller with our twins, we never once ran into a doorway we couldn't fit through with our side-by-side stroller.
On the flip side, with tandem strollers, you can more easily fit through a regular-sized doorway BUT you have a longer length, which makes it much more difficult to turn and to move over curbs. Plus, the rear seat can have limited legroom, so your kids, as they get older, might be cramped in the back or fight over who gets the prime view from the front.
As a side note, side-by-sides tend to be easier to fold down and toss into the trunk than tandem strollers. This, alone, makes a side-by-side a superior choice when compared to a tandem stroller.
4. They usually have a full recline setting and give you quick access to both kids
When you're surviving the newborn phase with your twins, you're going to crave the days you can get outside with your twins and go strolling to get some fresh air. But, by the time you get everybody fed, changed, and ready to rock for the highly coveted walk, your twins will be ready for a snooze. That's why it's so important to have a stroller that allows your newborns to fully recline, get comfortable, and nap while you stroll, stretch your legs, and soak up some sun.
And then, when they're awake, you can adjust the recline to semi-recline, which can help if your babies suffer from reflux issues (like our preemies did), or fully upright, which allows them to take in the world around them.
Tandem strollers tend to have less of a recline for both seats, which can make naps during a stroll a no-go.
We're not saying tandem strollers are a non-option; we just appreciate the additional benefits that come with a side-by-side stroller and understand what a difference they can make for parents of twins.
Tandem strollers are still a nice option, as they've got a narrower footprint, and they tend to be a more popular choice for families who are going from a single stroller to a double-stroller option (some single strollers have modular options, where you can add a second seat), but when you're expecting twins, you'll likely want a double-stroller that allows you to fully recline both seats fully, like a side-by-side does. Some tandem strollers do allow you to fully recline both seats, but you really have to check the specs before committing.
Three side-by-side double strollers that make twin life easier
For those who are Team Side-by-Side, here are three double stroller options to keep you and your twins comfy while you're on the move.
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1. City Mini GT2 All-Terrain Double Stroller by Baby Jogger
Folds Down in Just One Step
This is the City Mini GT2 All-Terrain Double Stroller by Baby Jogger. It's got an adjustable handlebar and hand-operated parking brake, allowing you to steer with ease, and its forever air rubber tires with all-wheel suspension give everybody a comfortable stroll, no matter the terrain. It has near-flat recline seats (they can hold up to 50 pounds or 22.5 kilograms per seat) and adjustable calf supports, so your little ones can stretch out. Two UV 50+ canopies with magnetic peekaboo windows protect your little ones from the sun, and a large storage basket allows you to store everything you need for the stroll. When it's time to take things on-the-go (or store away for a while), the City Mini GT2 folds down quickly in just one step. You can customize this side-by-side double stroller with optional accessories, like an infant car seat, pram, glider board, parent console, and child tray (each sold separately). It's compatible with most Britax, Cybex, Graco, and Maxi Cosi infant car seats (adapters for other brand' seats sold separately), so you can create the travel system that works for you.
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2. Twin Way Side-by-Side Double Stroller by StrollAir
Seats Can Switch Directions Independently
This is the Twin Way Side-by-Side Double Stroller by Strollair. It allows you to have the seats independently face you or out toward the action, so if one baby wants to face a parent and the other wants to take in all the sights, you can keep both happy by spinning them around to their desired direction with the push of two easy-to-reach buttons. The seats can hold up to 50 pounds each and they fully recline, which is perfect for sleeping newborns who aren't on a set schedule yet. Mesh extensions around the sides of the seats allow your little ones to get a dose of fresh air while they take in the sights around them. They'll be protected from the elements, thanks to the stroller's included rain covers, sun canopies, mosquito nets, and two foot covers that snap onto the adjustable foot rests to protect your babies from the snow and cold winds. The makers of this double stroller thought of everything, from form to function, right down to the slick, cognac leather accents on the handlebars. This double stroller also features a generous cargo area underneath for your diaper bag or shopping totes while you're out running errands. At only 28.5 inches wide, this lightweight side-by-side stroller is still compact enough to fit through standard doors at the doctor's office or grocery store without compromising on seat space. This stroller also has the option to use two adapters to click your babies' car seats onto the aluminum chassis. The adapters are compatible with about a dozen popular car seat brands. Or, if you want to accessorize your stroller with dual bassinets in place of the seats, that can also be done. The bassinets feature a double-sided mattress, wind cover, and hood, which has a mesh vent and an extension for added protection from the sun. The Twin Way folds down compactly (14 inches by 28.5 inches by 37 inches) to fit into your vehicle's trunk for easy transport.
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3. Minu Duo Double Side-by-Side Stroller by UPPAbaby
Theme Park-Approved
This is the Minu Duo Double Stroller by Uppababy. It's a compact side-by-side stroller with a slim frame that can fit through standard doorways, including the ones that lead to the Magic Kingdom, because this stroller's dimensions are theme park-approved. It has two seats that can be used from birth (they can accommodate up to 50 pounds), and you can use car seat adapters for Mesa and Aria seats to make it travel-system-compatible. This stroller can fold down one-handedly in seconds; a locking latch keeps everything secure during transport or storage, and an integrated crossbar handle makes it easy to carry. Similar to the Twin Way double stroller, this one also stands up when it's folded, so you don't need to worry about it toppling over.
Three tandem double strollers that make twin life easier
For those who are Team Tandem, here are three double stroller options to keep you and your twins comfy while you're on the move.
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1. Ready2Grow 2.0 Double Stroller by Graco
Rides Like a Double, Folds Like a Single
This is the Ready2Grow 2.0 Double Stroller by Graco. It's a tandem stroller that seems like it's actually designed for twins, not that they added an extra seat as an afterthought. It rides like a double stroller but is designed so that it folds down like a single stroller in a single step (plus, it can stand on its own while it's folded). It includes two stroller seats, a removable bench seat if you decide you want more storage space, and a standing platform, giving you plenty of configuration options. It's compatible with all Graco infant car seats, giving you an easy option for your travel system. The child armbar has a cup holder, and it's designed so that it can be removed, making it easy to load and unload the front seat. This tandem double stroller also has a removable cup holder for whoever's in charge of the stroll.
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2. Pivot Xpand Single to Double Modular Stroller by Evenflo
Expands to Fit Two Seats
This is the Pivot Xpand Single to Double Modular Stroller by Evenflo. It's a single stroller that's designed so it can be turned into a double stroller with an easy slide and lock system that expands the frame in seconds to accommodate a second infant car seat or toddler seat, which is sold separately with no extra tools nor adapters needed. It has large cruiser tires with front-wheel swivel and rear-wheel suspension, giving you a smooth ride that's easy to control. This stroller also has an extra-large storage basket that expands to over two feet in length, and it's got easy access from the front or the back to hold a diaper bag and whatever you'll need during your outing. This stroller folds compactly and is designed to stand on its own while it's packed away. It's compatible with Evenflo's LiteMax Infant Car Seats (sold separately), and you can add an extra rider board or child snack tray with snack cup (each sold separately).
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3. Gazelle S 2 Modular Stroller by Cybex
Converts from a Single to a Double Stroller
This is the Gazelle S, a modular stroller by Cybex that can easily convert from a single stroller to a tandem double stroller without additional adapters. It has an adjustable handlebar, a cup holder (for all-important caffeine or precious H2O), advanced suspension, a UPF50+ sun canopy, a rain cover, and includes a near-flat reclining reversible seat. This stroller is compatible with the Gazelle S Cot and all Cybex Infant car seats for use from birth. It's designed to support over 20 different configurations and folds down compactly for easy transport. It's important to note that this stroller purchase comes with ONE seat and a detachable shopping basket, but if you actually go check out the listing, you'll be able to see the stroller's modular design and how you can add a second seat, which is sold separately, to turn this into a tandem double stroller. If you do opt for this set-up, which looks pretty sleek, just keep in mind you might also need additional accessories, like a second rain cover or second set of car seat adapters, that don't come with the purchase of the stroller.
Which stroller type suits your family?
When you're expecting twins and preparing to welcome your dynamic duo, you'll have to decide which type of stroller will best suit your needs when you're going to be strolling around with your newborns.
Side-by-side strollers, where your twins side next to one another, allow your twins to interact with one another, and they usually have a full recline setting, which is perfect for resting newborns. They're easy to push and simple to steer, plus they still fit through standard doorways.
Tandem strollers, where your twins sit with one in front of the other, have a narrower footprint, and they tend to be a more popular choice for families who are going from a single stroller to a double-stroller, say, if they had a singleton first, and then were surprised with twins on the next go-around.
We absolutely loved the side-by-side we had with our twins (we had the Twin Way by StrollAir), but whichever set-up you feel is best for your family, there are plenty of options that will keep you guys strolling in comfort and style.
Did you have a side-by-side double stroller or a tandem one? Were you happy with your choice or would you change your mind if you had to do it all again? Let us know in the Comments section below or connect with us on Instagram to share your thoughts!
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