Tandem or Double Twin Prams

When you’re looking at double prams to buy, one of the first things you have to consider is if you will be buying a tandem or twin double pram. If you’re not familiar with the terminology, you may be wondering what the difference is. Basically a twin double pram is a side by side style which allows your two children to sit next to each other. Because of the design, a twin pram will be twice as wide as a normal pram. The other, newer design of double pram is a tandem pram. This kind of pram has the same width as a normal pram as one child is positioned behind the other.

There are advantages and disadvantages to each type of pram and a style that suits one family will not necessarily suit another. It is important to consider the age and weight of your children, where you will mostly be using the pram, if you will be transporting it by bus or car and how well your children get along together when they are in close proximity before you decide what type of pram is best for you.

photo by abbybatchelder on flickr

Twin prams are the first image that comes to mind when most people picture a double pram. These prams feature side by side seats that can be reclined and are like a normal pram in any other way apart from their width. These prams are good for twins and children of the same age as both the seats have the same level of adjustability. However be aware that twin prams can be difficult to maneuver, heavy to lift over onto the pavement and may be too wide to fit through doorways. If one child is significantly heavier than the other, steering is especially difficult as the center of balance will be off to one side.

These problems have been resolved by the invention of the tandem pram which is designed so that one child sits behind the other for a ‘double-decker’ style look.  Tandem prams are the same width as normal single prams and are good for children of different ages as the weight is always centered in the middle of the pram. Most parents find them easier to steer and of course there should be no problem fitting through doorways when out shopping. However the design of tandem double prams means that one child will not be able to see anything – this can result in older children not wanting to sit in the pram. They can also be bulky when folded up which may be an issue if you have a small car. One further advantage of tandem prams is that usually the lower seat can be removed, converting the pram to a single model – useful when your older child starts to walk more.

Whether you decide on a twin double pram or a tandem double pram, you’ll find all the information you need here at Double Prams Info