|
|
| Maclaren Twin Triumph In Coffee Brown
| | Reviewed by: Baby Gizmo Senior Editors |  | |  |
 | Title: Maclaren Twin Triumph
Best: Easy open and closing features, lightweight, smooth steering, compact
Worst: No option for an infant car seat carrier, no cup holders, no parent or child trays
Full Review: see below
| Lowest Price: $265.00 (from 1 sellers) |  |
|
|  | | Full Review: Yeah!! We’re expecting number two! When we found out that number two was on the way there were so many decisions to make. What would we name her, would she be sharing a room, what colors would the room be decorated in, etc. The one detail that was already decided in our minds was what double stroller to buy. After investing in the Maclaren single stroller the purchase was easy – we wanted the Maclaren double stroller for all of the same reasons.
Prior to needing a double we had the pleasure of experiencing the pain of what we call the “limo” strollers (the tandem strollers). While it is certain that you will glide slyly through any doorway (as long as you are positioned in just the right angle) – it is also certain that you will break your back trying to get over the slightest crack or strain your arm muscles turning your mammoth school bus stroller. As if these aren’t reason enough to avoid these strollers, we also found them too bulky to fold – therefore taking up too much space in our trunks and hallways.
Maclaren’s Twin Triumph triumphs all of these feats. It is a dream to steer, fits through standard doorways with ease, employs its 4½\" double wheels to handle curbs and sidewalk cracks, and folds to the size of a single umbrella stroller leaving plenty of extra cargo space. Another one of our favorite features is that with its aluminum frame, the Triumph is lightweight (21.6 pounds) and can easily be carried up our three flights of stairs. Located on the frame of the stroller is a sturdy carrying handle. The handle is placed in just the right spot so that it can be carried with one hand. Although, I often find that I use my other hand to also grip the frame for carrying and lifting purposes.
The Twin Triumph is designed for use with infants on up. The stroller has a total weight limit of 110 pounds (55 pounds in each seat) and a height of 44” tall. We have used this stroller with two three year olds side by side as well as with a 6 month old and a three year old. We have found that regardless of the weight distribution the stroller’s steering capacity is the same. However, when pushing the three year olds it was more difficult to overcome curbs than with a lighter load.
One downside - the Twin Triumph cannot accommodate an infant car seat. This may be difficult for parents who plan on lulling their newborns to sleep with long outdoor walks or for ease of transport from the car to shopping trips - etc. Because the seats are independently reclining and offer 4 different seat positions (ranging from lying flat to upright seating), the Twin Triumph is suitable from birth. As with all strollers, we suggest using the most reclined seat position with newborns. In fact, I feel the seat is very large for a tiny newborn and I would suggest using an infant insert to keep your new baby in place.
The Maclaren Twin Triumph uses a five point harness to secure your children. These harnesses are easy to buckle as well as to adjust. The straps are made in a grow-with-me fashion and can be adjusted with your child already sitting in the seat. Each seat is sufficiently padded and independent of each other which will allow your more curious children to be sitting upright while your sleeping beauty is taking a rest. While the straps are not padded they are thick. The thickness helps from holding your child too tightly and prevents the uncomfortable “cutting” into your child’s shoulders. In fact, my daughter (who is incredibly picky about any straps) does not seem to mind wearing them.
We also love that the canopies on the Twin Triumph are independent of each other. Each canopy can be locked into place making it more secure and covers your child from the sun sufficiently. The sun canopies each have a small peek-a-boo window that not only allows you to keep an eye on your little ones but also block UV-rays.
One of our favorite features of the Maclaren brand is the one handed open and closing mechanism. This is such a fantastic feature once it is mastered – but here is a warning – be prepared to feel silly as you are practicing these steps. When my husband was learning we laughed so hard – he looked like he was trying to come up with a new parent tribal dance. This feature employs several steps that need to be done in order – but once memorized it is so simple. If you plan on allowing grandparents or babysitters to use this stroller be sure to include the sequence of steps as it can be confusing to a novice stroller pusher.
The Maclaren Twin Triumph has ample storage space compared to other umbrella strollers of its kind. There are two large baskets located under each seat. These are perfect for storing toys, small diaper bags, or small shopping bags. In addition, on the back of each seat are small storage pockets. These are great for bottled waters, sippy cups, wallets, keys, or other small items. The Maclaren Twin Triumph does not offer cup holders or parent or child trays. However, these back seat pockets are great for these types of items.
Tall parents – hear ye hear ye!! The twin Triumph has the Maclaren patented tall push handle bars. Both my husband and I love this feature as we are both tall (5’9 and 6’1). With other umbrella strollers we find ourselves with aching backs and too often tripping over the back wheels due to long strides. This is not the case with the Triumph – thank you Maclaren! In addition, the handle bars are padded with ergonomic foam and feel great to push.
On a less functional note, the Triumph lets you travel in style. Maclaren has included 2 sets of harness straps that are reversible allowing you a little variety. In addition, there are two reversible liners that further customize your look. While this feature is stylish – the best part is that it allows my daughter choices and helps her get excited about “her” seat – the seat that she designed for herself. The pads can be easily removed and are machine washable. We have found this to be a must!
Even without the bells and whistles of exterior cup holders, trays, and infant carriers, the Maclaren Twin Triumph gets our highest rating – and once you push it, we are certain it will also receive yours.
|
|
|
