Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller provides parents of multiple kids an easy way to move them around. The best models are easy to fold, carry and place into a trunk of a car. They also provide different seating arrangements for children of varying ages.
Parents with children close in age may find that a side by side or sit-and-stand style works best to avoid sibling fights over who rides in which car seat. We also like the options that allow two infant car seats, like the UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double.
Comfort
It is crucial that your baby and toddler are both comfortable in the stroller. Select one with cushioned seats, a large base, and swivelling front wheels to smooth out bumps on the road, and buckles that are easy to fasten and unfasten.
You could also consider an ample, UPF 50+ canopy that offers sun protection and ample coverage for both kids. Another comfort feature is adjustable footrests that let your child sit up in the back seat when they get tired. Some double strollers provide this option to both children, like the Safety 1st model that is the best seller.
The number of seats you can have in the stroller will be contingent on the weight and age of the children using it. For instance, a side-by-side stroller allows you to keep an eye on two children at the same time which is perfect for twins or siblings close in age. It's more spacious than other types of strollers, and can be difficult to maneuver in tight or narrow spaces.
On the other hand, a stand-and-sit stroller allows older siblings to stand while you push the baby in the infant car seat. It's not a good choice for babies but it's suitable once your kiddos are around three years old and are able to walk for longer distances.
A convertible stroller is an additional option. It offers multiple seating configurations and can be used as a double or single. Rebecca says this kind of stroller is an excellent option for parents who plan to purchase a single stroller and use it with both children. It's more expensive than the top tandem pick however it will last a long time and has the best resale value she adds.
This stroller by UPPAbaby is a double stroller that converts into a single or a toddler-and-RumbleSeat configuration. It's not as compact as some of the other strollers we've tried however, it comes with a sleek, modern design and top-quality materials. It's compatible with UPPAbaby infant car seats, and has a telescoping handlebar as well as easy-to-press brakes. It also comes with foam-filled tires that won't go flat and an ample storage basket.
User-Friendliness
A double stroller is not an investment that is cheap, and parents often seek a model that's easy to use. This means a variety of features, ranging from the possibility of folding it down to adjusting the height of the handlebar for different users, should be available. Some models come with multiple storage compartments that allow families to organize their belongings for easy access. They also come with parent consoles and organizer bags that store phones, keys and other necessities on fingertips.
A stroller must be able adapt to the changing needs of your family as time goes by. Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double, for example is an affordable stroller that comes with an adjustable system. It allows you to add a seat, transform the stroller into a triple with the addition of a board, or change it into a single mode by adding a bench in the rear. This flexibility allows a double stroller to last as long as is required.
In terms of maneuverability, a lot of side-by-side models are difficult to maneuver. However, our Lab testers were impressed by the ease of use and maneuverability of the Baby Jogger City Mini GT2. This model is compatible with our top-rated car seats for infants and can be used by twins or children of various ages. The telescoping handles as well as the easy-to-use brakes allow it to be more flexible than other double strollers that we tested.
double pram and pushchair vist v2 double, on the other hand has a streamlined look and an ample basket that can hold two toddler car seats or an infant car seat along with a standard child's seat. It can also be used by one child up to the age of three and provides a smooth ride due to its foam-filled tires which are designed not to go flat.
The UPPAbaby folds up in half, making it easy to store and carry. It's also super lightweight, weighing only 18 pounds. It's also easy to open and re-close with the latch and doesn't require tools to put together. Our Lab experts picked it as the top pick for its price and long-term durability.
Ease of Storage
Double strollers need to be able to carry diaper bags and water bottles, snacks, toys and jackets for the kids as well as parents' wallets, keys, phones and other belongings. They also need to be able to glide across different surfaces and maneuver in tight spaces. When not in use, they usually have to be tucked into the trunk of a car.
To meet these requirements, double strollers can be built in a wide range of styles. double pushchair can be tandem or side-by-side with seats that can be removed or fixed or come with infant car seats as well as a riding board. They can be designed to accommodate a single newborn or toddler, or twins. Some are suitable for running, while others can be used on hiking trails or at the beach.
Modular designs are especially beneficial for families who want to grow with their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle, for example, allows parents to mix and blend seats units, cots and car seats to let the stroller serve the entire family from infant to toddlerhood.
Other modular double strollers like the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double can be modified to accommodate one child using baby seats or a bassinet or for a toddler using a standing board or jump seat (sold separately). The UPPAbaby is a versatile stroller that can be set up in 30 different ways, making it suitable for twins and siblings, or for growing families.
The UPPAbaby also prioritizes sustainability and green initiatives. The UPPAbaby comes in a variety of colors, and its materials are made from recycled water bottles. During testing, our tester Raul utilized the double stroller with his three year old daughter and five-month-old son. He said it was easy to remove the components and put them together because they came in neatly-labeled boxes with video instructions and instructions.
Another great aspect of the UPPAbaby is its telescoping handlebar as well as one-handed brakes that can be operated by your thumb. Its swiveling wheels on the front can help it make more precise turns on city sidewalks.
Safety
Double strollers are often accused of being heavy and difficult to maneuver. They are also heavy. However, the newest models are sleeker and provide a variety of customization options. You can even find one that will fit your car seat for infants, making it even easier to get out and about with two children in tow.
If you're in the market for a double stroller that can be used side-by-side or in line, ensure it is JPMA-certified to ensure it meets safety standards. It will also undergo regular inspections. Also, you should consider a suspension system that provides an easy ride and doesn't cause bumps, or jostling for the children in the front seat. If your stroller comes with a handlebar, ensure it's adjustable so that both parents can use it.
A canopy can protect your baby from harsh sunlight and harsh weather. The best canopy features windows that can be reversible or a transparent plastic peek-aboo which lets you monitor your child without causing disturbance. Certain canopies come with visors that block the direct sun.
The ease of folding and unfolding the stroller is a second important factor to consider. Compact strollers are simpler to store in your car's trunk and take up less space. Also, strollers that have only one button to release the hand that folds the chassis more user-friendly.
When you are shopping for a double stroller, bear in mind how far apart your children are in age and what kind of outings you're planning to take them on. If your children are similar in age you may choose a tandem high/low stroller to allow them to be together on outings. On the other the other hand, if you have a large age gap it is possible to choose a side-by-side model that gives them more privacy.
If you're planning on using your stroller with baby car seats, look for a model that works with top-rated car seat brands and has good attachment scores. This won't have as significant of an impact on your overall rating as the other metrics but it's an important consideration if you're planning on using adapters for car seats.