Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller is a convenient option for parents to take multiple children. The best models are simple to fold, carry and fit into a trunk of a car. They also offer various seating arrangements for children of varying ages.
If your children are similar in age, you might consider a sit-and-stand or side-by-side design is the best method to avoid sibling fights over which seat to choose. We also like the options that accept two infant car seat like the UPPAbaby v2 double.
Comfort
It is crucial that your toddler and baby are at ease in the stroller. Pick a stroller that has comfortable seats and swiveling tires on the front to smooth out bumps on the road. Also, choose one that has buckles that are easily removed and fastened.
Look for a large UPF 50+ canopy to provide sun protection for both children and adults. Another comfort feature is adjustable footrests, which let your child sit up in the back seat when they get tired. Some double strollers give this option for both children, like the Safety 1st model that is the top-selling model.
The number of seats you can put in your stroller will depend on the weights and ages of the children that are using it. For example, a side-by-side stroller lets you keep an eye on both kids simultaneously and is ideal for twins or siblings that are close in age. It's wider than other configurations and may be difficult to maneuver in crowded or narrow spaces.
On the other hand, a sit-and stand stroller gives older siblings the chance to stand while you push the younger one in a car seat for infants. It's not a good choice for babies but it's suitable once your kiddos are around three years old and can walk for longer distances.
Another alternative is a convertible stroller which has multiple seating arrangements and can be used as a double or single for a long time. Rebecca says this kind of stroller is an excellent option for parents who wish to purchase a single stroller but want to use it with two children. "It's more expensive than our top tandem selection however, it will last a long time, has a great return value, and is extremely versatile," she says.
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 sleek, modern designs and high-quality materials. It's compatible with UPPAbaby infant car seats, and comes with an adjustable handlebar that can be telescopically adjusted and brakes that are easy to press. It comes with wheels that are filled with foam that won't flatten and a large storage bin.
Easy of Use
A double stroller isn't an investment that is cheap, and parents are usually looking for one that is simple to use. That means a wide range of features, ranging from the ability to fold it compactly to the ability to adjust the height of the handlebar to accommodate different users, must be available. Some models come with more than one storage compartment to allow families to split things up for easy access, as well as parent consoles or organizer bags to keep keys, phone and other items within reach.
A stroller is supposed to be able to adjust to the changing needs of your family as they grow older also. Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double, for example, is an affordable stroller that comes with an adjustable system. This allows you to add a seat, transform the stroller into a triple by adding an additional board, or convert it into a single mode by adding a bench in the rear. This flexibility allows a double stroller to last as long as you need it.
When it comes to maneuverability, some side-byside models aren't able to turn on a dime however the majority of our Lab testers loved the simplicity and maneuverability of the inline 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 age groups. The telescoping handlebar and easy-to-use brakes make it easier to maneuver than other double strollers that we test.
The UPPAbaby vist v2 double however, has a sleek design and an ample basket that can accommodate two toddler car seats or an infant car seat along with a regular child's car seat. It can be used by a single child from age three. Its foam-filled tires are made to not flatten.
The UPPAbaby folds in half, making it easy to store and transport. It's also extremely light and weighs only 18 pounds. It's also simple to open and re-close with the latch and doesn't require tools to put together. Our Lab experts selected it as the best choice for its price and shopability, as well as its longevity.
Ease of pushchairsandprams must be able to accommodate diaper bags, water bottles, snacks, toys and jackets for the kids and parents' wallets, keys, phones and other belongings. They should also be able to slide over different surfaces and maneuver in tight spaces. When not in use, they usually have to be tucked into the trunk of a car.
Double strollers come in many different styles to meet these needs. They can be side-byside or tandem with fixed or removable seats or a baby car seats and a rideboard. They can be made to fit a single toddler or twins. Some are made for jogging while others can be utilized at the beach or on hiking trails.
Modular designs are particularly helpful for families that need to get bigger for their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle S, for example is designed to permit parents to mix and match seat units, cot attachments and car seats so that the stroller can be used by the entire family from birth to toddlerhood.
Other double strollers that are modular, like the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double, can be modified to fit one child with the use of bassinets or a baby seat, or a toddler with a jump seat or a standing board (sold separately). The UPPAbaby is an adaptable stroller that can be set up in a variety of ways. It's ideal for twins, siblings, or an expanding family.
The UPPAbaby is also renowned for its green initiatives and it prioritizes sustainability. The UPPAbaby comes in a wide range of colors, and its materials are made from recycled water bottles. Raul one of our testers used this double stroller during testing with his five-month-old son as well as three-year-old daughter. He said it was simple to take apart and assemble since the components were neatly labeled boxes, with instructions and a video code.
Another great feature of the UPPAbaby is its telescoping handlebar as well as one-handed brakes that can be operated with only your thumb. The swiveling wheels at the front can assist in making more precise turns on sidewalks in cities.
Safety
Double strollers are often criticized as being cumbersome and difficult to maneuver. They're also heavy. However, the most recent models are sleeker and provide various options for customization. You can even find one that fits your car seat for infants, making it even easier to get out and about with two children in tow.
If you're looking for a double stroller that can be used side-by-side or in line, ensure it is JPMA-certified to ensure it conforms to safety standards. It will also go through regular inspections. You'll need to ensure that the suspension system gives a smooth ride for your children when they are in the front seat. If your stroller comes with an adjustable handlebar, make sure it's adjustable so that both parents can use it.
A canopy can shield your baby from harsh sunlight and harsh weather. The best canopy features a reversible window or a clear plastic peek-aboo to let you watch your child's progress without causing disturbance. Some canopies also have visors to block direct sun.
Another important metric to take into consideration is how easily the stroller folds and unfolds. Strollers that are compact when folded are more convenient to store and take less space in the trunk of your car. Also, strollers with a single hand-release button that folds the chassis much more convenient to use.
When choosing a double stroller be aware of the age gap between your children as well as the type of trip 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 hand, if your children have a significant age difference, you might choose an option that is side-by-side, which gives them more privacy.
If you're going to be using your stroller with baby car seats, look for a model that works with the 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 however it's a crucial factor to consider if you're planning on using car seat adapters.