Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller is a great way for parents to transport multiple children. The best models are simple to fold and transport, fit well inside a trunk of a car, and provide a variety of seating arrangements for children of varying ages.
Parents of children who are close to age may find a side-by-side or sit-and-stand style works best to avoid sibling fights about who is allowed to ride in which car seat. We also like the options that can accommodate two infant car seats, such as the UPPAbaby V2 Double.
Comfort
It is crucial that your baby and toddler are comfortable in the stroller. Choose a stroller with padded seats and swiveling wheels on the front to smooth out bumps on the road. Also, select one that has buckles that are easily removed and fastened.
Find a large UPF 50+ canopy to offer sun protection for both children and adults. Another comfort feature is adjustable footrests that let your child stand up in the back seat when they are tired. Some double strollers offer this option for both children, including the Safety 1st model that is the top-selling model.
How many seats you choose in your stroller depends on the weights and ages of the kids who are riding in it. A side-by-side baby stroller allows you to watch two children at once it is ideal for twins or siblings of the same age. It's more spacious than other types of strollers and isn't easy to maneuver through crowded or narrow spaces.
A sit-and-stand pram allows older siblings to stand up while you push a younger child in an infant car-seat. It's not ideal for newborns however, it could be suitable when your kids are around three years old and can walk longer distances.
Another option is a convertible stroller which has multiple seating arrangements and can be used as a single or double for a long time. Rebecca says this type of stroller is an excellent option for parents who wish to buy one stroller but are planning to use it with two kids. "It's more expensive than our top tandem selection however, it will last for a long time, has great potential for resales 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 other models however it has a sleek design and high-quality material. double pushchair with UPPAbaby infant car seats, and has a telescoping handlebar and brakes that are easy to press. It comes with foam-filled wheels that won't break and a huge storage bin.
Ease of Use
A double stroller can be a costly investment. Parents are looking for models that are easy to use. It should come with a range of features, including the possibility of folding the stroller into a compact size and alter the height of the handlebar to accommodate different types of users. Some models also have more than one storage compartment to allow families to split items for quick access, as well as organizer bags or consoles for parents to keep phones, keys and other necessities easily accessible.
A stroller should be able to adapt to the changing needs of your family as time goes by. For instance, a cost-effective model like the Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double includes an adjustable system that lets you add another seat, convert it to a triple with a rideboard, or switch to a single mode with a rear bench. This flexibility lets a double stroller to last for as long as it is needed.
In terms of maneuverability, many side-by-side models are difficult to maneuver, however our Lab testers were pleasantly surprised 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 handlebar as well as the simple-to-use brakes make it much easier to maneuver than other double strollers we've test.
On the other side, the UPPAbaby Vist v2 Double has an elegant design and a large storage basket that can fit two toddler car seats or one infant car seat plus an ordinary child 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 not designed to run flat.
Additionally, the UPPAbaby is super light at only 18 pounds and folds in half to make a slim and sleek box that is easy to carry and to store. It's also easy to open and re-close with an latch, and requires no tools to put together. Our Lab experts chose it as the best choice for its price and shopability, as well as its longevity.
Easy of Storage
Double strollers must be able to hold diaper bags and water bottles, snacks, toys and jackets for the kids, as well as parents' wallets, keys, phones and other belongings. They must also be able to glide over different surfaces, and maneuver in tight places. They often need to fit into the trunk of a car, so they should be simple to fold and compact when not when not in use.
Double strollers are available in a variety of styles to meet your needs. They can be side-by-side or tandem with removable or fixed seats or equipped with infant car seats and a rideboard. They can be made to accommodate one toddler or infant or twins. Some are made for running, while others can be used on beaches or on trails for hiking.
Modular designs can be especially helpful for families that need to grow into their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle S, for example is designed to permit parents to mix and match their seat units, cot attachments and car seats so that the stroller can serve the entire family from birth to toddlerhood.
Other modular double strollers like the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double can be modified to accommodate a single child by using a bassinet or baby seat, or a toddler by using a standing board or jump seat (sold separately). The UPPAbaby's versatility allows it to be set up in a variety of ways, making it suitable for twins and siblings, or for an expanding family.
The UPPAbaby also prioritizes green and sustainability initiatives. The UPPAbaby comes in various colors and its fabrics are made from recycled water bottles. Raul one of our testers, utilized this double stroller while testing with his five-month-old son and three-year-old daughter. He reported that it was simple to remove the components and assemble them since they came in neatly-labeled boxes with instructions and video codes.
The UPPAbaby also features a telescoping handlebar and brakes that operate with your thumb. Its swiveling front wheels will allow it to make precise turns on city sidewalks.
Safety
Double strollers are often criticized for being cumbersome and difficult to maneuver. They are also heavy. However, the newest models are sleeker and offer many options for customization. You may even find one that fits your car seat for infants which makes it more convenient to go out and about with two kids with you.
If you're in the market for a side-by-side or an in-line double stroller , be sure it's JPMA certified to ensure that it meets the minimum safety standards and passes regular inspections. Also, you should choose a suspension system that provides an easy ride and doesn't create bumps or jostling for the toddlers in the front seat. If your stroller comes with a handlebar make sure it's adjustable to ensure both parents can use it.
A canopy is a crucial feature that can shield your babies from harsh sunlight or inclement weather. The best canopies come with windows that can be reversible or a transparent plastic peek-aboo that lets you monitor your child without causing disturbance. Some canopies come with visors to block the direct sun.
The ease of folding and unfolding the stroller is an important factor to consider. Strollers that fold compactly when folded are more convenient to store and take less space in the trunk of your car. Strollers that have a single button to fold the chassis are also simpler to use.
When you are shopping for a double stroller, keep in mind how far your children are and what kind of outings you're planning to take them on. For instance, if you're kids are close in age, you may want to opt for a tandem high-low stroller to ensure that they can get to know each other on outings. On the other hand, if your children have a significant age difference then you may want to consider a side-byside model that offers them more privacy.
If you're planning on using your stroller with baby car seats, look for a model that integrates with top-rated car seats and has high attachment scores. This won't have as much of an impact on the overall rating as other factors but is still important if you plan to utilize car seat adapters.