Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller is a great method for parents to carry multiple children. The best models are simple to fold, carry and store into a trunk of a car. They also offer various seating arrangements for children of various ages.
If your children are similar in age, you may decide that a sit-and stand or side-byside style is the best method to avoid sibling fights over which seat to choose. We also like options which allow two infant car seats, such as the UPPAbaby v2 double.
Comfort
It is crucial that your baby and toddler are both at ease in the stroller. Select one with padded seats, a wide base, and swivelling front wheels to smooth bumps on the road, and buckles that are simple to fasten and unfasten.
You can also look for a generous UPF 50+ canopy that provides sun protection as well as plenty of coverage for both children. Another comfort feature is adjustable footrests that let your child sit up in the back seat if they are tired. Some double strollers, like the most popular model from Safety 1st, offer this option for both children.
How many seats you choose in your stroller will depend on the weights and ages of the kids who are riding in it. For instance, a side-by-side stroller lets you keep an eye on both children simultaneously which is perfect for twins or siblings that are close in age. However, it's typically wider than other configurations and can be difficult to maneuver in tight spaces or crowded areas.
On the other hand, a stand-and-sit stroller gives older siblings the chance to stand while you push the baby in the infant car seat. It's not the ideal choice for newborns but can be beneficial for older children who are able to walk for longer distances.
Another option is a convertible stroller which has multiple seating arrangements and can be used as a single or double for several years. Rebecca says this kind of stroller is a good option for parents who only want to purchase one stroller, but are planning to use it with two kids. It's more expensive than the top tandem model however it will last many years and has a great resale price, 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 options we tested, but it has an elegant, modern design and top-quality materials. It's compatible with UPPAbaby infant car seats, and has a telescoping handlebar and easy-to-press brakes. It also comes with tires filled with foam that won't go flat and large storage basket.
Ease of Use
A double stroller is not a cheap investment, so parents are often looking for an option that is easy to use. This means a variety of features, from the possibility of folding it down to the ability to adjust the height of the handlebar for different users, should be readily available. Some models also have more than one storage compartment to allow families to divide items for quick access, as well as parent consoles or organizer bags to keep phones, keys and other necessities easily accessible.
A stroller should be able to adapt to the changing requirements of your family over time. For instance, a budget-friendly model like the Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double includes an adjustable system that lets you add a second seat, convert it to a triple with a rideboard, or switch to a single-mode with an additional bench in the rear. This flexibility can make double strollers work for as long as you want it to.
In terms of maneuverability, many side-by-side models are difficult to maneuver. However, our Lab testers were impressed with 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 different age groups. The telescoping handlebar and easy-to-use brakes make it much easier to maneuver over the other double strollers that we tested.
On the other side the UPPAbaby Vist v2 Double features an elegant design and a huge storage basket that can hold two toddler car seats or one infant car seat plus a regular child seat. It can be used by one child as young as three years old. The tires are filled with foam and designed to not go flat.
The UPPAbaby folds down in half, making it simple to store and transport. It's also extremely light, weighing only 18 pounds. It's also simple to open and close with an latch, and requires no tools for assembly. It was a top choice by our Lab experts for its durability and shopability as well as its affordability.
Ease of Storage
Double strollers should be able to carry diaper bags as well as water bottles, snacks, toys and jackets for children and parents' wallets, keys phones, and other items. They also need to be able to slide over different surfaces and maneuver in tight spaces. When not in use, they are often required to fit into the trunk of a car.
To meet these requirements Double strollers can be constructed in a variety of styles. They can be tandem or side-by-side, and they can have fixed or removable seats or even be outfitted with infant car seats and a riding board. They can be made to accommodate a single infant or toddler or twins. Some are designed for jogging while others can be used on beaches or on hiking trails.
Modular designs are especially beneficial for families who need to grow into their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle S for instance, is designed to allow 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 with modular designs like the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double, can be adapted for one child with the use of bassinet or baby seat or a toddler's with a jump seat or a standing board (sold separately). The UPPAbaby is a versatile stroller that can be set up in 30 different ways, making it suitable for twins, siblings or an expanding family.
The UPPAbaby also prioritizes sustainability and green initiatives. The UPPAbaby is available in various colors, and its materials are made from recycled water bottles. During testing, our tester Raul used this double stroller with his 3 year old daughter and five-month-old son. He said it was easy to remove the components and put them together because they were packaged neatly with video instructions and instructions.
Another amazing aspect of the UPPAbaby is its telescoping handlebar and one-handed brakes that can be operated using only your thumb. The swiveling front wheel allow it to make tight turns on city sidewalks.
Safety
Double strollers are a bit of a bad reputation as cumbersome and difficult to maneuver, the new generation of strollers are sleek and come with a range of options for customization. You may even find one that will fit your car seat for infants making it more convenient to go out and about with two children with you.
If you're looking for a double stroller that can be used side-byside or in a line, make sure that it's JPMA-certified to ensure it conforms to safety standards. It also has to pass regular inspections. You should also look for a suspension system that provides a smooth ride and doesn't cause bumps, or jostling for your toddlers in the front seat. If your stroller comes with a handlebar make sure it is adjustable so that both parents can use it.
A canopy is a crucial feature that can shield your children from harsh sunlight or the harsh weather. The best canopies have an reversible flap as well as a clear plastic peek-a-boo window to let you monitor your children without causing any disturbance to them. Some canopies have the ability to shade direct sunlight.
The ease of folding and unfolding the stroller is another important factor to consider. Compact strollers are much easier to put in the trunk of your car and take up less room. Also, strollers that have only one button to release the hand that folds the chassis much easier to use.
When choosing a double stroller take into consideration the age gap between your children and the kind of trip you're planning to take with them. For instance, if you're kids are close in age it is possible to consider a tandem high-low stroller to ensure that they can get to know each other on outings. If your children are separated due to the age gap You can choose one which allows them to enjoy more privacy.
If you're planning on using your stroller with baby car seats, look for a model that is compatible with the top-rated car seat brands and has high attachment scores. It won't have as much of an impact on your overall rating as other metrics but it's an important factor to consider if you're planning on using adapters for car seats.