Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller provides parents with multiple children a comfortable way to get their children around. The best models are simple to fold, carry and place into the trunk of a car. They also offer different seating arrangements for children of varying ages.
If your children are similar in age, you might find that a sit-and-stand or side-by-side style is the best way to avoid sibling fights over which seat to choose. We also like the options that accept two infant car seat such as the UPPAbaby V2 double.
Comfort
A comfortable stroller is key for both your toddler and baby. Choose a stroller with cushioned seats and swiveling wheels on the front to smooth road bumps. Also, select one with buckles that are easily fastened and unfastened.
You could also consider a generous, UPF 50+ canopy that provides sun protection and plenty of coverage for both kids. Adjustable footrests let your child to sit in the rear seat when they are tired. Some double strollers, like the most popular model from Safety 1st, offer this option for both children.
The number of seats you select in your stroller depends on the weight and ages of the children who are that are using it. A side-by-side baby stroller lets you to watch two children at the same time which is ideal for twins or siblings of similar age. It's wider than other configurations and may be difficult to maneuver through crowded or narrow spaces.
On the other hand, a sit-and stand stroller gives older siblings a chance to stand while you push the baby in a car seat for infants. stroller double 's not the best option for babies, but it is useful for older children who are able to walk for longer distances.
A convertible stroller is a different alternative. It offers multiple seating options and can be used for years as a single or double. Rebecca says this type of stroller is a great option for parents who only want to purchase a single stroller but plan to use it with two children. "It's more expensive than our top tandem choice, but it will last for a long time, has 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 is not as compact as some other options but it does have an elegant design and premium material. It's compatible with UPPAbaby car seats, and features a telescoping bar and easy-to press brakes. It also comes with foam-filled tires that won't go flat and large storage basket.
Easy of Use
A double stroller is not a cheap investment, so parents are often looking for a model that's easy to use. This means a variety of features, from the possibility of folding it down to adjusting the handlebar height to accommodate different users, must be readily available. Some models come with more than one storage compartment to allow families to split items for quick access, as well as parent consoles or organizer bags to keep keys, phone and other items in reach.
A stroller should be able adapt to the changing needs of your family over time. For instance, a cost-effective option like the Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double includes an adjustable system that allows you to add another seat, convert it into a triple using the rideboard, or change to a single mode by using a rear bench. This flexibility can help double strollers last as long as you want it to.
In terms of maneuverability, a lot of 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 all of our top-rated infant car seats and is suitable for twins or children of various ages. Its telescoping handlebar and simple-to-use brakes make it much easier to maneuver than many of the other double strollers we've tested.
The UPPAbaby vist v2 double it's on the other hand, has a sleek design and an ample basket that can fit two toddler car seats or an infant car seat along with a regular child's car seat. It can be used by one child from age three. Its tires that are filled with foam are made to not flatten.
Furthermore to that, the UPPAbaby is light at just 18 pounds and folds in half to create a sleek and compact package that's easy to carry and store. It is also easy to close and open using the latch, and requires no tools to assemble. Our Lab experts chose it as the top pick for its value, affordability and long-term durability.
Easy of Storage
Double strollers should be able to hold diaper bags as well as water bottles snacks, toys, and jackets for kids as well as parents' wallets, keys, phones and other belongings. They should also be able move over different surfaces and maneuver in tight spaces. They often need to fit in the trunk of a vehicle, so they should be easy to fold up and compact when not when not in use.
To meet the needs of parents Double strollers are built in a wide range of styles. They can be side-byside or tandem, with fixed or removable seats or a baby car seat and a ridingboard. They can be made to fit one toddler or infant or twins. Some are suitable for running, while others could be used on trails for hiking and at the beach.
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 is able to serve the family from birth through toddlerhood.
Other double strollers that are modular, such as the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double can be adapted to one child with the use of the bassinet or baby seat or for a toddler using a standing board or jump seat (sold separately). The UPPAbaby is an adaptable stroller that can be configured in a variety of ways. It's great for twins, siblings, or a growing family.
The UPPAbaby is also a proponent of green and sustainability initiatives. The UPPAbaby is available in a variety of colors, and its materials 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 says it was easy to disassemble and unpack because the components were neatly labeled boxes with instructions and a video code.
The UPPAbaby also comes with a telescoping handlebar and brakes controlled by your thumb. The swiveling wheels on its front can assist in making tighter turns on city sidewalks.
Safety
Double strollers are often accused of being cumbersome, difficult to maneuver and heavy. However, the latest models are sleeker and provide various options for customization. You can find one that is compatible with an infant car seat, making it easier to travel with two children.
If you're in the market for a double stroller that can be used side-byside or in line, be sure that it's JPMA-certified to ensure it conforms to safety standards. It will also undergo regular inspections. You'll also want to choose suspension systems that provide a smooth ride and doesn't cause bumps, or jolting for your toddlers in the front seat. If your stroller has a handlebar make sure it's adjustable to ensure both parents can use it.
A canopy can protect your baby from harsh sunlight and inclement weather. The best canopy features the option of a reversible flap, or a transparent plastic windows that peek-a-boo that allows you to watch your children without causing any disturbance to them. Some canopies come with visors to block the direct sun.
Another important metric to consider is how easily the stroller folds and unfolds. Strollers that are compact when folded are easier to store and take up less space in the trunk of your car. Strollers that have a single button to fold the chassis are also more user-friendly.
When shopping for a double stroller, keep in mind how far apart your children are in age and what type of outings you plan on taking them on. If your children are similar in age, you could opt for a tandem high/low stroller to let them interact when outings. If your children are separated due to the age gap, you may choose a model that gives them more privacy.
If you intend to use your stroller to carry baby car seats, choose a model with a high attachment score and is compatible with top-rated brands. This won't have as significant an impact on the overall rating as other indicators but it is still crucial if you intend to use car seat adapters.