Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller offers parents with multiple children a comfortable way to get them around. The most effective models are easy to fold, carry and fit into the trunk of a car. They also offer different seating arrangements for children of various ages.
If your children are similar in age, you may consider a sit-and-stand or side-by-side design is the best way to avoid sibling fights over the best seat to use. We also like the options that allow two infant car seats such as the UPPAbaby Vista v2 Double.
Comfort
A stroller that is comfortable is essential for both your toddler and baby. Pick one with cushioned seats, a large base and swiveling front wheels to smooth bumps in the road, and buckles that are easy to unfasten and fasten.
You could also consider an ample, UPF 50+ canopy that offers sun protection and ample coverage for both kids. Another feature that is comfortable is the adjustable footrests that allow your child to stand in the back seat when they get tired. Some double strollers, like the best-selling model from Safety 1st, offer this option for both children.
The number of seats you can have in your stroller will depend on the weight and age of the children using it. A side-byside baby stroller allows you to watch two children at the same time, making it ideal for twins or siblings of the same age. However, it's generally wider than other models and may be difficult to maneuver through narrow spaces or in crowded areas.
Sit-and-stand strollers allow older siblings to stand up while you push a smaller child in the infant car seat. It's not the best option for newborns but can be beneficial for older children who are able to walk for longer distances.
A convertible stroller is an additional alternative. It offers multiple seating configurations and can be used as a single or double. Rebecca says this kind of stroller is a good choice for parents who intend to buy one stroller and use it with both children. It's more expensive than the top tandem pick but it'll last for a long time and has an excellent resale value, 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 does have a sleek, modern design and high-quality materials. It's compatible with UPPAbaby infant car seats, and it has 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 huge storage bin.
Easy of Use
A double stroller is an expensive purchase. Parents are looking for models that are simple to use. It should have a variety of features, including the ability to fold the stroller compactly and to adjust the handlebar's height to accommodate different types of users. Some models also have more than one storage space to allow families to split up belongings for quick access, as well as organizer bags or consoles for parents to keep phone, keys, and other essentials in reach.
A stroller is supposed to be able to adjust to the changing needs of your family over the years, too. For instance, a budget-friendly option like the Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double includes a modular system that lets you add another seat, convert it into a triple using an incline board, or change to a single mode with the rear bench. This flexibility will let a double stroller work for as long as you need 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 operation and maneuverability of the Baby Jogger City Mini GT2. This model accepts all of our top-rated infant car seats and is suitable for twins and children of various age. The telescoping handles and simple-to-use brakes allow it to be more flexible than other double strollers we have tested.
The UPPAbaby vist v2 double however, is sleek and stylish. It also comes with an ample basket that can fit two toddler car seats or an infant car seat with a regular child's seat. It can also be used by any single child until the age of three. It provides a smooth ride due to its foam-filled tires that are not designed to run flat.
Furthermore to that, the UPPAbaby is light at just 18 pounds and folds in half to make a slim and sleek box that is easy to carry and put away. It is also easy to open and close using a latch, and requires no tools to put together. Our Lab experts picked it as the best choice for its affordability, shopability and longevity.
Ease of Storage
Double strollers need to be able to accommodate diaper bags as well as water bottles, snacks, toys and jackets for the kids and parents' wallets, keys phones, and other items. They should also be able to glide over different surfaces, and maneuver in tight places. When not in use, they often have to fit into the trunk of a vehicle.
Double strollers come in many different styles to meet your needs. They can be tandem or side-by-side with fixed or removable seats or equipped with infant car seats and a riding board. They can also be designed to fit a single toddler or newborn, or twins. Some are made for jogging while others can be used at the beach or on trails for hiking.
Modular designs are especially useful for families that need to grow with their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle S for instance is designed to allow 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 double strollers that are modular like the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double, can be made to accommodate one child with the use of a baby seat or bassinet, or a toddler with a jump seat or a standing board (sold separately). The UPPAbaby is a flexible stroller that can be set up in a variety of ways. It's ideal for twins, siblings, or a growing family.
The UPPAbaby is recognized for its green initiatives and it is a proponent of sustainability. The UPPAbaby comes in a variety 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 says it was easy to take apart and assemble since the components were neatly labeled boxes, which had instructions and a video code included.
Another excellent characteristic of the UPPAbaby its telescoping handlebar as well as one-handed brakes that can be operated by your thumb. The swiveling wheels on its front can help it make more precise turns on city sidewalks.
Safety
Double strollers are often accused of being cumbersome and difficult to maneuver. They're also heavy. However, the most recent models are sleeker and provide various options for customization. You may even find one that will fit the car seat of your infant making it more convenient to go out and about with two children in the stroller.
If you're looking for a double stroller that can be used side-byside or in line, ensure that it's JPMA certified to ensure it conforms to safety standards. double pushchair will also undergo regular inspections. You should also consider suspension systems that provide smooth riding and doesn't cause bumps, or jostling for your little ones in the front seat. If your stroller comes with an adjustable handlebar, make sure it's adjustable to ensure both parents can use it.
A canopy is a crucial feature that protects your babies from harsh sunlight or the harsh weather. The best canopies have the option of a reversible flap, or a clear plastic peek-a-boo window to allow you to monitor your children without causing disturbance. Certain canopies come with visors that block the 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 up less space in the trunk of your car. Strollers with only one button to fold the chassis are also easier to use.
When you are shopping for a double stroller, keep in mind the distance your children are in age and what kind of excursions you are planning to take them on. If your children are similar in age you may choose a tandem high/low stroller to let them interact on outings. On the other side, if your kids have a large age gap then you may want to consider an option that is side-by-side, which gives them more privacy.
If you intend to use your stroller to carry baby car seats, select one with a good attachment score and compatible with top-rated brands. It won't have as much impact on your overall rating as other metrics but it's an important aspect to take into consideration if you're thinking of using car seat adapters.