Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller offers parents with multiple children a comfortable way to get their children around. The best models are easy to fold, carry and fit into a trunk of a car. They also provide different seating arrangements for children of various ages.
Parents with children of a similar age may find that a side by side or sit-and stand style is best to prevent sibling rivalries over who gets to ride in which car seat. We also like the options that allow two infant car seats, such as the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double.
Comfort
It is crucial that your baby and toddler are at ease in the stroller. Choose one that has cushioned seats, a large base, and swivelling front wheels to smooth out bumps in the road, and buckles that are easy to unfasten and fasten.
You can also search for a generous, UPF 50+ canopy, which provides sun protection as well as plenty of coverage for both kids. Adjustable footrests allow your child to sit in the rear seat if they are exhausted. Some double strollers, like the best-selling model from Safety 1st, offer this option for both children.
The number of seats in your stroller will be determined by the weight and age of the children using it. For instance, a side-by-side stroller allows you to keep an eye on two children at the same time which is perfect for twins or siblings that are close in age. It's wider than other configurations and may be difficult to maneuver through crowded or narrow 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 best option for babies, but it is beneficial for older children who can walk longer distances.
Another alternative is a convertible stroller, which offers multiple seating arrangements and can be used as a double or single for a long time. Rebecca says this type of stroller is an excellent option for parents who wish to purchase one stroller, but plan to use it with two kids. It's more expensive than the top tandem pick however it will last an extended period of time and comes with 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 other models but it does have an elegant design and premium material. It's compatible with UPPAbaby infant car seats, and has a telescoping handlebar and easy-to-press brakes. It also has foam-filled tires that won't go flat and an ample storage basket.
Easy of Use
A double stroller can be a costly investment. Parents are looking for models that are easy to use. That means a wide range of features, from the possibility of folding it down to adjusting the handlebar height to accommodate different users, must be readily available. Some models have multiple storage compartments to allow families to divide things up for easy access, as well as organizer bags or consoles for parents to keep phones, keys and other items within reach.
A stroller should be able to adapt to the changing needs of your family as they grow older also. For instance, a cost-effective option like the Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double includes an adjustable system that lets you add another seat, convert it into a triple by using the rideboard, or change to a single mode with a rear bench. This flexibility allows double strollers to last for as long as it is needed.
In terms of maneuverability and maneuverability, many side-by-side models are difficult to maneuver, but 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 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 easier to maneuver than other double strollers we test.
On the other hand the UPPAbaby Vist v2 Double has an elegant design and a large storage basket that can hold two car seats for toddlers or one infant car seat and an ordinary child seat. It can also be used by any single child until three years old and offers a smooth ride thanks to its tires filled with foam that are made to not go flat.
The UPPAbaby folds down in half, making it easy to store and transport. It's also very light and weighs only 18 pounds. It's also easy to open and re-close with an latch, and requires no tools to put together. It was a top choice from our Lab experts for its longevity and versatility, as well as its price.
Ease of Storage
Double strollers must be able to accommodate diaper bags and water bottles, snacks, toys and jackets for children as well as parents' wallets, keys phones, and other items. They must also be able to slide across 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 a variety of styles to meet your needs. They can be side-by-side or tandem with fixed or removable seats, or with an infant car seat and a ridingboard. They can also be designed to fit a single newborn or toddler, or twins. Some are suitable for jogging, while others can be used for hiking trails or at the beach.
Modular designs are particularly useful for families that have to grow into their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle S for instance is designed to permit parents to mix and match their seat units, cot attachments and car seats so that the stroller can serve the family from birth through toddlerhood.
Other modular double strollers such as the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double, can be made to accommodate one child by the use of bassinets or a baby seat or a toddler's the option of a jumping seat or standing board (sold separately). The UPPAbaby is an adaptable stroller that can be configured 30 different ways. It's great for twins, siblings or an expanding family.
The UPPAbaby is also renowned for its green initiatives, and it prioritizes sustainability. The UPPAbaby comes with a wide range of colors and its fabrics are made out of recycled water bottles. Raul, one of our testers utilized this double stroller while testing with his five-month-old son as well as three-year-old daughter. He found it easy to remove the components and assemble them because they were neatly labeled boxes with instructions and video codes.
Another amazing feature of the UPPAbaby is its telescoping handlebar and brakes that operate with one hand and can be operated by your thumb. The swiveling front wheel can help it make tight turns on city sidewalks.
Safety
While double strollers have been criticized for being heavy and difficult to maneuver, the latest generation of strollers are sleek and come with a range of customization options. You will find one that can fit an infant car seat, making it easier to travel with two children.
If you're in the market for a side-by-side or an in-line double stroller, make sure it's JPMA certified to ensure it meets minimum safety standards and goes through regular inspections. You'll want to make sure that the suspension system offers an easy ride for your children when they are 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 can shield your baby from harsh sunlight and harsh weather. The most effective canopies come with an reversible flap as well as a transparent plastic peek-a-boo windows to allow you to monitor your children without causing any disturbance to them. Some canopies also have visors to block direct sun.
Another important metric to consider is how easy the stroller folds and unfolds. Strollers that fold compactly when folded are more convenient to store and take up less space in the trunk of your car. Strollers that come with one button to fold the chassis are also more user-friendly.
When choosing a double stroller, keep in mind how far your children are in age and what kind of outings you're planning to take them on. For instance, if you're children are similar in age it is possible to choose an incline-to-low tandem stroller so that they can be together during outings. If your children are separated due to the age gap you can select one that allows them to have more privacy.
If you intend to use your stroller to carry baby car seats, you should choose one with a high attachment score and is compatible with top-rated brands. single double stroller will not have as much of an impact on the overall rating as other indicators however it is crucial if you intend to use car seat adapters.