Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller offers parents of multiple kids an easy way to move their children around. The best models are simple to fold and transport and fit nicely in a car trunk and provide a variety of seating arrangements for children of various age groups.
If your children are similar in age, you may consider a sit-and-stand or side-byside style is the best method to avoid fighting between siblings over the best seat to use. We also recommend options that allow two infant car seats, such as the UPPAbaby V2 Double.
Comfort
A stroller that is comfortable and safe for both your baby and toddler. Select a stroller with comfortable seats and swiveling tires at the front to smooth out bumps on the road. Also, select one that has buckles that can be easily removed and fastened.
You can also search for a large, UPF 50+ canopy, which provides sun protection and plenty of coverage for both children. Another feature that is comfortable is the adjustable footrests that let your child sit up in the back 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 can put in your stroller is contingent on the weights and ages of the children who are riding in it. A side-by-side baby stroller allows you to keep an eye on two children at a time which is ideal for twins or siblings of the same age. However, it's typically wider than other types and can be challenging to maneuver in tight spaces or in areas with a lot of people.
double pushchair -and-stand pram allows older siblings to stand while you push a younger child in the infant car seat. It's not a good choice for babies but it's an ideal choice once your kiddos are around three years old and able to walk longer distances.
Another option is a convertible stroller that has multiple seating options and can be used as a single or double for a number of years. Rebecca says this kind of stroller is an excellent option for parents who are planning to purchase a single stroller and use it with both children. It's more expensive than the top tandem pick but it will last for a long time and has the best 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 tested however it does have a sleek, modern design and high-quality materials. It's compatible with UPPAbaby car seats and has an adjustable bar that can be telescoping and press brakes. It comes with wheels that are filled with foam that won't flatten and a large storage bin.
Simple to Use
A double stroller can be an expensive purchase. Parents are therefore seeking models that are easy to use. It should include a variety of features like the capability to fold the stroller in a compact manner and alter the height of the handlebar to accommodate different users. Certain models have multiple storage compartments that allow families to organize their belongings to make it easier to access. They also include parent consoles and organizer bags that store phones, keys, and other essentials at hand.
A stroller is supposed to be able to adjust to the needs of your family over the years as well. Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double, for instance, is a budget-friendly stroller that includes an adjustable system. This allows you to add a second seat, transform the stroller into a triple with a board, or switch to a single-mode by adding 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 impressed with the ease of use and maneuverability of the Baby Jogger City Mini GT2. This model can be used with all of our top-rated infant car seats and is suitable for twins or children of different ages. The telescoping handles and simple-to-use brakes make it more mobile than other double strollers that we tested.
On the other side the UPPAbaby Vist v2 Double features an elegant design and a large storage basket that can hold two toddler car seats or one infant car seat plus a regular child seat. It can also be used by one child up to the age of three. It offers a smooth ride thanks to its foam-filled tires which are designed not to go flat.
The UPPAbaby folds down in half and is easy to store and carry. It's also super lightweight, weighing only 18 pounds. It's also easy to open and close using an latch, and needs no tools for assembling. Our Lab experts selected it as their top choice for its price and long-term durability.
Ease of Storage
Double strollers must be able to accommodate diaper bags, water bottles snacks, toys, and jackets for kids and parents keys, wallets, phones and other belongings. They should also be able to slide over different surfaces and maneuver through tight spaces. They usually have to fit in the trunk of a car, therefore they must be easy to fold and compact when not in use.
To meet the needs of parents, double strollers can be built in a wide range of designs. They can be side-by-side or tandem, with fixed or removable seats or a baby car seats and a rideboard. They can be made to accommodate a single infant or toddler or twins. Some are suitable for running, while others could be used on hiking trails or at the beach.
Modular designs are especially useful for families who want to grow with their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle S, for example is designed to allow 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 double strollers that are modular, such as the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double can be adapted to one child using the bassinet or baby seat or a toddler using a standing board or jump seat (sold separately). The versatile UPPAbaby can be set up in a variety of ways, making it ideal for twins or siblings, or even growing families.
The UPPAbaby also prioritizes green and sustainability initiatives. The UPPAbaby is available in many colors, and its materials are made out of 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 reported that it was simple to take the parts out and put them together because they came in neatly-labeled boxes with video instructions and instructions.
Another excellent aspect of the UPPAbaby is its telescoping handlebar, as well as one-handed brakes that can be operated with only your thumb. The swiveling wheels on its front can help it make tighter turns on city sidewalks.
Safety
While double strollers have been criticized for being heavy and difficult to maneuver, the new generation of models are sleek and come with a range of customization options. You may even find one that is compatible with your car seat for infants making it more convenient to go out and about with two kids in the stroller.
If you're shopping for a double stroller that can be used side-by-side or in line, be sure that it's JPMA-certified to ensure it conforms to safety standards. It also has to pass regular inspections. Also, you should consider a suspension system that provides an easy ride and doesn't create bumps or jolting for your toddlers in the front seat. If your stroller comes with a handlebar, ensure it is adjustable so that both parents can use it.
A canopy can protect your child from harsh sunlight and inclement weather. The best canopies have a reversible flap or transparent plastic peek-a-boo windows to let you monitor your children without causing disturbance. Some canopies also have visors to block direct sun.
The ease of folding and unfolding the stroller is another important factor to consider. Compact strollers are simpler to store in your car's trunk and take up less space. Also, strollers that have one hand-release button that folds the chassis are more user-friendly.
When deciding on a double stroller take into consideration the age gap between your children and the type of excursion you plan to take with them. For example, if your children are in the same age range it is possible to opt for an incline-to-low tandem stroller so that they can interact when outings are planned. If your children are separated by a large age gap, you may choose one that allows them to have more privacy.
If you're planning on using your stroller with baby car seats, search for a model that is compatible with top-rated car seat brands and has good attachment scores. This will not have as much of an impact on the overall rating as other factors but it is still crucial if you intend to utilize car seat adapters.