Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller is an ideal option for parents to take multiple children. The best models are simple to fold, carry and store into the trunk of a car. They also offer flexible seating arrangements for kids of varying ages.
If your children are similar in age, you could consider a sit-and-stand or side-by-side style is the best way to avoid fighting between siblings over which seat to choose. We also like the options that can accommodate two infant car seats such as the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double.
Comfort
A comfortable stroller is key for both your toddler and baby. Select one with padding for the seats, a wide base and swiveling front wheels to smooth out bumps on the road, and buckles that are simple to fasten and unfasten.
Find a large UPF 50+ canopy to provide sun protection for both children and their parents. Another feature that is comfortable is the adjustable footrests, which allow your child to stand in the back seat when they are tired. Some double stroller s offer this option for both children, such as the Safety 1st model that is the top-selling model.
How many seats you choose in your stroller will depend on the weight and ages of the children riding in it. A side-byside baby stroller allows you to keep an eye on two children at once 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 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 can walk longer distances.
A convertible stroller is another option. It has multiple seating options and can be used as a single or double. Rebecca says this kind of stroller is an ideal choice for parents who plan 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 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 strollers we've tested however, it comes with a sleek, modern design and top-quality materials. It is compatible with UPPAbaby car seats, and features a telescoping bar as well as easy to press brakes. It comes with wheels that are filled with foam that won't flatten and a huge storage bin.
Simple to Use
A double stroller is not an inexpensive investment, which is why parents are usually looking for one that is simple to use. It should include a variety of features including the possibility of folding the stroller into a compact size and alter the height of the handlebar to suit different users. Some models have multiple storage compartments to allow families to separate belongings to make it easier to access. They also have parent consoles and organizer bags that store phones, keys, and other essentials at hand.
A stroller should be able adapt to the changing requirements of your family over time. For instance, a cost-effective option like the Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double includes an adjustable system that lets you add a seat, transform it into a triple using an incline board, or change to a single mode by using an additional bench in the rear. This flexibility will let double strollers work for as long as you want it to.
In terms of maneuverability and maneuverability, many side-by-side models are difficult to maneuver, but our Lab testers were impressed with 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. The telescoping handlebar and easy-to-use brakes make it much easier to maneuver than many of the other double strollers that we tested.
The UPPAbaby vist v2 double on the other hand is sleek and stylish. It also comes with a large 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 one child up to three years old and is a smooth ride due to its foam-filled tires that are made to not go flat.
Additionally to that, the UPPAbaby is lightweight at only 18 pounds and folds in half for a sleek package that's easy to carry and to store. It's also easy to open and close using a latch and requires no tools for assembly. Our Lab experts chose it as the top pick for its value, affordability and long-term durability.
Ease of Storage
Double strollers need to be able to hold diaper bags as well as water bottles, snacks, toys and jackets for kids, as well as parents keys, wallets phones, and other items. They should also be able to move over different surfaces and maneuver through tight spots. They usually have to fit into the trunk of a vehicle, so they must be simple to fold and compact when not when not in use.
To meet these needs Double strollers can be constructed in a variety of designs. They can be side-by-side or tandem, with fixed or removable seats or equipped with infant car seat and a ridingboard. They can be designed to accommodate one toddler or infant or twins. Some are designed for running, while others could be used on trails for hiking or at the beach.
Modular designs are particularly useful for families that need to expand their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle for instance, allows parents to mix and blend seats units, cots and car seats to make the stroller fit the entire family from infant to toddlerhood.
Other double strollers that are modular like the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double, can be adapted for a single child through the use of a baby seat or bassinet or a toddler's a jump seat or a standing board (sold separately). The UPPAbaby is an adaptable stroller that can be set up in a variety of ways. It's perfect for twins, siblings, or an expanding family.
The UPPAbaby is also a proponent of sustainability and green initiatives. The UPPAbaby comes with a wide range 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 found it easy to take the parts out and assemble them because they were neatly labeled boxes with video and instructions.
The UPPAbaby also has a telescoping handlebar and brakes controlled by your thumb. The swiveling wheels at the front can help it make more precise turns on city sidewalks.
Safety
While double strollers have received a bad rap for being bulky and difficult to maneuver, the latest generation of strollers are sleek and provide a variety of customization options. You may even find one that fits the car seat of your infant which makes it more convenient to go out and about with two kids in the stroller.
If you're in the market for a side-by-side or in-line double stroller, be sure it's JPMA certified to ensure it meets minimum safety standards and undergoes regular inspections. You'll also want to look for a suspension system that provides an easy ride and doesn't create bumps or jostling for your children in the front seat. If your stroller has a handlebar, ensure it's adjustable so that both parents can use it.
A canopy can shield your baby from harsh sunlight and inclement weather. The most effective canopies have a reversible window or a transparent plastic peek-aboo that lets you monitor your child without disturbing them. Some canopies have visors that block the direct sun.
Another important factor to consider is how easy the stroller folds and unfolds. Compact strollers are easier to store in the trunk of your car and take up less space. Also, strollers that have one hand-release button that folds the chassis are much easier to use.
When shopping for a double stroller, bear in mind how far your children are in age and what type of outings you're planning to take them on. For instance, if your children are similar in age, you may want to opt for an incline-to-low tandem stroller so that they can interact when outings are planned. If your children are separated due to the age gap you can select a model that allows them to have more privacy.
If you're planning to use your stroller for baby car seats, you should choose one with a good attachment score and is compatible with top-rated brands. This won't have as big impact on your overall rating as the other factors but it's an important factor to consider if you're planning on using car seat adapters.