Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller is a great option for parents to take multiple children. The best models are lightweight and easy to fold and carry and can easily fit in a car trunk and provide a variety of seating arrangements for children of different ages.
Parents of children who are close to age may find that a side-by-side or sit-and-stand style works best to prevent sibling rivalries about who is allowed to ride in which seat. We also like the options that accept two infant car seats, such as the UPPAbaby V2 Double.
Comfort
It is essential that your toddler and baby are both comfortable in the stroller. Pick a stroller that has padded seats and swiveling wheels at the front to smooth out road bumps. Also, pick one with buckles that are easily removed and fastened.
You can also search for a generous UPF 50+ canopy that offers sun protection as well as plenty of coverage for both kids. Another feature that is comfortable is the adjustable footrests, which let your child sit up in the back seat when they get tired. Some double strollers, like the top-selling model from Safety 1st, offer this option for both children.
The number of seats in the stroller will be contingent on the weight and age of the children who will be using it. For instance, a side by side stroller lets you keep an eye on both kids simultaneously and is ideal for twins or siblings close in age. However, it's typically wider than other configurations and can be difficult to maneuver in tight spaces or crowded areas.
A sit-and-stand pram allows older siblings to stand up while you push a smaller child in the infant car seat. It's not ideal for newborns but it's an ideal choice once your kiddos are around three years old and able to walk for longer distances.
Another alternative is a convertible stroller which offers multiple seating arrangements and can be used as a double or a single for several years. Rebecca says this type of stroller is a good option for parents who wish to purchase one stroller, but are planning to use it with two children. "It's more expensive than our top tandem pick however, it will last for a long time, offers a high 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 other options however it has an elegant design and top-quality material. It is compatible with UPPAbaby car seats and has a telescoping bar as well as easy to press brakes. It also comes with foam-filled tires that will not wear out and a large storage basket.
Easy of Use
A double stroller can be an expensive investment. Parents are looking for models that are simple to use. That means a wide range of features, from the ability to fold it up compactly to adjusting the handlebar height to accommodate different users, must be available. Some models have multiple storage compartments that enable families to keep their belongings separate to make them easy to access. They also include parent consoles and organizer bags that store keys, phones and other essentials on the ready.
A stroller must be able adapt to the changing needs of your family as time goes by. For example, a budget-friendly option like the Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double includes an adjustable system that lets you add a seat, transform it into a triple using a rideboard, or switch to a single mode with an additional bench in the rear. This allows a double stroller to last for as long as it is needed.
In terms of maneuverability, many side-by-side models are difficult to maneuver, but our Lab testers were impressed by the ease of operation 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 and children of various age. The telescoping handles as well as the easy-to-use brakes make it more mobile than other double strollers that we tested.
The UPPAbaby vist v2 double it's on the other hand, has a streamlined look and an ample basket that can fit two toddler car seats or an infant car seat along with a standard child's seat. It can be used by one child up to age three. The tires are filled with foam and designed to not go flat.
Furthermore to that, the UPPAbaby is lightweight at only 18 pounds and folds in half to create a sleek and compact package that's easy to carry and to store. It's also easy to close and open using the latch, and requires no tools to put together. Our Lab experts picked it as their top choice for its affordability, shopability and longevity.
Simple of Storage
Double strollers should be able hold diaper bags, water bottles and jackets, as well as keys, wallets and phones of parents. They must also be able to glide over different surfaces, and maneuver in tight spaces. They often need to fit into the trunk of a car, so they must be easy to fold up and compact when not being used.
To meet these needs, double strollers can be constructed in a variety of designs. They can be tandem or side-by-side, with fixed or removable seats, or with an infant car seats and a riding board. They can also be designed to fit a single toddler or newborn, or twins. Some are designed for running while others are utilized at the beach or on trails for hiking.
Modular designs are especially beneficial for families who need to grow into their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle for instance allows parents to mix and combine seats, cots, and car seats to make the stroller suitable for all the family members from infant to toddlerhood.
Other modular double strollers, like the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double, can be made to accommodate one child by the use of bassinets or a baby seat, or a toddler with a jump seat or a standing board (sold separately). double buggy is a flexible stroller that can be set up 30 different ways. It's ideal for twins, siblings, or an expanding family.
The UPPAbaby also prioritizes sustainability and green initiatives. The UPPAbaby comes in many colors and its fabrics are made out of recycled water bottles. During testing, our tester Raul utilized the double stroller with his three-year old daughter and five-month-old son. He said it was easy to unpack the parts and assemble them because they were packaged neatly with instructions and video codes.
Another great feature of the UPPAbaby is its telescoping handlebar and brakes that are one-handed and can be operated using only your thumb. The swiveling wheels on its front can aid in making more precise turns on sidewalks in cities.
Safety
While double strollers have received a bad rap for being bulky and difficult to maneuver, the latest generation of models are sleek and come with a range of customization options. You will find one that can fit an infant car seat to make it easier to travel with two children.
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 is safe to use. It will also go through regular inspections. You'll need to ensure that the suspension system provides an easy ride for your children who are in the front seat. If your stroller comes with a handlebar, be sure it's adjustable to fit parents and dads of various heights.
A canopy can protect your child from the harsh sun and harsh weather. The most effective canopies come with an reversible flap as well as a transparent plastic windows that peek-a-boo to allow you to monitor your children without disturbing them. Certain canopies come with visors that block direct sunlight.
The ease of folding and unfolding the stroller is an important aspect to take into consideration. Compact strollers are much easier to put in the trunk of your car and take up less space. Also, strollers with one hand-release button that folds the chassis more user-friendly.
When choosing a double stroller, keep in mind how far apart your children are in age and what kind of excursions you're planning to take them on. If your children are close in age, you can opt for a tandem high/low stroller to allow them to interact during outings. On the other hand, if your children have a large age gap it is possible to choose a side-byside model that offers them more privacy.
If you plan 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 of an impact on your overall rating as the other metrics but it's an important factor to consider if you're planning on using car seat adapters.