Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller gives parents with multiple children an easy way to move their children around. The best models are simple to fold, carry and store in a car trunk. They also provide various 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 is best to prevent sibling rivalries over who rides in which seat. We also like the options that accept two infant car seat, such as the UPPAbaby V2 double.
Comfort
It is important that your baby and toddler are both at ease in the stroller. Choose a stroller with comfortable seats and swiveling tires on the front to smooth bumps on the road. Also, select one that has buckles that can be easily unfastened and fastened.
Look for a large, UPF 50+ canopy that provides sun protection for both children. Adjustable footrests allow your child to sit in the rear seat if they're exhausted. Some double strollers give this option to both children, such as the Safety 1st model that is the top-selling model.
How many seats you choose in your stroller depends on the weight and ages of the kids that are using it. For instance, a side-by-side stroller allows you to keep an eye on both children simultaneously, so it's perfect for twins or siblings close in age. It's more spacious than other types of strollers and may be difficult to maneuver in crowded or narrow areas.
Sit-and-stand strollers allow older siblings to stand while you push a smaller child in the infant car seat. It's not the best option for infants however, it could be suitable when your kids are around three years old and able to walk longer distances.
Another alternative is a convertible stroller, which has multiple seating arrangements and can be used as a double or single for several years. Rebecca says that this type of stroller is an excellent option for parents who plan to purchase a single stroller and use it with both children. "It's more expensive than our top tandem selection but it will last a long time, has a great 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's not as compact as some of the other strollers we've tested however, it comes with an elegant, modern design and top-quality materials. It's compatible with UPPAbaby infant car seats, and has a telescoping handlebar as well as brakes that are easy to press. It also has foam-filled tires that aren't flat, and an ample storage basket.
Easy of Use
A double stroller is not a cheap investment, so parents are often looking for one that is simple to use. It should include a variety of features like the possibility of folding the stroller into a compact size and alter the height of the handlebar to accommodate different users. Some models have more than one storage compartment to allow families to split up belongings for quick access, as well as parent consoles or organizer bags to keep phone, keys and other items within reach.
A stroller should be able to adapt to the changing needs of your family over time. For instance, a budget-friendly option such as the Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double includes a modular system that allows you to add another seat, convert it to a triple with the rideboard, or change to a single mode by using the rear bench. This flexibility will let double strollers last the time you need it to.
In terms of maneuverability, many side-by-side models are difficult to maneuver, but our Lab testers were impressed by the ease of using and maneuverability of 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 and easy-to-use brakes make it much easier to maneuver than many of the other double strollers we test.
The UPPAbaby vist v2 double, on the other hand has a streamlined look and an ample basket that can hold two toddler car seats or an infant car seat with a regular child's car seat. It can also be used by a single child up to three years old and is a smooth ride due to its tires filled with foam that are made to not go flat.
Additionally to that, the UPPAbaby is lightweight at only 18 pounds and folds down in half to create a sleek and compact package that's easy to carry and put away. It's also easy to close and open using an latch, and needs no tools to put together. Our Lab experts selected it as the top pick for its affordability and shopability, as well as its longevity.
Ease of Storage
Double strollers need to be able to hold diaper bags as well as water bottles and jackets and keys, wallets and phones of parents. They must also be able to slide across different surfaces and maneuver in tight places. They often need to fit into the trunk of a vehicle, so they should be easy to fold and compact when not when not in use.
To meet these needs, double strollers can be built in a wide range of designs. They can be side-byside or tandem, with fixed or removable seats or a baby car seat and a ridingboard. They can be made to fit a single toddler or twins. Some are suitable for running, while others can be used on trails for hiking or at the beach.
Modular designs are especially beneficial for families who want to grow with their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle, for example, allows parents to mix and match seats units, cots and car seats to let the stroller suitable for all the family members from infant to toddlerhood.
Other double strollers that are modular, such as the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double can be modified to accommodate a single child by using baby seats or a bassinet or a toddler using an elevated board or jump seat (sold separately). The UPPAbaby is a versatile stroller that can be configured 30 different ways. It's ideal for twins, siblings, or an expanding family.
The UPPAbaby is also known for its green initiatives and it prioritizes sustainability. The UPPAbaby comes in many colors and the fabrics are made from recycled water bottles. Raul one of our testers, used the double stroller for testing with his five-month-old son as well as three-year-old daughter. He says it was easy to disassemble and unpack because the components came in neatly labeled boxes, with instructions and a video code included.
Another excellent feature of the UPPAbaby is its telescoping handlebar and brakes that operate with one hand and can be operated using only your thumb. The swiveling front wheel can help it make tight turns on city sidewalks.
Safety
Double strollers are often accused of being cumbersome and difficult to maneuver. They are also bulky. However, the most recent models are sleeker and provide many options for customization. You can find one that is compatible with an infant car seat to make it easier to travel with two children.
Whether you're looking for a side-byside or in-line double stroller, be sure it's JPMA certified to ensure it meets the minimum safety standards and passes regular inspections. You'll want to make sure that the suspension system provides an easy ride for your children when they are in the front seat. If your stroller is equipped with a handlebar, make sure that it is adjustable to accommodate parents and dads of various heights.
tandem double stroller can protect your child from the harsh sun and harsh weather. The best canopies come with windows that can be reversible or a transparent plastic peek-aboo that lets you observe your child without causing any disturbance. Some canopies have visors that block direct sunlight.
Another important metric to consider is how easy the stroller folds and unfolds. Compact strollers are much easier to store in your car's trunk and take up less space. Also, strollers with one hand-release button that folds the chassis more user-friendly.
When you are shopping for a double stroller, keep in mind the distance your children are in age and what type of outings you plan on taking them on. For example, if your children are similar in age, you may want to opt for a tandem high-low stroller to ensure that they can get to know each other on outings. On the other side, if your kids have a large age gap, you might choose a side-by-side model that gives them more privacy.
If you plan to use your stroller for baby car seats, you should choose a model with a high attachment score and that is compatible with top-rated brands. This won't have as big an impact on the overall rating as other indicators but it is still crucial if you intend to utilize car seat adapters.