Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller is a convenient option for parents to take multiple children. The best models are reasonably 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 design is the best to avoid sibling squabbles over who gets to ride in which seat. We also like options that can accommodate two infant car seats such as the UPPAbaby V2 Double.
Comfort
A comfortable stroller is key for both your baby and toddler. Pick one with padding for the seats, a wide base and swiveling front wheels to smooth bumps in the road, and buckles that are easy to secure and remove.
You can also look for an ample, UPF 50+ canopy that provides sun protection as well as plenty of coverage for both kids. Adjustable footrests allow your child to sit in the back seat when they're tired. Some double strollers, such as the most popular model from Safety 1st, offer this option for both children.
The number of seats you can put in your stroller depends on the ages and weights of the kids who are riding in it. For instance, a side by side stroller allows you to keep an eye on two children simultaneously which is perfect for twins or siblings that are close in age. It's larger than other models and isn't easy to maneuver through crowded or narrow spaces.
On the other hand, a stand-and-sit stroller gives older siblings the chance to stand while you push the baby in a car seat for infants. It's not the best option for newborns but can be beneficial for older children who are able to walk for longer distances.
Another option is a convertible stroller, which has multiple seating arrangements and can be used as a double or a single for a long time. Rebecca says that this kind of stroller is a good choice for parents who want 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 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's not as compact as some other options however it has a sleek design and high-quality material. It is compatible with UPPAbaby car seats and comes with a telescoping bar and easy-to press brakes. It comes with wheels that are filled with foam that won't sag and a large storage bin.
User-Friendliness
A double stroller can be an expensive purchase. Parents are therefore looking for models that are simple to use. This means a variety of features, from the possibility of folding it down to adjusting the height of the handlebar for different users, should be available. Some models also have multiple storage compartments to allow families to split items for quick access, and organizer bags for parents or parent consoles to keep phone, keys and other items in reach.
A stroller should be able to adapt to the needs of your family throughout the years also. For example, a budget-friendly option like the Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double includes an adjustable system that allows you to add a seat, transform it into a triple using a rideboard, or switch to a single mode by using an additional bench in the rear. This flexibility lets a double stroller to last for as long as you need it.
In terms of maneuverability and maneuverability, many side-by-side models are difficult to maneuver. However, our Lab testers were impressed with 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 or children of different age. The telescoping handlebar as well as the simple-to-use brakes make it much easier to maneuver than other double strollers we've tried.
On the other side, the UPPAbaby Vist v2 Double comes with sleek design and a large storage basket that can fit two toddler car seats or one infant car seat and an ordinary child's seat. It can be used by one child from age three. Its tires that are filled with foam are made to not flatten.
In addition to that, the UPPAbaby is light at just 18 pounds and folds down in half to make a slim and sleek box that's easy to transport and store. It's also simple to open and close using an latch, and requires no tools to put together. It was a top pick from our Lab experts due to its durability, shopability, and affordability.
Ease of Storage
Double strollers must be able to hold diaper bags as well as water bottles and jackets along with the wallets, keys and phones of parents. They must also be able to move over different surfaces and maneuver through tight spots. They usually have to fit into the trunk of a car, so they should be easy to fold up and compact when not in use.
To meet these requirements Double strollers can be built in a wide range of styles. 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 to be used for running while others are used at the beach or on hiking trails.
Modular designs can be especially beneficial for families who need to expand their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle S, for example is designed to permit parents to mix and match seat units, cot attachments and car seats, so that the stroller is able to serve the entire family from birth to toddlerhood.
Other double strollers that are modular, such as the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double can be converted to a single child by using the bassinet or baby seat, or a toddler by using a standing board or jump seat (sold separately). The UPPAbaby is a versatile stroller that can be configured in a variety of ways, making it suitable for twins and siblings, or for an expanding family.
The UPPAbaby also prioritizes sustainability and green initiatives. The UPPAbaby comes in various colors, and its fabrics are made from recycled water bottles. Raul one of our testers used this double stroller during testing with his five-month-old son and three-year-old daughter. He said it was easy to unpack the parts and put them together because they came in neatly-labeled boxes with video instructions and instructions.
The UPPAbaby also has a telescoping handlebar, and brakes controlled by your thumb. Its swiveling wheels on the front can help it make more precise turns on city sidewalks.
Safety
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 options for customization. You can even find one that will fit your infant car seat making it easier to get out and about with two kids with you.
If you're shopping for a double stroller that can be used side-byside or in a line, make sure that it's JPMA certified to ensure it meets safety standards. It will also go through regular inspections. You should also choose a suspension system that provides smooth riding and doesn't cause bumps or jostling for the toddlers in the front seat. If your stroller comes with a handlebar make sure it is adjustable so that both parents can use it.
A canopy can protect your child from harsh sunlight and inclement weather. The best canopy features windows that can be reversible or a transparent plastic peek-aboo that lets you observe your child without causing disturbance. Some canopies have visors to block direct sun.
The ease of folding and unfolding the stroller is a second important factor to consider. Compact strollers are much easier to store in your car's trunk and take up less space. Strollers that come with only one button to fold the chassis are also simpler to use.
When choosing double pushchairs be aware of the age gap between your children and the kind of excursion you plan to take them on. If your children are similar in age, you can opt for a tandem high/low stroller in order to allow them to be together on outings. If your children are separated due to a large age gap, you may choose a model that allows them to have more privacy.
If you intend to use your stroller for baby car seats, you should choose one with a high attachment score and that is compatible with top-rated brands. This will not have as big an impact on the overall rating as other factors however it is crucial if you intend to utilize car seat adapters.