Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller is a convenient option for parents to take multiple children. The best models are reasonably easy to fold and carry and can easily fit inside a trunk of a car, and offer versatile seating arrangements for children of varying ages.
If your children are similar in age, you could decide that a sit-and stand or side-by-side style is the best way to avoid fighting between siblings over which seat to use. We also like options that accept two infant car seats such as the UPPAbaby v2 Double.
Comfort
It is important that your toddler and baby are at ease in the stroller. Pick a stroller that has padded seats and swiveling wheels at the front to smooth bumps on the road. Also, choose one with buckles that are easily removed and fastened.
Look for a large, UPF 50+ canopy that provides sun protection for both children and their parents. Adjustable footrests let your child to sit in the back seat when they're exhausted. Some double strollers offer this option for both children, such as the Safety 1st model that is the most popular.
The number of seats in your stroller will depend on the weight and age of the children who will be using it. For instance, a side-by-side stroller allows you to keep an eye on both children simultaneously and is ideal for twins or siblings that are close in age. However, it's generally wider than other types and can be difficult to maneuver in tight spaces or crowded areas.
Sit-and-stand strollers allow older siblings to stand up while you push a smaller child in the infant car seat. It's not the best option for infants however, it could be an ideal choice when your children are about three years old and are able to walk for longer distances.
Another alternative 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 that this type of stroller is a good choice for parents who intend to purchase a single stroller and use it with both children. "It's more expensive than our top tandem choice but it will last a long time, offers a high resale value and is incredibly 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 the other options we tested however it does have sleek, modern designs and top-quality materials. It's compatible with UPPAbaby car seats, and features a telescoping bar and easy-to press brakes. It also has foam-filled tires that will not wear out and a large storage basket.
User-Friendliness
A double stroller isn't an inexpensive investment, which is why parents are usually looking for one that is simple to use. That means a wide range of features, ranging from the ability to fold it up compactly to the ability to adjust the height of the handlebar for different users, should be available. Some models come with multiple storage compartments that allow families to separate belongings to make them easy to access. They also include parent consoles and organizer bags that keep keys, phones and other essentials on fingertips.
A stroller should be able to adapt to the needs of your family as they grow older also. Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double, for instance, is a budget-friendly stroller with a modular system. It allows you to add another seat, convert the stroller into a triple by adding a board, or switch it to a single mode by adding a 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 using and maneuverability of Baby Jogger City Mini GT2. This model is compatible with our top-rated car seats for infants and can be used by twins or children of various age groups. Its telescoping handlebar and simple-to-use brakes make it more maneuverable than many of the other double strollers that we test.
On the other hand the UPPAbaby Vist v2 Double features sleek design and a large storage basket that can accommodate two car seats for toddlers or one infant car seat in addition to an ordinary child seat. It can be used by one child up to age three. Its tires that are filled with foam are designed to last and not wear out.
The UPPAbaby folds down in half and is simple to store and transport. It's also extremely light and weighs only 18 pounds. It's also simple to open and close with the latch and doesn't require tools to put together. Our Lab experts picked it as their top choice for its price and shopability, as well as its longevity.
Ease of Storage
Double strollers must be able to hold diaper bags as well as water bottles and jackets, as well as the wallets, keys and phones of parents. They should also be able to glide over different surfaces, and maneuver through tight spots. They usually have to fit in the trunk of a car, so they must be simple to fold and compact when not when not in use.
Double strollers come in a variety of styles to meet your needs. They can be side-by-side or tandem with seats that are removable or fixed or even be outfitted with infant car seats as well as a riding board. They can also be designed to fit one toddler or infant or twins. Some are designed to be used for jogging while others can be used at the beach or on hiking trails.
Modular designs are especially useful for families who need to grow with their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle for instance allows parents to mix and blend seats, cots, and car seats to make the stroller suitable for the entire family from infant to toddlerhood.
Other double strollers that are modular, like the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double, can be made to accommodate a single child through the use of bassinets or a baby seat, or a toddler with a jump seat or a standing board (sold separately). The UPPAbaby is a versatile stroller that can be set up in 30 different ways, making it suitable for twins and siblings, or for growing families.
The UPPAbaby is also known for its green initiatives and its focus is on sustainability. The UPPAbaby comes in a variety of colors, and its fabrics are made from recycled water bottles. Our test subject Raul used the double stroller with his three year old daughter and five-month old son. He said it was easy to remove the components and assemble them because they were neatly labeled boxes with video instructions and instructions.
The UPPAbaby also features a telescoping handlebar, and brakes controlled by your thumb. And its swiveling front wheels will allow it to make precise turns on sidewalks in cities.
Safety
Double strollers are often criticized as being heavy, difficult to maneuver and heavy. However, the most recent models are sleeker and come with a variety of customization options. You might even find one that is compatible with your car seat for infants making it more convenient to go out and about with two children with you.
If you're in the market for a double stroller that can be used side-by-side or in a line, make sure that it's JPMA-certified to ensure it meets safety standards. It will also undergo regular inspections. You should also choose a suspension system that provides an easy ride and doesn't cause bumps, or jostling for the children in the front seat. If your stroller has a handlebar make sure it's adjustable to ensure both parents can use it.
A canopy can protect your baby from harsh sunlight and harsh weather. The best canopy features a reversible flap or clear plastic peek-a-boo window that allows you to watch your children without causing disturbance. Some canopies have visors that block the direct sun.
Another important metric to take into consideration is how easy the stroller folds and unfolds. Compact strollers are easier to store in your car's trunk and take up less space. Also, lightweight twin stroller that have only one button to release the hand that folds the chassis much easier to use.
When deciding on a double stroller, consider the age difference between your children and the kind of trip you're planning to take them on. If your children are similar in age you may choose a tandem high/low stroller in order to let them interact during outings. If your children are separated by the age gap you can select a model that gives them more privacy.
If you plan to use your stroller for baby car seats, you should choose one with a good attachment score and compatible with top-rated brands. This will not have as much of an impact on the overall rating as other indicators however it is important if you plan to use adapters for car seats.