Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller is a convenient option for parents to take multiple children. The best models are simple to fold and transport and fit nicely in the trunk of a car and provide a variety of seating arrangements for children of varying ages.
If your children are close in age, you could consider a sit-and-stand or side-by-side style is the best method to avoid fighting between siblings over which seat to choose. We also like options that accept two infant car seats, like the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double.
Comfort
A comfortable stroller is key for both your toddler and baby. Choose one that has padding for the seats, a wide base and swiveling front wheels to smooth out bumps on the road, and buckles that are simple to secure and remove.
Look for a large, UPF 50+ canopy to offer sun protection for both children. Adjustable footrests let your child to stand up in the back seat when they are tired. Some double strollers provide this option for both children, such as the Safety 1st model that is the top-selling model.
The number of seats you select in your stroller is contingent on the ages and weights of the kids who are riding in it. For instance, a side by side stroller lets you keep an eye on two children simultaneously and is ideal for twins or siblings who are close in age. It's more spacious than other types of strollers 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 your younger child in the infant car seat. It's not the best option for babies, but it is useful for older children who are able to walk for longer distances.
A convertible stroller is another alternative. It has multiple seating options and can be used as a single or double. Rebecca says this kind of stroller is an excellent option for parents who plan to buy one stroller and use it with both children. "It's more expensive than our top tandem pick but it will last a long time, has great 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 some of the other strollers we've tested however it does have sleek, modern designs and high-quality materials. 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 won't go flat and an ample storage basket.
Easy of Use
A double stroller isn't a cheap investment, so parents are usually looking for an option that is easy to use. It should have a variety of features including the capability to fold the stroller compactly and alter the height of the handlebar to suit different users. Some models come with multiple storage compartments that allow families to organize their belongings for easy access. They also have parent consoles and organizer bags that store phones, keys, and other essentials at hand.
A stroller can be adjusted to the changing needs of your family as they grow older also. For instance, a budget-friendly option like the Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double includes an adjustable system that allows you to add a second seat, convert it into a triple by using an incline board, or change to a single mode with a rear bench. This flexibility will let double strollers last the time you need it to.
When it comes to maneuverability, some models struggle to turn at a whim however, many of our Lab testers were impressed by the ease of use and maneuverability of the inline Baby Jogger City Mini GT2. This model accepts all of our top-rated infant car seats and is suitable for twins and children of different ages. The telescoping handles as well as the easy-to-use brakes make it more mobile than other double strollers that we evaluated.
The UPPAbaby vist v2 double, on the other hand is sleek and stylish. It also comes with 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 as young as three years old. The tires are filled with foam and made to not flatten.
Additionally, the UPPAbaby is super light at only 18 pounds and folds in half for a sleek package that is easy to carry and to store. It's also simple to open and close with an latch, and needs no tools for assembling. It was a top pick among our Lab experts due to its durability and versatility, as well as its price.
Ease of Storage
Double strollers should be able to carry diaper bags as well as water bottles snacks, toys, and jackets for children as well as parents keys, wallets phones, and other items. They must also be able to glide over different surfaces, and maneuver through tight spots. They often need to fit in the trunk of a vehicle, so they must be simple to fold and compact when not in use.
Double strollers come in a variety of styles to meet these needs. They can be tandem or side-byside and can also have seats that are removable or fixed or even be outfitted with infant car seats and a riding board. They can be made to fit one toddler or infant or twins. Some are designed for running, while others can be utilized at the beach or on trails for hiking.
Modular designs are especially beneficial for families that need to grow with their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle S for instance is designed to allow parents to mix and match seat units, cot attachments and car seats, so that the stroller can serve the entire family from birth to toddlerhood.
Other modular double strollers like the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double can be adapted to one child using the bassinet or baby seat, or a toddler by using an elevated board or jump seat (sold separately). double pram pushchair is a flexible stroller that can be configured in a variety of ways. It's ideal for twins, siblings or an expanding family.
The UPPAbaby is also known for its green initiatives, and its focus is on sustainability. The UPPAbaby is available in various colors, and the fabrics are made from recycled water bottles. Raul, one of our testers used this double stroller during testing with his five-month-old son as well as three-year-old daughter. He said it was simple to unpack and assemble because the parts came in neatly labeled boxes, which had instructions and a video code.
Another amazing characteristic of the UPPAbaby its telescoping handlebar as well as brakes that operate with one hand and can be operated with only your thumb. And its swiveling front wheels can help it make tight turns on sidewalks in cities.
Safety
Double strollers are often criticized as being cumbersome and difficult to maneuver. They are also bulky. However, the most recent models are sleeker and offer various options for customization. You will find one that can fit an infant car seat to make it easier to travel with two children.
Whether you're looking for a side-by-side or in-line double stroller, ensure that it's JPMA certified to ensure that it meets the minimum safety standards and passes regular inspections. You'll want to make sure that the suspension system offers an easy ride for your children in the front seat. If your stroller comes with a handlebar, ensure it is adjustable so that both parents can use it.
A canopy is another essential feature that can shield your children from harsh sunlight or inclement weather. The best canopy features the option of a reversible flap, or a clear plastic peek-a-boo window that allows you to watch your children without causing any disturbance to them. Some canopies have visors that block the direct sun.
The ease of folding and unfolding the stroller is another important factor to consider. Strollers that are compact when folded are easier to store and take less space in the trunk of your car. Strollers with one button to fold the chassis are simpler to use.
When shopping for a double stroller, keep in mind how far your children are and what type of outings you plan on taking them on. For instance, if your kids are close in age it is possible to opt for a tandem high-low stroller to ensure that they can get to know each other when outings are planned. If your children are separated due to a large age gap you can select a model which allows them to enjoy more privacy.
If you're planning to use your stroller for baby car seats, select one with a good attachment score and compatible with top-rated brands. It won't have as much impact on your overall rating as the other factors, but it's an important consideration if you're planning on using adapters for car seats.