Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller offers parents with multiple children an enjoyable way to take their children around. The best double strollers models are easy to fold and carry and fit nicely in the trunk of a car and offer versatile seating arrangements for children of various age groups.
If your children are similar in age, you could consider a sit-and-stand or side-byside style is the best way to avoid fights between siblings over the best seat to use. We also like options which accept two infant car seat, such as the UPPAbaby v2 double.
Comfort
It is crucial that your toddler and baby are both comfortable in the stroller. Pick one with cushioned seats, a large base and swiveling front wheels to smooth bumps in the road and buckles that are simple to fasten and unfasten.
You can also search for an ample, UPF 50+ canopy that offers sun protection and plenty of coverage for both kids. Footrests that can be adjusted allow your child to stand in the rear seat if they're tired. Some double strollers offer this feature for both children, like the Safety 1st model that is the best seller.
How many seats you choose in your stroller will depend on the weights and ages of the kids riding in it. For example, a side-by-side stroller allows you to keep an eye on both kids at the same time and is ideal for twins or siblings that are close in age. However, it's typically wider than other models and may be difficult to navigate in narrow spaces or in crowded areas.
On the other hand, a sit-and-stand stroller gives older siblings the chance to stand while you push the baby in a car seat for infants. It's not a good choice for babies, but it can be a good fit once your kiddos are around three years old and are able to walk longer distances.
Another alternative is a convertible twin 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 would be 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 selection, 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 other options but it does have an elegant design and premium material. It's compatible with UPPAbaby car seats and comes with an adjustable bar that can be telescoping and press brakes. It has foam-filled wheels that won't break and a huge storage bin.
Easy to Use
A double stroller isn't an investment that is cheap, and parents are usually looking for an option that is easy to use. This means a variety of features, from the ability to fold it up compactly to adjusting the handlebar height to accommodate different users, must be available. Some models also have more than one storage space that allow families to divide items for quick access, as well as organizer bags for parents or parent consoles to keep phone, keys, and other essentials in reach.
A stroller should be able to adapt to the needs of your family over the years also. For instance, a cost-effective option such as the Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double includes an adjustable system that allows you to add a second seat, convert it into a triple by using a rideboard, or switch to a single-mode with an additional bench in the rear. This allows a double stroller to last as long as you need it.
In terms of maneuverability, a lot of side-by-side models are difficult to maneuver, however our Lab testers were pleasantly surprised 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 different ages. Its telescoping handlebar and simple-to-use brakes make it easier to maneuver than many of the other double strollers we've test.
On the other hand, the UPPAbaby Vist v2 Double comes with sleek design and a huge storage basket that can hold two toddler car seats or one infant car seat plus an ordinary child's seat. It can also be used by one child up to the age of three and offers a smooth ride thanks to its foam-filled tires that are designed not to go flat.
Furthermore to that, the UPPAbaby is lightweight double stroller at only 18 pounds and folds down in half to make a slim and sleek box that's easy to carry and store. It's also simple to open and close using an latch, and needs no tools for assembling. Our Lab experts picked it as their top choice for its affordability, shopability and longevity.
Simple of Storage
Double strollers must be able to hold diaper bags, water bottles and jackets along with the keys, wallets and phones of parents. They should also be able to glide across different surfaces and maneuver through 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 requirements Double strollers are built in a wide range of styles. They can be side-by-side or tandem with seats that can be removed or fixed, or be equipped with infant car seats and a riding board. They can be designed to accommodate a single toddler or newborn or twins. Some are designed to be used for jogging while others can be utilized at the beach or on trails for hiking.
Modular designs can be especially useful for families that have to get bigger for their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle, for example, allows parents to mix and blend seat units, cots, and car seats to make the stroller suitable for the entire family from infant Ready to grow double stroller toddlerhood.
Other modular double strollers like the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double, can be made to accommodate one child with the use of bassinets or a baby seat or a toddler's the option of a jumping seat or standing board (sold separately). The versatile UPPAbaby can be set up in a variety of ways, making it suitable for twins and siblings, or for an expanding family.
The UPPAbaby also prioritizes green and sustainability initiatives. The UPPAbaby comes in a variety of colors, and its fabrics are made from recycled water bottles. In our testing, our test participant Raul used this double stroller with his 3 year old daughter and five-month-old son. He said it was simple to disassemble and unpack because the components came in neatly labeled boxes, which had instructions and a video code.
The UPPAbaby also comes with an adjustable handlebar that can be telescoping, as well as brakes controlled by your thumb. Its swiveling wheels on the front can aid in making more precise turns on city sidewalks.
Safety
Double strollers are often criticized as being heavy and difficult to maneuver. They are also heavy. 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.
If you're in the market for a double stroller that can be used side-by-side, or in line, be sure that it's JPMA certified to ensure it meets safety standards. It will also undergo regular inspections. You'll want to make sure that the suspension system gives an easy ride for your children when they are in the front seat. And if your stroller has a handlebar, be sure it's adjustable to fit Moms and Dads of different heights.
A canopy is another essential feature that can shield your babies from harsh sunlight or the harsh weather. The best canopies come with an reversible window or transparent plastic peek-aboo which lets you watch your child's progress without causing any disturbance. Certain canopies come with visors that block direct sunlight.
The ease of folding and unfolding the stroller is a second important aspect to take into consideration. Compact strollers are simpler to store in your car's trunk and take up less room. Also, strollers that have a single hand-release button that folds the chassis are much easier to use.
When you are shopping for a double stroller, keep in mind the distance your children are in age and what kind of outings you're planning to take them on. If your children are close in age you may choose a tandem high/low stroller to allow them to interact on outings. If your children are separated due to an age gap that is large you can select one which allows them to enjoy more privacy.
If you intend to use your stroller to carry baby car seats, you should choose one with a high attachment score and that is compatible with top-rated brands. This won't have as significant an impact on the overall rating as other indicators however it is crucial if you intend to use car seat adapters.