Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller provides parents of multiple kids an easy way to move them around. The most effective models are easy to fold, carry and store in a car trunk. They also have various seating arrangements for children of different ages.
If your children are close in age, you might decide that a sit-and stand or side-byside style is the best method to avoid fights between siblings over which seat to use. We also like options that allow two infant car seats such as the UPPAbaby V2 double single pushchair.
Comfort
It is essential that your baby and toddler are both comfortable in the stroller. Choose one that has cushioned seats, a large base and swiveling front wheels to smooth out bumps in the road and buckles that are easy to fasten and unfasten.
Choose a big UPF 50+ canopy to provide sun protection for both children. Another feature that is comfortable is the adjustable footrests that let your child stand up in the back seat if they are tired. Some double strollers offer this feature to both children, like the Safety 1st model that is the most popular.
The number of seats you select in your stroller is contingent on the weight and ages of the children who are riding in it. For instance, a side-by-side stroller lets you keep an eye on two children at the same time and is ideal for twins or siblings who are close in age. It's wider than other configurations, and can be difficult to maneuver through crowded or narrow spaces.
Sit-and-stand prams allow older siblings to stand while you push a smaller child in a car seat for infants. It's not ideal for newborns however, it could be suitable once your kiddos are around three years old and can walk for longer distances.
Another alternative is a convertible stroller which offers multiple seating arrangements and can be used as a double or a single for a number of years. Rebecca says this kind of stroller is a good choice for parents who are planning to buy one stroller and use it with both children. It's more expensive than the top tandem model but it'll last for an extended period of time and comes with a great resale price, 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 but it does have a sleek design and high-quality material. It's compatible with UPPAbaby car seats and has a telescoping bar and easy-to press brakes. It also comes with tires filled with foam that won't go flat and an ample storage basket.
Simple to Use
A double stroller is an expensive investment. Parents are therefore seeking models that are simple to use. This means a variety of features, ranging from the possibility of folding it down to adjusting the height of the handlebar for different users, should be available. Some models come with 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 necessities within reach.
A stroller should be able to adapt to the changing needs of your family over time. Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double, for instance, is an affordable stroller that comes with an adjustable system. This allows you to add another seat, convert the stroller into a triple with an additional board, or convert it into a single mode by adding a bench in the rear. This allows double strollers to last 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 use and maneuverability of the 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. The telescoping handles as well as the easy-to-use brakes make it more mobile than other double strollers we evaluated.
On the other side, the UPPAbaby Vist v2 Double comes with sleek design and a large storage basket that can accommodate two toddler car seats or one infant car seat and an ordinary child seat. It can also be used by any single child until the age of three. It is a smooth ride due to its tires filled with foam that are made to not go flat.
Additionally, the UPPAbaby is super lightweight at only 18 pounds and folds down in half to make a slim and sleek box that is easy to carry and store. It is also easy to close and open using a latch, and requires no tools for assembling. It was a top choice among our Lab experts for its durability and versatility, as well as its price.
Ease of Storage
Double strollers should be able hold diaper bags jackets, water bottles, and other items and keys, wallets and phones of parents. They must also be able to move over different surfaces and maneuver through tight spots. They often need to fit into the trunk of a vehicle, so they should be easy to fold and compact when not in use.
To meet the needs of parents Double strollers can be constructed in a variety of designs. They can be side-by-side or tandem and can also have fixed or removable seats 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 suitable for running, while others could be used on trails for hiking or at the beach.
Modular designs are especially useful for families who want to expand their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle S for instance is designed to permit parents to mix and match their seat units, cot attachments and car seats, so that the stroller can be used by the family from birth until toddlerhood.
Other double strollers with modular designs such as the UPPAbaby Vista V2 Double, can be adapted for a single child through the use of a baby seat or bassinet, or a toddler with a jump seat or a standing board (sold separately). The UPPAbaby is a versatile stroller that can be configured 30 different ways. It's ideal for twins, siblings, or a growing family.
The UPPAbaby is also renowned for its green initiatives, and it is a proponent of sustainability. The UPPAbaby comes in many colors, and the fabrics are made twin buggy from birth recycled water bottles. Raul one of our testers, used the Double Pram Buggy stroller for testing with his five-month-old son and three-year-old daughter. He reported that it was simple to remove the components and assemble them since they were packaged neatly with instructions and video codes.
Another amazing aspect of the UPPAbaby is its telescoping handlebar and brakes that operate with one hand and can be operated by your thumb. The swiveling front wheel can help it make tight turns on sidewalks in cities.
Safety
While double strollers have a bad reputation as cumbersome and difficult to maneuver, the latest generation of models are sleek and provide a variety of customization options. You can find one that is compatible with an infant car seat to make it easier to travel with two children.
If you're in the market for a side-by-side or an in-line double stroller, ensure that it's JPMA certified to ensure it complies with the minimum safety standards and passes regular inspections. You'll want to ensure that the suspension system gives an easy ride for your children in the front seat. If your stroller comes with a handlebar, ensure it's adjustable to ensure both parents can use it.
A canopy can shield your child from the harsh sun and harsh weather. The best canopies come with a reversible window or a clear plastic peek-aboo to let you observe your child without causing disturbance. Some canopies also have the ability to shade direct sunlight.
Another important factor to consider is how easily the stroller folds and unfolds. Compact strollers are easier to store in your car's trunk and take up less space. Also, strollers with one hand-release button that folds the chassis much easier to use.
When you are shopping for a double stroller, bear in mind the distance your children are and what kind of outings you're planning to take them on. For instance, if you're children are similar in age, you may want to consider a tandem high-low stroller so that they can interact on outings. If your children are separated by the age gap, you may choose a model that gives them more privacy.
If you're planning on using your stroller with baby car seats, look for a model that integrates with the top-rated car seat brands and has a high attachment score. This will not have as big an impact on the overall rating as other factors but it is still crucial if you intend to use adapters for car seats.