Buying a Double Infant Stroller
A double stroller provides parents of multiple kids an easy way to move them around. The best models are lightweight and easy to fold and carry and can easily fit inside a trunk of a car, and have a variety of seating options for children of various age groups.
Parents with children close in age may find that a side-by-side or sit-and-stand design is the best to prevent sibling rivalries over who rides in which seat. We also like options which allow two infant car seats like the UPPAbaby V2 double.
Comfort
It is important that your baby and toddler are both at ease in the stroller. Select a stroller with cushioned seats and swiveling wheels at the front to smooth bumps on the road. Also, choose one with buckles that are easily unfastened and fastened.
Look for a large UPF 50+ canopy to provide sun protection for both children and their parents. Adjustable footrests let your child to sit in the back seat when they are exhausted. Some double strollers, like the most popular model from Safety 1st, offer this option for both children.
The number of seats you can have in your stroller will depend on the weight and age of the children using it. For instance, a side-by-side stroller allows you to keep an eye on both children simultaneously which is perfect for twins or siblings who are close in age. However, it's generally wider than other types and can be challenging to navigate in narrow spaces or crowded areas.
A sit-and-stand pram allows older siblings to stand up while you push a smaller child in an infant car-seat. It's not the best choice for babies, but it is beneficial for older children that can walk longer distances.
Another option is a convertible stroller, which has multiple seating arrangements and can be used as a double or single for a long time. Rebecca says this kind of twin stroller is an excellent option for parents who wish to buy one stroller but want to use it with two children. "It's more expensive than our top tandem selection but 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 to double pushchair or a toddler-and-RumbleSeat configuration. It's not as compact as the other strollers we've tried however it does have sleek, modern designs and top-quality materials. It's compatible with UPPAbaby infant car seats, and has an adjustable handlebar that can be telescopically adjusted and brakes that are easy to press. It comes with foam-filled wheels that won't break and a huge storage bin.
Easy of Use
A double stroller isn't an investment that is cheap, and parents are usually looking for one that is simple to use. It should come with a range of features like the capability to fold the stroller into a compact size and alter the height of the handlebar to accommodate different users. Some models come with more than one storage space to allow families to divide items for quick access, and parent consoles or organizer bags to keep phones, keys and other necessities easily accessible.
A stroller must be able adapt to the changing requirements of your family over time. For instance, a budget-friendly option like the Evenflo Pivot Xpand Double includes an adjustable system that lets you add another seat, convert it into a triple by using an incline board, or change to a single mode by using an additional bench in the rear. This flexibility will let double strollers work for as long as you need it to.
In terms of maneuverability and maneuverability, many side-by-side models are difficult to maneuver. However, our Lab testers were impressed by the ease of operation 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 age groups. The telescoping handlebar and easy-to-use brakes make it more maneuverable than other double strollers we've tried.
The UPPAbaby vist v2 double on the other hand has a streamlined look and a large basket that can fit two toddler car seats or an infant car seat along with a regular child's car seat. It can be used by one child from age three. Its foam-filled tires are designed to not go flat.
The UPPAbaby folds in half, making it simple to store and transport. It's also super lightweight and weighs only 18 pounds. It's also simple to open and close with a latch, and requires no tools to assemble. Our Lab experts chose it as the top pick for its affordability and long-term durability.
Ease of Storage
Double strollers need to be able to hold diaper bags as well as water bottles and jackets, as well as keys, wallets and phones of parents. They should also be able slide across different surfaces and maneuver in tight spaces. When not in use, they are often required to fit into the trunk of a vehicle.
To meet the needs of parents Double strollers can be constructed in a variety of designs. They can be tandem or side-by-side, with fixed or removable seats or a baby car seats and a rideboard. They can be made to fit a single infant or toddler or twins. Some are suitable for running, while others can be used on trails for hiking or at the beach.
Modular designs are especially beneficial for families that need to grow with their strollers. The CYBEX Gazelle S, for example, 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 Nipper double buggy, can be made to accommodate a single child through the use of bassinet or baby seat or a toddler's a jump seat or standing board (sold separately). The UPPAbaby is a flexible stroller that can be configured 30 different ways. It's ideal for twins, siblings, or a growing family.
The UPPAbaby is also committed to sustainability and green initiatives. The UPPAbaby comes in various colors, and its fabrics are made from recycled water bottles. Raul one of our testers, utilized this double stroller while testing with his five-month-old son as well as three-year-old daughter. He found it easy to remove the components and put them together because they were packaged neatly with instructions and video codes.
Another excellent feature of the UPPAbaby is its telescoping handlebar as well as one-handed brakes that can be operated by your thumb. And its swiveling front wheels will allow it to make precise turns on city sidewalks.
Safety
double travel stroller strollers are often accused of being heavy and difficult to maneuver. They're also bulky. However, the newest models are sleeker and offer various options for customization. You can find one that is compatible with an infant car seat, making it easier to travel with two children.
If you're looking for a side-by-side or an in-line double stroller, ensure that it's JPMA certified to ensure that it meets minimum safety standards and undergoes regular inspections. You'll need to ensure that the suspension system provides a smooth ride for your children in the front seat. If your stroller comes with a handlebar, ensure it's adjustable so that both parents can use it.
A canopy can protect your baby from harsh sunlight and inclement weather. The best canopies have a reversible flap or transparent plastic windows that peek-a-boo that allows you to watch your children without disturbing them. Some canopies come with visors to block the direct sun.
The ease of folding and unfolding the stroller is a second important aspect to take into consideration. Compact strollers are easier to store in your car's trunk and take up less room. Strollers that come with only one button to fold the chassis are also simpler to use.
When choosing a double stroller take into consideration the age gap between your children and the kind of excursion you plan to take with them. For example, if your children are similar in age and you want to consider a tandem high-low stroller to ensure that they can interact when outings are planned. If your children are separated by the age gap, you may choose one that gives them more privacy.
If you plan to use your stroller for baby car seats, you should choose one with a high attachment score and compatible with top-rated brands. This won't have as significant of an impact on your overall rating as other factors but it's an important factor to consider if you're planning on using car seat adapters.